help external HD not detected

[tansuri]

I removed my portable external hard disk from my Windows computer even though it says it can't be removed as there are still programs running. Now when I tried to plug it into that computer and other computers too it doesn't get detected. Is there anyway out? Please don't tell me I have lost all my data. Thanks.

 

[jtjt00]

You should shutdown your computer before removing since it will not allow unplug. Can it be detected at disk management?

 

[tansuri]

What should I do now ?

 

[jtjt00]

What should I do now ?

Go to Disk Management and see if HDD is listed there?

 

[tansuri]

There is this "initialize disk" dialogue box saying must initialize a disk before logical disk manager can access. What does it mean

 

[jtjt00]

Initialize disk means format, do not proceed if HDD got data!

 

[Louisloo]

There is this "initialize disk" dialogue box saying must initialize a disk before logical disk manager can access. What does it mean

Means the boot sector is corrupted and windows is asking you to re initialize and format your disk. Don't do it as all your folders and file names will be missing after formatting.
If you have important data and you are techno savvy enough, you can use a software recovery program to recover your data. You may also seek professional data recovery to do it for you. Should be stlll affordable at this stage.

For tips on handling such situation when your external keeps busy and you cannot safely remove it, read here http://www.accplus.com.sg/tips.htm