I installed my old 30gb into my new computer and copied a bunch of new files to it as a back up. Is there anything wrong with disconnecting the power and IDE cable from it and leaving it there until I need it again?
I have a similar setup using a removable ide rack. As long as the system is powered down, you can safely connect or disconnect the power / ide. In fact, for my rack backup, the ide remains connected, only the power gets turned on and off.... Works fine.