Windows File Explorer and programs being launched not responding

[kochoa98]

I built a new computer around two months ago and everything has been great with one exception. At least once every 30 minutes, a strange error happens. If I am browsing through my files in Windows File Explorer or when I launch a program, a high pitched noise from inside my computer case occurs. It gets higher an higher for about three seconds until it stops. While this noise is happening, my computer doesn't respond. Once the noise stops, everything goes back to normal. Although once ever 30 minutes doesn't sound that bad, it does get very annoying. I have also noticed that it is happening more and more frequently. I first noticed this issue about a month ago, and it would only happen once every few days. At this point I have no clue what is causing this error. I am unsure whether it has to do with Windows or my hardware. All help will be appreciated.

My specs are
Motherboard: Asrock Z77 Extreme 4
CPU: Intel 3570k
RAM: 2x4 GB Samsung RAM oced to 2133 Mhz Cas 9
PSU: OCZ ModXstreme Pro 600w
SSD: Sandisk Extreme 120gb
HDD: Samsung Spinpoint F3 1TB
No GPU yet, 7970 on the way

 

[dodger46]

A bearing in something rotating? A fan wouldn't cause a freeze, at least not instantaneously. Only leaves HDD. Perhaps when accessing data? Best give it a good testing
Run from Windows
http://www.seagate.com/support/downloads/
Bootable disk
http://www.seagate.com/support/internal-hard-drives/consumer-electronics/ld25-series/seatools-dos-master/