I have recently decided on upgrading my hard drive because it is becoming increasing difficult to find space for games. I am considering getting an 80GB Seagate Barracuda ATA IV. The reviews I read said it performed well. The only negative aspect that they listed was that it runs hot and to consider extra cool. Right now I use a 1.4Ghs Althon, and during the summer it will run up to 65 Degrees Celsius while playing some games. Now to my questions-1.)Is the harddrive I'm considering a good buy?2.)Do I need extra cooling, and if so what should I look into?Thanks,Adam

I recommend you go for it! I have that exact drive and I am very pleased with it. Whether or not it's a good buy just depends on how much you pay for it ;) I was able to get mine for $90, but that deal disappeared the day after I ordered it. Using pricewatch.com, the lowest price for it now is $105 (free shipping). You can order it here: http://www.allstarshop.com/shop/product.as...=3639&ad=pwatchAs far as cooling goes, I don't think you need extra cooling. The only way I've been able to measure the temperature is with my hands (which may not be very accurate since I can only touch the external casing), but I can't perceive and heat coming from it. Of course, I have it right infront of my case fan. In general though, I don't think hard drive temperature is really an issue. I strongly doubt they get hot enough to affect their performance. Heat is only a concern for the people who want things as cool as they can be.One last thing. I've only used up 15GB so far and only because I have 5+ games installed. Unless you have some specific use for all the storage space (i.e. digital photography/video) you may want to get a 40GB drive. The 7200rpm ones are around $70 on pricewatch.

Hy!Sorry, I cannot confirm that heat has no influence on harddrives.I

I have an Athlon 1.4 Ghz heatsink and fan (with thermal compound) firmly strapped to the bottom case of my IBM DeskStar, and it barely gets warm to the touch. Without this, it can sometimes get almost too hot to touch...Increase performance ? No. But prolong life and keep data safe, definitely yes.Chris Ehttp://website.lineone.net/~flightsimukAvoid AGP texturing = Better Performance ;)

Well, by now I think I'm sold on the Barracuda ATA IV. I hope it works as well for me as it does for you. As for size I am most likely going to get an 80GB. I will be using this drive for a while and I wouldn