External case + drive? Or dedicated external drive? 1

[JohnGreg]

Hello. For external IDE hard drives (which connect via USB2 or Firewire), there are two options:

1. Get an external case and insert the hard drive of your choice.
2. Get a dedicated external drive (such as Maxtor "One Touch", etc.).

I don't mind the "work" of sticking a drive in a case myself. And I don't plan to use any "One Touch" buttons, or the "automatic" backup software. I will use the drive simply as an additional drive, and if backup is needed, I will do it manually.

So these things considered, is there any reason why I should pay more for a dedicated external drive? Does a one-piece external drive have inherent advantages OVER the "case + drive" option. Are there common or well-known problems to be aware of with the cheaper "case + drive" method?

Specifically, I'm reading about large Maxtor "One Touch" external drives failing occasionally, and some suspect it is because they overheat, being in a static case with no fan. And I'm wondering if there is a good reason to pay more for one of these dedicated devices, if I don't mind the work of choosing a case & inserting the drive of my choice manually? Are people paying more just for the convenience (plus the "One Touch" backup thing)?
Thank you for any opinions, experiences, etc.! John Greg.

 

[JohnGreg]

If this question would be better posted in another Forum, please let me know. Thank you!

 

[ImpetusEra]

I've seen external drive closures on ebay with fans on them. You can get them for less than $30 so you could even modify an enclosure to accomodate a vent fan and not be too worried about making a mistake.

 

[paparazi]

JohnGreg
I think you answered your own question but want reassurance?
If you don't want the extra features that products such as Maxtors "one touch" range, the seperate housing/drives behaves just the same.
Be aware thar metal (usually alluminium) cases act as a heatsink for the drive, active fan types are a bonus although I haven't seen any failures using the ones without.
Make sure the case hase an on/off switch, some don't
as the USB2 bus is the restricting factor in the equation there is no need to buy a hotter/faster 7,200rpm drive as it will be no quicker than a cheaper/slower and cooler 5,400 unit, your choice.
Martin

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Participate and help others.

 

[JohnGreg]

Thank you, gentlemen.

In the meantime, I had to make my decision as there was a time limit. So I did go with the individual external case + drive of my choice (as opposed to a brand name combined external case & drive solution).

But your input will be helpful in knowing how to best use the case & drive I've got. Thanks for your time & information!

John Greg