Recommendations for more disk space

I have had my iMac for about a year and the 250GB disk is getting full. I'm considering getting an external storage device - what sort of factors do I need to consider when choosing? Any specific recommendations - I'm hoping to get an extra 500GB.
Also, can I use the same external disk for Time Machine, or does it need a dedicated external disk drive?
Thanks, Matt

Also, can I use the same external disk for Time Machine, or does it need a dedicated external disk drive?
Generally, Time Machine is best used on a dedicated partition.
I have a single drive with 3 partitions - one of which is for Time Machine.
So the answer is a qualified Yes.
If you have nearly 250GB to backup - you will need a Time Machine drive of 500GB (as a minimum Apple recommends that Time Machine be given twice the space of the source).
If you haven't purchased a drive yet - get a FireWire drive (800 if possible, I don't know if you iMac supports FW800 or FW400 if not).
I have used Time Machine on a generic USB drive, and on WD MyBook Drives successfully. WD and Lacie are selling 1TB drives now.

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    Message was edited by: cornelius

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    Message was edited by: brenodo

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