Number 282 - November 2006

Disconnect USB Hard Drives When Not in Use
from Macon County Users Group - Franklin, North Carolina
USB hard drives spin 24/7 when connected. Windows power management does not mediate over the external USB HD's controller chip. External USB hard drives often do not have the best cooling built in (especially older drives) and if left connected for a long time, can stress the hard drive by pushing its upper temperature limit. Consequently, it's prudent to disconnect these drives	when not in active use.    When buying an external drive always look for one using advanced heat dissipation technology and don't let it get buried under clutter on your desk.
Number 282 - November 2006