Well, I received the replacement for a Samsung HD501LJ that I purchased at Future Shop and it has died also. I don’t know why Samsung chooses to send refurbished drives back to its customers. I’d rather have a different model of drive. I’ve never had this problem with other types of drives, and I take care of my drives as far as I know.
Don’t bump your drive, don’t subject it to extreme hot or cold, don’t handle it without grounding, put it away in a static bag, don’t put it near magnets, etc. I know this mantra and stick to it, so I’m sure I’m not doing anything wrong to the drive.
The worst part is I thought this “tested” refurb would be solid so I used it as a backup drive. While I have the originals as far as I can recall, I’m not quite sure I have everything.
Ah well.
At least Samsung’s support staff should be commended. They all spoke good English and were polite and helpful. It was the least painful support experience I’ve ever had. Kudos to Samsung for that.
Otherwise they seem to make great products, but this drive is a lemon. Stay away. :C