How to recover Files , Photos etc from.my old HDD


It depends on the model of old PC that it is in as to how it is mounted. Some are held in by screws, some have caddies. Some slide into cages that have to be released first. What is the make and model of the old PC.
 

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System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 25H2 26200.8655i9-10900 10 core 20 threads32 gbnone-Intel UHD Graphics 630
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2 26200.8655
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Optiplex 7080
    CPU
    i9-10900 10 core 20 threads
    Motherboard
    DELL 0J37VM
    Memory
    32 gb
    Graphics Card(s)
    none-Intel UHD Graphics 630
    Sound Card
    Integrated Realtek
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Benq 27
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    2x1tb Solidigm m.2 nvme /External drives 512gb Samsung m.2 sata+2tb Kingston m2.nvme
    PSU
    500w
    Case
    MT
    Cooling
    Dell Premium
    Keyboard
    Logitech wired
    Mouse
    Logitech wireless
    Internet Speed
    so slow I'm too embarrassed to tell
    Browser
    #1 Edge #2 Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender+MWB Premium

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 24H2 26200.8457AMD Ryzen 7 6800U32 gbintegrated
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro 24H2 26200.8457
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Beelink Mini PC SER5
    CPU
    AMD Ryzen 7 6800U
    Memory
    32 gb
    Graphics card(s)
    integrated
    Sound Card
    integrated
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Benq 27
    Screen Resolution
    2560x1440
    Hard Drives
    1TB Crucial nvme
    Keyboard
    Logitech wired
    Mouse
    Logitech wireless
    Internet Speed
    still too embarrassed to tell
    Browser
    Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    System 3 is non compliant Dell 9020 i7-4770/24gb ram Win11 PRO 26200.8457
can you post a screenshot?
Click to expand...
Or at least tell us the make and model of the old PC?
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two Other systems

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 HomeAMD Athlon Silver 3050U8GBRadeon Graphics
    OS
    Windows 11 Home
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Acer Aspire 3 A315-23-R9VY
    CPU
    AMD Athlon Silver 3050U
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    Radeon Graphics
    Monitor(s) Displays
    laptop screen
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768 native resolution, up to 2560x1440 with Radeon Virtual Super Resolution
    Hard Drives
    1TB Samsung EVO 870 SSD (from April 2026: 250GB EVO 850)
    Internet Speed
    150 Mbps
    Browser
    Edge, Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    fully 'Windows 11 ready' laptop. Windows 10 C: partition migrated from my old unsupported 'main machine' then upgraded to 11. A test migration ran Insider builds for 2 months. When 11 was released on 5th October 2021 it was re-imaged back to 10 and was offered the upgrade in Windows Update on 20th October. Windows Update offered the 22H2 Feature Update on 20th September 2022. It got the 23H2 Feature Update on 4th November 2023 through Windows Update, 24H2 on 3rd October 2024 through Windows Update by setting the Target Release Version for 24H2, and 25H2 on 30th September 2025 through Windows Update by setting the Target Release Version for 25H2.

    UPDATE - 11 April 2026: due to mechanical deterioration this PC has been retired from active duty. The OS with all software and files has been migrated to my System Seven in 'Other systems' to carry on as my general purpose 'main machine'.

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 ProIntel® Core™ i5-520M8GB(integrated graphics) Intel HD Graphics
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Latitude E4310
    CPU
    Intel® Core™ i5-520M
    Motherboard
    0T6M8G
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics card(s)
    (integrated graphics) Intel HD Graphics
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768
    Hard Drives
    500GB Crucial MX500 SSD
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    unsupported machine: Legacy bios, MBR, TPM 1.2, upgraded from W10 to W11 using W10/W11 hybrid install media workaround.

    In-place upgrade to 22H2 using ISO and a workaround.
    Feature Update to 23H2 by manually installing the Enablement Package.
    In-place upgrade to 24H2 using hybrid 23H2/24H2 install media.
    Upgraded to 25H2 by Enablement Package.

    Also running Insider Dev, and Canary builds and Windows 10 as native boot .vhdx.
  • My SYSTEM THREE is a Dell Latitude 5410, i7-10610U, 32GB RAM, 512GB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro.

    My SYSTEM FOUR is a 2-in-1 convertible Lenovo Yoga 11e 20DA, Celeron N2930, 8GB RAM, 256GB ssd. Unsupported device: currently running Win10 Pro, plus Win11 Pro RTM and Insider Dev, Beta, and RP 24H2 as native boot vhdx.

    My SYSTEM FIVE is a Dell Latitude 3190 2-in-1, Pentium Silver N5030, 8GB RAM, 1TB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro, plus Insider Beta, Dev, and Canary builds (and a few others) as a native boot .vhdx.

    My SYSTEM SIX is a Dell Latitude 5550, Core Ultra 7 165H, 64GB RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, supported device, Windows 11 Pro 24H2, Hyper-V host machine. Updated to 25H2 on 30th September 2025.

    My SYSTEM SEVEN is a Lenovo Thinkpad T580, Intel Core i7-8650U, 16GB RAM, 512GB NVMe SSD + 2nd 512GB NVMe SSD, a supported device for Windows 11. This is my current general purpose 'main machine'. The installed Windows 11 Home from my System One has been migrated to this machine.
Bree said:
Maybe because you're not based in the UK like Barnaby44 and me? Says in stock for me....

(snip)
Click to expand...
Probably so.

I'm not up to spoofing my (US) location to check.
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 26200.8728Amd Threadripper 7970X128GB (4 X 32) G.Skill DDR5 6400 (RDIMM)Gigabyte RTX 4090 OC
    OS
    Windows 11 26200.8728
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    homebuilt
    CPU
    Amd Threadripper 7970X
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte TRX50 Aero D Rev. 1.0
    Memory
    128GB (4 X 32) G.Skill DDR5 6400 (RDIMM)
    Graphics Card(s)
    Gigabyte RTX 4090 OC
    Sound Card
    none (USB to speakers), Realtek
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Innocn 32" OLED
    Screen Resolution
    3840 X 2160 @ 60Hz
    Hard Drives
    Crucial T700 2TB M.2 NVME SSD
    WD 4TB Blue SATA SSD
    Seagate 18TB IronWolf Pro
    PSU
    BeQuiet! Straight Power 12 1500W
    Case
    Lian Li 011 Dynamic Evo XL
    Cooling
    SilverStone Technology XE360-TR5, with 3 Phanteks T30 fans
    Keyboard
    Cherry KC 500 MX LP (mechanical)
    Mouse
    Logitech M500s (wired)
    Internet Speed
    2000/250 Mbps (down/up)
    Other Info
    xFinity gateway

  • At a glance

    windows 11 26200.8728Intel I9-13900K64GB G.Skill DDR5-6000Gigabyte RTX 3090 ti
    Operating System
    windows 11 26200.8728
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    homebuilt
    CPU
    Intel I9-13900K
    Motherboard
    Asus RoG Strix Z690-E
    Memory
    64GB G.Skill DDR5-6000
    Graphics card(s)
    Gigabyte RTX 3090 ti
    Sound Card
    built in Realtek
    Monitor(s) Displays
    Philips 27E1N8900 27" OLED
    Screen Resolution
    3840 X 2160 @60Hz
    Hard Drives
    WDC SN850 1TB
    8TB Seagate Ironwolf
    4TB Seagate Ironwolf
    PSU
    eVGA SuperNOVA 1300 GT
    Case
    Lian Li 011 Dynamic Evo
    Cooling
    Corsair iCUE H150i ELITE CAPELLIX Liquid CPU Cooler
    Keyboard
    Cherry Streaming (wired)
    Mouse
    Logitech M500s (wired)

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two Other systems

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 HomeAMD Athlon Silver 3050U8GBRadeon Graphics
    OS
    Windows 11 Home
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Acer Aspire 3 A315-23-R9VY
    CPU
    AMD Athlon Silver 3050U
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    Radeon Graphics
    Monitor(s) Displays
    laptop screen
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768 native resolution, up to 2560x1440 with Radeon Virtual Super Resolution
    Hard Drives
    1TB Samsung EVO 870 SSD (from April 2026: 250GB EVO 850)
    Internet Speed
    150 Mbps
    Browser
    Edge, Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    fully 'Windows 11 ready' laptop. Windows 10 C: partition migrated from my old unsupported 'main machine' then upgraded to 11. A test migration ran Insider builds for 2 months. When 11 was released on 5th October 2021 it was re-imaged back to 10 and was offered the upgrade in Windows Update on 20th October. Windows Update offered the 22H2 Feature Update on 20th September 2022. It got the 23H2 Feature Update on 4th November 2023 through Windows Update, 24H2 on 3rd October 2024 through Windows Update by setting the Target Release Version for 24H2, and 25H2 on 30th September 2025 through Windows Update by setting the Target Release Version for 25H2.

    UPDATE - 11 April 2026: due to mechanical deterioration this PC has been retired from active duty. The OS with all software and files has been migrated to my System Seven in 'Other systems' to carry on as my general purpose 'main machine'.

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 ProIntel® Core™ i5-520M8GB(integrated graphics) Intel HD Graphics
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Latitude E4310
    CPU
    Intel® Core™ i5-520M
    Motherboard
    0T6M8G
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics card(s)
    (integrated graphics) Intel HD Graphics
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768
    Hard Drives
    500GB Crucial MX500 SSD
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    unsupported machine: Legacy bios, MBR, TPM 1.2, upgraded from W10 to W11 using W10/W11 hybrid install media workaround.

    In-place upgrade to 22H2 using ISO and a workaround.
    Feature Update to 23H2 by manually installing the Enablement Package.
    In-place upgrade to 24H2 using hybrid 23H2/24H2 install media.
    Upgraded to 25H2 by Enablement Package.

    Also running Insider Dev, and Canary builds and Windows 10 as native boot .vhdx.
  • My SYSTEM THREE is a Dell Latitude 5410, i7-10610U, 32GB RAM, 512GB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro.

    My SYSTEM FOUR is a 2-in-1 convertible Lenovo Yoga 11e 20DA, Celeron N2930, 8GB RAM, 256GB ssd. Unsupported device: currently running Win10 Pro, plus Win11 Pro RTM and Insider Dev, Beta, and RP 24H2 as native boot vhdx.

    My SYSTEM FIVE is a Dell Latitude 3190 2-in-1, Pentium Silver N5030, 8GB RAM, 1TB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro, plus Insider Beta, Dev, and Canary builds (and a few others) as a native boot .vhdx.

    My SYSTEM SIX is a Dell Latitude 5550, Core Ultra 7 165H, 64GB RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, supported device, Windows 11 Pro 24H2, Hyper-V host machine. Updated to 25H2 on 30th September 2025.

    My SYSTEM SEVEN is a Lenovo Thinkpad T580, Intel Core i7-8650U, 16GB RAM, 512GB NVMe SSD + 2nd 512GB NVMe SSD, a supported device for Windows 11. This is my current general purpose 'main machine'. The installed Windows 11 Home from my System One has been migrated to this machine.
Bree said:
Maybe because you're not based in the UK like Barnaby44 and me? Says in stock for me....

View attachment 36778
Click to expand...
I think you are correct. It seems that it's not available in the US.

Edit: When I clicked on the posted link, I get a not available message. When I logged into my Amazon account and did a search, it is available for $32.99.
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 25H2Intel Core i7-10700K16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec B746
    CPU
    Intel Core i7-10700K
    Motherboard
    ASRock Z490 Phantom Gaming 4/ax
    Memory
    16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    Sound Card
    Realtek Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    #1. LG ULTRAWIDE 34" #2. AOC Q32G2WG3 32"
    Screen Resolution
    #1. 3440 X 1440 #2. 1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    NVMe WDC WDS100T2B0C-00PXH0 1TB
    Samsung SSD 860 EVO 1TB
    PSU
    750 Watts (62.5A)
    Case
    PowerSpec/Lian Li ATX 205
    Keyboard
    Logitech K270
    Mouse
    Logitech M185
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge and Firefox
    Antivirus
    Webroot SecureAnywhere CE 26.1

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Canary ChannelIntel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Canary Channel
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec G156
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz
    Motherboard
    AsusTeK Prime B360M-A
    Memory
    16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Monitor(s) Displays
    23" Speptre HDMI 75Hz
    Screen Resolution
    1920x1080
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 970 EVO 500GB NVMe
    Keyboard
    Logitek K270
    Mouse
    Logitek M185
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge and Edge Canary
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender
Ok Gents my old pc is a Mesh and the case is a Thermatake, see photo.

300418141_10223337197470837_6920544549758918835_n.jpg

From the 4 steps above I can only find 1 screw of the 4 they mention at step 3.
The cage is loose but I can't release it, nor can I find the tool free clip at step 4 that secures the cage.
I think this may be what is holding onto it.

I'll have another look tomorrow.

Thanks
 

My Computer My Computer

At a glance

windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USERAMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz...16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
OS
windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USER
Computer type
PC/Desktop
Manufacturer/Model
PC SPECIALIST
CPU
AMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz/35MB AM4
Motherboard
GIGABYTE B550 GAMING X V2 : DDR4, USB 3.2 - ARGB READY
Memory
16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]
Graphics Card(s)
12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
Sound Card
ONBOARD 6 CHANNEL [5.1] HIGH DEF
Monitor(s) Displays
AOC LCD CURVED SCREEN C24G2
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
Hard Drives
CHK & CONFIRM
PSU
CORSAIR CV-550 WATT
Case
TOWER
Cooling
COOLERMASTER HYPER 212 [120MM] FAN CPU
Keyboard
M/SOFT
Mouse
WIRELESS LOGITECH M720 AND G602
Internet Speed
CHK & CONFIRM
Browser
M/SOFT EDGE
Antivirus
WINDOWS DEFENDER + MALWAREBYTES PRO
Other Info
365 office
we still dont know the model. Is it a secret?
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Win7,Win11i7-97002x16gb 3600mhz
    OS
    Win7,Win11
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    CPU
    i7-9700
    Motherboard
    gigabyte b365m ds3h
    Memory
    2x16gb 3600mhz
    Monitor(s) Displays
    benq gw2480
    PSU
    bequiet pure power 11 400CM
    Cooling
    cryorig m9i

  • At a glance

    win7,win11i5-84002x8gb 3200
    Operating System
    win7,win11
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    CPU
    i5-8400
    Motherboard
    gigabyte b365m ds3h
    Memory
    2x8gb 3200
    PSU
    xfx pro 450
Barnaby44 said:
Ok Gents my old pc is a Mesh and the case is a Thermatake, see photo.

View attachment 36818

From the 4 steps above I can only find 1 screw of the 4 they mention at step 3.
The cage is loose but I can't release it, nor can I find the tool free clip at step 4 that secures the cage.
I think this may be what is holding onto it.

I'll have another look tomorrow.

Thanks
Click to expand...
You don't have to remove any screws. The tray is supposed to slide out when you squeeze the clips. I had an old computer that used the same type of tool-free caddy that wouldn't release. If I remember correctly, I had to use a screwdriver to bend the clip before the tray would slide out.
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 25H2Intel Core i7-10700K16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec B746
    CPU
    Intel Core i7-10700K
    Motherboard
    ASRock Z490 Phantom Gaming 4/ax
    Memory
    16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    Sound Card
    Realtek Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    #1. LG ULTRAWIDE 34" #2. AOC Q32G2WG3 32"
    Screen Resolution
    #1. 3440 X 1440 #2. 1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    NVMe WDC WDS100T2B0C-00PXH0 1TB
    Samsung SSD 860 EVO 1TB
    PSU
    750 Watts (62.5A)
    Case
    PowerSpec/Lian Li ATX 205
    Keyboard
    Logitech K270
    Mouse
    Logitech M185
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge and Firefox
    Antivirus
    Webroot SecureAnywhere CE 26.1

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Canary ChannelIntel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Canary Channel
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec G156
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz
    Motherboard
    AsusTeK Prime B360M-A
    Memory
    16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Monitor(s) Displays
    23" Speptre HDMI 75Hz
    Screen Resolution
    1920x1080
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 970 EVO 500GB NVMe
    Keyboard
    Logitek K270
    Mouse
    Logitek M185
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge and Edge Canary
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender
SIW2 said:
we still dont know the model. Is it a secret?
Click to expand...
No model needed. The picture shows that the computer uses a tool-free caddy. They just need to find out why the tray won't slide out when they squeeze the clips.
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 25H2Intel Core i7-10700K16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec B746
    CPU
    Intel Core i7-10700K
    Motherboard
    ASRock Z490 Phantom Gaming 4/ax
    Memory
    16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    Sound Card
    Realtek Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    #1. LG ULTRAWIDE 34" #2. AOC Q32G2WG3 32"
    Screen Resolution
    #1. 3440 X 1440 #2. 1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    NVMe WDC WDS100T2B0C-00PXH0 1TB
    Samsung SSD 860 EVO 1TB
    PSU
    750 Watts (62.5A)
    Case
    PowerSpec/Lian Li ATX 205
    Keyboard
    Logitech K270
    Mouse
    Logitech M185
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge and Firefox
    Antivirus
    Webroot SecureAnywhere CE 26.1

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Canary ChannelIntel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Canary Channel
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec G156
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz
    Motherboard
    AsusTeK Prime B360M-A
    Memory
    16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Monitor(s) Displays
    23" Speptre HDMI 75Hz
    Screen Resolution
    1920x1080
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 970 EVO 500GB NVMe
    Keyboard
    Logitek K270
    Mouse
    Logitek M185
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge and Edge Canary
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender
I don't know if you found the clips or not, but they are on the sides of the caddy.
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 25H2Intel Core i7-10700K16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec B746
    CPU
    Intel Core i7-10700K
    Motherboard
    ASRock Z490 Phantom Gaming 4/ax
    Memory
    16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    Sound Card
    Realtek Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    #1. LG ULTRAWIDE 34" #2. AOC Q32G2WG3 32"
    Screen Resolution
    #1. 3440 X 1440 #2. 1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    NVMe WDC WDS100T2B0C-00PXH0 1TB
    Samsung SSD 860 EVO 1TB
    PSU
    750 Watts (62.5A)
    Case
    PowerSpec/Lian Li ATX 205
    Keyboard
    Logitech K270
    Mouse
    Logitech M185
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge and Firefox
    Antivirus
    Webroot SecureAnywhere CE 26.1

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Canary ChannelIntel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Canary Channel
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec G156
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz
    Motherboard
    AsusTeK Prime B360M-A
    Memory
    16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Monitor(s) Displays
    23" Speptre HDMI 75Hz
    Screen Resolution
    1920x1080
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 970 EVO 500GB NVMe
    Keyboard
    Logitek K270
    Mouse
    Logitek M185
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge and Edge Canary
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender
It doesn't have to be a dock or a USB adapter. You probably have extra sata slot on your mobo. Sata and power cables are cheap. Or maybe you have a spare or borrow from another PC. No need for a bay on the case. Just let it sit there until you are done recovering all your files.
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 ProAMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D32GB DDR5 CL30 Kingston FuryASUS Prime Radeon RX 9060 XT OC Edition 16GB
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    CPU
    AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
    Motherboard
    MSI PRO B850-P Wifi
    Memory
    32GB DDR5 CL30 Kingston Fury
    Graphics Card(s)
    ASUS Prime Radeon RX 9060 XT OC Edition 16GB
    Monitor(s) Displays
    LG Ultrawide 34" + LG 27" 1080p
    Screen Resolution
    3440x1440
    Hard Drives
    Main Boot Drive : 512GB Adata XPG RGB Gen3x4 NVMe M.2 SSD
    PSU
    EVGA 750 Watts 80+ Gold
    Case
    Deepcool Genome II
    Cooling
    Thermalright Burst Assassin 120
    Internet Speed
    1Gbps
    Browser
    Chrome
    Antivirus
    "Moderna"

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Proi7-4790K16GB Corsair Vengeance ProMSI R9 290
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    CPU
    i7-4790K
    Motherboard
    ASRock Xtreme6 Z97
    Memory
    16GB Corsair Vengeance Pro
    Graphics card(s)
    MSI R9 290
    Monitor(s) Displays
    LG Ultrawide 34"
    Screen Resolution
    3440x1440
    Hard Drives
    500GB Adata SSD (OS Only)
    PSU
    Thermaltake 475 Watts 80 Bronze
    Case
    Thermaltake Commander I Snow Edition
    Cooling
    Deep Cool Archer Air Cooler
    Keyboard
    Armageddon MKA-5R RGB-Hornet
    Mouse
    Logitech G402
    Internet Speed
    1Gbps
    Browser
    Chrome
    Antivirus
    Moderna :)
Thanks Winuser & badrobot that's a help.

Winuser :>>> looking at the photo above there are clips you screw drivered on either side, I have 2 on each side.
I'm about to try to release them now.

badrobot:>>> yes i was thinking of trying that if the leads are long enough but it would be much easier to have the drive out if IF I can.

Thanks both again.
 

My Computer My Computer

At a glance

windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USERAMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz...16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
OS
windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USER
Computer type
PC/Desktop
Manufacturer/Model
PC SPECIALIST
CPU
AMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz/35MB AM4
Motherboard
GIGABYTE B550 GAMING X V2 : DDR4, USB 3.2 - ARGB READY
Memory
16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]
Graphics Card(s)
12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
Sound Card
ONBOARD 6 CHANNEL [5.1] HIGH DEF
Monitor(s) Displays
AOC LCD CURVED SCREEN C24G2
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
Hard Drives
CHK & CONFIRM
PSU
CORSAIR CV-550 WATT
Case
TOWER
Cooling
COOLERMASTER HYPER 212 [120MM] FAN CPU
Keyboard
M/SOFT
Mouse
WIRELESS LOGITECH M720 AND G602
Internet Speed
CHK & CONFIRM
Browser
M/SOFT EDGE
Antivirus
WINDOWS DEFENDER + MALWAREBYTES PRO
Other Info
365 office
OK, short update.
Still not free.
My 3.5 HDD sits in a caddy which is then pushed into the bay. The HDD plug end I can wiggle about but the other end is hard up against a fan and appears to be stuck at that end.
The clips that Winuser talks about look like they will only release the caddy.
Can I get the HDD out of the caddy while it is still in the PC or should it release it; as I suspect the screws will be holding it to the caddy and they are not visible until it is out of the pc.

I'm going to remove the fan in case the caddy is meant to come out that way as step 4 in the photo seems to imply.
 

My Computer My Computer

At a glance

windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USERAMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz...16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
OS
windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USER
Computer type
PC/Desktop
Manufacturer/Model
PC SPECIALIST
CPU
AMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz/35MB AM4
Motherboard
GIGABYTE B550 GAMING X V2 : DDR4, USB 3.2 - ARGB READY
Memory
16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]
Graphics Card(s)
12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
Sound Card
ONBOARD 6 CHANNEL [5.1] HIGH DEF
Monitor(s) Displays
AOC LCD CURVED SCREEN C24G2
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
Hard Drives
CHK & CONFIRM
PSU
CORSAIR CV-550 WATT
Case
TOWER
Cooling
COOLERMASTER HYPER 212 [120MM] FAN CPU
Keyboard
M/SOFT
Mouse
WIRELESS LOGITECH M720 AND G602
Internet Speed
CHK & CONFIRM
Browser
M/SOFT EDGE
Antivirus
WINDOWS DEFENDER + MALWAREBYTES PRO
Other Info
365 office
SUCCESS looking back at the photo the sketch with 2 and 3 on it is showing 3 caddies together. I was trying to remove just one [1].
I removed another screw and the caddy complete with the fan slipped out then some hidden screws in the caddy see numbe 3 could be removed, whoo hoo I have the HDD on my desk.
:p:love:(y)

EDIT I'll have a go now with the HDD adapter but that is something I've not done before either. Time for a cup of twa and a read up.
 
Last edited:

My Computer My Computer

At a glance

windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USERAMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz...16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
OS
windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USER
Computer type
PC/Desktop
Manufacturer/Model
PC SPECIALIST
CPU
AMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz/35MB AM4
Motherboard
GIGABYTE B550 GAMING X V2 : DDR4, USB 3.2 - ARGB READY
Memory
16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]
Graphics Card(s)
12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
Sound Card
ONBOARD 6 CHANNEL [5.1] HIGH DEF
Monitor(s) Displays
AOC LCD CURVED SCREEN C24G2
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
Hard Drives
CHK & CONFIRM
PSU
CORSAIR CV-550 WATT
Case
TOWER
Cooling
COOLERMASTER HYPER 212 [120MM] FAN CPU
Keyboard
M/SOFT
Mouse
WIRELESS LOGITECH M720 AND G602
Internet Speed
CHK & CONFIRM
Browser
M/SOFT EDGE
Antivirus
WINDOWS DEFENDER + MALWAREBYTES PRO
Other Info
365 office
Once you connect the HDD with the USB HDD Adapter and plug it into the Back USB port of a computer, it should come up as another drive in File (Windows) Explorer or This PC. You should be able view the files, and you can drag and drop those files to another drive.
 

My Computer My Computer

At a glance

Windows 11 Pro Insider 64 bit 25H2 26200.5742Intel Core i7 9700K 3.6016 GBnVidia GEForce RTX 2060 Super
OS
Windows 11 Pro Insider 64 bit 25H2 26200.5742
Computer type
PC/Desktop
Manufacturer/Model
Gigabyte Z390 UD
CPU
Intel Core i7 9700K 3.60
Motherboard
Gigabyte Z390 UD
Memory
16 GB
Graphics Card(s)
nVidia GEForce RTX 2060 Super
Sound Card
onboard
Monitor(s) Displays
Two 27" Dell 4K monitors
Screen Resolution
3840 x 2160
Hard Drives
M.2 NVME SSD, 500 GB; Two 2TB Mechanical HDD's
PSU
850w PSU
Case
Cyberpower PC
Cooling
Water cooled
Keyboard
Backlit Cyberpower gaming keyboard
Mouse
Backlit Cyberpower gaming mouse
Internet Speed
1 GB mbps
Browser
Brave
Antivirus
Windows Security
I recommend that you copy and paste the files and not cut and paste them. This way you don't have to worry about something going wrong and losing your files. If you drag and drop them. make sure it says copy and not move.
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 25H2Intel Core i7-10700K16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec B746
    CPU
    Intel Core i7-10700K
    Motherboard
    ASRock Z490 Phantom Gaming 4/ax
    Memory
    16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    Sound Card
    Realtek Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    #1. LG ULTRAWIDE 34" #2. AOC Q32G2WG3 32"
    Screen Resolution
    #1. 3440 X 1440 #2. 1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    NVMe WDC WDS100T2B0C-00PXH0 1TB
    Samsung SSD 860 EVO 1TB
    PSU
    750 Watts (62.5A)
    Case
    PowerSpec/Lian Li ATX 205
    Keyboard
    Logitech K270
    Mouse
    Logitech M185
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge and Firefox
    Antivirus
    Webroot SecureAnywhere CE 26.1

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Canary ChannelIntel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Canary Channel
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec G156
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz
    Motherboard
    AsusTeK Prime B360M-A
    Memory
    16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Monitor(s) Displays
    23" Speptre HDMI 75Hz
    Screen Resolution
    1920x1080
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 970 EVO 500GB NVMe
    Keyboard
    Logitek K270
    Mouse
    Logitek M185
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge and Edge Canary
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender
There will probably be some folders that you don't have permissions to look inside. If so, then you can take ownership of the folder and give your account permission.

www.tenforums.com

Change Owner of File, Folder, Drive, or Registry Key in Windows 10

How to Change Owner of File, Folder, Drive, or Registry Key in Windows 10 and Windows 11
www.tenforums.com www.tenforums.com

www.tenforums.com

Change Permissions of Objects for Users and Groups in Windows 10

Change Permissions of File, Folder, Drive, or Registry Key for Users and Groups in Windows 10
www.tenforums.com www.tenforums.com
 

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two Other systems

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 HomeAMD Athlon Silver 3050U8GBRadeon Graphics
    OS
    Windows 11 Home
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Acer Aspire 3 A315-23-R9VY
    CPU
    AMD Athlon Silver 3050U
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics Card(s)
    Radeon Graphics
    Monitor(s) Displays
    laptop screen
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768 native resolution, up to 2560x1440 with Radeon Virtual Super Resolution
    Hard Drives
    1TB Samsung EVO 870 SSD (from April 2026: 250GB EVO 850)
    Internet Speed
    150 Mbps
    Browser
    Edge, Firefox
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    fully 'Windows 11 ready' laptop. Windows 10 C: partition migrated from my old unsupported 'main machine' then upgraded to 11. A test migration ran Insider builds for 2 months. When 11 was released on 5th October 2021 it was re-imaged back to 10 and was offered the upgrade in Windows Update on 20th October. Windows Update offered the 22H2 Feature Update on 20th September 2022. It got the 23H2 Feature Update on 4th November 2023 through Windows Update, 24H2 on 3rd October 2024 through Windows Update by setting the Target Release Version for 24H2, and 25H2 on 30th September 2025 through Windows Update by setting the Target Release Version for 25H2.

    UPDATE - 11 April 2026: due to mechanical deterioration this PC has been retired from active duty. The OS with all software and files has been migrated to my System Seven in 'Other systems' to carry on as my general purpose 'main machine'.

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 ProIntel® Core™ i5-520M8GB(integrated graphics) Intel HD Graphics
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Pro
    Computer type
    Laptop
    Manufacturer/Model
    Dell Latitude E4310
    CPU
    Intel® Core™ i5-520M
    Motherboard
    0T6M8G
    Memory
    8GB
    Graphics card(s)
    (integrated graphics) Intel HD Graphics
    Screen Resolution
    1366x768
    Hard Drives
    500GB Crucial MX500 SSD
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge
    Antivirus
    Defender
    Other Info
    unsupported machine: Legacy bios, MBR, TPM 1.2, upgraded from W10 to W11 using W10/W11 hybrid install media workaround.

    In-place upgrade to 22H2 using ISO and a workaround.
    Feature Update to 23H2 by manually installing the Enablement Package.
    In-place upgrade to 24H2 using hybrid 23H2/24H2 install media.
    Upgraded to 25H2 by Enablement Package.

    Also running Insider Dev, and Canary builds and Windows 10 as native boot .vhdx.
  • My SYSTEM THREE is a Dell Latitude 5410, i7-10610U, 32GB RAM, 512GB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro.

    My SYSTEM FOUR is a 2-in-1 convertible Lenovo Yoga 11e 20DA, Celeron N2930, 8GB RAM, 256GB ssd. Unsupported device: currently running Win10 Pro, plus Win11 Pro RTM and Insider Dev, Beta, and RP 24H2 as native boot vhdx.

    My SYSTEM FIVE is a Dell Latitude 3190 2-in-1, Pentium Silver N5030, 8GB RAM, 1TB NVMe ssd, supported device running Windows 11 Pro, plus Insider Beta, Dev, and Canary builds (and a few others) as a native boot .vhdx.

    My SYSTEM SIX is a Dell Latitude 5550, Core Ultra 7 165H, 64GB RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, supported device, Windows 11 Pro 24H2, Hyper-V host machine. Updated to 25H2 on 30th September 2025.

    My SYSTEM SEVEN is a Lenovo Thinkpad T580, Intel Core i7-8650U, 16GB RAM, 512GB NVMe SSD + 2nd 512GB NVMe SSD, a supported device for Windows 11. This is my current general purpose 'main machine'. The installed Windows 11 Home from my System One has been migrated to this machine.
Thanks all those last three post give me some direction regarding copying files etc.
This Uniteck adapter has a "One Touch Back up" OTB feature. On the face of it this seems like it will copy every file with only one button touch, not sure I want every thing copying but then I suppose I can delete the not required files?

What should I do about similar/same named files that exist already on my new PC with the ones I'm copying across. Some will exist on my C: drive while the recovered ones will be to a different drive but will have the same file name. Can I substitute them into my C; drive to avoid duplication?

Not done anything today eldest Grandson is 17 today [Sunday] so we've been eating cake and partying.

Best
 

My Computer My Computer

At a glance

windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USERAMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz...16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
OS
windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USER
Computer type
PC/Desktop
Manufacturer/Model
PC SPECIALIST
CPU
AMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz/35MB AM4
Motherboard
GIGABYTE B550 GAMING X V2 : DDR4, USB 3.2 - ARGB READY
Memory
16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]
Graphics Card(s)
12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
Sound Card
ONBOARD 6 CHANNEL [5.1] HIGH DEF
Monitor(s) Displays
AOC LCD CURVED SCREEN C24G2
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
Hard Drives
CHK & CONFIRM
PSU
CORSAIR CV-550 WATT
Case
TOWER
Cooling
COOLERMASTER HYPER 212 [120MM] FAN CPU
Keyboard
M/SOFT
Mouse
WIRELESS LOGITECH M720 AND G602
Internet Speed
CHK & CONFIRM
Browser
M/SOFT EDGE
Antivirus
WINDOWS DEFENDER + MALWAREBYTES PRO
Other Info
365 office
Barnaby44 said:
Thanks all those last three post give me some direction regarding copying files etc.
This Uniteck adapter has a "One Touch Back up" OTB feature. On the face of it this seems like it will copy every file with only one button touch, not sure I want every thing copying but then I suppose I can delete the not required files?

What should I do about similar/same named files that exist already on my new PC with the ones I'm copying across. Some will exist on my C: drive while the recovered ones will be to a different drive but will have the same file name. Can I substitute them into my C; drive to avoid duplication?

Not done anything today eldest Grandson is 17 today [Sunday] so we've been eating cake and partying.

Best
Click to expand...
If you save the files to a different location, having the same file name won't matter.
 
Last edited:

My Computers My Computers

System One System Two

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Pro 25H2Intel Core i7-10700K16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    OS
    Windows 11 Pro 25H2
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec B746
    CPU
    Intel Core i7-10700K
    Motherboard
    ASRock Z490 Phantom Gaming 4/ax
    Memory
    16GB (8GB PC4-19200 DDR4 SDRAM x2)
    Graphics Card(s)
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI
    Sound Card
    Realtek Audio
    Monitor(s) Displays
    #1. LG ULTRAWIDE 34" #2. AOC Q32G2WG3 32"
    Screen Resolution
    #1. 3440 X 1440 #2. 1920 x 1080
    Hard Drives
    NVMe WDC WDS100T2B0C-00PXH0 1TB
    Samsung SSD 860 EVO 1TB
    PSU
    750 Watts (62.5A)
    Case
    PowerSpec/Lian Li ATX 205
    Keyboard
    Logitech K270
    Mouse
    Logitech M185
    Browser
    Microsoft Edge and Firefox
    Antivirus
    Webroot SecureAnywhere CE 26.1

  • At a glance

    Windows 11 Canary ChannelIntel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Operating System
    Windows 11 Canary Channel
    Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Manufacturer/Model
    PowerSpec G156
    CPU
    Intel Core i5-8400 CPU @ 2.80GHz
    Motherboard
    AsusTeK Prime B360M-A
    Memory
    16 MB DDR 4-2666
    Monitor(s) Displays
    23" Speptre HDMI 75Hz
    Screen Resolution
    1920x1080
    Hard Drives
    Samsung 970 EVO 500GB NVMe
    Keyboard
    Logitek K270
    Mouse
    Logitek M185
    Browser
    Firefox, Edge and Edge Canary
    Antivirus
    Windows Defender
Hello, just an update as since my last post family business & real life issues have taken over for a little while.

Thanks for all your direction and assistance given which I'm hoping to get started with this week but if not definitely next week.

Cheers
 

My Computer My Computer

At a glance

windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USERAMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz...16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
OS
windows 11 64BIT HOME SINGLE USER
Computer type
PC/Desktop
Manufacturer/Model
PC SPECIALIST
CPU
AMD RYZEN 5 5600X DIX CORE CPU [3.7GHz-4.6GHz/35MB AM4
Motherboard
GIGABYTE B550 GAMING X V2 : DDR4, USB 3.2 - ARGB READY
Memory
16GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR4 2666MHz [2 x 8GB]
Graphics Card(s)
12GB NVIDIA GEFORCE RTX 3060 - HDMI, DP, LHR
Sound Card
ONBOARD 6 CHANNEL [5.1] HIGH DEF
Monitor(s) Displays
AOC LCD CURVED SCREEN C24G2
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
Hard Drives
CHK & CONFIRM
PSU
CORSAIR CV-550 WATT
Case
TOWER
Cooling
COOLERMASTER HYPER 212 [120MM] FAN CPU
Keyboard
M/SOFT
Mouse
WIRELESS LOGITECH M720 AND G602
Internet Speed
CHK & CONFIRM
Browser
M/SOFT EDGE
Antivirus
WINDOWS DEFENDER + MALWAREBYTES PRO
Other Info
365 office
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