[Pc_Support] laptop harddrive failure

[Bryan J. Smith]

Kyle wrote:
> We probably did.  You have probably realized by now that just because
> you can't recommend something does not mean that I can't. :)

I know, that's why I said, "I can't recommend this."

> Yes, be careful of the humidity.

It's beyond that.  The "shock" to the drive's materials, coming from a
frozen state, is horrendous.  In commodity drives with cheap
materials, the internal fluid is likely to be in a solid state and
"crack," taking portions of mechanics (if not scratching the hell out
of the platter surface) with it.

Wait until the device is beyond 12.5C (55F).  The fridge would be a
better move.  And the freeze spray is most ideal and can be found at
your local Radio Shack (or other electronics store).

> I've not used the freezing spray,

It works well because it is:
A)  Localized
B)  Slowly cools from the outside in (instead of being one big ice cube)
C)  Can be applied while the drive is on (until it works)

> but I have used the freezer trick with several hard drives in a work
> environment, and it worked most of the time.  If the drives were DOA
> prior to me putting my hands on them, there was little I could do.

I don't doubt that it has worked for you a few times.  How long is the
question I have.  ;->

The fluid doesn't like to be frozen, _ever_, and _never_ when
operating.  5C (41F) is the absolute _minimum_ temperature you ever
want to operate a drive at from a _mechanical_ standpoint, greater
than 12.5C (55F) to avoid condensation.

I don't see why the fridge wouldn't cut it, without turning the
internal fluid into a solid.