need new external HD

[Georgiegril]

So I had a glitchy Buffalo Linkstation that I shoulda returned when I first got it, but I kept thinking it was me... turned out (for a change) it wasn't me.

And now I am looking for a new one. It's been a coupla years since I've been in the market, things have changed...

 

I really am just looking for something for backups, maybe a little media storage.

 

I am hoping to hear some opinions on the following:

 

1. If I get one that does not have it's own PS, how does that affect computer performance, particularly in game situations? How much power do they typically take? I have 550 watts, not a whole lot to spare, especially if I ever get a decent GPU. (I realize I could disconnect/turn of the thing, but it would be nicer if I didn't have to. On the other hand I have way too many wires as it is.)

 

2. Is there any particular benefit for USB vs Firewire vs SATA, as far as transfer integrity, compatibility or reliability? Speed is not so important to me for backups.

 

3. Does anyone have a external HD they passionately love or hate? I'm looking at 1TB for around $80-150 US, but even if your HD is well out of my price range, I think quality tends to be comparable between products of the same manufacturer. Just don't tell me about Buffalo...I am ready to move on.

 

It seems external storage isn't a particularly sexy topic; my googling didn't bring up the kinds of extensive reviews that, say, graphics cards do.

Thanks in advance for your help!

[FMod]

1. About 3 watts for 2.5", up to 10 watts for 3.5". Peanuts, no effect on the PC.

 

2. SATA is permanent although semi-hot-swappable. You must mean eSATA, which is permanent/temporary hot-swappable. USB is completely plug-and-play. Firewire is kinda better than USB, but you'll never notice.

 

eSATA easily outperforms everything else, inc. USB 3.0. Since it's just SATA with another cable and PnP capability, you can use eSATA drives like internal ones and never know the difference. But it's also like internal in that eSATA drives don't normally go to sleep, USB ones do, and USB is more compatible. USB 3.0 speed is usually enough for everything. 2.0, noticeably slow.

 

3. It's just a tool, it either works as required or it doesn't.

[Georgiegril]

Firewire is kinda better than USB, but you'll never notice.

This made me laugh. :biggrin:

 

Thanks for your help, FMod!

[hoofhearted4]

i have an external 1TB Western Digital one i used for my Ps3, had if for like 3 or 4 years no and its worked flawlessly.