If the USB and power cables are working, you'll hear the hard drive spinning, and you'll notice a light indicator. If your computer isn't recognizing the storage, make sure to use a good data cable. The cable could be damaged, or you're probably trying to use the wrong cable. On small and large drives, sometimes the problem can be the USB cable.
The instructions outlined below should help to overcome most problems, whether you're trying to connect a traditional rotating platter hard drive, solid-state drive (SSD), or flash drive using a USB interface. VPN Deals: Lifetime license for $16, monthly plans at $1 & more How to fix problems with an external drive on Windows 10