Sony dvd recorder as hdd error - Sony Televison & Video

Try replacing the red sata cable which runs from the HDD under the DVD drive to the main board on the right-hand side. these are a common problem on these models, there cheap and unreliable. you can purchase a better quality cable from a computer store for little money. HDD ERROR is'nt necessery an HDD fault as i found out with my rdr-hx525. if however the HDD is faulty and you buy a replacement, once installed you will need to pair the new HDD with the unit by entering the service mode by unplugging the AC then while holding down open/close and play together then re-insert the AC lead while still holding open/close and play and wait until you see an "S" in the display then let go and the service mode will appear on the tv screen. go to no.9 HDD mode, press enter then go to no.3 Write ID then it will say "execute write ID?" yes and press enter and then it will say "writing HDD serial ID.... OK" once this is done, exit the service mode by keeping your finger on the power button for approx 10secs. your DVD recorder should now recognise the new HDD. if you don't follow this process, you will still have an HDD error message as your DVD recorder will have your old HDD installed and won't recognise your new one. given the amount of time since you posted this fault, you may still have the unit in question in which case i hope this solution is helpful, or for anyone else with the same problem.

Http://www.avforums.com/forums/dvd-recorders-recording-media/751620-sony-rdr-hx725-fault-repair.html

good luck