Thats strange enough, have you tried removing the device from the actual computer or even tightening the data cable? If it's an IDE drive of course.. no guarantee this will work but there is a condition called chip creep that self-loosens chips from thier sockets due to frequent heating and cooling of the board. Chip creep usually affects pci slots etc.. just a chance that might be the solution but it is something to try. hope it works out for ya..
