What computer data can Applied Cognitive Solutions recover?
How long will a computer data recovery take?
How much will a computer data recovery cost?
What should I do if I've lost computer data?
What factors should I consider in deciding whether to authorize a computer data recovery?
What can I do to help recover my lost computer data?
Is there any guarantee that you'll get back my lost computer data?

What computer data can Applied Cognitive Solutions recover?

In any computer 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.

At ACS, we focus on recovering data. 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 consistently managed successful recoveries of data for our clients, including cases where others have tried and failed. There are no guarantees, of course. For more information, call ACS at 713-664-8200.

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 the best results.

How long will a computer data recovery take?

While ACS has completed data recoveries in less than 24 hours in emergencies, most clients request standard service. With standard service, an evaluation report is usually provided within one to three business days after ACS receives the media, completed authorization documents, and evaluation fee. However, for computer media with severe damage, particularly physical damage, more time 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. We recommend considering what to do in a worst case scenario.

How much will a computer data recovery cost?

The evaluation fee and final cost of a data recovery depends on several factors: computer media type, media specifications, media damage, and time. As you might expect, the cost is higher for large capacity media, for a sophisticated operating system, for severe damage, and/or for expedited service.

While the evaluation fee and cost range can be quoted before the project begins, the final cost cannot be determined until the evaluation is complete. If you call ACS at 713-664-8200, we can give you an estimate over the phone. To start a data recovery, we will fax or email documents to you.

For more information about cost, go to Data Recovery - Cost. Basically, the minimum evaluation fee to begin a recovery is $100.00 and the minimum charge to purchase the data recovered is $400.00.

What should I do if I've lost computer data?

1. Leave the computer 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. Write down what has happened.

Especially if you're confronted by error messages, you'll want to capture an exact record of events. Written notes will be useful whether you try a data recovery yourself, contact your network support consultant, or call a professional data recovery service like ACS. We'll want to know the symptoms you encountered.

3. 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.

If you don't have an antistatic bag, then use another medium to store the media away from dust and humidity. If you don't have bubble wrap or peanuts, then use some other cushioning material.

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.

4. Back up or copy 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.

5. 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. Many computer consultants, network support staff, and repair shops are knowledgable about technology, but may not be aware of the latest advances in data recovery. We often receive referrals from other computer companies. We have been able to assist clients who were told to give up and start over.

6. 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. Frequently, 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. You will also need to install your operating system and all applications from the original source 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 the operating system and software application programs.

What factors should I consider in deciding whether to authorize a computer 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 known, 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.

What can I do to help recover my lost computer data?

First, follow the medical principle of "do no harm." With a PC, that means:

• Stop working as soon as you realize there's a problem.


• Copy or back up your files if you can.


• Avoid any action that will write to the hard disk drive or that will affect the data if you think you may want a professional data recovery. That means:
• Do not turn on the computer, if it's off.


• Do not start running a program, even the operating system.


• Do not use a consumer-grade data recovery program.


• Do not launch a utility that rearranges data, such as a defragmenter.


• Do not change the physical state of media. Do not dry it out if it's wet. Do not take it apart. (If you open a hard disk drive and you're not in a clean room, you're jeopardizing your warranty.)

Second, write down exactly what has happened and the order of events. Note any error messages. Describe any sounds. Keep track of your actions.

Third, if you send your media to ACS, be sure to include your notes on the technical information sheet. Details help.

Fourth, think about the lost data that's most important to you. Add that list of files or directories or types of information to the technical information sheet.

Is there any guarantee that you'll get back my lost computer data?

Unfortunately, no, though we provide all service on a "best effort" basis. That means that work will be performed in a diligent and efficient manner to address client requests, but no specific result or outcome is guaranteed.