I have a 500gb cavalry external HD. I use it to store videos and other bulky files to keep my poor 80gb laptop free. It was working fine last night but this morning I shutdown my computer, flipped the switch on the external and packed it . I've done this before (I was moving out) and never had any problems. However, I fired up my computer and the HD and attempted to watch some videos but when I tried to open the directory they are in it would not let me. I got a "The file or directory is corrupted and unreadable" message. I don't want to format and I am unable to hook this up to a desktop (don't own one) and I don't want to send it to the manufacturer because they do not offer data recovery. What can I do to recover my files or gain access to the directory? Thanks, this is driving me insane.

Remove the drive and try to slave it to an IDE ... if you can. Another idea, put it in the freezer overnight and se if it will work the next day.

Before you try that freezer trick put it in a ziplock baggie. After u put it on an ide channel try and run chkdsk on it.

See also ubcd4win. They have a collection of tools like unstoppable copier. (well, you could just try that) It could be an issue with the OS (likely the drive) but a live cd be it windows or linux would be a non destructive attempt. I read it wrong and answer it wrong too. So get off my case you goober.

Also IBM (hitachi) has diag's that might help. See also ultimate boot cd's collection of tools. (not related to ubcd4win) I read it wrong and answer it wrong too. So get off my case you goober.

you have developed "bad sector" damage, i would avoid to boot from the drive again, otherwise the damage will extend to the head. a href="http://www.unirecovery.co.uk/raid.php">RAID Recovery Labs.