Definition: HDD cradle

(Hard Disk Drive cradle) A container that turns a standard hard drive into a removable one. The hard drive is bolted into a removable carrier that is inserted into a stationary cradle that connects to the power supply and signal cables in the computer case.

Also called an "HDD caddy," "drive enclosure" or "bay adapter," such devices are widely used for quick replacement in a multi-drive RAID configuration. They also provide security. At the end of the day, the drive can be removed and placed in a safer location. See cradle and RAID.

HDD Cradle

The carrier in this Promise Technology enclosure is designed for quick removal and replacement. (Image courtesy of Promise Technology, Inc.)