[Dell Switcher]

Since I just lost my hard drive on my iMac 24 Intel, I am using external hard drive to backup via Time Machine. Yes hard drive replaced under warranty!

My question is what procedures are needed when you disconnect ext. hard drive? Do you change Time Machine from ON to OFF?

I know that I have to eject the ext. hard drive using proper commands, but what happens whenever I reinstall the ext. hard drive? Does Time Machine start over from the beginning or just update for changes since my last backup via Time Machine?

When I go on trips, I store ext hard drive in a safe and this is why I am asking. Thanks!

[ibook_steve]

TM does incremental backups every time you attach the drive. It doesn't start over again with a full backup.

You're thinking too much about this! Just attach when you're home, have it automatically or manually backup, and disconnect and go. You don't have to mess with any settings. It's simple.

Steve