Simple questions about external enclosures

[RaNDoMMAI]

ok so i just ordered this plumax enclosure HEre

I plan on putting a old 120 gig WD harddrive in it.

I want to be clear on some things before i install it and stuff. gotta be safe and all.

Well

1. The harddrive i will be using used to be the main HDD in a comp, it has windows and stuff on it alrdy. Do i need to format it or anything before i stick it in the enclosure or can i just stick it in there?

2. When i use it, do i plug in the power first and then pplug it in the USB slot or usb slot first then power?

3. when i am done using it, is there a special shut down for it or can i just unplug the usb cable and power off.

4. I plan on going friend to friend houses exchanging data with this. Is there any thing i should know about so i dont mess anything up?

Thx so much
~RaNDoM

 

[corkyg]

1, No - just stick it in the enclosure.

2. Hot plug it - that means the drive is powered, then connect the USB cable and Windows will say "Aha!"

3. If it is not being used, you can unplug it. Windows will say "Oh!"

4. Sounds like a good idea. I do that all the time. I have several externals - 3.5 and 2.5 inch.

 

[RaNDoMMAI]

thx so much

~RaNDoM