[SWLUG] Using Knoppix for data extraction

[swlug]

It could be something as "simple" as a poor driver install, video driver 
say, maybe by windowsupdate. The driver baulks, windows crashes and 
auto-reboots, notices it's not shutdown properly and does a chkdsk, 
finishes disk checking and starts windows, initiates driver, windows 
crashes, ... rinse and repeat. It can indicate a HDD problem but your 
SMART data should show (use smartctl on command line in Linux) if the 
disk is failing - interpreting the data can be a little tricky as it's 
counter-intuitive, read up on it first (seriously! most people interpret 
it the wrong way).

Try safe mode or the recovery console depending on version and go back 
to checkpoint just before last windows update.

Of course I have used Knoppix to save data from crashing drives too - 
hooking up a laptop via ethernet works well - pass data across and 
backup to the laptop, then send it back later (eg to new computer/new HDD).

HTH,

pbhj



Paul Connell wrote:
> Depending on what the screen is telling you it could be one of several
> [...]
>
> I know we are all looking to get a new Linux install onto a PC, but
> sometimes it's just okay to try to fix it first?
>
> Just a thought.
>
> On Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:47 +0100, "Neil Jones" <neil at nwjones.demon.co.uk>
> wrote:
>   
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> I have just been phoned by a family member who has a windows laptop 
>> which appears to have developed a hard disk problem.
>> It repeatedly checks the hard disk on boot with CHKDSK and then windows 
>> starts but shuts down immediately.
>>
>> There are data on this machine which are not backed up. Yes I know don't 
>> tell me! What I am looking to do is the following.
>> Stick in a Knoppix disk and try to get stuff off onto a memory stick
>> drive.
>>
>> Has anyone done this? Are there any snags to be aware of?
>>
>> Neil
>>
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