External HDD Question

[maxxoverclocker]

I have a Seagate 200GB Internal Drive put in a Vantec Nexstar Casing, But it is a real hassle to turn on and off because when you turn it off windows stops sharing it, so the next time you turn it on you have to set it up on all the computers again. So my question is either a) is there a better way to have an external drive shared accross the network or b) if i leave the drive on 24/7 (theres no spindown option for the drive) how long will it last? thanks for you help

[David]

I would think you should still get a couple years life out it even if it is on 24/7. Although isnt there a way to have Windows automatticaly mount specifed network volumes?

[maxxoverclocker]

I would think you should still get a couple years life out it even if it is on 24/7. Although isnt there a way to have Windows automatticaly mount specifed network volumes?

I wasn't aware of this but does someone know how?

[David]

I wasn't aware of this but does someone know how?

It might just be on boot but as I said im not sure.

[Grimdeath]

I have a Seagate 200GB Internal Drive put in a Vantec Nexstar Casing, But it is a real hassle to turn on and off because when you turn it off windows stops sharing it, so the next time you turn it on you have to set it up on all the computers again. So my question is either a) is there a better way to have an external drive shared accross the network or b) if i leave the drive on 24/7 (theres no spindown option for the drive) how long will it last? thanks for you help

It is actually healthier to leave it running 24/7. Less spindown and thermal cycling is a very desirable thing.

[maxxoverclocker]

alright thanks guys