Computer not reconizing Maxtor Personal Storage... My computer cannot recognize my Maxtor

Question

My computer cannot recognize my Maxtor Personal Storage 3200. I've had it for about 10 months now. Everything was fine until yesterday. The power light is on but there is not noise coming from the drive. It is not recognized by my lap top either. Again I've not had any other problems with this drive. I really need the info on it. I'm writing my first novel and it's on this drive. Please, help me!!!! Stacie