Reference number: CH000446

Hard disk controller failure.

Issue:

Hard disk controller failure.

Cause:

This error message or similar error messages can be caused by any of the below possibilities.

1. Hard disk drive not connected properly
2. Hard disk drive not setup properly
3. Bad hard disk drive cable
4. Bad hard drive
5. Bad interface board or motherboard

Solution:

Note: When inside a computer, ensure you are familiar with ESD and take the necessary steps to help prevent it.

Hard disk drive not connected properly

Verify that the cables are properly connected to the back of the hard disk drive. Generally, all hard disk drives will have at least two cables connected to the back of the drive. Verify that the power cable is connected as well as the Interface cable. Note: the interface cable must also be connected in the correct direction. Users who have IDE / EIDE hard disk drives, pin one (red or blue edge of the cable) will usually point towards the power connection.

Next, verify that the interface cable is properly connected to the interface card or motherboard.

Note: if the cables appear to be connected properly, consider disconnecting and then reconnecting the cables to ensure they are firmly connected.

Hard disk drive not setup properly

If a new IDE or EIDE device has been connected to the computer, ensure that the jumpers are set properly.

Verify that the computer hard disk drive is being properly detected and setup in BIOS. If your BIOS supports "Auto", it is recommended that it be used. Note: if the hard disk drive is not being detected by the BIOS it is possible that one of the below reasons may be occurring.

Bad hard disk drive cable

If the above recommendations have been attempted and you are still encountering the same issue, it is possible that the cable connecting the hard disk drive may be bad. Replace this cable with a known good cable.

Bad hard drive

If you continue to experience the same issues, it is possible that the hard disk drive may be bad. We recommend that the drive be replaced. If the computer or hard disk drive is still under warranty it is recommended you contact the manufacturer of the hard disk drive or the computer for additional recommendations and/or replacement.

Bad interface board or motherboard

Finally, if none of the above recommendations resolve your issue, unfortunately it is likely that the interface board the hard disk drive connects to or the motherboard is bad. It is recommended that these components be replaced or that the computer be serviced.

If the computer or motherboard is still under warranty it is recommended you contact the manufacturer of the motherboard / interface card or the computer for additional recommendations and/or replacement.