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General discussion

Considering purchasing a portable hard drive, have some ?'s

Aug 28, 2006 1:31PM PDT

I'm going to be getting an HP computer shortly and I plan to build it. So, right now I am trying to decide what I need.

I'm considering getting the 160gb portable hard drive. Currently, I just back my files up about once a month or so on CD. But, I think the hard drive would be nice so that I can back up the system every night and then also use a CD to have a back up of the back up in case the HD decides not to work.

How do these hard drives work? For example, if I save my computer tonight and tomorrow, but I accidently save over one of my files on Wednesday, if I save my computer again on Wednesday, will it just write over everything that is currently there.

Is this going to be a benefit to me, or is it really not worth the extra $150? Also, if I would upgrade to win XP pro instead of home, should I still get the portable HD, or would the backup work just as good?

THanks so much!

Discussion is locked

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I do that!
Aug 29, 2006 12:37AM PDT

While my real backup is on some DVDRWs, the quick copy is to some USB drive and off to a network server.

Sounds like a good plan but be aware it's only a copy and while a good idea falls a little short to be called backup.

Bob

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Thanks for the help
Aug 29, 2006 1:49AM PDT

So, when I would copy everything over, does it just write over what is already on there, or does it add what is new, etc. I would think each time you copy, it is going to erase what was on there and put the new copy on. Otherwise it would fill up way too fast.


Also, would I be better off going and purchasing the portable HD seperately, or is the one from HP a good one?

Thanks

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Your choice.
Aug 29, 2006 2:02AM PDT

Some just copy over the top. Others might have a directory for each day of the week.

This is all your choice on the matter.

I only have self made units save one that was on sale so I can't tell if yours is going to be any different.

Bob

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Price is too high
Aug 29, 2006 2:30AM PDT

In the USA, $150 for an external 160GB HD is way too expensive. You could purchase a 160GB internal HD on sale for $40 and an external enclosure for $30 (or less).

I have also seen 250-300GB external HD's for $100. Check places like Techbargains.com, Pricegrabber.com, and NewEgg.com.

Right now, I stay away from Maxtor since certain models have problems.