[musikman]

Backing up all important data as we speak... will let you know once I'm done.

 

Also, the hard drive activity light on the front of the laptop is constantly lit. It doesn't flicker or shut off at any time.

 

Had to go into Safe Mode to backup my files because booting in Normal Mode just completely froze the laptop.

Edited by musikman, 16 November 2014 - 12:31 PM.

[Advertisements]

Did the computer behave normally in Safe Mode, if yes it could be driver conflicts causing the issue/s, backing up is still the wisest option regardless.

[phillpower2]

Did the computer behave normally in Safe Mode, if yes it could be driver conflicts causing the issue/s, backing up is still the wisest option regardless.

[musikman]

Yes, it would seem like the laptop is behaving normally while in safe mode.

[phillpower2]

Thanks for confirming 

 

I still suggest that the HDD is tested, we know it is is a Toshiba HDD but their diagnostic tools are limited to Fujitsu and Vista so use Seatools as it works well on most brands, see canned text below;

 

BTW, do you have a Windows 7 or a system restore disk in case one is needed for a Repair installation, no worries if not as long as you have your product key you can download an ISO if need be.

 

 

Run the HDDs diagnostics tool; 

Make sure you select the tool that is appropriate for the brand of your hard drive http://www.tacktech....ay.cfm?ttid=287 (Please use Seatools for your drive)

Depending on the program it'll create a bootable floppy or a bootable DVD/CD.

If the downloaded file is the .iso type use ImgBurn to burn the .iso file to a DVD/CD disk depending on your OS (select "Write image file to disc" option) and make the disk bootable.

 

RE ImgBurn: please use the custom install and uncheck the attached foistware such as "Install Entrusted Toolbar etc

 

[musikman]

OK... backup complete. What's the next step?

 

And yes, I'm running Windows 7 but unfortunately it did not come with a system restore disk. 

 

Sorry Phill, I went to the link you provided but I'm not sure what I'm supposed to download. There are many options under Toshiba / Fujitsu but I do not see Seatools anywhere. 

Edited by musikman, 16 November 2014 - 01:11 PM.

[phillpower2]

To rule the HDD in or out as being bad test it as detailed in my reply #19

 

The Windows 7 disk we will come back to as and when appropriate (even if not needed as you really should have one).

[musikman]

Sorry Phill, I went to the link you provided but I'm not sure what I'm supposed to download. There are many options under Toshiba / Fujitsu but I do not see Seatools anywhere. 

 

Once I know the correct diagnostic test to download, would I be able to download it onto a flash drive using my good laptop then run it on my bad laptop in safe mode? It seems like the laptop is getting progressively worse as the day goes on... It was sluggish this morning, now it has almost come to a complete stand still.   

 

Wondering if I should shut it down and let it sit for a while since I'm beginning to suspect an over heating problem... doesn't even seem to boot up in Normal Mode. 

[phillpower2]

No worries, computer issues can be stressful 

 

How hot is the base of the notebook.

 

Seatools for Windows direct from Seagate here

[musikman]

Actually the laptop does not seem hot at all, and now that I think about it, it seems to be working OK in Safe Mode... so I'm going to rule out an over heating problem.

 

I've installed Seatools in Safe Mode. What test should I run?

Edited by musikman, 16 November 2014 - 01:48 PM.

[phillpower2]

Test the HDD and post back with an update for us then please.

 

NB: Do the short test and then the extended test as it gives a more accurate diagnosis, if by chance it fails the short test post back here and then try the extended test, just in case I am offline until the morning UK time.

[musikman]

I ran the Short DST test and it failed.

[phillpower2]

What exactly happened.

 

Give the extended test a try please.

[musikman]

I ran the following tests and these were the results:

 

Short DST: Short DST - FAIL

Short Generic: Short Generic - Pass

Long Generic: Long Generic - FAIL

[phillpower2]

Doesn't look good for the drive but I would also check it through Windows;

 

Open the "Computer" window

Right-click on the C: drive.

Select the "Tools" tab

In the Error-checking area, click <Check Now>.

 

Let us know how it goes.

 

Going offline shortly as it is getting late here and I have an early start in the morning 

 

Will check back asap in the morning.

[musikman]

I will try your suggestion when I get home. I'm in New Jersey and it's 7:55am here now so I'm at work at the moment. Thanks.