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This article is for informational purposes only and no longer being updated by Seagate.

FreeAgent DockStar Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions for FreeAgent DockStar drives, including information on usage, supported file formats, and connections.

I see several references to Pogoplug in conjunction with FreeAgent DockStar – why?
Seagate Technology has partnered with Pogoplug to bring you the FreeAgent DockStar. When using DockStar, users will be sharing their on-line memories (pictures, music, videos, documents, etc) via the Pogoplug website.

How do I know if FreeAgent DockStar will work with my drive?
FreeAgent DockStar is compatible with any external USB 2.0 hard drive or memory stick.

What drive formats will work with my FreeAgent DockStar?
Drives formatted with NTFS, FAT32, Mac OS Extended Journaled and non-Journaled (HFS+), and EXT-2/EXT-3 are fully supported by FreeAgent DockStar.

Can I attach multiple hard drives to my FreeAgent DockStar?
Yes! Along with the built in FreeAgent Go Dock, you can connect another 3, USB 2.0 devices to your FreeAgent DockStar that all show up under your account.

How do I know if FreeAgent DockStar will work with my home network?
FreeAgent DockStar works with most consumer home networking equipment. If you have a business-grade router in the home, you may need to manually adjust some network settings.

How do I activate my FreeAgent DockStar?
Prior to connecting power, Ethernet cabling, and USB 2.0 drives to your DockStar, locate the Activation Key. After doing so, access http://dockstar.pogoplug.com/activate/index.html. Follow the step on the webpages to connect and activate your DockStar.

Can I plug anything else into my FreeAgent DockStar?
No, it is specifically designed to work with USB 2.0 drives. Please do not plug in any FireWire and/or eSATA drives to the DockStar. Other USB devices that cannot be connected include cup warmers, lamps, fans, etc.

Will DockStar support the connectivity of Encrypted USB Drives?
DockStar will not support USB Drives that require password access.

What is the purpose of the Reset button on the FreeAgent DockStar?
The Reset button is a simple; non-evasive way of restarting your DockStar without the need to pull the power plug to restart the device.

How will my USB drive appear when connected to DockStar
Your USB drive and its content will be displayed in the Web Interface. This content will not appear as a drive letter in Windows nor in Mac OS X's Finder. If you would like to have this functionality, it is suggested that you download the software applets.

Why does it take so long for thumbnails to generate?
This depends on how many files have to be indexed/thumbnails generated. If you just have a few family pictures, it should take no time at all. However, the more content, the longer the time needed to generate thumbnails. Tests have shown that it took over three (3) days to generate thumbnails for 40GB of nothing but pictures.

Do I need to use any special software with my FreeAgent DockStar?
The FreeAgent DockStar works from a Web browser interface. If you want to access FreeAgent DockStar as a networked drive from inside or outside your home, a short download for your Windows or Mac computer is required.

Can I still use the FreeAgent DockStar locally in the event that my network connection goes down?
Yes. To do this, access the Web Interface - Settings - WFS (Windows File Sharing). From there, you can name a workgroup or provide access to data on a connected drive.

Can I access my FreeAgent DockStar drive from my office? Or my hotel room? Or my friends' house?
Yes, Yes, and Yes. You can also connect to it from your 3G networked netbook while on the train. Or from your laptop in a coffee shop; you can even access your DockStar from your iPhone.

How can I share my photos or videos with people?
When you visit dockstar.pogoplug.com you'll have full access to view and share your files (provided that you have already activated your DockStar). Simply click on a file, folder, or album, and then enter the email address(es) of whomever you want to share with. Best of all, your friends or family won't even need to “register”, they can just click the shared link and off they go.