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.
If your only concern is noise (and not saving power), then the easiest solution is to just sound-proof your case - install some foam pads or something to dampen the noise. Check out https://www.quietpc.com/acousticmaterials to get an idea of what’s out there and what you can use, but even simple random foam that you’d get in parcels would work to start off with.
You may want to research this some more. Spinning the drive up and down adds wear on the mechanical parts, and will lead to the drive failing a lot sooner.
Maybe you’re okay with that tradeoff, just thought you should at least be aware of it.
