Windows 10: Can I power up an external USB drive on demand & power down when finis

I have an external USB drive that I'd like to keep plugged in all the time IF I can spin it up when my backup software is timed to come on - and spin down when my backup is completed. The goal is to have my backups completely unattended - but not have my drives spinning 24/7.

:)

 

USB powered external hard drive will not power down.

Hi Vikki,

To help resolve your concern with USB powered external hard drive issue, you can refer to the steps below:

• Press Windows key + R on your keyboard, type
  devmgmt.msc, and then hit Enter.
  
• Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
  
• Right-click the USB Hub, and then choose Properties.
  
• Click Power Management tab, and then enable Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power
  option.

If the issue persists, you can consider contacting your device manufacturer for advanced assistance regarding BIOS settings. The
BIOS has unique USB port settings that can manage its power/electric flow.

Should you need further assistance, feel free to get back to us.

 

USB powered external hard drive will not power down.

My external hard drive will not power off when the laptop is shut down. I have tried to safely eject the device to no avail. Are there settings I can change to enable the USB port to power down the device or is this an issue with the hard drive (WD My
Passport Ultra)?

 

USB-C problems powering older external disks

Treble,

You are more knowledgeable than you say.
- You are using external drives that have their own power supply so that the power demands on your computer are minimised
- You have demonstrated that your computer can provide enough power through the USB-C connection for your external drives through the [replaced] hub

Denis