Seagate Backup Plus and GoFlex drives are designed to be flexible; therefore the cable module is interchangeable with several interfaces. Below are examples of these cables.
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USB 2.0 – This cable is the cable that ships in most GoFlex kits since USB 2.0 is still the most popular interface available today. The module and cable can be separated for even more flexibility with standard USB-Mini cables. |
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The USB 2.0 cable is detachable allowing easier storage and the ability to use standard USB 2.0 mini-B cables when needed. |
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The USB 2.0 cable and Smart module separate from the drive to allow for upgrade to other cables as the need arises. Additional cartridges (drives) will also be available for purchase if you need higher capacity. |
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USB 3.0 – This cable covers the newest version of USB offering much higher transfer rates. This cable also works with USB 2.0 ports. The cable does not separate from the Smart module since replacement USB 3.0 cables are not commonly available at this time. |
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Firewire 800 – This cable is for users of Mac computers that want extra speed from the drives and have an available Firewire 800 port. |
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eSATA – This cable offers higher performance than USB 2.0, but it does require a special eSATA combo port that combines the performance of eSATA and the power supplied by USB 2.0 into a single port. These types of ports are usually found on newer laptop computers and identified with a symbol that looks like this: |
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Powered eSATA - Powered eSATA provides high performance like eSATA, but like USB 2.0 it also provides electrical power to operate a drive without needing to use a separate power cable for the drive. This interface is even more rare than eSATA. One of the types of FreeAgent GoFlex upgrade cables, which is compatible with the FreeAgent GoFlex and GoFlex Pro, uses the Powered eSATA interface. |
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Thunderbolt - Seagate's Thunderbolt adapter for Backup Plus and GoFlex drives allows any Backup Plus, Backup Plus for Mac, GoFlex, GoFlex Pro, GoFlex Slim, GoFlex Turbo, GoFlex for Mac, GoFlex Slim for Mac, or GoFlex Pro for Mac drive to connect via Apple's newest interface.to a Thunderbolt port on a newer Apple or Windows computer. |
Common questions about Backup Plus/GoFlex cables:
Q: How many times can I plug and unplug my cable?
A: The design for the connector to the drive and the cables ends have been tested to 5,000 cycles similar to past USB products.
Q: Can I use more than one cable on a drive?
A: Cables can be changed after safely removing the drive from the computer; however you cannot use more than one cable at a time.
Q: Can I use a standard USB cable with my drive?
A: Yes, when a Backup Plus or GoFlex drive is mated with a USB 2.0 adapter, you can use a standard USB mini-B cable to connect it to your computer. However, be careful when using longer cables as they may not transfer enough power to allow the drive to function.
Q: Can I use a normal internal drive SATA cables to run my Backup Plus or GoFlex drive directly from the computer?
A: This would not be supported since it would require you to leave the drive loose inside the computer or leave the side of the computer open to plug in the power cable, both of which put your equipment at risk.
