Mac mini + usb2 external drive problems

Hello !
I have a huge problem with my mac mini - I find the same error on my power mac g5.
I use Tiger 10.4.1
So, I have the mac mini and 2 LACIE external Harddrives.
One Hardrives is allready full with about 40 GB data. Now I want t copy all the data from the one HD to the other hd.
BUT IT IS NOT WORKING - after about 4-8 GBs the system just stops copying data and the finder freezes.
I only can turn off the power.
This happens with or ithout hub.
Does anybody know something about USB problems on macs ?

Hello,
I am resurrecting this thread to see if there has been any recent "developments" concerning the under powered usb situation. I have a similar & frustrating encounter with the mini & a portable 40 gig wd passport hd. Believe me, I have tried EVERY combination of attaching this hard drive to the mini--powered usb hub, directly to the mini...I have even tried a 2 "headed" (for lack of a technical term) usb cable! (does not have fw option)The only thing I have not done is to buy a power source for the portable hd. Here are a few characteristics...
1.) The hard drive mounts but freezes when I try to open it (spinning beach ball thing) and I end up having to disconnect the portable. 2.) works fine on the PC winXP & Mac G4s at work 3.) works great on my brand new 12" ibook...
I am a little sad because the purpose was to be able to store & travel with shared info.
Any news, solutions, or "fixes" ?
P.S. My mini is still OS10.3.9
Beth

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