I recently installed Windows in dual boot with Linux (on two different SSDs) and I noticed that Windows automatically “shuts down” or stops the HDD if it is not being used.

I have a HDD (WD) connected by SATA cable where I usually keep my games. The HDD is not always in use but it is always constantly running and honestly the noise it makes is quite noticeable. I’m sure I don’t have any program in the background using it constantly.

I have already tried to solve this problem using hdparm and hd-idle and although in theory they work I still hear the noise from the HDD.

  • StrangeAstronomer
    1·
    1 year ago

    If the disc starts up again after using hdparm/smartctl to spin it down, install and use fatrace:

    cd /mnt/home # or wherever it's mounted
sudo fatrace -ct