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Except for the helium-filled ones, they aren't sealed; there is a very fine filter that equalises atmospheric pressure. (This is also why they have a maximum operating altitude --- the head needs a certain amount of atmospheric pressure to float.)

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Yup, this is why the label will say something along the lines of "DO NOT COVER DRIVE HOLES".

How does the helium stay in if it is not sealed? I am not familiar with hard drive construction, but helium is notoriously good at escaping.

I think he meant in general drives aren't sealed, except the helium ones are sealed.

Oh, I see. Makes sense. I wonder if dust really can infiltrate a drive? Hmm.

I"ve heard 2nd-hand that helium will slowly escape (over a period of years).

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