How long is an External Drive good for?

[UndertheRadar]

I have a Lacie external FW drive that i want to put some files onto and then store away. How long will the drive last without power? Is there a chance of the drive dying or losing information?
Thanks

 

[JNB]

I have a Lacie external FW drive that i want to put some files onto and then store away. How long will the drive last without power? Is there a chance of the drive dying or losing information?
Thanks

The drive unpowered will last indefinitely, and the components won't disintegrate for at least several hundred years.

That being said, the magnetically stored data will likely lose at least some of its integrity within 15-40 years, depending on the studies you read and the quality of the platters. YMMV

 

[Fearless Leader]

not dropping the crive really improves lifetime
ahh what a horrid memory.

 

[UndertheRadar]

Thanks!