Leave external HDs on when computer is off?

[Todd33]

What is recommended? I just setup an external firewire drive, do I just leave it on like a router or turn it off (hard to reach) like the computer?

 

[CQuinn]

Can you set it to spin down (go to standby) when the computer is shut down?

 

[Todd33]

Good question, anyone know how?

 

[MangoTBG]

I leave my firewire drive on...I don't see how it's hurting it. There's no difference than if the PC is left on 24/7 (btw, mine normally is so it'r rarely off and the hdd on).

 

[jonesthewine]

Originally posted by: Todd33
Good question, anyone know how?

I have one of those...a maxtor 160GB external drive w/ firewire and usb2.0 interfaces...and had exactly the same question. Maxtor tech support said that there was no way to spin down the drive during inactivity. I asked how many years the thing could last like that, and he said that they were averaging 3 years.

 

[corkyg]

I have used Firewire external data drives on several computers for the past 2-3 years. They go off and on when the system goes off and on - they connect to a power box and UPS. When I retire for the day - everything goes off. All components such as HDDs are electro-mechanical, and have finite lives. Keep them backed up like any other HDD.