[SOLVED] Can you test a hard drive without mounting it to case?

[muncho2012]

Hi there.
I found some old HDD's while going through my parents storage and was wondering if there is a way to test the drives health and content without mounting it with a bracket or screws?
Is it possible to just plug in the SATA cable and power supply cable and leave it on a flat surface or does it need to be mounted on the HDD rack in my case?

Thank you, Aaron

 

[USAFRet]

Hi there.
I found some old HDD's while going through my parents storage and was wondering if there is a way to test the drives health and content without mounting it with a bracket or screws?
Is it possible to just plug in the SATA cable and power supply cable and leave it on a flat surface or does it need to be mounted on the HDD rack in my case?

Thank you, Aaron

Yes.

But I much prefer using a docking station. That way, you can turn the drive on independently of the PC.
VERY helpful if you suspect a damaged drive, or malware.

A faulty drive connected via the regular cables to the motherboard may prevent the system from actually booting.

 

[faalin]

notheing special just make sure the PCB doesnt contact any metal.

 

[muncho2012]

Yes.

But I much prefer using a docking station. That way, you can turn the drive on independently of the PC.
VERY helpful if you suspect a damaged drive, or malware.

A faulty drive connected via the regular cables to the motherboard may prevent the system from actually booting.

Thank you so much for your response! This looks like a much safer alternative. I appreicate it thank you!

 

[USAFRet]

Thank you so much for your response! This looks like a much safer alternative. I appreicate it thank you!

I have one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0099TX7O4

4 years old, I use specifically for doing what you're doing...checking random drives.