Looking for an empty NAS.

Ease · 22 Jul 2009 at 20:22

Ok, so I have approximately 4Tb of media on my computer, and love watching it both at the computer and in the sitting room via my Xbox 360. However, I don't think its very energy efficient to leave my machine running 24/7 so I think a NAS is the answer. It'd also be a good way for backing up really vital documents on my computer.

So as I might as well move most of my hard drives from my computer straight to the NAS I'd like one that had a minimum of 3 bays, but 4 or more would be preferable, but with no hard drive (to save on costs!). What would you recommend?

Also, do you think it is likely my Xbox 360 will still be able to read media files from it? They seem to be a bit picky?

So far the NAS I have my eye on is THECUS/CLAIRTEK INC N4100PRO 4 BAY NAS AMD PRO. RAID but is a bit expensive at £300.

Tomsk · 23 Jul 2009 at 15:37

Cheapest option is a PC running Linux.
Starting with a barebones system, add a CPU and memory, for a cost of ~£160 and add HDs to suit. RAID isn't really necessary since 1TB+ HDs will easily be fast enough for a media server.
Install Linux off a USB stick or 'borrow' the CD/DVD drive from your current PC.

Ease · 23 Jul 2009 at 15:49

Hmmm, sounds like a good idea! My next (read: first ever) paycheck is in two weeks... I think I may have found what I'm going to spend it on!

As its only function will be as a NAS, I'll be able to use a really awful CPU right?

<edit: Just to check; the barebones are generally just the case, PSU, and the mobo right? />

Edward78 · 23 Jul 2009 at 16:17

<edit: Just to check; the barebones are generally just the case, PSU, and the mobo right? />

Ya, why not just build a media server?

Bry · 23 Jul 2009 at 17:09

Take alook at a tranquil bbs2. I have it myself. Its in essence a pc but in a very small box with 5 HDD spaces.

Depends really if you want something very small you can hide away or not

Ease · 23 Jul 2009 at 17:37

Ideal! Thanks Bry! Nice one, I owe you!

Bry · 23 Jul 2009 at 20:16

Got one myself, sent a lot of people their way as it really is an excellent little box. If you want one with a preinstalled o/s then look at their sqa box. if you are ok installing an os either via external dvd bay or via a usb stick then go with the bbs2

Ease · 24 Jul 2009 at 11:10

Hey Bry, how big is it? Do you have any pictures for comparison? I think I'm most probably going to get it anyway, but would be nice to know so I can plan the appropriate corner to put it in.