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Question

DISK ERROR

Feb 20, 2013 12:24PM PST

How do you reload windows 8 on an HP Pavilion G series after a disk error and a loss of everything and no recovery could be made! My computor tech swiped it clean saying a virus had caused it now I get a smrt disk error and can not get past it when attempting to reload windows eight! CAN IT BE DONE!

Discussion is locked

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Answer
If you're getting SMART errs, disk is failing
Feb 20, 2013 12:48PM PST

The SMART data error indicates a failing hard drive, so I'm afraid you're going to have to replace that drive. This is but one of the many reasons you need to back your system up. Live and learn. Sorry.

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Answer
Look into...
Feb 20, 2013 11:27PM PST

Don't ask PC tech again for repairs. As a "smart error" is usually refers to h/w fault with the HD, he should have offered that as real source of problem not some virus. Provided you have any warranty, use it to replace the HD under its service plan. Otherwise, it looks like you need to replace the HD. Of course, you can test the HD provided if you know who made it and thus get the diags from that maker's support website. Those diags will test the HD and provide the means to be assured the HD is bad and take required action. While I'm not sure what HD you have installed, if this is a SSD type, then requires yet again a replacement. However that shouldn't necessary offer a smart error, that refers to std. older type HDs.

Reloading the OS, exactly error# is displayed? If it offers to reformat the HD, did you accept that step, etc., or allow the full format rather than a quick format? Also, did you follow any of the HP help guides for re-installing the OS? Newer PCs maybe more prone to glitches if steps aren't followed. Otherwise, the above advise is probable action to take.

Is this your PC?:

http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/ca/en/ho/WF06a/321957-321957-3329744-64354-64354-5048672.html?dnr=1

http://www8.hp.com/ca/en/home.html <<<<<---FAQ for such


Follow the support FAQ or guides to get through this. Also, HP has its own forum, query there. There is a more direct HP forum here on CNET, post there also. The CNET HP monitor may provide a direct helpful link.

Parting advise, the HD can be removed and tested elsewhere. I use ext. USB case -OR- adapter to test drives on bench PC. This way, I note what is the cause and/or if accessible.

tada -----Willy Happy