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[tedtropy]

I've come across a few laptop-size HD enclosure, but it looks like they require an additional driver. I'm hoping to find one that's just automatically detected as a UMD device in 2000/XP and doesn't require external power. Do any actually exist? Many thanks.

 

[tenchir]

http://store.yahoo.com/meritline/usb-enclosure-hard-drive-external-2.html

17.99 - 10.00 = $7.99 if you use the "techbargains-HD10OFF" coupon code. It expires 1/15.

Install your old or new mobile drive in one of our high quality 2.5" enclosures.
Use it for protection against primary drive failure or a disaster that could effect your valuable data.

Our drive enclosures are fully USB 1.1 backward compatible or you can add a new USB 2.0 PCI Card or USB 2.0 CardBus Adapter to take advantage of the much faster USB 2.0 speed.

Meritline USB2.0 thin (mini) hard drive (also called USB HD, USB external hard drive or 2.5" USB hard drive) case/enclosure is ideal for anyone who requires a high performance, lightweight and durable hard drive storage solution.

Features:


USB-IF certified USB 2.0 enclosure, 40 times faster than the original USB
Latest USB 2.0 ATA bridge technology, fully backward compatible with USB 1.1
Hot swappable - plug and play; super portable
High quality sturdy built enclosure
Easy assembly
Aluminum alloy shell with static-proof, good thermal diffusivity and durability
Works with PC & MAC
Beautiful design; case color: silver
Dimension: 118 x 72 x 11 mm (L x W x H)
Max supported: 120GB
Package Content:

USB 2.0 to IDE 2.5" HDD Enclosure
One USB 2.0 cable
One Driver CD

Note:

No hard disk included in the package. The enclosure can support HD 9.5mm high only.
Connect both USB connectors is recommended to make sure there is enough power for the enclosure & hard drive.
Assembly of Drive Enclosures requires both mechanical and computer skills. New 2.5" Drives need to be partitioned before Windows will recognize the drive and assign it a drive letter.
No driver is needed for Mac OS 10.0 or above.

 

[tedtropy]

I notice that it explicitly says Mac OS 10.0 and up doesn't require a driver, but it doesn't say the same for Windows 2000/XP. Any confirmation one way or another on if it requires one? Thanks.

 

[tenchir]

I notice that it explicitly says Mac OS 10.0 and up doesn't require a driver, but it doesn't say the same for Windows 2000/XP. Any confirmation one way or another on if it requires one? Thanks.

I am not very familiar with Mac OS, but pre-Mac OS 10.0 doesn't include USB 2.0 drivers like pre-SP1 Windows XP right? As long as you update your Windows XP to at least SP1(includes USB driver) or Windows 2000 to the latest version, you shouldn't encouter any problems. Besides, it's $7.99!!!!!!.

edit: Also keep in mind that it says "Works with PC & MAC", yet only mentions pre Mac OS 10 needing drivers, so it's pretty safe to say that updated XP/2000 wouldn't require extra drivers.

 

[tedtropy]

I am not very familiar with Mac OS, but pre-Mac OS 10.0 doesn't include USB 2.0 drivers like pre-SP1 Windows XP right? As long as you update your Windows XP to at least SP1(includes USB driver) or Windows 2000 to the latest version, you shouldn't encouter any problems. Besides, it's $7.99!!!!!!.

edit: Also keep in mind that it says "Works with PC & MAC", yet only mentions pre Mac OS 10 needing drivers, so it's pretty safe to say that updated XP/2000 wouldn't require extra drivers.

Heh, true enough. I'd just like to be able to take the drive from machine to machine without having to do any configuration software-wise. But depending on what the shipping's like, I think I'll be picking this up. I appreciate it - you da man, despite what your tag may imply.

 

[tedtropy]

http://www.pcmicrostore.com/PartDetail.aspx?q=p:10501713&kbid=1008

Found one that's a few bucks cheaper when you factor in the $1 shipping. Plus it comes with a leather pouch. Whoo!