More Space For Your Files

The other thing you can never have too much of is hard disk space. Who doesn't want more hard disk space?

These days, it is relatively easy to swap out your existing hard disk and replace it with a bigger one (which once again, may void your warranty with certain manufacturers... SCREW you Acer!).

In such occasions or if you prefer to have a hard disk that you can remove for safekeeping, you can try an external USB hard disk case. If you have not seen one before, an external USB hard disk case is just a case for a regular IDE hard disk that you can plug it into any USB port. To the operating system, it will appear as just another hard disk in the computer.

But a VERY important question arises when you purchase such a case - do you want portability or economy? If you want portability, you will definitely want to get the smaller USB cases which support 2.5" notebook hard disks like the one below.

The GREAT thing about these little cases is you can actually just plug them into your notebook's USB port. Instant 40GB at your disposal, wherever you go! You just have to make sure your USB port can supply enough power. Even if your USB port cannot supply enough power, these cases usually come with a USB power cable that allows you to siphon power from an additional USB port.

The main problem with these mini USB cases is the price of 2.5" notebook hard disks. Notebook hard disks are VERY expensive. A 30GB hard disk alone will set you back about RM 380 (USD 100)!

This brings us to the more economical option - a larger USB hard disk case that supports 3.5" desktop hard disks.

Needless to say, 3.5" hard disks are much cheaper, bigger and FASTER than their 2.5" cousins. Instead of paying RM 380 (USD 100) for a 30GB 2.5" hard disk, you can get a 120GB 3.5" hard disk that runs at 7200RPM for the same price!

However, all that economy comes at a price. You really need to sacrifice portability. 3.5" hard disks need more power than 2.5" hard disks. Way more than what your USB port can provide. So you'll have to plug it into an AC source. Of course, enterprising minds can always wire up a portable battery solution but that's a topic for another time.