Splitting a hard disk into smaller chunks means you can keep important data files on a separate drive to Windows, so you don't lose them if the operating system dies.

Even under XP, the tools for doing this in Windows are rather basic, so a good solution is Powerquest's Partition Magic.

Now in its eighth edition, Partition Magic builds on its reputation for ease of use.

The interface has changed from previous versions: drive tasks are now listed down the left-hand pane and drive information fills the rest of the screen.

However, the pictorial representations remain and are one of Partition Magic's greatest strengths, with different colours to represent the type of drive and the file system.

The documentation supplied has been greatly improved so that even the most wary of users can get to grips with it, and error messages are now listed in the accompanying pdf user guide rather than on Powerquest's website.

There is also a rather good tutorial Flash movie explaining why partitioning is a good idea, along with some of the basic principles behind it.

Performance has been improved, especially when using partitions formatted with NTFS. Fewer tasks require reboots and it is possible to increase the size of the system partition without leaving Windows.

As well as providing tools for use with Windows, Partition Magic offers support for those wanting to install another operating system on their PC. Bootmagic is also included, and the helpful wizards make the process much easier.

Download a demo version of the software here.

DETAILS

Price: £49.99 (£42.54 ex VAT)

Contact: Powerquest

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
XP Professional/Home:

• 233MHz Pentium
• 128MB of Ram
• 70MB of free hard disk space

Windows 2000 Professional:

• 150MHz Pentium
• 64MB of Ram
• 70MB of free hard disk space

Windows ME, 95b-98SE, NT Workstation 4 (SP0a):

• 150MHz Pentium
• 32MB of Ram
• 70MB of free hard disk space