Hard drive file recovery

[lorweb]

Had to replace the hard drive in my T41. But...and you know whats coming next....I want to recover some files from it. Tried it in a usb case but it doesn't appear in my computer until you start to disconnect it and it slows the pc down.
Also tried to connect it into my desktop as a second drive using a 2.5" to IDE converter cable but it stops the PC from booting and if connected after the pc has started it stalls the pc.
So is there any way I can recover the files or should I just curl up in a corner and cry.

Barry

[RealBlackStuff]

When trying it in a USB enclosure, set the jumper on the 2.5" HD to Master.
When connecting it via the 2.5-3/5" adapter try both Master or Slave, one of them should work.
If none of this works, probably the electronics board of the HD is shot.
You could try and find another identical HD where the board is still OK, and swap out boards.

[lorweb]

Good points !
I've managed to get the icon for the drive to appear in My Computer when its in the USB enclosure by setting it to slave. However, I can't access the hard drive. I have another identical drive on its way so will try the control board swap as you suggest but had a play with the dodgy one today and tried to get the screws out but they just turn and don't come out. I don't want to do more damage so could you offer advise about how to take it apart without damaging anything. Is there a nack to getting the screws out ???
Thanks
Barry

[RealBlackStuff]

What exact brand and model is it?
Does it need a special screwdriver (like torx) or are the screws tamper-proof security screws for which you need a special screw-bit?
http://www.telephoneparts.com/index.cgi?pcode=VTBT5

I don't know any tricks to loosen those screws, have never needed to try it, but it's all I can think of for the moment.