Erase

If I use the erase function on the Essential, does it still leave the Essential backup programing?  Or, am I left with a totally blank hard drive?

DonM61

Erase will only erase data portion and not the VCD (Virtual CD).

VCD is handled by Firmware and can’t be touched by using Erase feature.

Hope this helps.

Using the Drive Settings Drive Erase Function. To erase your My Passport when the
drive is not locked:

  1. Click Drive Erase On the Drive Settings screen (see Figure 17 or Figure 18 on
    page 27) to display the Erase Drive dialog:
  2. Read the warning about the loss of data if you erase your drive.
  3. Click the I understand check box to signify that you accept the risk.
  4. Click Drive Erase to erase your drive.
    After the drive erase operation completes, go to support.wdc.com and see Knowledge
    Base Answer ID #5419 for information about downloading and restoring the
    WD SmartWare software and disk image on your My Passport drive.
    Note: Erasing your drive also removes your password. WHERE IS ID#5419 ???

What does ID 5419 reference?  I will have our knowlege base specialist look into this on Monday.