Recently, I had a hard-drive fail: no SMART error, the vendor tools didn’t return an error, but HDtune did.
I couldn’t boot from the drive any more, and the partitions were only half visible, so I had a clear indication it should be replaced.
Since the vendor tools couldn’t indicate a problem, I returned it using a generic code, and hoped for a replacement under warranty (based on the HDtune results), and I was glad to receive a free replacement.
Obvious indicators of course are audible noises like clicking, stiction, repeated seeks, etc.
But those audible noises are harder to listen to as drive heads get smaller and the total noise level less loud.
But those audible noises are harder to listen to as drive heads get smaller and the total noise level less loud.
So I collected a few links that help you determine when you should not use a HDD any more:
- http://superuser.com/questions/54813/hard-drive-problem-spinrite-vs-s-m-a-r-t
- http://superuser.com/questions/194860/hard-drive-misbehaving-smart-and-manufacturer-diagnostics-pass-should-i-replace
- http://superuser.com/questions/29240/how-can-i-read-my-hdd-s-m-a-r-t-status-in-windows-7
- hard drive – When to stop using a HDD? What rules/software apply? – Super User.
–jeroenpo
The Wiert Corner - irregular stream of stuff 