HDD clicks and freezes


  1. Posts : 2
    Windows 7 RC
       #1

    HDD clicks and freezes


    Hi, I've been searching for similar situations for a while, but I haven't found anything so far that relates to my problem. I have a Dell Inspiron 600m. I have a dual boot running with Windows 7 RC as the primary and Windows XP as the secondary boot.

    Basically what happens is that my computer's HDD will start clicking loudly and rapidly and the computer will freeze. A manual reboot is then necessary. I have waited for as long as 20 minutes or more to see if it will regain stability, but it never does. Sometimes I end up getting a blue dump screen and it will automatically reboot. I originally thought that my HDD was going bad, but it only happens when I'm running Windows 7. If I boot into XP, the HDD never starts clicking and never freezes. I have tried reformatting the Win7 partition and doing a clean install of Windows 7, but it did not fix the problem.

    There are certain situations that especially seem to trigger the clicking, but sometimes it just happens randomly. The situations where it always and almost immediately happens are:
    1. Running any type of Windows Update. (if it is enabled at all and starts downloading the clicking starts)
    2. Running ChkDsk on startup. (The clicking starts when Verifying the USN Journals, and it never finishes the check)

    Other information:
    I had to manually add my ATI MOBILITY RADEON 9000 driver as it wasn't on the Windows 7 supported drivers list.
    I have tried a couple of HDD checking software programs which have said that my HDD was healthy.

    I can supply any additional information on request. I appreciate any ideas since I am now stumped.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 13,354
    Windows 7 Professional x64
       #2

    Definitely sounds like a mechanical problem. Try this link: Storage : FUJITSU United States
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 2
    Windows 7 RC
    Thread Starter
       #3

    Thanks I'll look into that. If I do just need to get a new HDD, any ideas on where to look for one? Do I need to know anything in particular to ensure that it is compatible, or does it just need to be the same size?

    Thanks.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 12,364
    8 Pro x64
       #4

    The only limitation is whether it's an IDE (pata) or Sata connection. Other than that, you can choose whatever brand/size you like :)

    Not knowing where you are, makes it it hard to recommend anywhere to purchase from.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 13,354
    Windows 7 Professional x64
       #5

    I like Newegg, but shop around. Perhaps Amazon will have a better deal.
      My Computer


 

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