NAS Options?

[RZetlin]

I have been thinking adding a NAS to my home network.

The primary use of the NAS is media storage (Videos & Music).

I am looking for an affordable way and minimum to setup.

I have thought about several options that is open to me and I don't know what is the best way to approach this?

1) Buy a independent NAS. Something like Apple Time Capsule.

2) Get a USB network adapter. I already have an external USB hard drive I just need a USB network adapter to connect it to my router.

3) Get an old existing PC and setup as a file server. I don't really like this option because of the power consumption from the PC.

[KillerShots]

Personally, I'd tend to go with number 3. You can always go with a Via CPU and no audio/video to minimize power usage (I have a diskless headless via machine running at 19W). That way you maximize your flexibility.

[RZetlin]

I wonder if it is cheaper to get a RAID rack?

Are RAID racks sold to home users?

[KillerShots]

A "RAID rack"? Well, you could get a whole rack for fairly cheap and start populating it... but do you really want to do that?

Yes, they are sold to home users... there is nothing that is NOT sold to home users. There are several problems there, though: space, appearance, and population.

A rack takes up ~21"x52"x8' (english measurements). That's a lot of space. You can get one for as little as $75, but come on... you're just thinking of putting one machine in, right? Are you thinking of filling the whole rack up with hard drives? What's with the rack? I also thought you were worried about power consumption.

You can set an old machine up with RAID just as effectively. Again, if you're worried about power consumption, you can look at Via machines... check here for example. Also, check the C3 section.