On Wednesday 11 March 2009 17:15:44 Stefan Monnier wrote: > So, yes, unplugging your USB key while it's still mounted is to be > avoided, and even more so while it's being written to. The OP asked about about a USB external HDD, not a key. I have not tested the theory, but I have always understood that keys are particularly vulnerable. To physical damage if pulled out prematurely, not just damage to the filesystem. Lisi