Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to common questions about stopping an SSD from turning off:
- Enable the ‘Turn off hard disk after’ setting in Windows Power options and set it to Never.
- Disable any power saving features in the SSD firmware or management software.
- Make sure Windows is not set to sleep or hibernate when idle.
- Connect the SSD to a different SATA port if it is still turning off.
- Update SSD drivers and firmware to the latest available version.
What causes an SSD to turn off?
There are a few common reasons why an SSD may be turning itself off unexpectedly:
- Power saving features: Many SSDs have built-in power saving features that will put the drive into a low power state after a period of inactivity. This helps conserve energy but can cause the drive to turn off.
- Windows Power options: If you have ‘Turn off hard disk after’ enabled under Power options in Windows, this can shut down an SSD after a set amount of idle time. Even if disabled for the OS drive, it may still affect data drives.
- Drive inactivity: If an SSD goes unused for a prolonged period of time, such as when a laptop is sleeping or hibernating, it may enter a low power state to conserve energy. When waking from sleep, this can sometimes cause the SSD to turn off temporarily.
- Drive errors: Faulty or dying SSDs may exhibit strange behavior like unexpectedly powering down. This indicates a hardware problem with the drive.
- Loose connections: A loose SATA cable or connection issue with the SSD’s power cable can cause intermittent power-related issues.
How to stop an SSD turning off in Windows
If you are having issues with an SSD unexpectedly powering down in Windows, here are some steps to try:
- Check Power options: Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options. Make sure ‘Turn off hard disk after’ is set to Never for both battery and plugged in. If it still happens, do this for the BIOS as well.
- Toggle sleep settings: Disable sleep and hibernation under the Power options sleep tab. Or increase the times before sleep/hibernation to see if that prevents the SSD from turning off.
- Update SSD drivers: Install the latest drivers for your SSD if available. Updated drivers may fix bugs causing power management issues.
- Switch SATA ports: Try connecting the SSD to a different SATA port on your motherboard. Use a port controlled by a different SATA controller if possible.
- Check cables: Reseat the SATA data and power cables connected to the SSD to make sure they are firmly plugged in.
- Disable power management: Some SSD software has settings to disable power management features. This will stop the drive powering down but reduce efficiency.
- Firmware update: Check the SSD manufacturer’s website for firmware updates. Newer firmware can fix bugs with power management.
Example Power Option Settings to Prevent SSD from Turning Off
| Setting | Plugged In | Battery |
|---|---|---|
| Turn off hard disk after | Never | Never |
| System standby | Never | 30 minutes |
| System hibernates | Never | Never |
Disabling Power Saving in SSD Software
For additional control over SSD behavior, check the drive manufacturer’s storage management software. Options like the following can prevent aggressive power saving:
- Disable automatic standby: Stops the SSD from entering standby after idle periods.
- Disable drive sleep: Prevents the SSD from going into a low power sleep state.
- Set max sleep time: Lets you specify the idle time allowed before sleep.
- Disable power management: Completely stops the SSD from ever powering down.
The settings may vary between SSD brands like Samsung, Crucial, Western Digital. Refer to your drive’s manual or contact support if unsure.
Firmware Updates to Fix SSD Power Problems
SSD manufacturers periodically release firmware updates with bug fixes and performance improvements. If your SSD is frequently turning off, updating to the latest firmware can potentially fix underlying issues causing it.
Some key benefits firmware updates provide:
- Resolves power management bugs preventing proper SSD operation.
- Improves compatibility with chipsets, operating systems, and other hardware.
- Adds support for new features like improved power states.
- Increases stability and reliability of read/write processes.
- Fixes errors that may cause SSD to reset or turn off unexpectedly.
To update your SSD firmware, visit the manufacturer’s website and look for software tools to download and install. These will guide you through the firmware update process. Make sure to follow all instructions carefully when flashing new firmware.
Example SSD Firmware Update Tools
- Samsung Magician
- Crucial Storage Executive
- WD SSD Dashboard
- Intel SSD Toolbox
- Kingston SSD Manager
Troubleshooting SSD Powering Down Issues
If your SSD keeps turning off after trying the above solutions, here are some additional troubleshooting steps:
- Test with another PC: Try connecting the SSD to another computer if available. See if the power issue persists on different hardware.
- Monitor SSD temps: Overheating can cause stability issues. Use software to check SSD temperature while under load.
- Scan for errors: Run the manufacturer’s diagnostics software to scan for bad sectors or SSD errors.
- Check event logs: Power issues may log error events you can lookup for more details.
- Try safe mode: Boot into Windows safe mode and see if the SSD stops turning off when only basic drivers are loaded.
- Format SSD: As a last resort, backup data and perform a full reformat of the drive using disk management.
An SSD that powers down frequently or randomly even after troubleshooting may be defective. Contact the manufacturer about a replacement under warranty if applicable.
Preventing SSD Power Loss in the Future
Once you have resolved an issue with an SSD powering down, here are some tips to help prevent it recurring:
- Keep SSD firmware updated to latest version.
- Maintain at least 10-15% free space on the SSD.
- Add a UPS to protect against sudden power loss.
- Use high quality SSD SATA cables for reliable connections.
- Avoid excessive heat buildup by ensuring proper case airflow.
- Periodically run full diagnostics tests to check SSD health.
- Consider replacing older SSDs nearing the end of their lifespan.
While infrequent SSD power loss may not be critical, frequent or extended downtime can result in data loss or corruption. By taking proactive steps to optimize SSD operation and minimize disruptive power events, you can enjoy consistent solid state performance for years to come.
Conclusion
SSDs unexpectedly turning off can be frustrating, but is usually fixable. Start by checking Windows power settings, updating SSD drivers and firmware, and tweaking software power management options. For hardware-related issues, examine connections, test with different PCs, and scan for errors. While faulty SSDs may need replacement, proper configuration and maintenance can often resolve powering down problems and restore reliable solid state operation.