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General discussion

transfer data with what kind of cables?

Aug 22, 2010 4:58AM PDT

Hi I had asked about transfering data from and old harddrive (which has been removed from a pc) into a new pc. I just want files not applications. I was told I can do this with a usb cable? What kind of cable do I buy the old drive is seagate Barracuda 7200.8 -200 gbytes. I have seen several seagate transfer cables state stae? I am not sure what to buy any help would be appreciated, I just need to get my documents and pictures into my new pc. Remebr I do not know much about computers so please do not use alot of technical words haha. Thanks again

Discussion is locked

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All USB cables are the same aren't they?
Aug 22, 2010 5:57AM PDT

Same connections.

I think what the suggestion was to insert that drive from the old computer into a usb enclosure for hard drive. If you Google that you should be able to find out more. For example I found limited explanation here;
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-hard-drive-enclosure.htm

From what I know there are two 'physical sizes' of hard drive, a 2.5" and a 3.5", so you will need the right USB enclosure.

Does that helps?

Mark

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Re: cable.
Aug 22, 2010 6:21AM PDT

The PC-end is standard USB.

The enclosure end depends on the enclosure, if it's a separate cable (it might be fixed to the enclosure also, just like a monitor cable generally is part of the monitor). If not standard, it will probably be included in the package, especially if it's USB-powered for a 2,5" disk, because it has 2 connectors then on the PC side to provide enough power.

The alternative is to buy a SATA/IDE to USB2-cable and no enclosure. Good for one-time use. If you want to keep using the disk for backup or so, better go for the enclosure to keep it safely.

Kees
Kees