Build ext HD

[thewolfe]

Build ext HD

I have a 30 GB HD in my Toshiba M35X laptop but would like to have access to my desktop HD so I would like to be able to carry an additional HD when necessary with all my desktop files and folders.

I have USB2 and IEEE 1394 ports available.

Which port would be better and is there anything special I should know re: building the ext HD?

[Sylvander]

I found it quite easy to do [if you exclude the fact the 1st cable was faulty].
Used the ViPowER VP-9258V enclosure using the VP-9054V USB 2.0 to IDE Interface (http://www.vipower.com.tw/P_ExternalEnclosure.php?model_no=VP-9258V) with the VP-9208 USB 2.0 to IDE "Smart Cable" (http://www.vipower.com.tw/P_ExternalEnclosure.php?model_no=VP-9208).
[Sounds complicated, but don't be fooled by the codes; it's really simple when you buy them over the counter]

Fitting my old IDE HDD into the enclosure was really easy.
The drivers would have been easy if it wasn't for the fact I had to upgrade to Win98SE and manually install the Win98SE USB driver.
Later OS's include the USB driver.

I believe USB 2.0 is slightly faster than FireWire.
ViPowER for one cater for all kinds of connection.

Originally I fitted my old spare 8.5 GB HDD.
Then I swapped out my 80 GB HDD and fitted a new 80 GB internal HDD.
So now I have an 80 GB internal HDD and an 80 GB external HDD.
Very convenient; especially if I wanted to take any files to another PC.
I've began adding programs to the external that can run from that [while connected to any PC with a compatible OS] because they don't put any settings in the registry.
e.g.
1. PortableClamWin.exe = AntiVirus scanner from www.clamwin.com/
2. System Information for Windows = from www.gtopala.com/about_siw.html
Gives ALL kinds of info about your PC's hardware & software.

[thewolfe]

Some mentioned a IDE2USB adapter cable. Will this work w/ a standard desktop computer HD?
http://www.pcmicrostore.com/PartDetail.aspx?q=c:36142;p:10501935

Although I probable want a little more durability. Depends on the cost also.

[classicsoftware]

You need to get a laptop drive enclosure kit. Your should be able to pick one up for less than $20.00 including the cables and little slip case. This will require you purchase an additional 2.5" hard drive. This is the best method for travel as it is very small. Since you only use the drive temporarily for data transfer, no fan is required. If you can't fine one for that price, let me know & I'll get you one like this:

[jmkeuning]

I had an 80 gig Internal drive. I ordered the cheapest enclosure I could find. Plugged it in - has been kicking for 3 years.

Father in law wanted to do the same thing. I put the 80G as slave in my desktop and gave him the enclosure. It did not work with his drive.

Moral to the story - plug-n-play is likely but for my money I would buy something locally that can be returned so you do not drive yourself crazy.

Incidentally, I wanted a DVD burner so I did the same thing. Worked GREAT. All USB.

[classicsoftware]

If you are going to carry this around when you travel, then a 3.5" desktop hard drive and enclosure is simply impractical. You need to get a 2.5" laptop hard drive and matching enclosure and unless you have Windows 98, you should have NO problems with a USB connection.