[malcolm]

Hi there,
I've got a Seagate Free Agent Desktop Pro, 750GB, which sometimes turns on, sometimes doesn't. I'm now having to hold it at an odd angle, so that either the AC cable or the USB connector is pushed a certain way... and only then, if I get the angle just right, will it turn on.
There's no proper on/off switch on this hd, by the way. Instead, a 'soft' button.
Anyway, I was just wondering if anyone else has had this problem. (I really need those 750GB of storage space).
Malcolm

[PB PM]

Never been overly fond of those drives without a on/off switch. Why not just get an external 3.5" drive case and put the drive into it?

[kpluck]

I use a FreeAgent Pro with my MacBook and my Dad has one with his XP based desktop, both are working without issue.

Maybe you received a defective unit? Is it still under warranty? I believe the portion of the drive where the usb plug is located is modular. You can removie the usb connectors for instance, and plug in firewire connectors. At least that is the way it is one mine. Maybe Seagate will send you a new module for the usb connector?

-Keith

[malcolm]

Good suggestions from both of you... Like you, PB PM, I've come to hate drives without an actual on/off switch. What a good idea to take the drive out (never occurred to me) and pop it in an enclosure (with the requisite on/off switch).
I might try Kpluck's suggestion first, though, which is to take the drive back - - the only problem is, the Best Buy where I got it (or was it Future Shop) doesn't seem to carry firewire drives. I'll check this out though.
Cheers,
Malcolm