How to Back Up Windows 7 Files Onto an eSata External Hard Drive

This article contains two processes. The first is the assembly of the 3.0 eSATA external hard drive, and the second is backing up existing files onto the hard drive. This proves to beneficial by having backup copies of important files, and also by having them on such a compact and portable device.

1. Beginning with the external hard drive assembly: slide out the hard drive caddy out of the aluminum case.
2. Insert the hard drive into the caddy and ensure it is connected to the eSata connector.
 
3. Align the hard drive mounting holes with those of the caddy, and use the given screws to secure.
    
4. Slide the caddy (with secured hard drive) back into the aluminum case.
    
5. Now moving to the back up: from the "Start" menu, select "Control Panel," and click the "Back up your computer" link under "System and Security."
    
6. If you have yet to set up a Windows back up, select the "Set up backup" link under the "Backup" section.
    
7. Next, you will be prompted to select where the soon-to-be backed up files will be saved to. This is where our eSata external hard drive comes in. You now connect the device to your computer and select it when it appears on the screen.
    
8. You now follow the instructions via the Wizard, where you will select the files or folders you want to back up. You will also notice a section titled "Schedule." This section gives you the option to create a backup schedule, which is highly recommended.
    
9. To complete the Wizard and commence the backup, click the "Save settings and run back up button."
    
10. In future backups, the process will shorten, as you will not be required to set-up a backup, as this has now been completed.
     
11. Eject your external hard drive using the "Safely Eject Hardware" button, and store in a safe and accessible place for the next usage.