Help with External HD

[Sdahe]

Hello,

All my work files (photoshop, indesign, illustrator) are stored in an external drive. A week ago I've notice when I open files the HD seems slow. Is there a way to fix that?.. is the HD going bad?..

Thanks

 

[satcomer]

Sp this is a DAS (Direct Attached Hardware) HD with an older drive slowing down might be a good sign for replacement! Besides is USB, USB C or Firewire connected?

 

[Fishrrman]

If it's a platter-based hard drive, it could be fragmented.

Actually, if it's getting older, it might be time to think about replacing it with an SSD. I'd suggest something like a Samsung t7 "Shield".

Something else:
Is the drive that you're using NOW the ONLY drive that the data is stored on?

If so, your data "is in danger" without a backup.
You can't trust important data to only one drive. If something goes wrong...

Another excuse to buy that SSD!

 

[BrianBaughn]

A failing HD or the electronics housing the drive may be the reason you've just started noticing this. However, HDs go to sleep and this can delay access to the files.

In my case, I tried unchecking "Put hard disks to sleep when possible" in System Preferences/Settings>Energy Saver but the drives themselves were deciding to spin down. I now use the "Drive Alive" feature of the Amphetamine application to keep them spinning and my access is as fast as possible.