Data Recovery?

Anyone know of a place that does Data Recovery? Preferably one you have used...and if it doesn't cost an arm, leg and firstborn that would be great!

Our 1T hard drive that we use to store all our photos, music and generally important documents on got knocked over and now doesn't want to read. I need my data, but getting quotes of 6-8 weeks and $1200-$1800 is a bit hard to swallow. It can't really be that tedious to transfer data...

Before you laugh at me for suggesting this, please allow me to offer my credentials: UNIX systems, storage, network, and database administrator for the last 10+ years.

Does it sound like it's grinding or clicking when you attempt to access it? Does it hang the system when you attempt to access it via Windows Explorer, etc?

I'll admit that I learned this from a coworker, but I've done this many times for clients and it works. Put it in a sealable storage bag (preferably with one of those desiccant silica gel packs you find in shoes to keep the moisture down) and stick it in the freezer overnight (or longer). Then get it out, let it warm up for about 5 minutes, plug it back in, and start transferring your stuff quickly. At a minimum, you'll not injure the drive any further, so you'll still be able to spend $1000+ at the data recovery places.

Good luck, and my sympathies. I know how expensive those big, professional shops are.

We found a place that did a diagnostic on it and the drive motor is blown It makes a sound like it's starting up and then it pings every 10seconds or so. It's an external, transportable backup drive and it doesn't even register on the computers when hooked up now. Apparently, it's a common issue with this particular model, but it's under warranty and I'll get an updated replacement...once I get my data.

Not sure if the freezer trick will work for that, but I'll give it a shot when we pick it up tomorrow. The local quote was a bit less scary...at least I can keep the first born, but I may have to hobble

Here is a link to a special offer from Iglou Computer repair service right now:

http://www.groupon.com/r/uu980516

You can get a drop off service at the reduced price of $39 (normally $79). It's actually the side-deal on the right side of the screen. You can use the discussion board on the offer to inquire as to whether they can help you out. Or, you could probably call too. The offer is only running for a couple of days. Good luck!

The freezer trick didn't work The motor is pretty well seized up, so it's the hard way or no way.

Thanks Beth for passing that along, but they don't do the kind of work I need to have done.