Repair external usb hard drive parametr is incorrect​

External USB hard drives are widely used for storing and transporting large amounts of data. However, encountering an error message like “parameter is incorrect” can be quite frustrating and may prevent you from accessing your valuable files.

Error Message Appearance

The “parameter is incorrect” error typically pops up when you try to access the external USB hard drive through your computer’s file explorer or when performing certain operations like formatting, copying files to or from it. It could be displayed in a dialog box that halts the ongoing operation and leaves you unable to continue as normal.

Potential Implications

This error can range from a minor glitch that can be easily fixed to a more serious indication of hardware or software issues. It might mean that the drive’s file system has become corrupted, there are problems with the connection between the drive and the computer, or there could be issues with the drive’s internal components in some cases.

Possible Causes of the Error

1. Faulty or Loose Connection

USB Cable: The USB cable connecting the external hard drive to the computer might be damaged. A frayed wire or a bent connector can disrupt the proper flow of data between the two devices, leading to incorrect parameters being detected. Even if the cable appears to be in good physical condition, it could still have internal wire breaks that are not visible to the naked eye.

USB Port: The USB port on either the computer or the external hard drive itself could be malfunctioning. Dust, debris, or physical damage to the port can cause intermittent connections or incorrect data transmission. Additionally, using a USB hub that is of low quality or not properly powered can also result in connection issues and trigger the error message.

2. File System Corruption

Improper Ejection: Frequently unplugging the external hard drive without safely ejecting it from the computer can lead to file system corruption. When data is being written to or read from the drive and it is suddenly disconnected, the file system’s integrity can be compromised, causing errors like the “parameter is incorrect” message.

Virus or Malware Attacks: Malicious software can infect the external hard drive and modify or damage its file system. It might delete important system files on the drive or alter the way data is organized, resulting in incorrect parameter readings when the computer tries to access it.

Power Outages or System Crashes: Sudden power failures while the external hard drive is in use or a system crash on the computer can also corrupt the file system. This can leave the drive in an inconsistent state where the computer cannot properly interpret the parameters of the drive’s file structure.

3. Drive Partitioning Issues

Incorrect Partition Table: If the partition table on the external hard drive has been damaged or modified incorrectly, the computer may not be able to understand the layout of the drive and its partitions. This can lead to errors when attempting to access specific partitions or the entire drive, with the “parameter is incorrect” message being one of the manifestations.

Overlapping Partitions: In some rare cases, overlapping partitions can occur due to improper partitioning operations or software glitches. This confusion in the partition layout can cause the computer to misinterpret the drive’s parameters and display the error.

4. Hardware Failure

Platter or Read/Write Head Problems: In a hard disk drive (HDD), physical components like the platters that store data or the read/write heads can develop faults over time. Scratches on the platters or misalignment of the heads can lead to data read errors and incorrect parameter reporting. For solid-state drives (SSDs), issues with the memory chips or the controller can also cause similar problems.

Power Supply Unit Failure: The internal power supply unit of the external hard drive might be failing. If it is not providing stable power to the drive’s components, it can result in erratic behavior and incorrect parameter detection by the computer.

Methods to Repair the External USB Hard Drive

1. Check and Fix the Connection

Inspect the USB Cable: Carefully examine the USB cable for any visible signs of damage. If you suspect a problem, try using a different, known-good USB cable to connect the external hard drive to the computer. Make sure the cable is firmly plugged into both the drive and the computer’s USB port.

Clean the USB Ports: Use compressed air to blow out any dust or debris from the USB ports on both the computer and the external hard drive. You can also gently clean the ports with a small, dry brush to remove any stubborn particles. If possible, try connecting the drive to a different USB port on the computer to rule out port malfunction.

2. Run Disk Check and Repair Tools

Windows:

CHKDSK: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type “chkdsk [drive letter]: /f” (replace [drive letter] with the actual letter assigned to your external hard drive). This command will scan the drive for file system errors and attempt to fix them. For example, if your external hard drive is labeled as “E:”, you would type “chkdsk E: /f”.

Error-checking in File Explorer: Right-click on the external hard drive icon in File Explorer, select “Properties”, go to the “Tools” tab, and click on “Check” under the “Error checking” section. This will initiate a scan and repair process for the drive’s file system.

macOS:

Disk Utility: Open Disk Utility (you can find it in the “Utilities” folder within the “Applications” folder). Select the external hard drive from the list on the left side, and then click on the “First Aid” button. Disk Utility will scan the drive for errors and try to repair them.

3. Scan for Viruses and Malware

Install and Update Antivirus Software: Use a reliable antivirus program and make sure it is updated with the latest virus definitions. Then, perform a full scan of the external hard drive. If any malware or viruses are detected, follow the antivirus software’s instructions to remove them. This can help restore the integrity of the drive’s file system and potentially fix the “parameter is incorrect” error if it was caused by malicious software.

Use Malware Removal Tools: There are also specialized malware removal tools available that can target specific types of threats that might affect external hard drives. Some popular ones include Malwarebytes, which can be downloaded and run to scan and clean the drive.

4. Reformat the Drive (as a Last Resort)

Backup Data: Before reformatting, it is crucial to backup any important data on the external hard drive if possible. You can try using data recovery software first to salvage as much data as you can in case the reformatting process causes permanent data loss.

Formatting in Windows: Open File Explorer, right-click on the external hard drive icon, select “Format”. Choose the appropriate file system (such as NTFS for Windows-based systems or exFAT if you need compatibility with multiple operating systems) and click “Start”. Keep in mind that formatting will erase all data on the drive.

Formatting in macOS: In Disk Utility, select the external hard drive, click on the “Erase” tab, choose the desired file system (such as Mac OS Extended or exFAT), and then click “Erase”.

5. Update or Reinstall Device Drivers

Check for Manufacturer’s Updates: Visit the website of the external hard drive’s manufacturer and look for any available driver updates for your specific model. Download and install the latest drivers as they may contain bug fixes and improvements that can resolve the “parameter is incorrect” issue related to software compatibility.

Reinstall Existing Drivers: In the Device Manager (on Windows), locate the entry for your external hard drive under the “Disk drives” or “Universal Serial Bus controllers” section. Right-click on it and select “Uninstall device”. Then, restart your computer, and Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers, which might fix any driver-related problems causing the error.

6. Check for and Fix Partitioning Issues

Use Partition Management Tools: Software like EaseUS Partition Master or MiniTool Partition Wizard can be used to check and repair partition tables. These tools can detect and fix errors such as incorrect partition boundaries or missing partitions. However, be cautious when using such tools as incorrect operations can lead to data loss. Always backup your data before making any changes to the partitions.

Restore from Backup (if Available): If you have previously created a backup of the partition table or the entire drive’s layout, you can try restoring it using appropriate backup and restore software. This can help get the drive back to a working state if the partitioning issues were the cause of the “parameter is incorrect” error.

7. Hardware Diagnosis and Repair (if Necessary)

Contact Manufacturer Support: If you suspect that the problem is due to hardware failure within the external hard drive, it is best to contact the manufacturer’s customer support. They can guide you through further diagnostic steps or arrange for the drive to be repaired or replaced under warranty if applicable.

Professional Data Recovery Services: In cases where the drive contains important data that you cannot access due to the error and you suspect hardware issues, you may consider using professional data recovery services. These companies have specialized tools and cleanroom environments to recover data from physically damaged drives, although they can be quite costly.