I bought a 3.5" external hard disk enclosure (Smart-drive) some time back to put in the largest Gb hard disk available and affordable which I will use to back up my data and if possible an OS too, just in case something goes wrong with my PC. Info on the box: Interface USB 2.0 to IDE, whatever that means.

What I want to know is what reliable hard disk can I use costing around RM300. I am no computer geek so simple (non-tech) language helps. I am a Planter retiree self learning the computer and internet stuff.

If the rules at this forum do not allow, naming names etc, please PM me the info. Thank you very much.

Wishing you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Basically, it means you've bought an IDE external enclosure. So make sure you buy a 3.5" IDE hard disk and NOT Sata hard disk. (SATA is newer and faster interface). You should have bought a SATA one becoz you're going to buy a new HDD and dun have one lying around.

But since the deed already been done, just buy a 3.5" IDE HDD, personnally I'll recommend Seagate...have 5 or 6 in various forms ...XBOX, HTPC, desktop etc...never failed even for years.

Just stay away from Maxtor.

TS, just mention you want a "IDE" hard drive, 320GB HDD will cost around RM250.
or if you have time, you can have read:
http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopic=205980&hl=HDD

Precaution would be made not to turn on your ext HDD too long ( say more than 12hrs) since you bought a normal HDD case.

depending on your usage, you might not even need that much money to get a HDD(Hard Disk Drive) that is enough to cater your needs. If you are into graphic designings, videos,musics, or some other things that require a lot of HDD space, then 350GB HDD would probably suites you. but if you want to back up some of the word documents and small amounts of short video clips or 1000++ songs, I'd say why not go for 120GB or 160GB HDD.350GB is a pretty big space if you only use it to store documents...

regarding the brand, well, i personally prefer Western Digital(aka WD) or Seagate. although there are many complaint Maxtor, i used it once and it is still running, so i guess it is pretty much up to you, if you have a few more ringgit to spare, go for WD or Seagate.

Thanks Matrix, kepco and LovesReborn. Your inputs have enlightened me on the matter and to make a learned decision for the present and future projects. Thanks for your time and fast response.