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!🙂