Two drives in a row not detected - options?

RichDuffy · 11 Nov 2006 at 16:11

I've just taken delivery of a Seagate NL35 hard disk as a replacement for a Maxtor Diamondmax 11 which my system couldn't detect. And it won't detect this one either!!

Is there a problem with the newest ranges of disks on VIA motherboards (Abit AX8, latest firmware)? Do I need to buy a controller card to be able to use this disk? Any ideas appreciated. Cheers.

Justintime · 11 Nov 2006 at 16:59

Does it detect any disk at all? Could be a controller problem. Are you referring to detection in the BIOS or Windows? You need to partition a drive in disk management for windows to see it.

RichDuffy · 11 Nov 2006 at 20:14

Not detected in the BIOS, regardless of which SATA port it's plugged into. Known working cables etc. Seems like a controller fault, because when the disk is plugged in, even though it's not detected, Windows won't load.

Justintime · 11 Nov 2006 at 21:48

Tried a BIOS clear or a newer BIOS if applicable?

Jimathy · 12 Nov 2006 at 12:49

got a friend who'll let you test your drive in his/her pc?

smart money is on the controller

Justintime · 12 Nov 2006 at 12:50

Yea.. i'd have a look around in the BIOS to see if its disabled or something stupid like that as well

RichDuffy · 12 Nov 2006 at 12:57

The BIOS is on the latest version; I updated it as a troubleshooting step. Likewise for clearing it. Trying it in another computer won't be possible for the next couple of days as the only mates I have with a vaguely modern system are away.

The controller is active, as I have two other SATA disks working in it. A Raptor and a Diamondmax 10. I try unplugging the DM10 and putting the new one in its place, but it isn't detected.

I can only think there is something actually wrong with the controller, that it somehow can't recognise the newest disks. But I'm reluctant to replace my mobo due to all the hassle involved. I'd much rather buy a controller card IF it is likely to actually work.

RichDuffy · 14 Nov 2006 at 13:06

Aaaaaaand I've just found my problem.

VIA 8237 southbridge requires SATA2 HDDs to have a jumper set on them

Now the question is, how can I obtain a jumper block when I don't have any spare? Trouble is, the answer would probably involve mentioning competitors. Perhaps the OcUK staff could offer a suggestion?

EDIT: Found one - someone at work just 'happened' to have one lying around.

Now I just hope I'm right - it looks like the most likely cause.

Final Update: the jumper worked - just need to update my sig now...