Assistance Needed: Transcend StoreJet 2TB on Mac OS Extended (Journaled) Showing Zero KB Files

Troubleshooting Zero KB Files on Transcend StoreJet 2TB External Drive in Mac OS Extended (Journaled) Format

If you’re experiencing issues with your Transcend StoreJet 2TB external drive, specifically encountering files showing as zero KB and being inaccessible, you’re not alone. Many Mac users have faced similar challenges, often triggered by improper ejection procedures or drive disruptions. This guide will help you understand possible causes and steps you can take to recover your data safely.

Understanding the Issue

Recently, a user reported that after several improper ejections during backup sessions to Google Drive, most of their files on a Transcend StoreJet external drive formatted as Mac OS Extended (Journaled) appeared as zero KB. These files are crucial, accumulated over years, and their loss causes significant concern.

Common Causes of Zero KB Files

• Improper Drive Ejection: Removing the external drive without ejecting properly can lead to file corruption.
• Disruptions During Data Transfer: Sudden disconnections or interference during backups can corrupt file headers.
• File System Errors: Repeated improper ejections can damage the drive’s file system structure.
• Hardware Issues: Physical damage or aging hardware can result in read/write problems.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting & Data Recovery

1. Verify the Drive’s Health

• Connect the external drive to your Mac.
• Use Disk Utility (Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility) to check the drive’s status.
• If the drive appears in Disk Utility, run “First Aid” to detect and repair minor errors.

2. Avoid Further Data Loss

• Refrain from writing new data to the affected drive until recovery is attempted.
• Create a backup image of the drive if possible, to preserve the current state for recovery tools.

3. Attempt Data Recovery with Specialized Software

• Use reputable data recovery tools such as Disk Drill, Stellar Data Recovery, or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.
• Follow the software instructions to scan the drive for recoverable files.
• Focus on recovering files with their original names and structures before attempting to open them.

4. Check for Hidden or Hidden System Files

• Sometimes, files may become hidden due to corruption.
• Use Terminal commands to reveal hidden files (e.g., defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles YES followed by killall Finder).

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