Hard drives are necessary so that the hardware devices of our pc
are recognized with all their functionalities and possibilities by our
Operating System. When locating and installing these drivers, the exact
model of the hardware device and the operating system (Windows 95, windows 98,
windows 2000, windows Xp) in which we try to install them must be carefully
taken into account. Generally, each hardware component like graphics card,
sound card, television card, network, modem, printer, scanner, etc. has its own
drivers and for different operating systems.
Hard Drive Features, Specifications and Performance
After choosing what type of Hard disks to buy, the next thing to consider is the drive's specifications and performance. These are the characteristics that you have to look at:
Storage capacity: The consumer-oriented hard drives that you can buy in stores offer you a capacity between 500 GB and 12 TB. Choose the space that best suits your needs, and if you are undecided keep in mind that it is always better that you give yourself more space than you need.
Transfer speed: The data transfer speed is closely linked to the type of connection used by the unit (USB 2, USB 3, eSATA). In addition, in the case of mechanical hard drives, the speed of rotation of the drives also influences. The cheapest HDDs spin at about 5,200 revolutions per minute, while the most expensive and powerful are 7,200 rpm. The transfer speed on SSDs is not affected by revolutions, but varies (and a lot) depending on the type of memory and the flash technology used.
Security: If you are going to save sensitive information, it is convenient to pay attention to the security measures offered by the different models of external hard disk. Some offer you a basic experience, while others have been specially designed to provide maximum security by storing your data with additional measures such as encryption, specific protection software and other useful tools.
Connectivity: One of the most important characteristics that you have to take into account when buying an external hard drive are the connections it has, both to ensure that the unit is compatible with your devices and for the file transfer speed. You can find units with USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, Thunderbolt, Thunderbolt 2 and 3 connections and even with Wi-Fi connectivity to be able to use it with any device with Internet connection.
Durability: External hard drives wear out with time and use. HDD durability varies depending on the model and its characteristics, some start to fail after 12 months, while others have a useful life of more than six years. Modern SSDs tend to last longer, with an average failure rate of 2 million hours, while modern HDDs have an average failure rate of 1.5 million hours. However, for long-term offline storage of backups, HDDs are more reliable than SSDs.
Resistance: If you are going to transport your external hard drive and use it outdoors, choose a model that offers additional protection and preferably SSD. Some have a shock resistant case, and if you need to work with the unit in the most extreme conditions, you also have waterproof and waterproof submersible models.
