Hello there
DLBurkhart.
Here's your geek-steer ...
"...is emitting strange whining sounds every now and then ... Is this strange noise a sign of an impending problem?" == EVERY strange HDD noise is ALWAYS a sign of impending failure.
Peform a "Check Disk" on it ...
chkdsk DRIVE_LETTER /X /R
- There should be NO surface errors if it's new(er).
- Regardless, if it's new, then immediately insist upon a replacement.
Good luck, and please do post back ...
- to let me (and interested others) know how things worked out,
- to provide clarification or feedback,
- if you have ANY further questions.
Today's the best day of my life ... and NOW you're part of it!
Via-con-Dios and Godspeed -- Geekinator (aka Craig).