IT Queries: Computer problems answered

I have a Dell OptiPlex GX620 running Windows XP Professional and have been using a 200GB Maxtor 3200 external USB drive for backup for over a year. At least four times in recent months, with increasing frequency, apparently at random, and without any error message (on one occasion I think it may have been associated with a \”blue screen\” error), the system stops recognising the Maxtor — it stops appearing in My Computer as drive E:\\.

Rebooting does nothing. Disk Management shows the Maxtor as Not Initialized and Unallocated. In order to get it back I have had to disconnect/re-connect the Maxtor from the power then re-initialize and re-format via Disk Management, which of course means I lose my backup data.

It sounds like the hard drive or your computer’s USB port has a problem. It might be be best to unplug the unit when it’s not in use and only plugging it in when you need it. You may also want to experiment with using different ports or plugging it into a powered USB hub.

If it is the hard drive, then it’s on the way out. Check whether the unit is still under warranty and, if not, start considering a replacement.

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