time machine problem with external drive

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Level 1

4 points

time machine problem with external drive

This is the third time I've found an external drive becomes unusable after using the drive for time machine backup. Mac is running big sur, I added new WD 1tb drive, specified it for use by time machine. In a few weeks, time machine was failing the drive was not mountable. I tried splitting a 5tb drive into 4tb and 1tb partitions, and specified the 1tb partition for use by time machine. The same thing happened, time machine was failing, the 1tb partition could no longer be mounted. I've tried a third time with another new WD 1tb drive, and the same thing happened. Is there a solution for reliable time machine backup?

iMac 24″, macOS 11.6

Posted on Dec 13, 2023 5:19 PM

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Answer 1

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rkaufmann87

Level 10

148,606 points

Dec 13, 2023 9:34 PM in response to Charles5656

First never ever split a Time Machine External Hard Disk into partitions, this issue always a very poor idea. Next, please do not purchase Walmart quality EHDs. Please buy high quality drives such as OWC Mercury Elite Pro, why simple:

Quality of the drive means it will last longer
Save money by not have to replace as often.
Great service from OWC.

Also, ensure the drive does not have ANY third party apps installed on it as WD frequently does. And finally, also format the drive using Disk Utility (Applications - Utilities - Disk Utility) in APFS format!!!!!

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