Is this HD ready for the bin?

[HerbEye]

I uploaded a video to YouTube of my old iMac HD. It's making odd buzzing sounds. I've tried to connect it to my MacBook Pro via SATA/USB, but it doesn't show up on the desktop.
Has anyone had a similar experience with their HD? Were you able to get any data off of it?
Unfortunately, all the data on it wasn't backed up so I'm wondering if all my photos, music and what not is gone forever.
Many thanks.

 

[iMac-Do-You?]

Yup sounds dead, sounds like the servo for the heads or the platter motor is trying to move but cannot. There are companies that will do data retrieval for you, but it usually costs $$$. I guess it depends how much the data is worth to you.

 

[Fishrrman]

OP wrote:
"It's making odd buzzing sounds. I've tried to connect it to my MacBook Pro via SATA/USB, but it doesn't show up on the desktop."

Very VERY important questions:
Did you use a USB/SATA "dongle-type" adapter that just plugs into the MacBook and runs from "USB bus power"?
or
Does the dongle/adapter have its own power supply? If so, was the power supply plugged in?

WHY this can be important:
IF the drive does not get enough power, it may not be able to "start completely up". Not enough power to spin up the platters and get everything going.
The USB ports on a MacBook can usually power up a 2.5" drive, but not 3.5" drives.

So... tell us more about the connection method you used, before we go further.

 

[HerbEye]

Big thank you for your replies!
The adapter I bought does have it's own power supply. Actually, when I recorded the video it wasn't plugged into the MacBook. Whether it's connected to the MacBook or not it makes the same sound.
Again, thank you so much for your input.

 

[Fishrrman]

Something to try, no promises.

When you first energize the drive, tap it -gently- on the side to free the platters and actuator arm. Do you hear the platters spin inside?