Solid-state storage media
Data recovery from
SSD and NVMe
We work where software solutions run out. We handle cases from logical damage and NAND memory degradation to controller and firmware failures.
Failure classification
Most common failures
in SSD and NVMe drives
Standard
- Deleted files or formatted partition
- Drive showing as RAW or asking to be formatted
- SSD suddenly not detected after restart (TRIM risk)
Advanced
- Drive works extremely slowly or freezes
- Read and write errors, SMART errors
- Drive disconnects during file copy
Expert
- Drive detected with 0 MB capacity or wrong model name
- No response after power surge or lightning strike
- Drive in safe mode, translator errors
Process
How does data recovery work?
Send your drive
In person or by courier to our facility.
Diagnosis and report
We assess the device condition, recoverability, classify the case, and provide a quote.
Recovery
You decide whether to proceed based on the technical report and file list.
Collection
We copy the recovered data to a new drive or make it available for download from our server.
Video from the lab
SM2258H controller replacement
See how the process works in practice
We film our work to show the real service process. The video below shows a controller replacement on an ADATA SU800 drive — since no matching spare part was available, the controller was sourced from another case, resulting in 100% of files recovered.
Technical equipment
Tools
for specialist work
SSD drives require specialist tools for electronics work and reading in technology mode. We develop our own procedures for models not supported by standard service software.
SSD service interfaces
- AceLab PC-3000 Express with SSD extension
- AceLab PC-3000 UDMA with SSD extension
- Soft-Center Flash Extractor
- Rusolut VNR
Diagnostic tools
- JBC and Quick soldering equipment
- Fluke measurement instruments
- QIANLI SUPERCAM X 3D thermal camera
Supported controllers
- Silicon Motion (SM2246, SM2258, SM2259, SM2262, SM2263)
- Phison (PS3105, PS3108, PS5007, PS5012, PS5016)
- Marvell (88SS1074, 88SS9187, 88SS9190, 88SS1093)
- Samsung, Maxiotek and models without official support
Logical SSD damage
In SSD drives, data can disappear not only through hardware failure, but also as a result of logical problems.
These include accidental partition deletion, errors during a system update, or a failed file system repair.
Unlike HDDs, SSDs use the TRIM mechanism, which can automatically overwrite deleted data. This means recovery success depends on how quickly the drive is powered off — every subsequent operation can cause permanent file loss.
Do not install new systems or save files — that is when the chances of data recovery are greatest.
Damaged SSD electronics
Electronics failure is one of the more common causes of SSD problems — it often occurs after power surges, short circuits, or damage to the power connector or interface.
In such cases the drive stops being visible in the computer or does not respond to connection. In most cases, repairing or bypassing the damaged components is possible, giving a good chance of data recovery.
In more complex situations, it may be necessary to transfer the NAND memory chips to a working drive or read them in a specialist programmer.
NAND memory degradation
Flash memory cells in SSDs naturally wear out over time — this is an unavoidable consequence of semiconductor physics.
Symptoms include slowed drive operation, system freezes, and read/write errors.
As long as the drive is still detected and provides data access, read stabilisation is possible through appropriate adjustment of operating conditions (e.g. temperature or voltage control). In such cases, recovery is more challenging than with HDDs, but still feasible.
Firmware and controller problems
Firmware or controller damage is among the most difficult failures in SSD drives.
The drive may be detected by the computer but not provide data access, freeze the system, start in safe mode, or show an incorrect capacity and changed model name.
Never attempt to "repair" such a drive by flashing new firmware — any such operation initialises the memory and permanently destroys the data. Recovery requires specialist service tools that can bypass the damaged firmware without risking overwriting the contents.
What not to do
with an SSD
Some actions, instead of helping, almost always lead to permanent data loss.
- Ignoring unusual SSD behaviour — if the drive is unstable, back up your data immediately
- Restarting the drive after discovering data loss — every power-on can activate TRIM and permanently delete files
- Attempting a firmware update or repair — this operation initialises the memory and destroys data
- Scanning with repair software — strains the drive and accelerates cell degradation
- Overheating the drive — high temperatures accelerate flash memory degradation and can cause read errors
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is the analysis included in the recovery price, and what does it cover?
No. Analysis is a separate service paid upfront (€65 standard or €250 express), which keeps the recovery itself cheaper than at labs offering "free diagnostics". It covers a thorough examination of the drive, identification of the failure type, and an assessment of recovery chances. Based on the results we classify the case, prepare a report, and provide an exact quote.
How long does SSD data recovery take?
The turnaround depends on the drive model and extent of damage. Simpler cases typically take 5–7 business days; more complex ones take longer accordingly. We give an exact timeline after the diagnostic is complete.
Do you recover data from every SSD model?
Yes. We recover data from SSD and NVMe drives in SATA, mSATA, M.2 and PCIe formats, both consumer and server, from most manufacturers — Samsung, Crucial, Kingston, WD, Seagate, Micron, Intel, ADATA, GoodRam. For very rare models we will inform you of any limitations after the diagnostic.
What should I do when an SSD suddenly stops being detected?
Shut down the computer immediately and disconnect the drive from power. Every subsequent power-on can activate the TRIM mechanism, which permanently erases data from memory cells, making recovery impossible. Do not reconnect the drive until you speak with a specialist.
Can I repair the firmware or update a damaged SSD myself?
No. Attempting a self-repair or firmware update can completely wipe the memory contents or change the internal data structure, making file recovery significantly harder or impossible. Any such operation initialises the drive — the effect is irreversible.
Is the recovered data safe and confidential?
Yes. All work is performed in a controlled laboratory environment. Data is processed only on dedicated, encrypted workstations accessible only to authorised engineers. We can sign an NDA upon request.
Get in touch
Describe your SSD problem
You don't need to know the technical details of SSD data recovery. A brief description of what happened is enough — our engineer will assess the situation and outline the possible approaches.
During business hours we reply within 20 minutes. Outside business hours we respond as quickly as possible.