I've really enjoyed my Lacie Little Big Disk for the last year but I find that 160 gigs is just too small. Does anyone know if these are upgradeable and how might one take them apart and what 2.5 drives (2 of them?) should I consider getting? I'd like to upgrade to at least 500 gigs. Am I expecting too much from this little external drive? I've included a link below if you're unfamiliar with this particular drive.
I would assume the screws are hidden behind the little plugs or the label on the back of the unit. Once the screws are removed, the rear panel will likely pull off, allowing the chassis to be pulled out from the front. These procedures are the same for d2 units. Once the chassis is removed, the drives will likely be easily removed and replaced.
If you have warranty remaining, this procedure will surely void it.
I would strongly recommend buying another drive instead of tampering with this one. The design resists opening without damage, and as mentioned you'll violate the warranty.
My Book (WD) 500GB drives are just over $100 (USB2 & FW400) at Costco, and you can have one this afternoon. Certainly you can find a bare 500GB drive cheaper, but worth the hassle? I don't think so.
chas_m provides the best advice - don't mess with it, if it's under warranty. It's just that I'm the type of guy who loves to pull these things apart and discover what makes them tick.
Yeah, I'd just spend about $30 Max for a cheap-o enclousure (though you won't get he design of the LaCie) and it a 500GB drive in it. It'll be easy to change up for a different hard drive and it won't void any warranty.
I may consider that, and just use my Lacie for portable purposes. The thing wasn't cheap, so replacing it was not in my mind until I realize how inexpensive it is to rig up another external. Thanks.