Hard drive

[Babs1980]

No hard drive found error when I want to reset the system or load a new os from a disk. But the devices is actually booting on old OS to the desktop. Please kindly assist.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Babs1980,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your HP laptop is showing a "No hard drive found" error when attempting to reset the system or load a new OS, but still successfully boots into the old OS, it suggests a potential issue with how the hard drive is being recognized during the boot or installation process. Here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:

1. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

The BIOS/UEFI settings determine how your hardware is recognized and used by the system. An incorrect setting could cause the hard drive to be undetected during boot or OS installation.

• Access BIOS/UEFI:
  • Restart your computer.
  • During the initial boot screen, press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup. Common keys are F2, F10, F12, Esc, or Del. The specific key is usually displayed on the screen during startup.
• Check Hard Drive Settings:
  • Ensure that the hard drive is detected in the BIOS/UEFI. It should be listed under the storage or boot options.
  • Verify that the SATA mode is set correctly. It should typically be set to AHCI or IDE. If it's set to RAID, try changing it to AHCI and see if that resolves the issue.
  • Make sure the boot order includes the hard drive and any installation media (like a USB drive or DVD).

2. Check Boot Order

Ensure that the boot order prioritizes the correct device when trying to install a new OS.

• Set Boot Order:
  • In the BIOS/UEFI settings, navigate to the Boot menu.
  • Set the primary boot device to your installation media (USB drive or DVD).
  • Ensure that the hard drive is listed as a subsequent boot device.

3. Run Hardware Diagnostics

HP laptops typically have built-in diagnostic tools to check hardware status.

• Access Diagnostics:
  • Restart your laptop and press Esc repeatedly until the Startup Menu appears.
  • Select F2 for System Diagnostics.
  • Run the hard drive test to check for any errors or issues.

4. Check for Disk Errors in Windows

Since your system boots into the old OS, use Windows tools to check for disk errors.

• Run CHKDSK:
  • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
  • Allow the system to check the disk and fix any errors.

5. Create a New Installation Media

There might be an issue with your current installation media. Create a new one to rule out this possibility.

• Download and Create Media:
  • Download the Windows installation media creation tool from the Microsoft website
  • Create a new installation USB drive or DVD using this tool.

6. Check Disk Connections

If you're comfortable opening your laptop, you can check the physical connections of the hard drive.

• Reconnect Hard Drive:
  • Turn off and unplug your laptop.
  • Open the bottom panel to access the hard drive (refer to the manual for instructions).
  • Ensure the hard drive is securely connected to the motherboard.

7. Update BIOS/UEFI Firmware

An outdated BIOS/UEFI firmware could cause compatibility issues with newer installation media or methods.

• Update Firmware:
  • Visit the HP Support website and download the latest BIOS/UEFI firmware for your laptop model.
  • Follow the instructions provided to update the firmware.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Rachel571

HP Support