HP Diagnostics SMART Short Self Test failed

[Duane11]

I have been having some odd minor malfunctions while using Web Mail, MS EXCEL, and a few other issues. I ran the HP Diagnostics all passed except SMART Short Self Test which failed and the code HD521-2W was listed. My computer is a 2009 HP desktop model p6210t. Could this be causing the minor issues that I am experiencing? How important is the SMART Short Self Test & what does it test for?? 

[ManjunathTech]

Hi,

 The failure ID will either be a Smart or Disk Self Test failure - both would indicate that your Hard Drive is failing and will need to be replaced.

If your unit is still under warranty, contact HP and arrange to have the drive replaced.

If you are out of warranty and would like a guide on replacing the Hard Drive yourself, please let me know.

[Danjen]

Your hard drive may fail:

http://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktop-Hardware/SMART-Short-Self-Test-Failed-Error-Code-HD521-2W/td-p/...

After you backup your data, try to make a set of recovery disks if you can. Then download a drive certification test from the manufacturer of the hard drive (not HP but the company listed on the hard drive).  Make a bootable cd from the iso image you downloaded and use it to test your drive.  The manufacturer's disk can fix bad sectors and minor errors but you want to get you data safe before you go to this step if possible.

[Duane11]

Thanks for the quick reply. I find it difficult to believe that a 2 & 1/2 year old HP computer that is used only a few hours a week could have such a major problem (so soon). The issues have been very minor, but annoying up to this point - What might I suspect as far as future/more serious problems?

[Danjen]

Anything made by man can fail at any time.  A notebook hard drive because it must be small, light weight and move at 5400 or 7200 rpms (faster than an automobile). The head floats less than a human hair from the surface so a bump could send the head crashing into the media.  An electrical surge from static or power problems could weaken or damage components. Sometimes I think it is more amazing that they work at all.  The hard drive could have a bad sector or corruption due to writing during a loss of power. Download the manufacturer's free drive certification test and create a bootable cd from the downloaded iso image. Put it in your DVD/CD and run the full test.  It can fix bad sectors and minor problems with the drive. I would still run a check disk and check the try to recover bad sectors box.  Of course, now is the time to make sure you have a backup of all your important data and have made a set of recovery disks.

[Duane11]

I had just completed a backup a few weeks ago & will do another. I had made a set of recovery disks when purchased on 12/1/09 - will I need another set? I will attempt the other processes, but may take this unit to a professional. I am very grateful; Impressed with your knowledge and generosity- don't see that kindness much lately.

[Danjen]

Not unless you are like me and don't trust only one set.  I always like to plan on a disaster.

[Duane11]

Manjunath Tech, thank you for your your generosity of your time, prompt reply, sharing your professional skills, and kindness - qualities that have become rare in today's business world. In gratitude, Duane

[Danjen]

My wife told me I had to do it.