(Error code -36) Can't delete files from external hard drive

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Level 1

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(Error code -36) Can't delete files from external hard drive

So as I was copying files to my hard drive (Seagate Backup Plus Drive) my Macbook Pro went flat, and so the files obviously didn't get to finish copying. Now they're greyed out in my folder and when I try to move the files to the trash it comes up with this message:

"The Finder can’t complete the operation because some data in “-----” can’t be read or written.

(Error code -36)"

Does anyone know how I can fix this? I've tried a couple of different things and nothing has worked, and I don't wanna stuff around too much in case I lose everything.

MacBook Pro, OS X Mavericks (10.9.4)

Posted on Aug 17, 2014 2:50 AM

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Answer 1

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Cunnla

Level 6

8,257 points

Aug 17, 2014 3:43 AM in response to ebony9870

Presumably you are using the Seagate as an external HD.

"my Macbook Pro went flat" means the MBP shut down or powered off suddenly for some reason?

If your Seagate was not properly ejected that would cause problems. You should run Disk Utility and Verify and Repair the Seagate, if needed. Then you should be able to deal with the uncompleted files.

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Answer 2

ebony9870 Author

Level 1

0 points

Aug 18, 2014 12:02 AM in response to Cunnla

Thanks for the reply

No, I just forgot to plug in the charger before I fell asleep. I know, silly of me.

Please excuse my ignorance, but if I run Disk Utility, is there a chance that I might lose all the files? I don't want to do it without backing it up in some way if that might be the case.

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Answer 3

Cunnla

Level 6

8,257 points

Aug 18, 2014 12:07 AM in response to ebony9870

Disk Utility won't erase anything unless you ask it to. Verify and Repair will be OK.

But it is always best to have more than one backup.

Regards.

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Answer 4

Apr 17, 2015 7:26 AM in response to Cunnla

Cunnla

I was experiencing the same error message/problem but hadn't thought it could be down to the Seagate which had become unceremoniously disconnected (read - dropped) from my MBP on a few occasions. Anyways, followed your advice and bingo, Trash completely emptied. Thank you!!

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