Check hard drive for errors from LiveCD

[maximusimo]

Hi,

I have a laptop, running Windows Media Centre unfortunately, and I think the hard drive is hosed. I was wondering is there away of checking the hard drive for errors using the ubuntu livecd? I would put ubuntu straight onto it only there are various items within Windows that the owner needs to get.

[MooPi]

I suppose that ubuntu could access the drive if it is still able to spin. a better tool to test the health of the drive can be found though. Try this instead and choose the best tool for the type of hard drive you are testing. http://www.ultimatebootcd.com/

[pricetech]

What brand of laptop is it ?? There may be a built in diagnostic for the drive, or you may be able to download from the vendor. Otherwise look for a drive diagnostic from the hard drive manufacturer.

If there's data to recover, do that FIRST to avoid losing it in the process.