Common Data Recovery Myths - Drop it & Hit It

Data loss happens more frequently then you can ever imagine. This leads to numerous data recovery methods that are being posted daily on forums and blogs such as this one. While some of them might prove useful, others such as hit it and drop it myth can further damage your drive. This myth originated from the early years where the spindle would stick to the platters from dust or other sticky material. This phenomenon was called "stiction spin." It is an obviously created word, contraction between two derived English words - "stick" and "friction, which describes a failure when a spindle sticks to the drive and the motor does not have the appropriate power to release the spindle from the part of the drive that is holding it in place.

Back when this term had been popular, the answer to the problem was to hit, drop, or somehow bang on the hard drive to get the spindle unstuck. The avid computer user could then continue on with what he was doing. Nowadays, hard drives are much more precise, technologically advanced, and probably more sensitive to jarring motion that comes with hitting it with a screw driver or other devices that are suggested. Additionally, these more highly advanced hard drives of today rarely, if ever, get the stiction defect.

The reality is that your hard disk is not an old stereo that can be punch or banged into working. Hard drives are extremely sensitive and need to be stored in proper temperature to keep it in better condition. Hitting or dropping the disk can lead to even further damage that completely breaks the drive's motor or damages the platters which hold the information. When trying to find good data recovery advice, don't use this method or you can be in a worst position for data loss. Contact a data recovery expert for advice.