ACS Data Recovery FAQs

What data can ACS recovery?
In any data recovery, only the data that is present and recoverable on the computer media can be recovered. For example, if a virus has deleted a file on a hard disk drive, but the information has not been overwritten, then the original data may be recoverable.

On each job, we ask the client to identify the most important files to be recovered and to provide information on the loss or damage. With this guidance, we can target our recovery efforts.

ACS has been very successful in recovering data for our clients. In some cases data has been recovered when others have tried and failed.

In addition to data recovery, ACS offers file repair, computer forensic, and technical consulting services. For some clients, applying a combination of techniques will lead to satisfactory results.

However, there are no guarantees of success. Applied Cognitive Solutions provides all service on a “best effort” basis which means that work will be performed in a diligent and efficient manner to address client requests, but no specific result or outcome is guaranteed.

How long will a data recovery take?
While ACS has completed a data recovery within 24 hours in an emergency, usually clients request standard service. With standard service, an evaluation report is usually provided within one to three business days after ACS receives the media and completed authorization documents. However, the evaluation of the data recovery on media with severe damage, particularly physical damage may be required.

After the client purchases the recovery, the recovered data is usually delivered to the client within two business days. Keep in mind that not all data recoveries are completely successful and it's possible that no data can be recovered.

What should I do if I've lost data?
1. Leave the media alone if your media has stopped working and you plan to use a professional data recovery service.

ACS will have a much better chance of recovering lost data if we can apply our resources to the media first. You can always change your mind later and attempt to do the recovery using an off-the-shelf utility. However, if you try a recovery and are not successful, you may make the situation worse.

2. Store the media safely.

• Place the media in an antistatic bag or wrap.
• Protect the media by surrounding it with bubble wrap or placing it among peanuts, preferably antistatic.
• Store the cushioned media in a sturdy container, like a stiff cardboard box.
• Keep the packaged media in a cool and dry location.

A hard disk drive will need to be removed from the computer in order to store it safely. If you're not sure how to remove the drive, consult the manufacturer, retailer, or your computer consultant. If you select ACS to perform your recovery and you bring the computer to our office, we will remove the hard disk drive. Laptop hard disk drives often prove especially difficult to remove.

3. Back up your files immediately if you notice something happening to your system.

Of course, files should be backed up regularly, frequently, and completely. If your files are not backed up and your computer system starts making new sounds or unusual noises, then immediately make a copy of your files. Copy your most important files first.

4. Call ACS at 713-664-8200 for more information. With our extensive experience in data recovery, we can help you evaluate your options. If you choose ACS to perform your data recovery, we will prepare documents authorizing the evaluation and fax or email a copy to you.

If you don’t call ACS, then please consult a specialist in data recovery because many computer consultants and repair shops are not aware of the latest advances in this field. Frequently, we've been able to assist clients who have been told to give up and start over.

5. Begin planning for the restoration or reconstruction of your data.

If the data recovery is successful, you will need to restore your data to computer media. Usually, that means you will have to replace the original media. For example, if your data was on a hard disk drive, you will probably need a new drive and need to install your operating system and applications before restoring your data.

If the data recovery is not successful, you will also need to consider how to reconstruct or recapture your data, in addition to replacing the media and installing programs.

What factors should I consider in deciding whether to authorize a data recovery?
Most ACS clients decide to authorize us to begin a data recovery when:

• There is no other access to the data,
• Access to the data is needed quickly, or
• The cost of the data recovery is less than the cost of reconstructing the lost data.

However, a data recovery may not be needed if:

• A good, recent back-up of the lost data was stored in a safe location and is available.
• Important data is kept in another way, such as in documents, and the cost of reconstructing or re-entering the data is affordable.
• The data on the computer was not extremely important.