Hard drive continues running (light keeps blinking), will not go into sleep mode

Hi RP19301,

·        Since when have you had the issue?

·        Did you make any changes (software/hardware) prior to the issue?

·        Have you set any power plan?

Method 1:I would recommend you to perform clean boot.

  Refer the following Microsoft KB article for more information on how to troubleshoot a problem by performing a clean boot in Windows Vista or in Windows 7:

 How to troubleshoot a problem by performing a clean boot in Windows Vista or in Windows 7

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135

Note: After troubleshooting, make sure to put the computer to start as usual as mentioned in Step 7 in the above KB article.

Method 2:I recommend you to update the display adapter drivers and see if it makes any difference. You must be logged on as an administrator to perform these steps.

a.      Open Device Manager by clicking the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking System and Maintenance, and then clicking Device Manager. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

b.     In Device Manager, locate the display adapter device, and then double-click the device name.

c.      Click the Driver tab, and then click Update Driver and follow the instructions.

Update a driver for hardware that isn't working properly

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Update-a-driver-for-hardware-that-isnt-working-properly

Method 3: I would suggest you to boot the computer into safe mode for hard drive issue.

Refer the article provided below for more information:

Start your computer in safe mode

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Start-your-computer-in-safe-mode

Method 4:Check a drive for errors

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Check-a-drive-for-errors

Important: If any data available on the hard drive might be lost, When performing chkdsk, as the chkdsk tries to repair that affected sector.

You may also refer the following articles for more information.

Change, create, or delete a power plan (scheme)

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Change-create-or-delete-a-power-plan-scheme

Power plans: frequently asked questions

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Power-plans-frequently-asked-questions

Hope this helps!

Thanks and Regards,
Imran M – Microsoft Support
Visit ourMicrosoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.