iv just got a new external HD (one of the 2.5" laptop ones in the vaio cases) and when i plug it into my pc my pc recognises it, but it doesnt show in my computer?

iv tried added new hardware (in control panel) using different usb ports etc but no luck?

(have xp btw)

You need to go to Disk Management and Format (Initialize) it.

tried mate, but it doesnt show in there? only c and d drive?

If it isn't in Disk Management what makes you think the computer recognizes it at all?

The absence from Disk Management almost certainly indicates the computer does not detect it.


Just to add: You should plug it in the USB and you should get the USB "ding-dong" sound followed by a balloon saying "New Hardware Detected" followed by another saying "New Hardware Ready for Use".

If this is not happening then your computer is not recognizing the drive.


Possible issues: If it requires an external power supply is it plugged in?

If it requires USB 2 is your motherboard USB 2?

Do you have Plug and Play turned on?

Can you use other USB devices?

etc.


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well when i plug it in i get the noise (du dong) a pop up saying hardware detected etc


yeah other usb devices work, dont need external power etc

dont have a clue whats going on

haha just fixed it jephree, it was in device management but under all the others?

like not in the main window but below that and i just hadnt realised you had to scroll down!

thanks for the help

Good. Glad all is well. Thanks for the update.