When I try to access external HD it prompts me to format

click start run type cmd then type chkdsk/f which will automatically fix any corrupt files on your hard drive then defragment your hard drive
hope this helps

Windows 7 probably don't recognize it. keep an eye out for it at the manufactor website, for a driver. Windows 7 is turning out to be like windows vista

Hi,
it´s my first time on this topic, but I´d recommend reinstalling it´s drivers, it sounds like it´s stuck there. Or just to be sure it is working ok, the both connections, esata and usb. If any of them work it´s ok. If not, come back, we´ll figure something out for you.

Do not despair - check out the documentation on page 3 (you'll need Adobe Reader to open this PDF file):

http://www.seagate.com/support/freeagent/FA_Pro_15_QSG_US.pdf

Hope this helps

The disk is either damaged or the USB interface is damaged.
1) You could try opening the external case and connect the disk to your computer directly (Using IDE/S-ATA cables)
2) Format the HD and use data recovery software/service.

Your Mac would have formatted the Seagate drive as HFS+ (journaled) format. If you have access to a Mac, copy your data off the Seagate to any Mac, then use your PC to reformat the Seagate drive in FAT32 format. Macs recognize FAT32 format, and can store data in it, but can't create the format. The Mac holding your data can store it on the Seagate in the FAT32 format, and you can then copy the files to your PC. Hope this helps.

Visit seagate website else format in dos prompt

go get a external drive enclosure from computer supplier
compusa
best buy
circuitcity

Turn off your computer and then plug in the FreeAgent external drive. Then try turning your computer on, it should read.  If it doesn't I would go to the Seagate website for troubleshooting.

Try to defrag the disk.