Is NAS (Network Area Storage) Ready for mass Market?
3. Single HD NAS model: QNAP TS-101
The QNAP TS-101 is based on a single SATA HD, making this NAS model a simple but nevertheless easy to use model. Its GUI will please beginner as well as advanced users.
The box the QNAP TS-101 comes in looks rather big in comparison to the NAS itself.
The QNAP TS-101 is shipped with all required accessories:
- external PSU
- two stands for a vertical setup
- an installation and resource CD
- >a quick user manual and installation procedure
- Ethernet cable
- screws required to fix the HD on its tray
For installing the HD in the QNAP TS-101, you will need a Phillips head screw-driver (or a CyberTool Swiss Army knife).
After removing two screws located on the back panel of the QNAP TS-101, one can open the NAS by sliding both halves of the aluminum casse. The first half without any electronic components (on the left below) will be in contact with the HD and work as a passive dissipator for eliminating heat released by the HD when spinning.
The second half includes the PCB as well as the tray on which we will install the SATA HD with the 4 supplied screws.
Once the HD is installed, both halves can be reassembled, plug in the QNAP TS-101 via the Ethernet cable to a Mac and turn it on to set it up.
The quick installation procedure described in the user manual is really clear, and allows you to set the basic function of the NAS in minutes, even for true beginners. The photo below shows some screens of the web-based administration interface, illustrating the different options available for some parameters.
