Boot device not found: please install an operating system on your hard disk

[Kali_M]

I’m receiving a notice about boot device not found: hardware diagnostic says no hard drive was found 

[Garp_senchau]

@Kali_M, Welcome to HP Support Community,

Thank you for posting your query.

When you receive a "boot device not found" error and a hardware diagnostic indicates that no hard drive was found, it typically points to an issue with your hard drive or the system's ability to detect it. Here are the troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve this issue on an HP laptop or desktop:

1. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

Enter BIOS/UEFI:

• Restart your PC and press the Esc key (or F10) repeatedly as soon as the HP logo appears.

Check for Hard Drive Detection:

• Navigate to the System Configuration or Storage section in the BIOS.
• Ensure that the hard drive is listed under the Boot Devices or Storage Devices.
• If the hard drive isn't listed, it may indicate a hardware issue or a loose connection.

Reset BIOS Settings:

• Sometimes, a corrupted BIOS setting can cause detection issues. Reset the BIOS to default settings:
  • Find an option like Restore Defaults or Load Optimized Defaults and select it.
  • Save changes and exit BIOS.

2. Check Hard Drive Connections

• Power off the system and unplug it from the power source.
• If you're comfortable doing so, remove the back panel or side cover of the laptop or desktop.
• Check if the hard drive is properly connected to the motherboard. For laptops, ensure the hard drive is properly seated in its slot. For desktops, ensure cables (SATA or power cables) are securely connected to the hard drive.

3. Run HP Hard Drive Diagnostics

• Restart your system and repeatedly press the Esc key to access the Startup Menu.
• Select Diagnostics (or F2).
• Run the Hard Drive Test to check for any issues with the drive itself.
• If the test reports errors, your hard drive might be failing and needs to be replaced.

[Garp_senchau]

4. Perform a Hard Drive Self-Test

• If you haven't done so yet, you can run a Hard Drive Self-Test directly from the BIOS.
• Enter the BIOS and find the diagnostic options for storage. Run the Self-Test or Hard Drive Check to see if there’s an issue with the drive.
• If the test fails, your hard drive is likely defective and will need replacement.

5. Check for Firmware/Driver Updates

• If the hard drive is detected but you're still receiving the error:
  • Check for any BIOS updates on the HP support website for your specific model.
  • Install the latest driver updates related to the storage controller if you can access Windows in Safe Mode.

6. Perform a System Restore or Recovery

• If you can get your system to boot from another device or if you can access Windows Recovery, you can attempt a system restore:
  • Use a Windows Recovery USB or System Repair Disc to boot the system.
  • Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Restore.
  • Select a restore point before the issue began.

7. Test Boot with a Live USB

• If your hard drive isn't detected and you suspect a failure, you can test the boot process by using a Live USB to see if the system boots from USB.
• If the system successfully boots from the USB, the issue is likely with the hard drive itself.

8. Replace the Hard Drive

• If the hard drive is found to be faulty or is not detected in BIOS/UEFI, replacing the hard drive is the next step.
• Make sure to back up your data if the drive is still accessible. If it’s not accessible, you may need to use data recovery software or professional services.

Additional Notes:

• Sometimes, a corrupted Windows bootloader or operating system issue can cause similar errors. If your hard drive is functional but the OS is corrupted, performing a fresh installation of Windows might resolve the issue.
• Always ensure you have backup copies of important files before performing any reinstallation or recovery tasks.

You may also refer this guide: Hard disk 3F0 boot device not found error

I hope these steps help resolve the issue

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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