Computer will not read hard drives installed from another

Hi everyone.

My rig has been giving me problems so I have been using my backup. Both run 7 x64 with very similar hardware.

I'm attempting to install a WD 3tb drive that is known good and loaded with files. It installs fine and is readable in Device Manager but is not active or initialized?



When I right click on it I only get the option to Format, Change drive letter or path, or Convert to Dynamic Disk.
There is data on it that I want to access. How can I activate it without corrupting my files? Thanks in advance.

I don't get it. Excuse my ignorance, but what is wrong with the first picture?
You can clearly see All the fields without enlarging. The instructions provided say to:

Maximize the Disk Management window so it fills your entire screen.- check
Resize the window components so the status and sizes of the partitions are clearly shown. - check

So I did that. Now you're saying that's not good either.

Better? If you can't read the above text, then I'm confident the problem isn't on my end.

I understand there is forum etiquette and such, as a new member I'm trying to be polite and learn the ropes, again sorry if I don't know the "correct" way to do this.

Eurocoffee said:

When I right click on it I only get the option to Format, Change drive letter or path, or Convert to Dynamic Disk.
There is data on it that I want to access. How can I activate it without corrupting my files? Thanks in advance.

You won't see drives/partitions in Windows (file) Explorer (and most programs) if they don't have a drive letter.
Did you try adding a drive letter ?

DavidE said:

Eurocoffee said:

When I right click on it I only get the option to Format, Change drive letter or path, or Convert to Dynamic Disk.
There is data on it that I want to access. How can I activate it without corrupting my files? Thanks in advance.

You won't see drives/partitions in Windows (file) Explorer (and most programs) if they don't have a drive letter.
Did you try adding a drive letter ?

Thank you very much David E. I forgot about that. Problem Solved.


And to my friend the Bear, instead of focusing on the details of my inexperience in using this forum, maybe next time you can put your arrogance to the side in an effort to be a more helpful member.
"You're doing it wrong" and "You can't follow simple instructions" are not helpful criticisms. Just stay out of it next time if you feel like being a dick and are not going to assist someone who is obviously not the most computer savvy, but making a true effort to politely reach out. Have nice day and stay in OH.