After update, my notebook cannot recognize internal hard drive

[Sung01]

During Windows update, spectre notebook does not recognize the internal storage.

Prompted to use F2 key, and the storage tests or hard drive check shows "no storage installed"

How do I recover the internal storage device?

[Garp_senchau]

@Sung01, Welcome to HP Support Community,

Thank you for posting your query; I’m here to help by guiding you through steps to resolve this issue

When your HP Spectre notebook does not recognize the internal storage device, especially during a Windows update or boot process, you can follow these steps to troubleshoot and potentially recover the device:

Perform a Hard Reset:

• Power Off: Turn off your notebook completely.
• Unplug: Disconnect all peripheral devices and the power adapter.
• Remove Battery: If possible, remove the battery (for models with removable batteries).
• Hold Power Button: Press and hold the power button for about 15 seconds to discharge any residual power.
• Reconnect: Reconnect the battery and power adapter, then power on the notebook.

Reset BIOS to Default:

• Access the BIOS by pressing the F10 key repeatedly as the notebook is powering on.
• Navigate to the BIOS Setup menu and choose to load the default settings.

Verify Storage Device Connection:

• Open the notebook (if comfortable and possible) and check the physical connections of the storage device.
• Make sure the flex cable and connections are secure and free of dust or damage.

Diagnostic Test:

• Use the HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) tool to test for the storage device. Access this tool by pressing F2 during startup.
• If the diagnostics still show "no storage installed," consider testing the drive on another verified working computer, if possible.

Secure Erase:

• If the storage device is seen in the BIOS, performing a Secure Erase might resolve related issues. This step involves erasing the drive's contents, so ensure data backup if possible.

Reinstall Operating System:

• If the diagnostic tests pass but the issue persists, try reinstalling the Windows operating system using HP Recovery tools or a verified Windows installation media.

Replace Storage Device:

• If the diagnostics consistently fail and the drive is not recognized or functioning, it may be necessary to replace the storage device. Contact HP support for details on how to procure a replacement under warranty if applicable.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

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