Retrieve Data from Failing Hard Drive of iBook G4

I have a iBook G4 which crashed. The message on Disk Utility says *"S.M.A.R.T. Status - Failing"*.
My question is, how can I retrieve data that I hadn't gotten a chance to back up?

DD:
I think the drive should be fine. Here is a list of Seagate HDDs for your computer. If you see the drive you are looking at there, go for it, although I suggest you consider a larger HDD. The price difference is not that much.
If you plan to install this HDD yourself, you should know that it is a bit of a challenge, although very doable. The iBook is the most difficult Apple laptop in which to swap out a drive. You will find step by step directions at ifixit. Sorry, I don't know whether yours is the 12" or 14", so you can navigate to the correct directions for your computer.
Here are few tips you may find helpful:
• Print out the ifixit directions as well as the screw guide ahead of time.
• Be sure you have the right tools. You don't want to damage the screw heads or you may never get them out. And the Torx 8 screw driver is critical.
• I use small medicine cups one for the screws in each step. I nest them so that the last ones out and the first to go back in are on top. You can use an ice cube tray, egg carton, dixie cups etc. (Some users report cutting up the screw guide and placing the applicable section in each container.)
• Be very careful pulling out leads. Hold the lead as close to the plug as possible and wiggle (the plug ) to loosen its grip. Don’t hold the wires and pull as that can damage the cable, or worse, in some instances pull the wires out of the plug. Indeed, some users have pulled the socket off the logic board! Use needle nose pliers or tweezers if you can access the plug, or nudge the plug with a small instrument to help loosen its grip.
• Use force gently in removing parts. Separating upper and lower case takes some doing. Use a plastic tool (spudge) so as not to leave marks.
• Refer to the screw guide when reassembling computer. Putting longer screws in the wrong place can perforate the circuit board.
Please don't hesitate to post back with more questions.
Good luck.
cornelius

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Retrieve Data from Failing Hard Drive of iBook G4

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