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My Passport Does Not Spin Up, Is Not Recognized, or Makes a Clicking Sound When Connected to a Computer




Description


  • The WD External Drive does not spin up.
  • Tries to spin but clicks.
  • Is not seen when connected to a USB port of a computer.

Resolution


USB Cables

Try a different USB cable.
Make sure that the USB (or FireWire) is no longer than 18 inche.
(22 inches for My Passport drives made before 2007).
Cables longer than 18 inches may not power on the drive.

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Western Digital Online Store Accessories

Some third-party cables may not be able to transfer enough power to the drive. This includes "reel" cables and extension cables even if the total length is less than 18 inches. Use the USB or FireWire cable that came with the drive.


Difference USB Port and Power

The USB port might not have enough power to turn on the drive.
Change USB ports or try a different computer.

Need more help?
Answer ID 30483: USB Hub, PCI, PC Card Not Recommended for External Drives


PCMCIA (PC Card)

Older laptops before 2009 use a PCMCIA (PC Card).
The computer needs to use the power adapter for the card to function.
A PCMIA may need it's own power supply.


USB Power Booster Cable

Additional power may be needed.
The use of a Power Booster Cable may be required.


Failed Drive and Warranty Replacement

Replace a failed drive if under warranty.

Need more help?
Answer ID 10336: Steps to Get a Warranty Replacement, Power Supply, or USB Cable


Data Recovery Service

IMPORTANT:

Western Digital does not perform data recovery services.
Contact one of our Data Recovery Partners.

Any agreement you may reach with the service provider is a matter between you and the service provider. Western Digital makes no warranty, express or implied, regarding the services provided by the service provider, including but not limited to, any warranty regarding the quality or reliability of services performed by it. Your selection of the service provider is at your own risk. Western Digital assumes no liability for any loss or damages of any kind that relate to, arise out of or result from the performance of services by the service provider, including, but not limited to any loss of data contained on a Western Digital hard drive.

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Western Digital Warranty Policy


Alternate Data Recovery Solutions

View the Use of Third-Party Software or Websites disclaimer.
Western Digital Support cannot help with third-party software or hardware.

Need more help?
Answer ID 18754: Third-Party Data Recovery Software for Windows and macOS

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Details
Answer ID 22209
Published 08/20/2018 03:08 AM
Updated 01/31/2024 09:28 AM

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