USB external HDDs- sleep mode?

[Kenny]

Im thinking about a USB external HDD for file backup and easy transfer between computers.

I see most need mains power to run.

Are these disks always on if they are plugged in, or does the USB trigger a wake-up/sleep function when the computer is turned on/off? Do these disks have sleep/power-saving/long-life preservation features?

Cheers!

K

 

[Madxgraphics]

The older 4.5inch HDD's use external power and are always on..Unless you switch them off..I use a Western Digital 320gb mini which is about the 2.5inch x 3.5inch x 1/4 inch roughly.. And runs just of USB power..Cost £75..

It can even be worthwhile building your own Extrnal HDD.. HDD cases can be picked up as cheap as £5.99..And hard drive depends on what you want to go with.Anywhere from £35 to a couple of hundred..

 

[Kenny]

Hey Thanks.

I was looking at a LaCie offering at around £40. I really have no idea if its always on- that CANT be good for the life expectancy? Is your WD always on or does it sleep?

K

 

[Madxgraphics]

I would say it's only on when something is been written to it or been read from it..When not it should go into idle..

 

[muckshifter]

always on ... that CANT be good for the life expectancy?

quite wrong, it really don't matter.

What to stay away from is switching on-n-off ever few mins ... and I defiantly don't wont my HD powering off every time I want to use it.

Also, it is better to use an external HD that does have it's own power supply, at least you can turn it off 'properly' when you want to.