The $14 SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo 8GB Drive

Timothy Daleo
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2
The $14 SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo 8GB Drive

I just complained on BYOB about the lack of affordable USB 3.0 drives and now the cheap USB 3.0 thumb drives are finally here. SuperTalent drives are $14 for 8GB and $29 for 16GB. Sweet pricing, but what kind of performance do you get with a $14 SuperTalent USB 3.0? Read on to see what performance you will get for a $14 drive.

SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo

The Math – USB Theoretical Speeds

USB 2.0 is 480 Mbps = 60 MB/s (which is just 480,000,000 divided by 8 to get 60,000,000 to get Megabytes)

With USB 2.0 speeds, around 60% of the theoretical maximum is to be expected, since over an additional 15% would be added just for overhead alone!

USB 3.0 is 5.0 GBps = 5,000 Mbps = 625 MB/s (same formula as above)

SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo

I think the “Duo” stands for twice as fast as USB 2.0?

SuperTalent Website

SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo

The Director of Product Marketing at SuperTalent says it best…

SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo

The SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo drives are available at:

SuperBiiz

I bought one for me and one for Andrew although he may not like it as much after this post. Winking smile

SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo

.

Super Talent 3.0 Express Duo Drive

The drive is lightweight but feels cheap. It looks like every other thumb drive I have seen. Of course it is only $14 so what do you expect?

The drives retail packaging seems stronger than the drive itself. They should have made the drive out of the same material.

SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo

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I had already installed a USB 3.0 PCI-E host card from EVGA in my Core i7 PC. I used the drivers from the EVGA CD to install the card. I guess they stopped selling these?

EVGA USB 3.0 PCI-E Host Card

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Just insert the USB 3.0 drive like any other USB device.

EVGA USB 3.0 PCI-E Host Card

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USB 2.0 ATTO Benchmark – My Corsair Flash Voyager 16GB

ATTO USB 2.0 Benchmark

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USB 3.0 ATTO Benchmark – SuperTalent Express Duo 8GB

ATTO USB 3.0 Benchmark

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Conclusion

The Write was almost two and a half times USB 2.0 speed while the Read was one and a half times the Corsair speed. These speeds seem to be in line with other inexpensive models by PQI and A-DATA but much less than the higher cost drives by SuperTalent, Kingston and A-DATA.

If you are looking to replace a USB 2.0 thumb drive, then the SuperTalent USB 3.0 Express Duo Drive is worth considering. That being said, if you want really high speeds then you should wait a while and see how the USB 3.0 drives look in 2011, or spend the money now for the higher priced USB 3.0 drives.

Tim

Feedsource for Windows Home Server Closed Beta Announced

Andrew Edney
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6

My friend and fellow Windows Home Server MVP Sam Wood has just announced a closed beta for his new Add-In called Feedsource for Windows Home Server V1, and as usual it’s cool!

Here is how Sam describes Feedsource:

A couple of weeks ago I hinted that we had an unannounced Windows Home Server Add-In in development. It’s time to let this particular cat out of this particular bag, and start a new closed beta.

Feedsource for Windows Home Server is an Add-In that publishes authenticated Really Simple Syndication (“RSS”) feeds for your Shared Folders through the Remote Access web site. Authorized users access Feedsource RSS feeds from inside or outside your home network, using any RSS reader that supports authenticated feeds, to view the latest changes in your Shared Folders.

Key features:

· Authenticated RSS feeds for Shared Folders that show create, delete, rename, and change events for files and directories

· Automatic integration with the Remote Access web site to view feeds from outside your network with no extra port-forwarding or configuration

· Simple setup through the Windows Home Server Console

· Secure authentication and authorization using SSL and existing Windows Home Server access controls

Installing and Using Feedsource for Windows Home Server

Once you have the add-in, you install it like any other.

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12-12-2010 11-03-31

When you then go back into the Console, you will see a new entry called Feedsource.

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You will then see your shared folders listed:

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You can then set how you want each folder to be:

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You can even add custom folders:

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When you make changes to your monitored folders you can easily see the changes:

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And that’s it – very easy to use and really useful if you are sharing content with other people!

So why not get in touch with Sam and get yourself on the closed beta today?

Earlier in the year, Sam also released a preview for his Black Box Add-in for Windows Home Server.

BYOB Episode 25 Out Now

Andrew Edney
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5

The guys over at BYOB, including our Tim Daleo, have just released episode 25. And don’t forget the live show next Saturday.

BYOB300

Here is what they say about this weeks show:

Doc’s RAID 5, Tim has a bad memory? AMD 1100T, AMD 69xx series release date, GTX 570 is loose.  This week we talk about some new products and spend some time discussing Software RAID as part of a ongoing quest for mass storage to fill the gap created by the removal of DE.  Hope you enjoy the podcast and remember to join us for the BYOB live show on December 18th at 11am PST.  Bring your questions and hope to see your there.

News

AMD Releases it’s new 6 core 1100T Processor

nVidia Releases it’s GTX570 at a competitive price

AMD releases a date for their next gen high end 69xx series of card that replace the current 58xx/59xx series

Tim shares an unusual memory issue
Mike shares his initial findings with his 8TB RAID 5

http://homeservershow.com/playing-with-raidalternative-to-de-part-1.html

Mike, Michael and Tim have a discussion on RAID and discuss different solutions to issues of expandability, time, speed, etc…

Another BYOB Live – This weekend Saturday 12.18.10 @ 11AM pst!

Join us for our Second Q & A with BYOB on a live Ustream Saturday 12.18.10 11:00 AM PST

As usual you can listen to the show here.

Firmware Upgrade for BlackArmor NAS Brings Additional Apple Mac and iTunes Support

Andrew Edney
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1

Seagate have recently released a firmware upgrade for its BlackArmor NAS devices that brings with it additional support for Apple Macs and iTunes.

TM_acronis1

Here is what Seagate say about the update:

Time Machine Support

The BlackArmor NAS product line is now compatible with Time Machine backup software for Mac® computers.  Small businesses are increasingly becoming mixed environments, where both Windows and Mac based computer systems work side by side.  The BlackArmor NAS products already include business-grade BlackArmor backup software (powered by Acronis) that performs robust full system backup and restores for multiple Windows and Mac computers.  With the newest BlackArmor NAS firmware, Mac users now have the option to use either the BlackArmor backup software or Time Machine software – which is a standard software feature on most Mac computers.  BlackArmor NAS products are now automatically recognized by Time Machine and can be designated as the target storage for Time Machine backups.  Click here for instructions on how to use Time Machine backup software with your BlackArmor NAS product.

iTunes® Server Support

The new BlackArmor NAS line is also fully compatible with the latest iTunes server (10.x), providing music enthusiasts with market leading iTunes server support.  Keeping current with the latest iTunes release is an important feature for NAS users who actively manage large media collections.  It is important for NAS products to not help you continuously protect your digital content, but allow you to continuously enjoy it as well.

BlackArmor NAS customers can download this free firmware by clicking here.

Look out for the UWHS review soon.

Icy Dock Launch 2.5” to 3.5” SATA HDD & SSD HDD RAID Enclosure

Andrew Edney
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1

There is yet another new product released from Icy Dock – this time a dual 2.5” to 3.5” SATA HDD & SSD HDD RAID enclosure – called the MB982SPR-2S.

ID1ID2

Here is how Icy Dock describe the MB982SPR-2S:

Icy Dock is a household name for its high quality storage products for RAID applications, SSDs, and functional design. Now, all of those will be combined into one ground breaking product: the MB982SPR-2S. This little device packs a huge punch with features and performance, allowing 2 x 2.5″ SATA SSD/HDD to be converted to a 3.5″ SATA form factor for use in most internal drive bays, backplanes, external enclosures, and server racks. It transforms the 2 drives into a 3.5″ SATA drive with exact dimensions, mounting holes, and connection locations as a normal 3.5″ drive.

The device uses a full metal construction for durability and drive protection, especially for use in industrial computers and servers, as well as military systems deployment. Inside the case there is room for 2 x 2.5″ SATA SSD or HDD fitting the standard 9.5mm drive heights. Like our previous converters, the door mechanism moves a tray to connect and disconnect the drives as the door is closed and opened, respectively. This provides the user with peace of mind that the connection is solid. Also, similar to the previous converters, the installation process is completely screw-less and tool-less, saving the user time when first installing the drives, as well as any necessary maintenance throughout the product’s lifetime. On all sides of the box are airflow vents to provide adequate ventilation to the 2 drives inside, ensuring they operate in an optimal environment. On the door latch are 2 blue status LEDs which provide the user with drive activity, power, and RAID status.

The RAID controller gives users the option to choose RAID 0, RAID 1, BIG, and Port Multiplier mode, and it can be configured via software that is compatible with both PC and Mac systems. This allows the unit to be configured for blazing fast speed, system drive mirroring, extra storage, or just an easy way to dual boot a computer.

Product Features:

* Converts your 2 x 2.5″ SATA HDD or SSD to a 3.5″ SATA HDD, for 3.5″ SATA Drive Bay and Backplane usage.
* Full Metal and Heavy Duty with Easy Access to Drives
* Screw-less and Tool-less Design Saves Tons of Time For Installation and Maintenance
* Built in RAID featuring RAID 0, RAID 1, BIG, and Port Multiplier.
* Blue Status LEDs on Release Latch
* Airflow Vents For Heat Dissipation With Anti-vibration Design.
* Universal Mounting Holes For Most Common PC Cases.
* Windows and Mac Software for RAID Set Up
* Compatible With Most 3.5″ HDD Backplanes and Hot Swap Devices.
* Compatible With Mac Pro.
* Screw-less Design For Quick & Easy Installation.
* Perfect For Power Users, System Integrators and IT Professionals.

You can learn more from the Icy Dock website.

BYOB Live Again on Saturday December 18th

Andrew Edney
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0

The guys over at the BYOB podcast, including our very own Tim Daleo, will be doing another Live show next week, following on from the success of their last show.

BYOB300

You will be able to listen and join in with the live show on Saturday December 18th at 11am PST by clicking here.

So think of your questions and comments, and prepare to join in!

FireCore Release aTV Flash (black) Beta 2

Andrew Edney
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3

Yesterday FireCore, those guys behind the aTV Flash software for the Apple TV, hot on the heels of beta 1, released beta 2 for aTV Flash (black) for the 2nd generation Apple TVs.

atv_flash_black_thumb1

Here is what FireCore have said about the beta:

We’re proud to announce the release of the second beta version of aTV Flash (black) for the new AppleTV.
A quick rundown of what’s included in beta 2 can be seen below. For full details and a first look at a brand new teaser video please view the full announcement here.
What’s new in beta 2?

  • Full support for the AppleTV 4.1 (iOS 4.2.1) software.
  • Added Windows compatible installer (requires Windows XP or later)
  • Added optimized navigation when using the standard Apple remote
  • Added search and url suggestion engine
  • Added user-agent toggle setting
  • Added streaming support for Australia, Canada, Germany, and New Zealand
  • Improved version checking for app downloads
  • Improved error handling during installation (no more mysterious password prompts)
  • Improved Last.fm scrobbling
  • Many additional improvements and bug fixes

How do I get it?

  • Current Users – aTV Flash (black) is available as a free upgrade. Download links and any available renewal specials can be found in your account.

New Users – aTV Flash (black) is available for pre-order at a discounted price of $19.95. All pre-orders get instant access to all beta versions as well as the final version once it’s available.

Have you tried it yet? Watch out for the UWHS review soon.

Twonky Release TwonkyServer 6.0.30

Andrew Edney
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1

Twonky has just released an update to its TwonkyServer software, bringing it up to version 6.0.30.

twonky (2)diagram_twonkymediamanager-300x247

What is TwonkyServer?

Here is how Twonky describe it:

Is your Playstation® 3 connected to your home network? Do you have a digital photo frame with a wireless Internet connection, or what about an Internet radio? Provide your favorite devices with that missing link to your computer’s music, video and photo collections. Download the popular, powerful TwonkyServer and truly experience the connected home.
TwonkyServer makes it possible for your devices to retrieve your media files from wherever they’re stored. Using your device’s remote and menu system, view your computer’s media library, or an online media feed, and just press play.

TwonkyServer is available for Windows®, Mac® and Linux, so it will work for any connected home.
If you have Windows Home Server, you can still use TwonkyServer. View this install guide to see if it’s the right option for you.

We even offer a mobile version of our server. Currently available free in the Android™ app store, TwonkyServer Mobile lets you serve music, photos or video from your phone to devices all around the home.

TwonkyServer is part of our TwonkyManager, so if you have a Windows PC and want many amazing features beyond what we offer in TwonkyServer, please see TwonkyManager.

You can choose your platform and download the updates from the Twonky website.

Here is what is included in the update:

Release Notes for TMS 6.0.30
————————————–
Changes
o added “Nokia Home Music” to clients.db
o On language change a database rebuild is no longer necessary
o Added mobile view to selectable views
o Renamed “simple default navigation” to “classic media navigation”
o Renamed “advanced default navigation” to “advanced media navigation”
o INI file can now accept mobile and folder view as default setting
Bug Fixes
-fixed: LPCM files are not working on PS3
-fixed: Duplicate content is displayed on enabling Aggregation.
-fixed: Reposition forward and backward is not working in case of WMA file on NETGEAR MP101
-fixed: Toshiba REGZA TV Cannot Play Any JPEG Contents except for JPEG_SM
-fixed: Thumnail view for gif files are not displayed while pulling the content from the server using WDTV live
-fixed: Sony Bravia Photos : Update ‘protocolinfo’ for JPEG_TN content.
-fixed: Json feed has broken links and thumbnails for online items
-fixed: Cleanup of navigation tree does not always work as expected
-fixed: Manual Rescan not working when scantime set to ‘0’
-fixed: Thumbnail view of JPEG files are not available on Samsung TV
-fixed: Pause/Resume is not working on Regza
-fixed: TwonkyServer reduces the resolution of some photos displayed on Denon receivers
-fixed: TwonkyServer can handle only 128 simultaneous CreateObject actions, which turned out to be too little
-fixed: Failure to find embedded albumart for a MP3 file with id3 v2.4.0 metadata (v2.3.0 works)
-fixed: Improve subtitle support for Samsung TVs
-fixed: Content name is not displayed properly if we use underscore in Wav files.
-fixed: Failure to send albumart for a MP3 file with embedded BMP
-fixed: Send default album art as fallback if embedded or external album art can not be sent
-fixed: Maxitems configuration property is ignored in some setups
-fixed: Add support for embedded albumart in MP3 files using id3 v2.4.0 metadata
-fixed: Pause/Resume is not working on Regza
-fixed: Several problems with duplicate detection
Known Issues in 6.0.30
– Twonky ignores the sort criteria upon search if the search is including several sub-folders. Sorting works if search is invoked on a container that only contains items.

Apple Release MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update 2.0

Andrew Edney
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3

Yesterday Apple released a new EFI firmware update that solves an issue some people had with blank screens on the new MacBook Air.

Mac Update

Mac Update 2

Here is the information Apple provide about this update:

About MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update 2.0

This update resolves a rare issue where MacBook Air boots or wakes to a black screen or becomes unresponsive. This update is recommended for all 11-inch and 13-inch MacBook Air (late 2010) models.

The MacBook Air EFI Update will update the EFI firmware on your notebook computer. Your computer’s power cord must be connected and plugged into a working power source. When your MacBook Air restarts, a gray screen will appear with a status bar to indicate the progress of the update. It will take several minutes for the update to complete. Do not disturb or shut off the power on your MacBook Air during this update.

Personally I hadn’t experienced this problem with my MacBook Air, but I’m more than happy to install the new firmware to ensure I don’t have it in the future!

Have you been hit with this problem?

The Digital Lifestyle Show #284 Disconnected Lifestyle?

Andrew Edney
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0

Ian over at the Digital Lifestyle has just released show 284 – and as usual I am on it – although less talking from me this week, so I apologise for the drinking game followers!

DLS Show

Here is what Ian has to say about this weeks show:

Great show for you this week. Andrew, Garry and I discuss email sent in to the show including topics on whether we will ever see our vision of the connected lifestyle, the future of Extenders and distributing TV content. We also talk about topics hitting the blog in the last week including, Voice Control for Media Center, Apple TV,updates for DVBLink. My Movies and how I have got my Media Center system working really well at the moment.

Garry also has a special interview with Wire Free Hifi about their audio streaming solutions for iOS devices (and a listener discount offer at the end)

Links from this weeks show:

As usual, you can listen to the show here.

The Home Server Show Episode 115 Out Now

Andrew Edney
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1

The guys over at the Home Server Show have just released show number 115, and its a long one this week.

home_server_show_small

Here is what Dave says about this weeks show:

Episode 115 is ready for you after the guys take a week off for a much needed vacation.  Actually, it was just bad luck that Dave’s vacation landed right in the middle of the biggest news period for Windows Home Server this year.  This is a long show and there is plenty to digest.  We have news, forums, the Orlando meetup, and plenty of Drive Extender and HP talk.  Beware though, Dave has a cold and cough and is a bit cranky throughout!  This was a fun episode actually.  The live ustream chat was very helpful and interactive with the show’s content.

Server Transfer Manager for Vail

More UPS talk.  I think we bring up batter backups every other show!

Battery Replacements for your UPS – Thanks to almock in the live chat.

Paul Thurrot on Drive Extender DE is DEad

Edd Bott on Microsoft communication foulups

Duplicate File Finder Review by MysticGeek

MyMovies for iPad – Complete retraction of previous comments by Dave.  This is a must have for MyMovies owners.

As usual, you can listen to the show here or subscribe via iTunes or other source for ease.

CloudBerry Labs Announce Backup Add-In Beta for Windows Small Business Server 2011 Essentials

Andrew Edney
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5

Our friends at CloudBerry Labs have been in touch to say that they have just released a beta for their CloudBerry Backup Add-In for Windows Small Business Server 2011 Essentials (formally Aurora).

Storing your small business server data with CloudBerry’s backup solution is a smart move, but don’t forget about safeguarding your business itself. While focusing on tech infrastructure, set aside some time to explore llc services that can shield your venture at a legal level, ensuring that all aspects of your business are equally equipped and protected.

aurora_blog

Here is what CloudBerry say:

Just about one week ago we announced the beta availability of CloudBerry Backup add-in for Windows Home Server code name Vail. Today we are pleased to announce the beta availability of CloudBerry Backup add-in for Windows Small Business Server 2011 Essentials code name Aurora. It comes with all the functionality available in our backup product line.

Features:

CloudBerry Backup for SBS 2011 Essentials code name Aurora will be priced along with our Server Edition product line and will cost $69.99 per installation. Existing customers can upgrade by paying the balance.

And if you have Windows Home Server Code Name Vail you can try the Vail beta version.

Time Running Out On Using Windows Home Server and Tranquil Special Deal for Windows Home Servers

Andrew Edney
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1

With the news last week that HP have pulled out of the Windows Home Server market, Tranquil PC quickly confirmed that they were still fully committed to Windows Home Server. We have worked out a special offer for UWHS readers who order a Tranquil PC Windows Home Server before the 12th December 2010 – so only a days left to take up the offer.

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We have teamed up with Tranquil to offer the UWHS readers a £50 discount on the Tranquil SQA-5H 3000 Series 2 Windows Home Server.

We reviewed the SQA-5H-SAFE version earlier this year, and we loved it.

The price of the SQA-5H 3000 was £599 plus VAT, it has now been reduced to £499 plus VAT, and with the £50 discount for UWHS readers, this brings it down even more.

You will also get a free 18 month subscription to Home Server Sync, worth over £200 – so what are you waiting for!

Here is how Tranquil describe the SQA-5H:

The performance SQA Home Server.  Fitted with 2GB memory and a single 2TB Low Power, Low Noise Hard Disk. This is powerful system for tomorrow’s demands.  Tranquil can add additional low noise, low power HDDs for you, or you can add your own easily and quickly.

Features :

  • 2GB Memory
  • 2TB Low Energy HDD (32MB cache)
  • 4x spare HDD slots
  • Server recovery pack
  • 3 year warranty

You can also configure a number of other options as well.

To order your SQA-5H-3000-S2 click here and don’t forget to enter the coupon code of

UWHS30001210A

which will get you your £50 discount. This coupon code is only valid for the SQA-5H-3000-S2.

And hurry, this offer will only last until the 12th December 2010, so don’t be down about HP getting out of the Windows Home Server market, take this opportunity to buy a Windows Home Server from a company that is still committed to Windows Home Server, just as UWHS is.

Plextor Launch A New NAS Device

Andrew Edney
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1

Yesterday Plexor launched a new NAS device, called the Plextor PX-NAS4.

PX-NAS4 FRONT (High Res)PX-NAS4 LEFT (High Res)

PX-NAS4 LEFT OPEN (High Res)

Secure, Safe & Speedy: The Plextor PX-NAS4 Device

PX-NAS4 offers high security, excellent reliability and massive storage space

December 6th, 2010 – Plextor have today announced the launch of the PX-NAS4 – their latest and highly convenient network-attached storage (NAS) device.

Renowned for high-performance digital media equipment, Plextor continue this trend with the PX-NAS4, which offers massive storage capacity with fast data access, high security, exceptional reliability and a surprisingly low power consumption. Such a perfect combination of impressive functionality and affordability makes the PX-NAS4 ideal for  home office users and small-medium businesses.

The PX-NAS4 is available from December for approximately £397 inc VAT.

Key Features:

* Dual LAN Ports for Faster Data Access

* Up to 8TB of Storage across 4 Hot-Swap Bays

* DNLA 1.5 Compliant

* Features iSCSI for network sharing

* Secure data with password protection and encryption

* Multiple disk configurations

* Spare bay for replacement if a disk fails

* Snapshot Backup Utility offers mirror-image back-ups of data

* Uses 40% less power than traditional NAS devices

* Available with the Plextor ‘Fast Warranty Service’

High speed data access and sharing across networks:

The PX-NAS4 boasts dual-LAN ports to deliver a massive bandwidth with data access speeds of up to 2Gbps, and with DNLA 1.5 Compliance, the device will easily allow digital media to be shared or streamed to compatible devices (with a suitable router connection). With the added convenience of iSCSI, the PX-NAS4 is the perfect solution for sharing and supporting network storage over an existing low-cost set-up.

Huge, expandable storage capacity with added data security:

Using four hot-swap drive bays, the PX-NAS4 offers an ample 8TB of data storage space – and if that isn’t enough, it can easily be expanded using the built-in 2 x eSATA and 2 x USB ports for external hard drive connections.

Data stored on the PX-NAS4 is secure from unwanted access thanks to password protection and advanced volume encryption (using the AES 256-bit algorithm).

Safeguard precious data with added back-up options:

The PX-NAS4 offers multiple disk configurations: JBOD, RAID0, RAID1, RAID5 or RAID10, with a hot spare bay for immediate drive replacement if any one drive fails (RAID 1 & 5 only).

Snapshot Backup Utility is also bundled with the device, offering a method of backup which can that takes a mirror-image of the current state of the NAS, to protect and safeguard precious data.

Low power consumption for a greener office solution:

The PX-NAS4 is Energy Star compliant thanks to a modern and low-power consumption design. In full access mode, it reduces the energy demands to 58 Watts, and only 25 Watts in standby. The device requires only 60% of the power of a typical 200 Watt NAS, saving electricity and running costs and helping to provide a more eco-friendly environment.

Exceptional warranty terms offer complete peace of mind:

Unlike many others of its kind, the PX-NAS4 offers an added level of reassurance with the Plextor ‘Fast Warranty Service’ – a 2 year on-site warranty across the EU, Norway and Switzerland (1 year elsewhere) – so users can feel secure in the knowledge that their must-have device is covered for longer.

You can learn more about the PX-NAS4 from the Plextor website.

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