External Enclosure Position

[chopstick89]

Hey guys, I never thought too much into it but does it matter if the enclosure is mounted horizontally or vertically? Which seems to be the better choice? It seems that most hard drives are mounted horizontally but I'm not sure if there is a reason behind it.

Also, my External HD spins down on its own when its not used and I was wondering if it is better to turn it off when not using it and turn on when using or is it better to just leave it on all the time?

Thanks for the help guys!!

 

[drizzt81]

Horizontal or vertical does not matter, however with kids, cats and idle hands around, there is a "reasonable" probability that it'll be tipped over when it's in the vertical position and powered on. Depending on whom you believe, there is a chance that this could have a negative impact not only on the data that was written at that time, but also on the drive's reliability.

 

[MentatYP]

Most external enclosures are designed to go either horizontal or vertical, and I haven't heard anything about HDDs having problems in a vertical position, so I guess it's up to you. I'd turn off the enclosure when not in use though--the less heat and wear-and-tear you subject the HDD to the better. I do that with mine, but I only use mine for periodic backups, so your situation might be different.

 

[drizzt81]

I haven't heard anything about HDDs having problems in a vertical position

While there has been a lot of argument about "allowed" mounting positions of harddrives in this subforum, most everybody appears to agree that any position in which at least one of the sides of the harddrive is ``parallel'' to the earth's surface ought to be fine for HDD operation.

 

[chopstick89]

Alright, I guess the verdict on position is it doesn't matter. I guess I could turn it on every time I use it, but I'm afraid the on and off button my break someday because of excessive use. Thanks for the help guys!!