What's your external USB2.0 HDD speeds?

[Rally1]

That is way too slow.

My tests with a WD 120GB 7200 8MB Cache external drive with firewire and USB.

Dell Dimension 8250
USB 2.0 17.1MB/s
Firewire 39.9 MB/s

Homebuilt system:
USB 2.0 31.5 MB/s
Firewire N/A

Are you using a USB 2.0 "enhanced" cable?

 

[edro]

Enhanced cable... hmmm.... I doubt it. I have one though, so I will try that as well.