Is it possible to remove an HDD from the Sidecar and run data recovery software on it? I want to get a game I know is on this drive (it was formatted and never used afterwards). Is it possible to image the drive while its in the sidecar?
best bet is to backup the whole drive and try using software, I most figure that it won't work because of the format the drive uses. I got a hdd from a dev kit and ive picked data from it by hex. not a great method btw
there is software out for xbox drive recovery. I just don't want to break the seal on the XBox because I'll be selling it after.
You should be able to remove the sidecar by popping the 6 clips without having to actually break the warranty seal. I did it long ago on a sealed kit with a faulty HDD in the sidecar. I used a thin small metal spatula used to mold clay with. Was able to do so without damaging anything. You just have to be careful and patient.
Once the sidecar is pulled up, you need to pop the bottom of the sidecar off with the wires connected. The only thing you'll be able to disconnect at this time will be the HDD cable. Using a pry tool, pop the bottom off starting at the back (PIX/DVD EMU side). Work around the edge until the bottom is freed. Then once that's freed you can disconnect the cables from the bottom daughterboard but given that you're just pulling the HDD out you can just slide the top off the sidecar and access the HDD. You'll need to separate the top and bottom daughterboard but removing the four hex screws and pulling them apart. Once that's done you can remove the HDD via even more screws.
