How To Fix Broken Sata Connector On HDD

[LegendOfLich]

So I always had this broken sata connector on this ever since I got this pc from my uncle. Sometimes it would work, and one time it actually corrupted my windows.

Since my OS is installed on my sdd, why does it not boot if my harddrive isn't present? I don't understand, because now I can't boot windows because it won't load without the hdd even though the OS was installed on the SDD.

I am so frustrated and angry. All help is greatly appreciated.

I also don't have the L plastic piece. Should I just spend 100 bucks on a new OS and get a new HDD because Ive pretty much given up hope as the hdd doesn't pick up anymore.

 

[Solandri]

If your SATA connector on the motherboard is physically broken and you don't have enough remaining SATA connectors for your drives, you can add a SATA PCI/PCIe controller card. They are fairly cheap.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16816124045

As for why your SSD won't boot without the HDD, your HDD is actually your boot drive. Starting with Windows 7 or Vista, Microsoft let you install Windows on a non-boot drive. This added flexibility, but made the confusing situation you're in possible.

To make your SSD the boot drive, you need to first remove or unplug the HDD so the computer thinks there is only one drive (the SSD) attached. Then you need to boot off the Windows install media (DVD or USB stick) and perform a repair. Most of the time this will fix up the drive so the OS on it is bootable. Usually the automatic tool works, but sometimes you have to get your hands dirty with the command line tools. (Note: I have done this many times with Vista and Win 7, but haven't yet needed to do it with Win 8/10. It is supposed to work the same, but I can't confirm.)

https://neosmart.net/wiki/recovering-windows-bootloader/
https://www.raymond.cc/blog/how-to-repair-windows-vista-without-a-vista-dvd-disc/

To avoid the situation from ever happening again in the future, when installing Windows, always unplug all drives except the one you want to be the boot drive.