3 Easy Tips To Protect Your Hard Drive From Failure
Computer hard drives are subject to both electronic and mechanical stresses, which makes them all the more susceptible to failure. A damaged hard drive could mean that you lose important data and have to go through the costly process of an emergency data recovery. Here is a look at simple tips you can use to prevent hard drive failure.
Handle with care
Physical trauma is one of the leading causes of hard drive failure. Simply slamming your device onto a desk or even hitting it with an object could put pressure on internal components, damaging your hard drive or causing data corruption. You should also avoid holding a hard drive by its top or bottom, as this could put pressure on the magnetic heads and push them to the platter, effectively damaging them. Hold the sides instead.
When transporting an internal hard drive, be sure to place it in an anti-static bag to protect it from static electricity which could fry internal components. You should also never stack internal hard drives on top of each other without their casings, as the extra pressure could push magnetic heads of the bottom drive downwards, causing possible data loss of even permanent damage.
Avoid excessive heat
Hard drives are fragile devices that are typically designed to work at a specific range of optimal temperatures. Too much heat on the device could cause extensive damage, which is why it is necessary that you ensure air flow through your computer case isn't obstructed. Use can of compressed air to blow dust out of the tight nooks and crannies on your computer case on a regular basis so as to allow enough air to reach the hard drive.
If you own a laptop, be sure to place it on a hard, flat surface so to allow maximum air in. Placing the laptop on a soft surface such as a couch or bed could block the air inlets on the case, causing your hard drive to overheat. Alternatively, consider investing in a laptop cooler, as it offers a hard, flat surface that allows for improved air intake.
Protect from power surges
Spikes in your home's electrical voltage could easily fry your hard drive and even cause damage to other computer components, which is why you should invest in a surge protector. These devices can detect electrical surges and divert the extra current away from your computer.
If you're careful to heed to the tips above, you can protect your hard drive from mechanical and electrical damage and hopefully prolong its life. For more tips, speak with an IT services company.