Linus Tech Tips Forum....you are my only hope! I re-installed windows (reformatted hard drive) on my mother's computer. As I was showing her how much faster the system was (it was pretty bad before) she started asking where her open office files were. Things went south from there. I thought I made it clear that the drive was going to be completely wiped before I took the computer but apparently there was a miscommunication and now she needs important office document files involving death certificates, estate issues, documents sent to lawyers involving wills, etc. Suffice it to say she is not happy. Looking back I realize I should have scanned the computer for these type of docs before I formatted even if I thought she wouldn't need them but I wasn't thinking and I messed up.
I tried downloading (and paying $50) for ParetoLogic Data Recovery Pro but I was only able to salvage a single .pdf file intact. There are about 7 more important files that I need but only one that is especially important; I was able to get them all using the data recovery software but they are all corrupt.
Does anybody know how to fix a corrupt file? More specifically I'm dealing with corrupt .ods and .pdf files. The most important file is a corrupt .ods.
Trevor
PS I hope at least that my mistake will serve as a reminder to anyone reinstalling windows/reformatting a drive for friends, family, or in a business capacity to always double check for and pull office docs even if you don't think you'll need them. It only takes a few minutes and can save you hours and hours of stress, hard earned $$, and the love and affection of your mother.
