Question 1

The specs don't list win 7 or 8 as a compatible OS. How does an OS affect usb operation? Can I use this enclosure on a win 8.1 pc?

Accepted Answer

It is windows even compatible.. its like any other exteneral drive.. only this is just a cheap enclosure for a hard drive.

Question 2

I have a Windows 7 Pro, but I'm not sure which driver to use. How do I figure that out?

Accepted Answer

I used it on Windows7 Home and on Linux.
I did not install any drivers and it work perfectly.
It worked like any other USB thumb or external drive.
But maybe I was not paying attention and it loaded a driver from the past.
The enclosure made it easy to connect old IDE drives to a new system without IDE motherboard connectors.
This enclosure makes good use of old drives as backups.

Question 3

I need to replace the fan on this unit. Any ideas?

Accepted Answer

An 80mm fan should fix.
You will need to cut the old fan wire long enough for splicing the new fan wire to this, so you can use the jumper adapter.

Question 4

Can I leave this always turned on? It's hooked up to my Wii U and the HDD spins down when the Wii U turns off so I'm not overly worried about the HDD, but my last enclosure burnt up. Turning it off and on whenever I play would be a pain but better than a house fire.

Accepted Answer

You must have had a problem with your wiring.  Make sure your power comes through a surge suppressor.  There is no reason that I have ever heard of for a hard drive properly installed in an enclosure to start a fire, especially when it is not running.

I suggest you have a competent electrician determine the cause of the fire in your old enclosure because it may be an indication of a very serious problem.

Questions & Answers