A diagnosis to identify the problem is vital.

A correct diagnosis is indispensable for choosing the best strategy for a successful data recover. A bad diagnosis can elevate costs and cause irreparable damage. If the hard drive is already damaged, it is possible that there will not be a second chance to complete a diagnosis or recover the information.

Do not send your hard drive to inexperienced technicians nor permit the substitution or replacement of the Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

The majority of cases require a wide range of experience, a range of resources and specialised equipment to achieve a successful recovery. For example PCB replacement involves many risks (short circuits, damage to the firmware or heads, etc.) additionally circuit boards in modern devices are not interchangeable.

Do not use software from the internet to attempt a data recovery.

Damaged sectors and inaccessibility generally degrade performance and system tools (such as CHKDSK) can overwrite your information. Installing any program or working extensively on the hard drive can lead to further damage.

Do not under any circumstances allow the hard drive to be opened.

Any particle that is introduced into the hard drive may cause damage. Even a speck of dust or a fingerprint cause serious damage to the surface of the magnetic plates where your information is stored.