External high-rpm backup drives: BEWARE of complete data loss

Please know that if you are depending on an external HD with high rpm (like 5600 or 7200 rpm) to back up your precious files with a USB connection, you may lose everything if you happen to drop the external drive from a height of 1". The thing will start to make wierd sounds. If you haven't backed up your data to conventional disks, unplug it immediately to minimize self-destruction. Professional data recovery for these drives is not guaranteed, and will cost at least $300, possibly $1500. A few makers guarantee shockproofing (like a drop from 8 feet) , but they are more costly. Don't rely on one of these as your real back-up, or doom may await your data. I personally like an online backup for a monthly fee--that way, if your house burns down along with your data and backups, you can recover everything. Mosy, for example, charges around $5/month for unlimited backup of data (not programs).