What is the best method to unplug my external hard drive when not in use

Recently i brought a 2 TB LG XG1 (LG XG1 External HDD - 3.5" External HDD - LG Electronics SA) for storing my ever growing media collection.i never used an external HDD which works using external power source before.i know that clicking on 'safely remove USB mass storage device' will remove the hdd.



But in this HDD there is also switch on the side which powers the hdd which looks rather fragile(i don't wanna break it using it frequently)...SO should i always turn that switch off before unplugging the HDD from external power source or is it just safe to switch off power from external power outlet using the swith on the outlet itself after using the 'safely remove USB mass storage device' wizard on the computer



What is the best way to unplug my external hard drive when not in use?

Reply 1 : What is the best method to unplug my external hard drive when not in use

I dont have an LG external drive,however i do have a major brand one,,if the usb plug is pulled or not plugged in to the computer usb port the power is off on the external usb drive wether plugged in or not to external power.



Cheers

3Fees

Reply 2 : What is the best method to unplug my external hard drive when not in use

^^

Then why did they add a power button on the HDD

Reply 3 : What is the best method to unplug my external hard drive when not in use

After you've dismounted it from Windows the disk should spin down and park the heads, so I can't really see any difference between turning it off with the power switch & turning it off at the socket or unplugging the mains lead.