Portable HDD Read error

[krazyq]

I have a WD 500 portable hdd
when i use to insert it in some usb ports it would ask to format disk when it was already formatted with data on it, so i would just switch ports and it would work fine
But now any port that i try plugging it into it asks to format it
I plugged it into my tv and its working fine...
what options do i have?
what tests could i run?

 

[MindoverMaster]

Backup your data. Your drive may be on its way out.

 

[krazyq]

Backup your data. Your drive may be on its way out.

ugh i was hoping you would'nt say taht...
although sinc eit isn't running on the pc, how can i back it up?

 

[MindoverMaster]

If the drive isn't under warranty, try breaking the case open. Try running it internally. Does this work on any other computer?

 

[krazyq]

If the drive isn't under warranty, try breaking the case open. Try running it internally. Does this work on any other computer?

IT says i have a limited warranty (The product is still under warranty and the serial number is valid and ready for replacement.)
i also have an option to upgrade or extend warranty
when i goto disk management the hdd still shows and no its stopped working on all computers, but still works on my tv
any option to get my data out of there?

 

[MindoverMaster]

You can try a Ubuntu Boot-CD. See if it can see the files.

 

[krazyq]

You can try a Ubuntu Boot-CD. See if it can see the files.

does it matter if i get 64 bit plus if it does read it can i back it up somehow?

 

[kmote]

Get 64 bit if you have a 64 bit computer (which seems likely in this day and age). You will need to have some storage where you can put your backed up data, this would be true whether or not you were using Ubuntu.
If you want to store the data on your existing Windows disk that is fine, but you will need to mount it first.

 

[krazyq]

Get 64 bit if you have a 64 bit computer (which seems likely in this day and age). You will need to have some storage where you can put your backed up data, this would be true whether or not you were using Ubuntu.
If you want to store the data on your existing Windows disk that is fine, but you will need to mount it first.

im using test disk, it worked for me befor eand its working now, backing up files as well speak.
only backing up the important stuff, i already applied for advanced rma, so i hope the new one is better
thanks guys



EDIT, ONE MORE QUESTION???

what could have been the reason for this
is it really bad if i unplug my ext hdd without clicking the remove icon on the \bottom or does it make no difference ?