[Solved] Adding a "sometimes" Hard Drive

[TGSP]

Hy,

I'm looking for a way to add an extra hard drive to my pc. However, it should only start sometimes, because it is not always needed, like a backup. Is there a solution like a switch or a button so I don't have to open the PC every time.

I mean something like a SATA adapter that I can activate.

[Windows7ge]

By default if a connected HDD isn't being used S.M.A.R.T. will spin it down automatically after a pre-determined period of time. If that is what you're asking about.

[TGSP]

Not exactly, cause when you open the explorer it will start running (or not?)

[Slayerking92]

could always use something like this:

 

https://www.amazon.com/Aleratec-3-5-Inch-Drive-Mobile-5-25-Inch/dp/B07JZ8X9HR/

 

and just pull the drive out when you don't need it, or to store backups offsite.

 

[homeap5]

Well, consider something like this:

(link to product)

 

SATA is hotplug (you can setup ports for hotplug in every modern BIOS). So you can insert or remove drive anytime you want.

 

I'm using separate internal sata cases for 2,5 and 3,5 drives, but you can buy this type of combo. Or just 3,5 (or 2,5) - whatever you need.

 

[homeap5]

1 minute ago, Slayerking92 said:

could always use something like this:

 

https://www.amazon.com/Aleratec-3-5-Inch-Drive-Mobile-5-25-Inch/dp/B07JZ8X9HR/

 

and just pull the drive out when you don't need it, or to store backups offsite.

Your is much worse - it needs drive to be put into special external case before you put drive inside. It's old style method. Now in modern products you can plug drive without any external enclosures.

[TGSP]

That's exactly what I was looking for.

Thank you all

[kirashi]

Just now, TGSP said:

That's exactly what I was looking for.

Thank you all

Just remember to follow the 3-2-1 backup method, otherwise you don't really have a backup.  

[Enderman]

14 minutes ago, TGSP said:

Not exactly, cause when you open the explorer it will start running (or not?)

Only when you try accessing that drive with explorer.