I checked and it was checked optimized for quick removal. I changed it to optimize for performance and it still isn't shown under my computer.
I got this harddrive out of my old computer that died. It is a 3.5 in. western digital 80gb harddrive. I put it in a external case. It worked on one of my xp computers and works perfectly with my ps3. I don't see why it won't work with my vista computer.
thanks a lot for your help