Broken HDD sata data tip possible fix?

Is there a way I could possibly fix this hdd that i accidentally broke a month ago and had to replace with a 500gb. I really want to be able to use it as a back up drive and retrieve my files from my 1tb HDD.The pins are all still there just the plastic L broke off when I was removing the sata cord and it got stuck inside it Sorry for bad picture quality, it's because i'm using a ipod touch to take pictures and it isn't the best quality but it's what I got with me atm to take pics.

Hi there

Depends on what those pins do -- pins aren't always connected. I have a feeling however on this one -- it's REALLY Broken. !!!

I assume it currently doesn't work in its present condition.

You might by disassembling the main assemble find that the end connector is just soldered into a bunch of wires rather than being directly connected to a printed circuit board.

Remember also the colour layout when re-assembling. Easily forgotten when doing other tasks.

If this is the case scrounge a new connector from somewhere or "Cannabalize" an old disk to get the connector on.

Good luck with your soldering -- I probably haven't used an "iron" in about 20 years !!!!. I still have one though.

If the actual DISK itself still has all its pins intact you could also try an external SATA disk enclosure. This might operate (with its own power supply) as a USB external drive.

Loads of SATA type enclosures for external drives -- all quite cheap. Any computer parts store should have these.

(Your pic doesn't show clearly what's broken -- If all the pins on the Disk are OK you are back in business).


Cheers
jimbo