Seagate FreeAgent External HDD Question

[jfnirvana292]

I just picked it up at Staples. 320GB version for $75. Question is, I know with my WD portable hard drive, i have to go to safely unplug USB device yada yada yada before I shut the computer down. I've read that the Seagate automatically turns off with windows... is this true? Can i just shut down and not worry? I hope so!

[elyrly]

well i can just unplug it (USB) but recently i have trouble with the hd not powering down even after the usb is out.

i recommend you remove the usb and power cord from the back of the external when not in use

[jfnirvana292]

Unplugging HDDs, as I understand, without removing the device from Windows can corrupt stuff. I mean i know dont be a dumb*ss and pull the plug when im writing/reading but i just dont want to chance anything.

[Maxtr0sity]

I'm using the 500G version.

When I turn off the computer, I automatically assume Windows will kill all processes that involves writing to disk, I don't bother to safely remove.

Otherwise, I've left it plugged in for days. The harddrive will spin down after idling for a while but as soon as you access it, it spins right up. Nice little feature Seagate has built in.

[jfnirvana292]

So, last night i shut down my computer and the orange light went off. This morning i walk in and its flashing. hdd isnt spinning so i dont know whats the deal.