Emjaydc
Level 1 (8 points)
Mac OS X

Q: How to retrieve files from a failed hard drive?

Hi

 

 

Is it possible to retrieve files from a failed hard drive without going to a shop?

MacBook Pro

Posted on Oct 15, 2016 4:42 PM

by Grant Bennet-Alder,Apple recommended
Grant Bennet-Alder Grant Bennet-Alder
Level 9 (61,373 points)
Desktops
A:

It depends on how hard it died. If the files for MacOS are the only things damaged, your Mac may not be to use the over 350,000 files that make up MacOS to be able to boot, but may mount normally as a regular data disk.

 

If it will not mount, a more Industrial Strength solution such as Data Rescue MAY be able to salvage some of your files. Every situation is different.

 

--------

Before you are done, you need to buy a large External drive and turn on Time Machine. In an afternoon, you will have a full backup, and every hour afterward it will quietly add incremental changes, all without disturbing your work.

Posted on Oct 15, 2016 6:21 PM

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Emjaydc

Q: How to retrieve files from a failed hard drive?

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  • Helpful answers

  • by Niel,

    Niel Niel Oct 15, 2016 4:46 PM in response to Emjaydc
    Level 10 (314,422 points)
    Mac OS X
    Oct 15, 2016 4:46 PM in response to Emjaydc

    No. This task requires specialized equipment.

     

    (145388)

  • by Grimakis,

    Grimakis Grimakis Oct 15, 2016 6:04 PM in response to Emjaydc
    Level 1 (12 points)
    Mac OS X
    Oct 15, 2016 6:04 PM in response to Emjaydc

    Generally speaking, no. I remember all sorts of crazy methods involving putting your drive in a freezer being common tips back in the day. However, I don't think that's anything but coincidence if it works.

  • by Grant Bennet-Alder,Apple recommended

    Grant Bennet-Alder Grant Bennet-Alder Oct 15, 2016 6:21 PM in response to Emjaydc
    Level 9 (61,373 points)
    Desktops
    Oct 15, 2016 6:21 PM in response to Emjaydc

    It depends on how hard it died. If the files for MacOS are the only things damaged, your Mac may not be to use the over 350,000 files that make up MacOS to be able to boot, but may mount normally as a regular data disk.

     

    If it will not mount, a more Industrial Strength solution such as Data Rescue MAY be able to salvage some of your files. Every situation is different.

     

    --------

    Before you are done, you need to buy a large External drive and turn on Time Machine. In an afternoon, you will have a full backup, and every hour afterward it will quietly add incremental changes, all without disturbing your work.