[NTLUG:Discuss] Sticky HD?

[Chris Cox]

IBM officially calls the problem "sticktion" (STIK-shun).  Seems that
no HD is immune to this.  I have a WD drive with this problem.  I have
replaced it with a new drive (now it just sits on the shelf).  The
drive works....but you have to leave the case off the computer and
tap on it to get it to spin up.

I'd look for a replacement drive....but as you say...if you don't
mind tapping on it....the drive will probably operate normally after
the initial spin-up....I found that the longer the period of
inactivity, the greater the chances of the problem returning.
Sometimes a drive will exhibit sticktion and never have the problem
again....most of the time it's a fairly repeatable problem.

Regards,
Chris

Brian Koontz wrote:
> 
>...snip...I banged on the HD a few times with the
> rubber handle of my screwdriver.  Lo and behold, the drive promptly came
> to life!
> 
> Can I expect future problems from this drive, and if so, any unsavory
> things that can be done to keep it running (besides not turning it
> off)?  It's not a critical drive, but I'd like to keep it around even if
> it means having to slap it around to get going.
>