[kwlug-disc] powering Seagate USB external disk off and on from Linux?

[Ron]

D. Hugh Redelmeier wrote on 2025-11-17 15:53:

> - consumer HDDs have ridiculously low power-on lifetimes, at least
>    according to their specifications

This may be true, but wouldn't leaving it on actually be better for 
longevity vs power cycling?

At least in some scenarios, I'd expect it to be the best option (for 
longevity) but there'd be many variables at play.


smartctl --all /dev/sdb:
Power_On_Hours          153718 (17 years)
Start_Stop_Count        533 (not a lot?)

smartctl --all /dev/sdc:
Power_On_Hours          153727
Start_Stop_Count        540


Just tossing the thought of continuous operation out there...