501 HD: fingernails on a chalkboard

[TopCat99]

Maxtor hard drives make me want to stick rusty nails under my fingernails. And toenails as well when they're spinning up.

My 501 insists on doing something requiring HD access at least once an hour. Short of pouring salt water in it, how can I get a peaceful night's sleep? And no, relocating it is not really an option (yet...). If I yank the plug, won't I miss guide updates?

Maybe mine's just got a bad drive. I have noticed 98% of Maxtors share this "feature" tho.

Before you all start laughing at me, keep in mind I'm someone who can find the electronics department at any department store from 20 feet away *solely* by following the ~15 kHz TV whines :D

[DarrellP]

Top Cat, mine whines extremely loud also. It's my 3rd unit and the first two rattled like a washing machine filled with marbles. I told E* as soon as I installed it that it had a high pitched whine just in case there was any doubt when I call them to exchange it.

It is so loud that I can hear it over the TV volume late at night.

[boba]

If you haven't already done it sign up for the $1.99 extended warranty before your eleventh month is up. You must be covered for 1 month before you can file a claim. And it sounds like your HD will qualify in the future.