Preamplifier

When drive starts clicking or makes raspy or hissing noises — in 70% cases it means a “dead” head or preamplifier. Preamplifier is a small chip, located on a head stack.

Head stack replacement or preamplifier re-soldering is needed when you are going to recover your data.

A frame-type preamplifier (Seagate Barracuda IV drive)

A head stack with an open-frame preamplifier (Hitachi ATMR series, 2.5-inch drive)

Working with preamplifiers always includes some difficulties, because, practically, they can not withstand static discharges. If re-soldering is needed, one should follow a number of rules to protect a preamplifier from static damage caused by careless finger touching. Simple protection includes: ground connections for the drive, for a soldering station, for the repairer; and using a 12-volt soldering station.

Head replacement and platter swap all in one tool recommended:  HD HPE PRO

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