301 error

[ManosXe]

I have the hp pavilion dv7 notebook and i get the 301 error smard drive on the start.

[DavidPK]

Hi,

The 301 error is a failure of the short test on the Hard Drive - the only solution to this is to replace the drive.  If you can still access Windows OK, I would recommend backing-up all your personal files as soon as you can.

Is your notebook still under warranty?

Regards,

DP-K

[ManosXe]

Its under warranty from the shop i get it but not from hp... So the only solution is to replace my drive??? I have acces to win but in few minutes it (stukes) and then i cant do anything... Thanks for the reply.

[DavidPK]

Hi,

One possible way to try and retrieve your files from a bad hard drive is to follow the process detailed in the link below.  The Ubuntu operating system CD you create can run from the CD alone ( ie it doesn't have to install on the Hard Drive ) and I've often found it to be successful in retrieving data even from a failing Hard Drive.  When you've created the CD, follow the instructions and see if you can back up your existing files. 

http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/use-ubuntu-live-cd-to-backup-files-from-your-dead-windo...

Are you certain that your notebook is not under warranty from HP?  It may be worth checking this if you are in any doubt.

If you live in the US, contact HP Here.

If you are in another part of the world, start Here.

Regards,

DP-K

[ManosXe]

So im certain that my warranty is not valid from hp but only from the store. If i get it right the ubuntu will help me only to back up my files?? and will not fix the problem, im i right?

[DavidPK]

Hi,

Yes, you are correct - hopefully the process using Ubuntu will allow you to back-up your files.  The only solution to the problem is to replace the Hard Drive.

Regards,

DP-K

[ManosXe]

Ok thank you very very much!!!

[DavidPK]

Hi,

You're welcome, I hope you get it sorted out.

All the best,

DP-K

[ManosXe]

Sorry 1 more question... What caused that problem?

[DavidPK]

Hi,

It's probably just bad luck - Hard Drives normally last between 3 - 5 years or longer, but rarely can fail much earlier.

Another, more straight forward way to see if you can back-up your data may be to try this in Safe Mode as the HDD will be under less stress running in this mode.  To access Safe Mode, tap away at f8 as you start the notebook to enter Windows Recovery Console.  Use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode and hit enter.  

Regards,

DP-K