External Hard Disk Storage

External Hard Drives from 160GB - 2TB Capacity

External Storage consists of two main types - Desktop (typically 3.5" form factor) and Portable (typically 2.5" form factor).

The storage solution will usually connect to your computer via USB or Firewire cable. Once connected, most storage solutions will automatically be recognised by your computer.

Desktop solutions are essential for the storage and safekeeping of all your files, photos, music, videos and more.

A Desktop solution is perfect for regularly backing-up all of your data, ensuring your precious files are stored safely on a device other than your computer.
Desktop storage can also be used to add more storage space to your computer instantly and to free up space on your computer's internal hard drive in order to increase computer performance.

Desktop storage solutions are designed for higher capacities than typical Portable solutions. They will usually encompass sizes from 250GB up to 2TB, examples of size vs the amount of files you have can be seen below

Capacity	Number of Songs*	Number of Photos*	Hours of Video*	Hours of HD Video*
320 GB	80,000	128,000	123	39
500 GB	125,000	200,000	193	60
640 GB	160,000	256,000	246	70
750 GB	187,500	300,000	289	90
1.0 TB	250,000	400,000	385	120
1.5 TB	375,000	600,000	578	180
2.0 TB	500,000	800,000	770	240

*Contents refers to number of songs, photos, or hours of video. Contents are calculated as follows – Songs (MP3): 128 kbps bit rate using 11:1 compression ratio, 4 min/song; Digital Photos: 2.5MB per JPG photo using a 6 mega pixel camera; DVD Video:5.5 Mb/s (2.597 GB/hr) data rate; HD Video: 8.3 GB/hr recording rate for 720p or 1080i output. These examples are for illustrative purposes only. Results will vary based on file size and format, settings, features, software and other factors. One gigabyte (GB) = one billion bytes. One terabyte (TB) = one trillion bytes.

Whilst desktop drives are typically designed to sit on a desk, they can still be easily unplugged and transported elsewhere. If you require external storage that can be accessed by more than one computer, please see our guide to Network Attached Storage

Portable storage solutions are designed to be carried about, whilst offering ever increasing capacities. Some drives are "ruggedized", built using materials and technology that allows them to be dropped and knocked about, without damaging the data being stored on the device.

Portable drives are also often USB powered, so you don't need to carry a separate power cable for the device. They can also be plugged in to any other computer with a USB port, so you can easily access your files wherever you are. Some portable storage solutions are available with a docking cradle, allowing you to quickly and easily access all your data from your portable drive.

Portable drives are available in an array of capacities, from 120GB right up to 1TB, and a choice of colours to match most personal preferences.

See our Full Range of Desktop Storage