[wellylug] External IDE to USB drive enclosure

[Chris Harris]

> Was looking at buying at	
> 
> Vantec NexStar, 5.25" IDE to USB 2 Enclosure
> 
> It says:
> Interface: IDE to USB 2.0
> Dimension: 251.5 x 173 x 47 mm
> Supports: Window 98 SE / ME / 2000 / XP , Mac OS 8.6 & Above
> 
> Just wondering if anyone has used one of these in Linux and 
> would like 
> to share experences on it?

Hi Chris

I've used a number of ICZ ME-320U2, 5.25" IDE to USB 2 Enclosures.
Brilliant.  Built in mains PSU. Very handy for data recovery.  
Someone brings in a PC with virus or opps eaten HDD date, Just whip it
out and drop it onto the small stack of IDE HDDs in it, plug it in and
power up, and there's the drive ready for surgery without needing to
reboot the PC.

Sharp edges and nearly exposed mains wiring when the lid is off (like
99.99% of the time) though.


I had a MPD 3.5" USB2 enclosure. Awful piece of junk.  The case broke
while I was installing the HDD and the electronics not long after.

The Vantec web site seems disinclined to yield useful information
without loading macromedia flash, so I'd be inclined to give that brand
a miss.

HTH C