[dosequis]

I have a 60 GB maxtor external HD that I connect to the ibook through a firewire and when the computer goes to sleep and then wakes back up it is not there. I have to unplug the HD from the comp and then also unplug the HD and then plug it back in in order to get the comp. to recognize it. Sometimes it takes several tries. Any info on the issue would be great. Thanks-

[MARINEOSX]

Have you tried reformatting it? Maybe that would help? I have no clue just thought I would try to help some. If you have it fire wire you should be able to use it as a startup disk as well that is what I have heard. You would be able to use it just as you use the internal. Use disk utility and start up from the cd. Always worth a shot.

[Mojo]

Has the drive ever worked normally with your Mac? If so, can you remember what happened that may have affected the drive? Are you using an older enclosure? Both of my Firewire/USB 2.0 combo enclosures (from different companies) go to sleep and wake up with my G4 iBook.

I do not see how reformatting would address your problem. You can use Disk Utility or another utility to check for problems with the drive, but I wouldn't reformat unless you have some evidence that it will fix your problem, or you don't mind possibly wasting some time if it doesn't do any good.

Not all Firewire drives are bootable; for example, previous-generation Iogear drives are not bootable. If the drive/enclosure specs do not specifically state that it is bootable, it is best to inquire first before making a purchase.