The system software is likely not on the HD.
Could it just need a firmware update?
Have you updated the system software?
Have you defaulted the system?
Have you tried an external HD? It must be formatted for the device.
Can you just replace the HD?
HD Failing on Sony HAP-Z1ES HDD Player, Need help from Owners of Sony Player
The hard drive in my Sony HAPZ1ES HDD player seems to be failing. After playing for a while, the player starts to skip and go back to the beginning of the song. Once this happens, every file on the player will do it. If I shut off for 5 minutes, it will work fine again for a while. I have concluded that the 1TB Hard drive is failing.
I want to replace the drive with either a 1 or 2 TB SSD. My question is how do I get the Linux software which runs the player onto the new Hard drive? I know a few members have done just that. I am hoping they can advise me. I won't have a problem copying the hd contents, just worrying about getting the operating software onto the new drive. When I look into the HD on the player, I am not seeing the software.