Can I partition my external HD for both Time Machine and for basic disk use

I wanted to know if through Disk Utility I can partition my external HD so that I have about 400 gigs for TM and 100 gigs just for storage? Thank You in advance

Yes, you can. I did the same thing.
Also, by default Time Machine will not back up what you have on that extra partition. You can make it so that it does if needed (Would be a bit overkill if you did).
I actually have 3 partitions.
1 is for Superduper (when it's Leopard compatible).
2 is for Time Machine.
3 is for other storage.

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