Correct Hard Disk was not found?

I just installed a E3 NoR flasher but cant get it to detect the hard disk from the esata docking station. As far as i can see all the connectors are ok, i have opened the ps3 up many times and re installed but no improvement. what could be the problem? do i have a defective E3 flasher board? the plastic sata hdd on the board had a crack.

i took the e3 out and put the hdd and it is fine.