Hardware⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: Possible HDD error. Explorer seem to pause/stop/lock and dir using cmd seem to pause/stop/lock cmd

Technical issue with HDD error causing Explorer pause/stop/lock and dir using cmd pause/stop/lock, related to new PC build with SSD and hard drives.

Quick Answer: Check the hard drive connections and ensure they are securely seated. Verify that the hard drives are properly configured in the BIOS settings.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 🔍 Why This Happens
  2. 🚀 How to Resolve This Issue
  3. ✨ Wrapping Up

This troubleshooting guide is designed to help resolve an issue where the Windows Explorer seems to pause, stop, or lock, while directory commands (e.g., using cmd) appear to pause or stop mid-execution. This problem affects users who have recently built a new PC with a fresh install of Windows 7 x64 Professional and updated drivers and firmwares.

The frustration caused by this issue can be significant, as it disrupts the user's workflow and makes it challenging to perform tasks efficiently. In this guide, we will walk you through possible root causes and provide step-by-step instructions for resolving the issue.

🔍 Why This Happens

  • One possible reason for this error is a hardware conflict between the hard drives and the motherboard. Specifically, the Samsung hard drives (750GB and 40GB) may be causing issues due to their size or configuration. The Asus P8Z68-V Pro motherboard has a B3 chipset, which resolves Intel's design error known as Cougar Point. However, it is possible that the hard drives are still causing problems.
  • Another alternative reason for this issue could be related to the SSD (Corsair Force Series F120) connected to the Marvell controller. Although you have disabled the controller and updated the firmware recently, there is a possibility that the issue persists.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

Disable Hardware-Related Components

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Disable the Samsung hard drives (750GB and 40GB) by setting their boot priority to last in the BIOS settings. This will prevent any potential conflicts between the hard drives and the motherboard.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Remove the Corsair SSD F120 Force Series from the system, if possible. This will help isolate whether the issue is related to the SSD or not.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Reinstall the Corsair SSD F120 Force Series and set its boot priority to first in the BIOS settings.

Update Drivers and Firmwares

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Update all drivers for the hard drives, motherboard, and graphics card to their latest versions. You can use tools like Driver Talent or Snappy Driver Installer to scan for updates.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Check if there are any firmware updates available for the Corsair SSD F120 Force Series and update them using the manufacturer's software.

✨ Wrapping Up

To resolve this issue, it is recommended to start by disabling hardware-related components, such as the Samsung hard drives. If that does not work, try updating drivers and firmwares for all components. If the problem persists, consider reinstalling the operating system or seeking further assistance from a professional technician.

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