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Aujourd’hui — 28 mars 2024Flux principal

UGREEN NAS Drive – Should You Buy?

Par : Rob Andrews
27 mars 2024 à 18:00

The UGREEN NAS Drives – Should You Back This Kickstarter?

The UGreen NAS series has recently been launched on Kickstarter, presenting an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts and potential users to engage with what the product promises. However, as with any product, especially those launched via crowdfunding platforms, it’s crucial to approach with a balanced perspective, recognizing both its strengths and potential limitations. In this context, the commentary highlights five appealing aspects of the UGreen NASync series and acknowledges five areas of concern or aspects that might be disappointing to some users. This nuanced approach is essential, especially when considering a product in its crowdfunding stage, distinct from a traditional retail purchase. Crowdfunding offers a unique set of risks and rewards, necessitating a careful approach from backers. For a comprehensive understanding, including detailed insights and analysis, it’s recommended to view the extensive one-hour review on YouTube and read the accompanying article for in-depth coverage of the UGreen NASync DXP4800 PLUS.

Important Links

  • The UGREEN NASync Kickstarter Page – HERE
  • UGREEN NASync DXP4800 PLUS NAS Review (Video) HERE  (Written Review)HERE
  • UGREEN NASync DXP4800 PLUS NAS Review (Should You Buy Video, Shorter) – HERE
  • UGREEN UGOS NAS Software Review – (Video) HERE – (Written Review) HERE

Reasons I LIKE the UGREEN NAS Drives

First, let’s discuss the really positive and impressive things about the UGREEN NASync series of devices.

The UGREEN NAS Have GREAT Hardware

You really can’t find fault, especially given the price, with the variety of hardware across the six versions of the UGreen NASync series. From an efficient and affordable N100 processor to a robust Pentium and a 10-core i5, the hardware range is impressive. Additionally, these systems come with 2.5G and 10G network connectivity, and some even offer Thunderbolt connectivity.

It’s the finer details that stand out: 8GB of DDR5 memory across the board, SD card slots in several models, and a compact Gen 4 SSD flash model featuring Wi-Fi 6E. The hardware spectrum UGreen offers in their debut series is truly remarkable.

UGREEN NAS Are Arriving With Good Design and Quality Build

The early prototypes of the DXP 4800 Plus and DXP480T showcase impressive build quality and construction. UGreen is evidently investing significantly in this new branch of their tech portfolio, a fact that is palpable in the devices’ build. With unique branding and a robust, predominantly metal construction, these systems feel sturdy. All internal components, including the motherboard and chip arrangement, are UGreen branded, featuring a custom UGreen kernel for the motherboard BIOS. This attention to detail ensures the system feels far from cheap, marking a strong entry into the NAS world with a product that seems exceptionally established.

The UGREEN Mobile Application is very, VERY Good!

You may have heard various opinions about the UGreen UGOS NAS software, which is currently in beta, coinciding with the launch of its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. While actual product fulfillment might not occur until later in summer 2024, it’s worth delving into the mobile application aspect of their software. UGreen has prioritized the development of their mobile application, making it a comprehensive NAS management tool that stands out in terms of usability. Unlike many NAS software solutions that struggle to adapt desktop functionalities into a mobile format, resulting in a compromised user experience, the UGreen NAS Sync mobile app for Android and iOS is exceptionally well-crafted. It offers extensive control over system features without overwhelming users with complexity. This approach marks a significant departure from merely offering a web portal API in a less reliable mobile app form. UGreen’s investment in developing a potent and user-friendly mobile tool showcases their commitment to enhancing user experience, positioning it highly even when compared to industry leaders like Synology.

UGREEN is an Established Brand, NOT an Unknown or Startup

Unlike many startup and crowdfunded network-attached storage (NAS) solutions I’ve discussed on this channel (check out my history of NAS Kickstarter and Indiegogo articles), UGreen is an established brand in the tech sector. Having been around for nearly 14 years and already known for peripherals, this marks their first foray into network-attached storage. It’s important to recognize that UGreen brings existing brand recognition, a well-developed supply chain, support network, and production experience accustomed to worldwide distribution. A major challenge for many crowdfunded products, not just NAS, is that even great ideas can falter due to production and distribution issues. Having an established brand behind a product can often mitigate these risks, providing a level of assurance seldom seen with traditional indie startups.

The UGREEN NAS Range Are Very Affordable

I’ve already mentioned this, but it’s worth reiterating the exceptionally competitive price point across all six devices in the UGreen NASync portfolio. This pricing strategy is noteworthy both for early crowdfunding backers and for the retail recommended price (RRP) once these devices hit traditional retail channels. The brand’s own website even offers a staggering 40% discount, suggesting these products might be positioned as loss leaders to make a significant impact in the NAS market or that their profit margins are remarkably high. This pricing strategy makes the UGreen NASync series hard to overlook compared to other solutions. While not the cheapest, the pricing is balanced enough to cover production and distribution costs without deterring potential buyers who might consider more established market alternatives.

Specification DXP2800

DXP4800

DXP4800 Plus

DXP6800 Pro

DXP8800 Plus

DXP480T Plus

Kickstarter Page HERE HERE HERE HERE HERE HERE
Kickstarter Launch $239.99 $359.99 $419.99 $599.99 $899.99 $479.99
MSRP $399 $559 $699 $999 $1499 $779
Operating System UGOS Pro UGOS Pro UGOS Pro UGOS Pro UGOS Pro UGOS Pro
CPU Model N100 N100 8505 1235u 1235u 1235u
CPU Brand Intel Intel Intel Intel Intel Intel
CPU Architecture X86 12th Gen N Series X86 12th Gen N Series X86 12th Gen Intel Pentium Gold X86 12th Gen Intel Core i5 X86 12th Gen Intel Core i5 X86 12th Gen Intel Core i5
Cores/Threads 4/4 4/4 5/6 10/12 10/12 10/12
Memory (RAM) 8GB DDR5 8GB DDR5 8GB DDR5 8GB DDR5 8GB DDR5 8GB DDR5
ODECC Support Supported Supported Supported Supported Supported Supported
Expandable RAM (max) 16GB 16GB 64GB 64GB 64GB 64GB
Flash Memory (System Disk) eMMC 32GB eMMC 32GB SSD 128GB SSD 128GB SSD 128GB SSD 128GB
SATA Drive Bays 2 4 4 6 8 0
M.2 SSD Drive Slots 2 2 2 2 2 4

Things About the UGREEN NAS Drives That I DO NOT Like

While the five positive aspects of the UGreen NAS product are commendable, it’s essential to approach with a balanced view. In the spirit of thorough evaluation, attention must be turned to aspects of the UGreen NAS product that may not meet expectations or could be considered drawbacks. This critical examination helps ensure a well-rounded perspective before making an informed decision about the product.

The UGREEN NAS are ONLY Available in Germany and the United States

Why on earth is this product only being initially provided in Germany and the United States? I can appreciate that it takes a lot of work to provide a product globally at launch, and even the biggest brands in the tech world may, from time to time, stagger their release schedule and geographical release strategy – resulting in different regions getting their products earlier or later than others. However, UGreen already has an established product availability in numerous other regions. Additionally, this is a crowdfunded product, and one could argue that they want to get as many bums on seats as possible! Limiting the scope of availability for this product at launch to just these two regions has definitely annoyed a lot of users in the UK, France, Australia, Canada… the list goes on and on! Additionally, remember that 40% discount I mentioned earlier for the early crowdfunding backers? Imagine hearing good things about a product and finding out you can get it at a comparatively low price compared to established solutions in the market, but then find out that you are living in one of the regions that isn’t supported and when you eventually can get hold of the product, chances are you are getting it much closer to the RRP! How annoying is that! With Germany just a hop, skip, and a jump away from many other neighbouring countries in Europe, this is a bitter pill to swallow!

3rd Party NAS OS Support is COMPLICATED

The installation of third-party operating systems on the UGreen NAS is a complex topic. Recently, a NASCompares Q&A highlighted users’ concerns about the warranty when installing systems like TrueNAS or UnRAID. UGreen initially stated that installing a third-party OS would void the 2-year warranty, frustrating many. However, discussions at UGreen may lead to a policy allowing third-party OS installations under certain conditions without voiding the warranty. Yet, this has not been finalized. Additionally, installing a third-party OS is challenging due to the custom UGreen BIOS, and attempts to install alternative operating systems have faced significant hurdles, including system reboots, suggesting potential hardware or software safeguards against such modifications. This uncertainty and technical complexity have left many users concerned about the feasibility and warranty implications of using third-party operating systems on UGreen’s NAS systems.

26/03/24 – Update on the use of 3rd Party OS’ on UGREEN NAS with hardware, with regard to warranty*: “The Ugreen team confirms that whatever is promised in their warranty policy will not change, which only covers the hardware. They also mention that there is a risk of damage if you install a third-party OS, including data loss and compatibility issues, etc.” – Ugreen Representative, 26/3/24

NOTE – If you want to hear more about how it went installing a 3rd party OS on the UGREEN NASync DXP4800 PLUS NAS, Watch the video HERE, or in the embedded video below (it’s been set to the correct section):

The UGOS UGREEN NAS Software is Still in BETA and Not Finished

I’ve already mentioned this, but it’s worth reiterating. Currently, the UGreen NAS software isn’t ‘finished’. During my one-month review period, UGreen pushed numerous software updates that improved performance and stability. Yet, key software features are missing, such as two-factor authentication, encrypted volumes support, WORM support, container or virtualization apps, and Plex or Emby applications. While the software is still in beta and not officially launching for many months, allowing room for improvements, it’s somewhat frustrating, especially when the mobile app appears polished in contrast to the desktop experience’s inconsistencies.

10GbE Performance was not as great – Subject to Change Later in Development (I Hope)

This is something that will hopefully be addressed as the product undergoes further development through crowdfunding, but it needs highlighting. The prototype I received offered moderate performance over external 10GBE, and while internal performance of the M.2 NVMe drives improved with updates, optimal performance was achieved using SSH rather than native file transmission. Tweaks to enhance network connectivity, like adjusting the jumbo frame/MTU, are unavailable in the current software beta, contributing to an inconsistent experience.

UGREEN-DXP4800-PLUS-1-NVMe-SSD-10GbE-AJA-PERFORMANCE

Additionally, power consumption was about 15 to 20% higher than anticipated, a significant figure considering the system’s robust specifications and storage media.

Not Clear WHY UGREEN Opted for Crowdfunding via Kickstarter

This is probably the biggest problem that users have with UGreen and its NAS system being launched the way it is – why on earth is an established brand launching on crowdfunding? Kickstarter is predominantly targeted towards indie startup companies and those that are trying to launch a new product into a market to gauge interest and find an audience. There is an argument that UGreen, an Eastern company who have yet to formally release a network-attached storage solution, could definitely see the benefit in utilizing both the tools and the relative financial safety afforded to crowdfunding to gauge the interest of a product at launch and ensure financial efficiency. However, to use crowdfunding, but also launch six different SKUs, for a brand that’s been in the tech world for more than a decade is super weird! I get it, most of their prior technological experience has been more in accessories and adapters, so there is an argument that they don’t want to risk too much on a new venture. But I personally would have recommended that they launch just two SKUs via traditional retail purchasing, then launch the rest of the series as a phase 2, if interest in the initial two products is good enough. The 4-bay desktop DXP4800 Plus and DXP480T would have made great options as the market is still crying out for solid 4-bay NAS systems and 2023/2024 has already seen several prominent NVMe flash NAS systems arriving for home and prosumer use – the demand is already clearly there!

Conclusion – Should You Buy/Back the UGREEN NAS?

BOTTOM LINE – The UGREEN NASYnc DXP4800 Plus does not feel ‘finished’ yet and still needs more time in the over, but UGREEN have been very clear with me that this product is not intended for release and fulfilment till summer 2024 and improvements, optimization and product completion is still in progress. Judging the UGREEN NAS systems, when what we have is a pre-release and pre-crowdfunding sample, was always going to be tough. The DXP4800 PLUS is a very well put-together NAS solution, arriving with a fantastic launching price point (arguably even at its RRP for the hardware on offer). UGREEN has clearly made efforts here to carve out their own style, adding their own aesthetic to the traditional 4-bay server box design that plagues NAS boxes at this scale. Equally, although they are not the first brand to consider Kickstarter/Crowdfunding for launching a new product in the NAS/personal-cloud sector, this is easily one of the most confident entries I have seen yet. The fact that this system arrives on the market primarily as a crowdfunded solution (though almost certainly, if successful, will roll out at traditional retail) is definitely going to give users some pause for thought. Equally, the UGREEN NAS software, still in beta at the time of writing, although very responsive and nailing down the basics, still feels like it needs more work to compete with the bigger boys at Synology and QNAP. Hardware architecture, scalability, and performance are all pretty impressive, though the performance of the Gen 4×4 M.2 NVMe slots didn’t seem to hit the numbers I was expecting. Perhaps a question of PCIe bottlenecking internally, or a need for further tweaking and optimization as the system continues development. Bottom line, with expected software updates to roll out closer to launch and fulfillment, such as an expanded App center and mobile client, the UGREEN DXP4800 Plus is definitely a device worth keeping an eye on in the growing Turnkey and semi-DIY NAS market. As an alternative to public cloud services, this is a no-brainer and worth the entry price point. As an alternative to established Turnkey NAS Solutions, we will hold off judgment till it is publicly released.

SOFTWARE - 6/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 6/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 8/10


7.6
PROS
👍🏻Exceptional Hardware for the Price
👍🏻4 HDDs + 2x Gen 4x4 M.2 in 1 box under $400
👍🏻Good Balanced CPU choice in the Pentium Gold 8505
👍🏻10GbE and 2.5GbE as standard
👍🏻An SD Card Slot (wielrd rare!)
👍🏻10/10 Build Quality
👍🏻Great Scalability
👍🏻Fantastic Mobile Application (even vs Synology and QNAP etc)
👍🏻Desktop/Browser GUI shows promise
👍🏻Established Brand entering the NAS Market
👍🏻Not too noisy (comparatively)
👍🏻Very Appealing retail package+accessories
CONS
👎🏻10GbE Performance was underwhelming
👎🏻Crowdfunding choice is confusing
👎🏻Software (still in Beta) is still far from ready 22/3/24
👎🏻non-UGREEN PSU is unexpected
👎🏻

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À partir d’avant-hierFlux principal

UGREEN NASync DXP4800 PLUS NAS Review

Par : Rob Andrews
22 mars 2024 à 15:00

UGREEN NASync DXP4800 PLUS Review (Pre-Release)

With many newcomers stepping into the network-attached storage arena, aiming to compete with established giants like Synology and QNAP, UGREEN’s entry is one of the most confident I’ve seen to date. UGREEN, a brand that has existed for quite some time in the computer accessories arena, seems to have a head start over other brands trying to enter the private consumer cloud and entry-level business market. The NASync series, also known as the DXP series, features an unusually large number of SKUs at launch, offering seven different configurations of storage capacity, internal hardware, and external connectivity. In a somewhat unconventional move, the brand has opted to use the crowdfunding site Kickstarter to launch its new product range. Although crowdfunding for NAS solutions was once rare, by 2024, several mid to high-profile crowdfunded NAS solutions have emerged with varying degrees of success. Predominantly East Asian-based brands often utilize Kickstarter to introduce their products to a Western audience, and UGREEN is doubling down on this strategy. Today, we’re examining the DXP4800 Plus, a 4-bay prosumer solution aiming to change expectations for server value. It boasts high-demand features like a powerful Intel CPU, DDR5 memory, Gen SSD storage, 10GbE, and flexible OS usage. There’s a lot to like here, but is this brand’s first foray into NAS storage worth your investment? And should Synology and QNAP be concerned?

Important – The UGREEN DXP4800 Plus NAS is still in the early stages of crowdfunding. The unit provided for review by UGREEN might not represent the finished product if/when crowdfunding is concluded and eventual fulfillment begins. UGREEN is an already long-established and trusted brand, but nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that this is still a product that is initially being made available via crowdfunding and therefore an element of additional care is always advised, compared with a comparable product purchased via traditional retail outlets.

UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NASync Review – Quick Conclusion

BOTTOM LINE – The UGREEN NASYnc DXP4800 Plus does not feel ‘finished’ yet and still needs more time in the over, but UGREEN have been very clear with me that this product is not intended for release and fulfilment till summer 2024 and improvements, optimization and product completion is still in progress. Judging the UGREEN NAS systems, when what we have is a pre-release and pre-crowdfunding sample, was always going to be tough. The DXP4800 PLUS is a very well put-together NAS solution, arriving with a fantastic launching price point (arguably even at its RRP for the hardware on offer). UGREEN has clearly made efforts here to carve out their own style, adding their own aesthetic to the traditional 4-bay server box design that plagues NAS boxes at this scale. Equally, although they are not the first brand to consider Kickstarter/Crowdfunding for launching a new product in the NAS/personal-cloud sector, this is easily one of the most confident entries I have seen yet. The fact that this system arrives on the market primarily as a crowdfunded solution (though almost certainly, if successful, will roll out at traditional retail) is definitely going to give users some pause for thought. Equally, the UGREEN NAS software, still in beta at the time of writing, although very responsive and nailing down the basics, still feels like it needs more work to compete with the bigger boys at Synology and QNAP. Hardware architecture, scalability, and performance are all pretty impressive, though the performance of the Gen 4×4 M.2 NVMe slots didn’t seem to hit the numbers I was expecting. Perhaps a question of PCIe bottlenecking internally, or a need for further tweaking and optimization as the system continues development. Bottom line, with expected software updates to roll out closer to launch and fulfillment, such as an expanded App center and mobile client, the UGREEN DXP4800 Plus is definitely a device worth keeping an eye on in the growing Turnkey and semi-DIY NAS market. As an alternative to public cloud services, this is a no-brainer and worth the entry price point. As an alternative to established Turnkey NAS Solutions, we will hold off judgment till it is publicly released.

SOFTWARE - 6/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 6/10
PRICE - 9/10
VALUE - 8/10


7.6
PROS
👍🏻Exceptional Hardware for the Price
👍🏻4 HDDs + 2x Gen 4x4 M.2 in 1 box under $400
👍🏻Good Balanced CPU choice in the Pentium Gold 8505
👍🏻10GbE and 2.5GbE as standard
👍🏻An SD Card Slot (wielrd rare!)
👍🏻10/10 Build Quality
👍🏻Great Scalability
👍🏻Fantastic Mobile Application (even vs Synology and QNAP etc)
👍🏻Desktop/Browser GUI shows promise
👍🏻Established Brand entering the NAS Market
👍🏻Not too noisy (comparatively)
👍🏻Very Appealing retail package+accessories
CONS
👎🏻10GbE Performance was underwhelming
👎🏻Crowdfunding choice is confusing
👎🏻Software (still in Beta) is still far from ready 22/3/24
👎🏻non-UGREEN PSU is unexpected
👎🏻

UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NASync Review – Presentation

You really do have to hand it to UGREEN. The presentation of the DXP4800 Plus is genuinely top-tier. This brand’s experience in computer accessories has clearly influenced the presentation of their NAS system, opting for glossy retail packaging that boldly showcases the system’s capabilities over a standard dull brown box.

Inside the shiny box is a well-organized shipping container, with the system secured by rigid foam and an accessory kit containing everything needed to get started. As previously mentioned, retail packaging and device protection during transit are often overlooked by brands, risking damage. Despite being largely unpopulated, except for an internal 2242 SSD for the OS, minimizing the risk of damage, the extra effort on protection is appreciated.

The DXP4800 Plus includes nearly everything needed for setup, aside from hard drives. Given the early stage of the system’s crowdfunding campaign, additional storage options may later become available. The included kit, while basic, ensures users new to hosting their own servers have everything required.

It’s the attention to detail that impresses – from M.2 NVMe heat pads of notable quality and thickness for thermal dissipation, to the included Cat 7 network cables with high-quality gold/copper ends, differentiating them from standard cables.

Even the instruction manual, a rarity as most NAS brands now direct users online, stands out with its glossy presentation and offers more than basic setup guidance.

However, the choice of an external power supply (PSU) was unexpected, given UGREEN’s reputation for high-quality power adapters and cables. While not a deal-breaker, it’s curious to see a non-branded external PSU used, especially when the DXP480t model reviewed elsewhere came with a branded UGREEN PSU. This inconsistency in their approach to PSUs is puzzling.

Overall, the presentation of the DXP4800 Plus from UGREEN, a newcomer to the NAS market intending to launch via Kickstarter, is exceptionally well done. Despite some accessory quality inconsistencies, the overall package is commendable for a pre-release sample. Now, let’s proceed to discuss the system’s design.

UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NASync Review – Design

At first glance, the DXP 4800 Plus appears to be a fairly standard four-disk NAS enclosure, and you might be forgiven for thinking it’s just reiterating the typical case design prevalent among numerous companies. However, there’s more to its design and efficiency than meets the eye. For starters, the external enclosure is entirely metal, enhancing heat dissipation directly from the base panel housing the M.2 modules. Additionally, UGREEN has infused the design with their unique stylistic choices, evident in the presentation of individual bays and the arrangement and accessibility of various ports and connections.

The inclusion of small design flourishes, like the rear removable mesh metallic fan panel that magnetically attaches to the casing, is particularly appreciated. While such a feature is familiar to prosumer PC cases, it’s surprisingly rare in NAS designs – puzzling, given NAS systems’ continuous operation and higher likelihood of accumulating dust and debris. Despite being a relatively minor detail, this fan cover’s presence in UGREEN’s first product impresses me.

Handling individual storage bays, however, presents a mixed reaction. The bold numeric design distinguishes it aesthetically from other NAS brands that often opt for bland, nondescript bays. The tool-less, click-and-load trays that forego the need for a screwdriver for drive installation and the inclusion of individual locking mechanisms (with keys) are commendable features.

Yet, these trays feel somewhat flimsy compared to the more robust trays found in desktop solutions from Synology and QNAP. While they secure the hard drives and align with the internal enclosure runners, the internal locking mechanism doesn’t inspire confidence in its security. The trays’ perceived cheap production quality slightly detracts from the overall positive aesthetic. Despite this, the system supports the latest 22TB hard drives, which means daily interaction with these trays will be minimal.

The main storage area features a pre-constructed PCB with four integrated SATA and power connectors. The system documentation indicates that SAS drives are unsupported, a non-issue for this system’s scale and price point.

Upon removing the base’s metallic panel, the two M.2 NVMe SSD bays and upgradable DDR5 SODIMM ports are revealed. Space constraints make heat sink installation challenging, but UGREEN has anticipated this with the inclusion of thick heat pads in the accessory kit, facilitating heat dissipation through the external casing.

UGREEN’s entry into 24/7 service storage with the DXP 4800 Plus is noteworthy, especially for a brand new to this sector. Their effort to differentiate through design and functionality is largely successful, although the storage trays’ quality could be improved. Overall, the system’s design is a strong point, and I look forward to discussing ports and connectivity next.

UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NASync Review – Ports and Connections

One of the earliest things to notice about the connectivity on offer on the DXP 4800 Plus NAS is that this system brings back support for SD cards. This may seem almost insane to the average photo and video editor, but SD card readers on NAS devices have been largely absent for almost a decade, despite enormous protestations from photo and video editors for years. Therefore, it’s kind of impressive that UGREEN has opted to provide an SD card slot and a front-mounted USB Type-C connection on the DXP4800 Plus when practically every other brand in the NAS industry does not. It’s going to be a tremendously convenient feature for those wanting to ingest media directly into the system via numerous storage methods and camera systems, making it that much more convenient than many others in the market.

Carrying on the subject of convenience, it’s also worth highlighting that the system not only has a front-mounted USB like the majority of other NAS systems but also arrives with USB Type-C connectivity on the front. This is a surprisingly rare feature in most modern desktop NAS devices, even in 2024.

Flipping the device around, we see that the system has even more USB ports that can be utilized by the system in a host-client relationship. That means that the UGREEN NAS system will act as the host device for connected storage drives and supported peripherals. Unfortunately, this does mean that you cannot directly connect to this device using those USB ports, and the USB 2.0 connections are pretty much exclusively designed for connecting printers and office peripherals, uninterruptible power supplies, or keyboard/mouse in KVM setups alongside the visual output.

The visual output of this system is a 4K 60 frames per second HDMI 2.0 connection. The software for the UGREEN NAS system is still in beta, and currently, the HDMI output is limited to command line access. Currently, there is no graphical user interface afforded to the HDMI output, such as you would find on a QNAP or Asustor NAS system, but as this is a relatively niche feature for many, I’m not going to give them too much of a hard time over this.

Across the rest of the UGREEN NAS range, there is a multitude of different connection profiles and options. In the case of the DXP 4800 Plus, the system arrives with a single 10 gigabit ethernet connection and a single 2.5 gigabit Ethernet connection. Although there is a lack of Thunderbolt connectivity afforded to the more expensive Intel i5 options, the inclusion of these two copper network connections means that not only is there support for failover, but there is also support for link aggregation and port trunking. Given that the system already supports SMB Multi-channel, which can be enabled in the control panel of the UGREEN software, it means in Windows environments, there’s potential for 1.25 GB per second network transmission.The saturation of both of these ports is going to be pretty easy for a four-hard-drive and two NVMe system, and the system does support direct connection from a PC or Mac client directly into the UGREEN system if preferred. However, there is no option for upgrading the system via PCIe cards.

Overall, in terms of ports and connectivity, I’m really happy with everything I found on the DXP 4800 Plus, and although it lacks a bit of scalability in terms of improving upon the network connectivity down the line, what you have at this price point is a fantastic base level of network connectivity, combined with a decent degree of functionality and modern storage expandability to boot. However, all of that connectivity isn’t a great deal if you don’t have much to work with inside, so let’s talk about the internal hardware architecture of the UGREEN NAS.

UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NASync Review – Internal Hardware

As mentioned earlier, it’s surprisingly confident of UGREEN to launch so many different NAS devices simultaneously for their first foray into network-attached storage. Not only have they provided several different storage scales and architectures, but they are also supporting three different internal hardware CPUs in terms of CPU. The scale in terms of price and capabilities of each system varies, but they include the Intel N100, Intel Pentium Gold, and Intel 12th Generation i5. The DXP4800 Plus arrived with an Intel Pentium G processor that is a five-core, six-thread architecture (one power core, four efficiency cores).

Though not the first to utilize this CPU in domestic and prosumer NAS, nevertheless, this processor is remarkably underused. Generally, when most brands opt to play it safe with the N100/N300 or immediately scale up towards the i5. It’s surprising because the Pentium Gold processor does a surprisingly good job of balancing a reasonable price point versus a decent degree of hardware resources at your disposal. This is a 20 lane Gen 4 processor that still manages to be more power-efficient than the i5 in bigger models.

Arriving with integrated graphics, supporting up to 64 gigabytes of memory (arriving with 8GB of DDR5 SODIMM and two slots), there is a lot to like here. It is especially surprising when you realize that the brand already provides closely priced N100 and i5 models either side of this device in UGREEN’s NAS portfolio. This processor performs exceedingly well with Plex Media Server and, thanks to those 20 lanes, also means there’s a decent spread of available hardware architecture across the whole device.

The layout of the internal architecture is still yet to be confirmed at the time of writing this review, but digging a little into the backend via SSH revealed that each of the M.2 NVMe slots on the base of this system are Gen 4 x 4. However, how this all separates out on the system chipset and whether these are being delivered into PCIe switches to spread the architecture out for the rest of the system storage, double network connectivity, and dedicating lanes to all those available connections, is definitely an area that leaves pause for thought.

Returning to that base panel, we find that the system arrives with an 8GB DDR5 SODIMM memory module and the capacity to add an additional module when needed. 8GB for this system is pretty decent, but do keep in mind that this system does not support ECC memory. Indeed, none of the UGREEN systems support ECC memory, and although they make a point of highlighting the on-die checks associated with DDR5, most experienced storage enthusiasts tend to prefer traditional ECC memory support. Nevertheless, 8GB is a good amount of memory to start with, and it’s great to know that you are not locked in with presoldered and fixed memory on the board, which is a move often used by more economical brands to save some money and dedicate lanes more efficiently. There see to be two network controllers, one 10GbE controller located under a heatsink:

Which I had difficulty identifying, but I suspect is a Marvell AQtion Aquantia AQC113/AQC114/AQC114CS/AQC115Cs, comprising (from official pages) a high-performance,Scalable mGig, Ethernet MAC+PHY Controllers designed to support the following network rates: 10GBASE-T/5GBASET/ 2.5GBASE-T/1000BASET/100BASE-TX/10BASE-Te. When equipped with a PCI Express Gen 4 x4, this family of Scalable mGig Ethernet MAC+PHY Controllers easily handle the 10 GbE line-rate performance. The AQC113, AQC114, AQC114CS, AQC115C device family combines a mGig Ethernet MAC Controller with a full-reach, low-power, highperformance, multi-gigabit, single-port Gen 4 Ethernet Alaska PHY transceiver into a single, monolithic device that is designed using the latest 14nm, multi-gate, FinFET process technology.

And an additional 2.5GbE Controller (the Intel S2363L51 SRKTU, instead of the usual Intel i226-V 2.5GbE we have observed in a number of Topton/CWWK boards of late) that very little information is available for online:

The USB controller/manager appears to be an ASM1543, (from the ASmedia pages) a one Four to two differential channels mux switch with integrated Type-C Configuration Channel Logic Circuitry, using for USB3.1 type-C mux and CC detection application. The signal performance of mux switch is up to 10Gbps SuperSpeedPlus USB bus with low insertion loss and return loss, and it also supports USB plug orientation, configurable as DFP role or UFP role through the setting of strapping pins, and implementing the strapping for the setting/detection of Type-C current mode, following USB3.1 Revision 1.0 and USB Type-C Connector and Cable Revision 1.3 standard specification.

Next, we find a Richtek RT3624BE, (from the manf pages) a synchronous buck controller which supports 2 output rails and can fully meet Intel IMVP9.1 requirements. The RT3624BE adopts G-NAVPTM (Green Native AVP) which is Richtek’s proprietary topology derived from finite DC gain of EA amplifier with current mode control, making it easy to set the droop to meet all Intel CPU requirements of AVP (Adaptive Voltage Positioning). Based on the G-NAVPTM topology, the RT3624BE features a new generation of quick response mechanism (Adaptive Quick Response, AQR) to optimize AVP performance during load transient and reduce output capacitors. The RT3624BE integrates a high accuracy ADC for platform and function settings, such as ICCMAX, switching frequency, over-current threshold or AQR trigger level.=

In terms of the SATA storage management, I found a ASMedia ASM116 SATA host controller(AHCI). Which is upstream PCIe Gen3 x2 and downstream four SATA Gen3 ports. It’s a low latency, low cost and low power AHCI controller. With four SATA ports and cascaded port multipliers, ASM1164 can enable users to build up various high speed IO systems, including server, high capacity system storage or surveillance platforms.

Finally, we find the two M.2 NVMe slots. Each of these slots supports a 2280 length SSD, which, at launch, can be utilized as a storage pool. As the software, and indeed the system as a whole, is still in early development, features such as caching or even tiered caching appear to be absent at this time. Initially, I was really pleased and impressed that the DXP4800 Plus box arrived with twin NVMe four lanes architecture on each individual slot.

This means that this four-hard-drive system also comes with two super-fast 8000 megabytes per second bandwidth SSD upgrade slots – which is tremendously rare and hugely appealing.

Additionally, digging a bit more into the backend of the system via SSH showed that there had been no downgrade on this speed either! Typically, for reasons of lane allocation, consumption, or heat generation in a system, M.2 slots will often be internally downgraded to a lower performance speed (as is often the case with the likes of Synology and QNAP). There was no sign of this here, and this was a genuine breath of fresh air to see such a high speed and high bandwidth connection afforded to these SSD slots.

Earlier in March when I was testing the (late alpha, early Beta) version of the NAS software, system and services, the performance numbers I got were not hugely encouraging internally. However, there have been numerous improvements on the system software and I am pleased to confirm that the M.2 NVMe slots were indeed 4×4 bandwidth and that some brief 1GB transfer/creation testing showed some early 7GB/s benchmarks on the Gen 4×4 SSD I has inside the system. Now we cannot rule out the impact of caching internally and these tests are NOT reflective of everyday (i.e non synthetic) use, but it was definitely an encouraging sign.

However, when I tried to repeatedly move 1GB of data between each of the NM,2 NVMe, the performance would drop down to 2.4Gb/s, which further suggested some lane sharing and a possible bottleneck by a controller perhaps. Again, this is a beta software/system and UGREEN repeated that this system is still undergoing optimization.

External performance over 10GbE was also an area that I really, REALLY hope this is sees significant optimization. I was hitting a bottleneck of around 500-600MB/s on upload and download (on a 10Gbe / 1,000MB/s connection). The performance numbers below were over 10GbE (with the MTU set at 1500 – As the software is currently not allowing me to scale it to 9000 MTU/Jumbo frames) and for 4x HDDs in a RAID 5, I would be happy with 600MB/s realistically. however…

When I was hitting the SAME numbers when I was accessing a Gen 4×4 M.2 NVMe over 10GbE, I would FULLY expect this to be 999MB/s up and down! Instead, the 10GbE connection, using AJA, on a Seagate Firecuda 530 SSD, was still hitting that bottleneck.

Switching to a Windows transfer test, moving 5GB of data to the m.2 NVMe SSD, over 10GbE saw similar results. My test PC in this case was running on a Gen4x4 SSD, so there was no meaningful storage bottleneck on my PC, and the connection was established via a clear 10GbE connection (via a managed Netgear switch) and using a Sonnet Solo 10G adapter over Thunderbolt.

Further testing confirmed performance dips when transferring data between SSDs, indicating a shared pathway. Despite this being a pre-release sample, and acknowledging potential future optimizations, the observed SSD performance, though still faster than many market alternatives, fell comparatively short of expectations given the hardware capabilities (though still higher than the majority of M.2 SSD performance offered by other brands providing HDD SATA + M.2 solutions right now).

The UGREEN NAS’s software, still in beta, promises further insights into the brand’s direction with their NAS solution and its accompanying software and services, warranting a closer examination as development progresses.

UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NASync Review – Software

At the time of writing, the UGREEN NAS software is still in beta, with the mobile application is live now. Reviewing the software included with the DXP4800 Plus—as a final product—feels somewhat premature. The NASsync software beta reveals many baseline functions and long-term plans, detailed in the video below in our initial overview and first impressions of the UGREEN NAS software:

You can read the MASSIVE Software review (covering the Desktop and Mobile experience) HERE on the NASCompares Review Article.

Alternatively, you can watch the video version of the UGREEN UGOS NAS Software Beta Review in the video below:

The TL;DR on the UGREEN NAS software

it’s on track to become a smooth and user-friendly experience, comparable to giants like Synology and QNAP, especially in terms of the web browser experience. Unlike opting for the complexity of TrueNAS or the streamlined, container-focused UI of UnRAID, the UGREEN NAS software is more akin to Synology DSM. The foundation is clearly laid out for expansion in terms of features and tools for the user’s disposal. However, there are notable absences of baseline applications such as container or virtual machine support, and a multi-tiered backup solution within the web GUI (though the UGREEN NAS mobile and desktop clients are in development, expected to preview in March). Basic services for file management, shares, user account control, and an app center—soon to be linked to a repository—are all user-friendly but present some inconsistencies, likely due to its beta status and ongoing development. The physical product may be closer to final development, but the software needs more time for optimization. SMB services were less consistent than desired, and settings changes sometimes didn’t save or recall correctly. This is common for beta software finding its footing, yet it’s important to note that the hardware feels more refined than the software at this stage, months before user delivery. In brief:

What I liked:

  • Intuitive UI with services located logically and responsive controls.
  • Baseline services such as network interface management, user account control, firewall handling, and SSH interface control are all present.
  • A clearly defined app center awaiting connection to an online repository.
  • Helpful tips and guidance are available on most pages, aiding new users.
  • Support for modern services like SMB3 multi-channel and domain services in the beta.
  • Clear account and resource management accessible from the desktop, likely appealing to most users.
  • The inclusion of a remote access relay service and UGREEN account creation from day one, simplifying remote access for new users with built-in firewall and domain tools.

What I disliked:

  • Absence of two-factor authentication in the software.
  • Lack of virtualization or container applications at this stage.
  • Sporadic SMB performance.
  • Default enablement of SSH support, which may change post-beta.
  • In-progress language integration, leading to occasional default displays in Chinese or error messages in Chinese despite English settings.

Improvements needed:

  • Expansion of app integration and desktop client tools for easier system-client bridging.
  • Introduction of a default application for device discovery on the local network, a basic service offered by many NAS brands.
  • More information on UGREEN account and remote access security.

Acknowledging this is a beta, it’s fair to reserve full judgment until the software fully rolls out. As it stands, this beta is promising yet lacks some established NAS software fundamentals. Hopefully, we’ll see significant advancements as the release approaches.

UGREEN DXP4800 Plus NAS Storage Review – Verdict and Conclusion

BOTTOM LINE – The UGREEN NASYnc DXP4800 Plus does not feel ‘finished’ yet and still needs more time in the over, but UGREEN have been very clear with me that this product is not intended for release and fulfilment till summer 2024 and improvements, optimization and product completion is still in progress. Evaluating the UGreen NAS systems, particularly the DXP4800 PLUS, presents a unique set of challenges, given its status as both a pre-release and a pre-crowdfunding sample. This NAS solution stands out not just for its robust construction but also for its exceptional entry price, which seems quite competitive even against its Retail Price Point for the array of hardware it brings to the table. UGreen’s initiative to infuse their extensive experience in computer accessories into a NAS product has resulted in a distinctive aesthetic that sets it apart from the conventional 4-bay server box designs that dominate the market. Their decision to launch through Kickstarter, while not entirely novel in the NAS or personal-cloud arena, signifies one of the most assertive and bold market entries observed to date. The strategy of arriving on the market primarily through crowdfunding will undoubtedly prompt potential users to carefully consider their investment. However, it’s worth noting the significant potential this approach offers for bringing innovative products directly to those who would most benefit from them. The current state of the UGreen NAS software, still in its beta phase, showcases a solid foundation with much promise, despite needing further refinement to stand toe-to-toe with industry giants like Synology and QNAP. The hardware’s scalability and overall performance metrics are commendable, though there’s an observed need for further optimization, particularly concerning the Gen 4×4 M.2 NVMe slots, which didn’t quite meet expected performance benchmarks. This could potentially be attributed to internal PCIe bottlenecking or other factors that may be addressed as the system progresses through its development phase. With the hope of significant software updates and enhancements, such as an expanded App center and a more integrated mobile client, the UGreen DXP4800 Plus is positioned as a noteworthy contender in the burgeoning turnkey and semi-DIY NAS market. Its compelling value proposition as an alternative to mainstream public cloud services, coupled with its attractive pricing, renders it a formidable option for those seeking robust data storage solutions. Yet, in consideration of its potential as an alternative to more established turnkey NAS solutions, a final verdict is reserved until the product’s full public release. The expectation is that, with continued development and user feedback, the UGreen DXP4800 Plus will not only refine its offerings but also significantly influence user expectations and standards within the NAS market.

PROS of the UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NAS CONS of the UGREEN DXP4800 PLUS NAS
Exceptional Hardware for the Price
4 HDDs + 2x Gen 4×4 M.2 in 1 box under $400
Good Balanced CPU choice in the Pentium Gold 8505
10GbE and 2.5GbE as standard
An SD Card Slot (wielrd rare!)
10/10 Build Quality
Great Scalability
Fantastic Mobile Application (even vs Synology and QNAP etc)
Desktop/Browser GUI shows promise
Established Brand entering the NAS Market
Not too noisy (comparatively)
Very Appealing retail package+accessories
10GbE Performance was underwhelming
Crowdfunding choice is confusing
Software (still in Beta) is still far from ready 22/3/24
non-UGREEN PSU is unexpected

Click the Link Below to find out more about the UGREEN NASync NAS Series on the brand’s official Site:

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Test HONOR Pad 9 : une tablette 12 pouces efficace, mais à l’autonomie limitée

22 mars 2024 à 16:21

I. Présentation

Honor est de retour sur le marché des tablettes tactiles puisque le modèle Honor Pad 9 a fait son apparition sur le marché français en mars 2024 ! Elle succède, en quelque sorte,au modèle Honor Pad 8 disponible depuis un peu plus d'un an et demi. Dans cet article, nous allons découvrir ensemble cette tablette milieu de gamme et je vous donnerai mes impressions !

Commençons par évoquer les caractéristiques techniques de cette tablette qui est équipée d'un grand écran de 12,1 pouces :

  • Écran : 12,1 pouces, résolution 2,5K (2560 x 1600) avec un taux de rafraichissement de 120 Hz, écran LCD IPS
  • Processeur : Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 avec 8 cœurs (4 x Cortex-A78 2,2 GHz + 4 x Cortex-A55 1,8 GHz)
  • RAM : 8 Go
  • Stockage interne : 256 Go
  • Audio stéréo avec 8 haut-parleurs HONOR Histen, Hi-Res
  • Module photo avant : un capteur de 8 mpx
  • Module photo arrière : un capteur de 13 mpx
  • Connectivité : Bluetooth 5.1, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
  • Connectivité mobile 4G / 5G : non
  • Batterie de 8 300 mAh compatible avec la charge rapide 35W
  • Système d'exploitation : MagicOS 7.2 (Android 13)
  • Poids : 555 grammes
  • Épaisseur : 6,96 mm
  • Prix : 349,90 euros
  • Voir la fiche produit sur le site officiel

🎁 Découvrez une offre spéciale à l'occasion du lancement de la tablette :

En utilisant notre lien Amazon et le code promo "PAD9FROFF", vous pouvez obtenir 9,90 euros de remise sur la tablette Honor Pad 9 (jusqu'au 24 mars 2023). Si vous êtes membre Amazon Prime, vous pouvez bénéficier d'une remise supplémentaire permettant d'avoir la tablette à 290 € au lieu de 349,90 €.

Si vous appréciez les produits de chez Honor, voici nos précédents tests de smartphone de cette marque :

II. Package et design

La tablette est livrée dans une boite au design soigné, et permettant d'avoir un aperçu sur le design du produit. À l'intérieur de la boite, Honor a glissé la tablette, un câble USB-C et un guide de démarrage rapide. Comme pour les smartphones, faisons une croix sur le chargeur mural, même si l'on m'a fourni un chargeur non officiel, dans le cadre de ce test.

Le grand écran de 12,1 pouces est appréciable et nous constatons une nette différence avec une tablette 10 pouces. Des bordures noires entourent l'écran et elles sont assez fines puisque Honor annonce un ratio châssis / écran de 88%. Ceci signifie que l'écran occupe de 88% de la surface. La caméra frontale est positionnée au centre de l'écran, sur la partie supérieure, lorsque la tablette est posée à l'horizontale (en mode "paysage"). D'ailleurs, c'est à l'extrémité gauche de la tranche supérieure que nous retrouvons l'ensemble des boutons : un gros bouton pour gérer le volume et un bouton Power.

La tablette bénéficie d'un châssis intégralement en métal, avec des angles arrondis. Il ajoute de l'élégance à l'appareil et présente l'avantage d'être très peu sensible aux traces de doigts. À l'arrière, nous retrouvons, au centre, le module photo principal de forme circulaire. Il est décrit de la façon suivante par Honor : "Le design de l'appareil photo central arrière tire son inspiration de la lune montante sur la mer endormie et scintillante." - Même s'il n'est pas discret et assez imposant, il ne contient qu'un seul capteur.

L'Honor Pad 9 contient le strict minimum au niveau de la connectique : un port USB-C. Ceci signifie qu'il n'est pas possible d'étendre la mémoire avec une carte microSD (mais l'espace de stockage interne est tout de même généreux : 256 Go), ni même de connecter un casque avec une prise Jack, car il n'y en a pas. Il conviendra de se tourner vers la connectivité Bluetooth pour connecter des accessoires externes. Par ailleurs, même si ce n'est pas systématique sur les tablettes, sachez qu'elle est livrée sans stylet.

Note : le clavier Bluetooth Honor Pad 9 Smart Bluetooth Keyboard est adapté à cette tablette. Consultez ce lien pour en savoir plus.

Je me dois d'insister sur la présence de 8 haut-parleurs répartis à droite, à gauche et sur la tranche inférieure de la tablette. Il est clair que cela permet d'avoir une bonne immersion lorsque l'on regarde une vidéo, ou pour avoir un son sympa lorsque l'on écoute de la musique. Pour les micros, sachez qu'il y en a 2 sur la tranche supérieure de la tablette, à proximité des boutons.

Nous avons fait le tour de la tablette et nous pouvons également noter l'absence d'un lecteur biométrique. Cependant, le déverrouillage de la tablette pourra être effectué à l'aide de la reconnaissance faciale. Enfin, bien qu'elle soit grande, cette tablette n'est pas lourde : 555 grammes, ce qui permet de pouvoir la transporter et la maintenir facilement.

III. Performances, système, etc.

Le Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 épaulé par 8 Go de RAM, et le système MagicOS 7.2 basé sur Android 13 permettent-ils à cette tablette de répondre à tous les besoins du quotidien ? Voici mon ressenti.

Précision : la tablette Honor Pad 9 est équipée de 8 Go de mémoire vive (RAM), mais celle-ci peut monter jusqu'à 16 Go grâce à la technologie HONOR RAM Turbo. Lorsque la tablette sollicite cette fonctionnalité, l'espace de stockage est utilisé pour avoir de la mémoire vive supplémentaire.

L'interface est soignée et agréable à utiliser. Nous pouvons utiliser deux systèmes de navigation : par geste ou avec trois touches de navigation (positionnée dans le bas de l'écran). Avec ses icônes d'applications et ses dossiers arrondis, ainsi que par les couleurs choisies, cette interface me fait penser un peu à iOS... Mais nous sommes bien sur une tablette Android !

Test Honor Pad 9 - Tablette 12 pouces

Cette tablette est livrée avec un système basé sur Android 13, ce qui est tout de même regrettable sur un produit lancé en 2024, car Android 14 est disponible depuis octobre 2023. Espérons qu'une mise à jour soit prévue par la suite...

Le système est livré avec un ensemble d'applications préinstallées, et elles sont assez nombreuses. Voici la liste : Netflix, Facebook, Booking.com, TikTok, Trip.com, WPS Office. À cela s'ajoute toute la panoplie d'applications et services Google, ainsi que des applications développées par Honor. Par exemple, il y a l'App Market d'Honor qui est un magasin d'applications dans le même esprit que le Play Store de Google.

Avec cette tablette, vous pouvez utiliser toutes les applications courantes sans aucune difficulté, la puce graphique Adreno 710 intégrée au SoC est satisfaisante et il n'y a pas de ralentissement particulier à l'usage. Néanmoins, attention à la gestion de la 3D dans certains jeux où la tablette peut montrer ses limites même si vous pourrez jouer à la plupart des jeux.

Pour exploiter pleinement le grand écran, il y a le mode multi-fenêtres qui est pratique puisqu'il permet de lancer plusieurs applications simultanément sur la tablette : idéal pour les adeptes du multi-tâches, mais pas seulement...

Enfin, je n'en avais pas encore parlé, mais la qualité d'affichage est satisfaisante et la bonne luminosité est un point positif à mettre en évidence. Ceci est d'autant plus vrai que l'écran est sensible aux reflets (cela aura tendance à mettre en évidence les traces de doigts...). N'oublions pas qu'il ne s'agit pas d'un écran OLED.

Si vous utilisez un smartphone Honor, sachez que vous pouvez profiter d'Honor Connect pour que le smartphone et la tablette puissent interagir ensemble. Pour en savoir plus, consultez cette page du site officiel Honor.

IV. Autonomie de la tablette

Sur tous les appareils mobiles, l'autonomie est un critère important. Malheureusement, c'est précisément sur ce point où cette tablette Honor Pad 9 m'a déçue, car pour le reste, la copie est plus que satisfaisante !

Rappelons qu'Honor a pris la décision d'intégrer une batterie d'une capacité de 8 300 mAh : c'est assez faible, en comparaison d'autres modèles, surtout que là, il est question d'alimenter un écran de 12,1 pouces !

J'ai effectué la mise en pratique suivante : lecture de vidéos YouTube en continu (en haute qualité 4K), avec le volume réglé à 50%, la luminosité environ à 60% (en intérieur). Résultat, le smartphone a une autonomie de 7 heures et 15 minutes (temps pour passer de 100% à 0%, sans interruption). De son côté, Honor évoque une autonomie de 11 heures lors de la lecture de vidéo en local (ce qui est différent, car dans mon test, la vidéo est streamée via Wi-Fi).

Cela signifie qu'avec cette tablette, vous pouvez tenir une petite journée, mais pas plus. C'est un point important à prendre en considération, en fonction de votre besoin et vos usages.

Avis tablette HONOR Pad 9

Bon, la bonne nouvelle malgré tout, c'est que la tablette se recharge rapidement : comptez environ 1 h 45 pour recharger la tablette complètement si vous utilisez un chargeur compatible 35 Watts. En 30 minutes, vous pourrez récupérer approximativement un tiers de la batterie, ce qui permettra de repartir assez rapidement pour plusieurs heures d'utilisations.

V. Qualité des photos

Prenons le temps d'évoquer la qualité des photos, notamment celles réalisées avec le capteur photo principal de 13 mégapixels, situé au dos de la tablette. Il s'agit d'un capteur grand-angle (f/2). Dans les meilleures conditions, c'est-à-dire en extérieur, en pleine journée, la tablette est capable de prendre des photos convenables, mais les couleurs sont un peu fades. Et surtout, si vous prenez en photo une personne ou un animal en mouvement, c'est la photo floue assurée...

À cela s'ajoute un lissage prononcé sur certaines photos, mais pour une tablette dont ce n'est pas du tout la fonction première, c'est acceptable. De nuit, un bruit s'ajoute sur l'image, ce qui impacte la qualité globale de la photo (sans surprise).

L'application caméra intègre plusieurs modes de prise de vue (photo, vidéo, portrait, scanner le document, etc.), ainsi que des filtres IA, ce qui est tendance ! Voici un également un aperçu des paramètres, tout en sachant que pour les vidéos, la fréquence d'images maximale est de 30 fps et la résolution maximale 4K. Vous pouvez aussi utiliser HONOR Lens pour l'identification des QR codes et des objets.

VI. Conclusion

Le grand écran avec un affichage de bonne qualité, la présence de 8 haut-parleurs, ainsi que l'élégance du châssis métal et la qualité de fabrication qui lui donne une allure de tablette premium, sont les points fort de cette tablette. Mais il ne faut pas oublier les performances satisfaisantes et une interface fluide qui est agréable à utiliser, et elle conviendra parfaitement à ceux qui connaissent l'interface MagicOS sur smartphone. Au quotidien, cette tablette est réellement agréable à utiliser et, j'insiste, mais l'écran de 12 pouces offre un réel confort visuel, y compris pour afficher plusieurs applications à l'écran.

À l'inverse, l'autonomie m'a déçue et je m'attendais à mieux sur ce point ! La connectique est également un peu légère, j'aurais apprécié l'ajout d'une prise Jack et d'un stylet pour l'écran tactile pour compléter l'ensemble. Enfin, la puissance sera trop juste pour certains jeux donc ce n'est pas une tablette pour gamer exigeant !

Objectivement, cette tablette proposée à 349,90 euros offre un très bon rapport qualité/prix !

🎁 Découvrez une offre spéciale à l'occasion du lancement de la tablette :

En utilisant notre lien Amazon et le code promo "PAD9FROFF", vous pouvez obtenir 9,90 euros de remise sur la tablette Honor Pad 9 (jusqu'au 24 mars 2023). Si vous êtes membre Amazon Prime, vous pouvez bénéficier d'une remise supplémentaire permettant d'avoir la tablette à 290 € au lieu de 349,90 €.

The post Test HONOR Pad 9 : une tablette 12 pouces efficace, mais à l’autonomie limitée first appeared on IT-Connect.

Synology CC400W Camera Review

Par : Rob Andrews
20 mars 2024 à 15:00

Synology CC400W Camera Review

Remember when Synology was only famous for its NAS? Yeah, me neither. Among all the server brands discussed here at NAS Compares, few have created such a diverse portfolio of home and business solutions, covering a wide array of peripherals and accessories, as Synology has. Although their CCTV and security application, Surveillance Station, has been available on their NAS devices for decades, it’s only in the past few years that we’ve seen the brand introduce their own range of surveillance cameras. The new CC400W is the latest addition to their lineup and, although it might look arguably less enterprise-grade compared to the BC500 and TC500 POE high-protection models, the CC400W doesn’t seem to be a slouch either! Targeting indoor use, this multi-surface deployable camera comes with impressively sleek integration with Synology Surveillance Station, no need for a camera license, industry-approved encryption, and wireless connectivity. Indeed, this was the kind of camera I hoped Synology would release in the first phase of their product series launch. Still, better late than never! Today, we’re going to review the new CC400W surveillance camera from Synology NAS and help you decide whether you can trust it with the security of your data and assets!

NoteVideo Review Available NOW on YouTube HERE

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Quick Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities. One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

SOFTWARE - 10/10
HARDWARE - 8/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 8/10


8.4
PROS
👍🏻Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware
👍🏻The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything!
👍🏻Sturdy and novel mounting base
👍🏻The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera
👍🏻Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly!
👍🏻Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy.
👍🏻The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station
👍🏻Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly.
👍🏻Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses
CONS
👎🏻Surprisingly expensive given the hardware
👎🏻Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price!
👎🏻The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.


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Synology CC400W Camera Review – Presentation

Much like the other cameras in Synology’s lineup, the Synology CC400W arrives in a pleasingly aesthetic external package. Considering that 90% of other surveillance cameras on the market, whether for NVR or DVR systems, tend to arrive in plain, brown packaging with little fanfare, Synology deserves a nod here for their continued effort in the presentation of their solutions. The box sides, adorned with specific information relating to the camera’s specifications and capabilities, represent a step above the usual plain, brown, branded box design afforded to other cameras in the market.

Upon opening the retail package, the camera and accessories are all neatly laid out in individual quadrants. As this is a wireless camera, the range of accessories was always expected to be somewhat limited. Nevertheless, everything is presented very well, and each component bears the Synology branding. It also appears that the majority of the packaging materials are fully recyclable.

Alongside the CC400W itself, the camera comes with a remarkably compact PSU. Designed for exceptionally low power consumption, the diminutive five-watt power adapter reflects this. Furthermore, this adapter connects via a USB Type-C interface, meaning you’re not solely reliant on Synology’s own PSU.

The option to purchase much longer USB Type-C extension cables facilitates greater deployment distance from a power outlet. Additionally, with the right arrangement of five-watt external batteries and solar panels, the feasibility of deploying this camera via solar power is clear, as long as a USB-connected battery point is included in the setup.

While Synology doesn’t directly support this, and the CC400W doesn’t come with its own power bank for USB solar panel support, this does highlight the camera’s low power requirement.

The rest of the accessories are quite standard, including warranty information, first-time setup guidance, details on using the wall bracket and fixings, and instructions for attaching the camera. That’s about it, which is perfectly adequate for this kind of camera.

Anything more could have been unnecessary and potentially wasteful. However, I am a bit disappointed that Synology does not include an SD card of any capacity with these cameras at this price point, given the affordability of SD cards and their utility in Surveillance Station.

Additionally, it seems slightly unfair of Synology to only provide this camera with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty when their other cameras come with a 3-year warranty. There’s an argument that those cameras were designed for higher outdoor durability and, with POE support in previous releases, they have fewer potential failure points. However, even though the CC400W isn’t exactly a budget camera, for its price point and intended use, it’s surprising that Synology didn’t offer a three-year warranty as they did with other camera releases. Nonetheless, the Surveillance Station software receives effective lifetime support on Synology NAS systems, so there’s no limitation in terms of security updates and feature enhancements.

Overall, the CC400W presents itself as a quite pleasing and well-packaged kit, a cut above many other supported ONVIF cameras used with Surveillance Station, yet not exactly a game-changer. My concerns regarding the lack of an included SD card and the 2-year warranty aside (considering that the majority of budget cameras barely come with a one-year warranty), I’m satisfied with what I find here. Now, let’s focus on the design of the new CC400W camera.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Design

The Synology CC400W Camera is equipped with a 2.12 mm lens, designed to capture a broad field of view with its 125° horizontal, 72° vertical, and 145° diagonal viewing angles. This wide-angle lens ensures comprehensive coverage of the monitored area, making it ideal for various indoor settings where maximizing the field of view is essential for effective surveillance. The lens’s design aims to provide clear and detailed images across a wide area, enhancing the camera’s utility in security applications.

With an aperture of F2.0, the lens of the Synology CC400W allows for considerable light intake, contributing to the camera’s ability to produce crisp images even in lower light conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for surveillance in environments with varying lighting, ensuring consistent video quality throughout the day and into the night. The effective aperture supports the camera’s high-resolution HDR video capability, enabling it to capture high-quality footage with balanced exposure in scenes with contrasting light and shadow.

The camera’s lens supports night vision capabilities, utilizing high power infrared LED to illuminate up to 10 meters away. This ensures that the Synology CC400W can provide clear video surveillance in complete darkness, extending its monitoring capabilities to 24/7 operation. The lens, in conjunction with the camera’s infrared capabilities, plays a crucial role in achieving effective night vision, making the CC400W a reliable choice for continuous surveillance needs, regardless of the time of day.

The Synology CC400W Camera not only records live audio as part of its surveillance footage but also allows for the output of custom alarms or direct voice communications through Synology Surveillance Station client services as needed. This functionality is enhanced by an audio sensor that can notify the surveillance setup of noise levels, which can be set permanently or according to a schedule, to preemptively warn of potential intruders. These audio detection alerts, along with physical tampering alerts, add valuable features to the camera’s capabilities, requiring a modern camera for smooth operation. Synology has commendably integrated these services into the camera, reducing reliance on the Synology NAS system to handle all the work.

Underneath a rubber panel at the base of the camera lies a reset button and, more importantly, an SD card slot. While SD card slots are not a novel feature in network cameras, their utility with third-party cameras in Synology’s Surveillance Station is notably limited. However, the SD card slot in the Synology CC400W can be fully utilized for edge recording. This means that in the event of a disconnection from the Synology NAS—due to network failure or system compromise—the camera will continue recording and managing alerts locally on the SD card. Once the connection is restored, it will sync the recordings and alerts back to the NAS. This feature, combined with the Synology C2 cloud recording service, ensures comprehensive protection across various failure scenarios and security threats.

The camera’s base hinge features a 360-degree rotating metal arm, allowing for adjustment across three axes. The base itself is magnetic, simplifying the installation process and significantly easing deployment. Despite its ease of installation and low power consumption, it’s essential to remember this camera still requires a power source, necessitating a USB Type-C outlet or the use of the included five-watt USB PSU. The magnetic base is a notably convenient feature, uncommon in surveillance cameras, and the locking mechanism for the aperture/hinges ensures once positioned, the camera remains securely in place.

The Synology CC400W Camera features an IP65 rating, indicating a high level of protection against dust ingress and water jets, although slightly lower than the BC500 and TC500 models. This rating suggests the camera is not designed for exposure to heavy rain or outdoor elements, emphasizing its suitability for indoor or sheltered outdoor use.

In the realm of government surveillance system installations within the United States, professionals are required to navigate with precision to adhere to specific legal requirements, notably under section 889 of the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation outlines stringent criteria for video surveillance equipment intended for use on U.S. government properties, prohibiting equipment and services from certain companies deemed a national security risk, including Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, and Dahua Technology Company. This mandate ensures that only compliant products, which do not incorporate components from these restricted entities, are utilized in sensitive government-related surveillance operations. For security professionals and installers, understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial when selecting equipment for government projects to ensure legal compliance and maintain national security integrity.

Furthermore, the Trade Agreements Act (TAA) complements the NDAA by enforcing standards for products used in government contracts, requiring them to be produced in the United States or other approved countries. The compliance of security products with both NDAA and TAA is a critical factor for businesses and contractors engaged in federal government projects, signifying that the equipment does not contain components from restricted companies and adheres to trade regulations. The Synology CC400W, with its NDAA and TAA certification, stands as a prime example of a compliant surveillance camera suitable for use in government-related installations. This certification not only ensures adherence to U.S. laws but also positions the CC400W as a viable option for security professionals seeking to fulfill government contracts with confidence in the legality and security of their surveillance technology choices. So, unsurprisingly, the camera’s benefits of NDAA and TAA certification, make it a compliant choice for businesses, especially those dealing with U.S. government contracts. These certifications are crucial in the wake of security concerns and trade disputes, as they ensure the camera meets strict standards required for use in sensitive environments. The CC400W strikes a balance by offering compatibility with Synology’s platform, compliance with important regulatory standards, and moderate affordability for business users.

The design and production quality of the Synology CC400W Camera are commendable. While it’s still a surveillance camera and praise must be relative, it stands out as a compact and easily deployable option for business use. Some might note the absence of an included SD card or a solar panel with an internal battery system as drawbacks, but given its intended use case, these are minor concerns. The focus now shifts to how this camera integrates into your surveillance setup.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Network Connectivity

The Synology CC400W is tailored specifically for integration with Synology NAS systems, eschewing support for use with third-party NVRs or NAS devices. It boasts wireless network connectivity, supporting dual-band Wi-Fi frequencies of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, providing a reliable and sufficient range for camera deployment and the maintenance of stable video streams. While recent trends have introduced Wi-Fi 6 surveillance cameras featuring the 6 GHz band, such enhancements are deemed somewhat superfluous in the surveillance domain, where ensuring ample coverage distance remains the primary objective.

Lacking a physical Ethernet connection, the CC400W might deter users seeking a hybrid deployment approach. However, its integration with Synology software streamlines the setup process. Notably, the camera does not require a Synology surveillance camera license for operation in Surveillance Station, allowing users to conserve the two licenses typically included with most Synology NAS systems. This camera’s compatibility facilitates seamless firmware updates and direct control via the Surveillance Station GUI, simplifying long-term management and maintenance compared to third-party camera solutions.

Deployment of the CC400W requires it to reside within the same local area network as the Synology NAS it is configured to record to. This setup may necessitate adjustments to existing VLAN configurations, especially in environments with scattered wireless access points. The absence of a wired connection option could pose challenges for some setups. Configuration is streamlined through the DS cam mobile app for Android and iOS, which automatically detects the camera within the local network, eliminating the need for manual setup. This ease of integration underscores the camera’s designed compatibility with Synology’s ecosystem, offering a hassle-free addition to existing surveillance systems.

During practical evaluation, the CC400W’s performance was tested using a $10, 10-meter USB-C extension cable to extend power delivery distance, demonstrating the camera’s low power requirements and flexible deployment potential. The camera maintained high-quality video transmission even when placed 8 meters away from the nearest wireless access point, ensuring desired bitrate and framerate consistency. The ability to integrate and manage live feeds, archival footage, and AI-driven alerts within Surveillance Station’s monitoring center highlights the CC400W’s seamless operation and contribution to comprehensive surveillance setups, emphasizing its role within Synology’s networked ecosystem.

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Surveillance Station Software Support

Reviewing the Synology CC400W camera without addressing the Synology Surveillance Station software would be incomplete. This camera essentially relies on a Synology NAS and its integrated surveillance software to function. It’s no exaggeration to say that for many, the Surveillance Station software—bundled with every Synology NAS, regardless of size—justifies the entire cost of the system. Offering an enterprise-grade surveillance platform that is both user-friendly and rich in features, Surveillance Station has evolved from a niche add-on to one of Synology’s primary selling points. The software’s accessibility, client support, security, and comprehensive feature set make it a standout, regardless of whether it’s paired with a Synology CC400W camera or a third-party option. To delve into a detailed review of Surveillance Station would significantly extend the length of this article. Fortunately, a comprehensive review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 has been previously conducted, available below, a full review on YouTube. This review covers the wide array of features and benefits offered by this surveillance software when used in conjunction with a Synology camera. The Synology CC400W camera is specifically engineered to provide optimal performance with Synology Surveillance Station, the current version being 9.1.1. The camera’s integration with Surveillance Station offers advanced functionality that outshines the features provided by third-party and non-edge-AI-recognition cameras.

The CC400W camera, when paired with Surveillance Station, supports a plethora of services that transform your security experience. It provides access to live camera feed (monitoring center), which can be scaled to accommodate several cameras on screen simultaneously. You can also view live feeds and previous recordings side-by-side on the software.

Additionally, the Surveillance Station allows for privacy mask and watermark applications on the feed.

It also supports the upload of eMaps and integrates with third-party mapping services like Google Maps and OpenMaps.

Surveillance Station isn’t limited to camera support. It also provides control for IP speakers, door controls, and I/O supported peripherals. Users can access the system swiftly and intuitively via a mobile app, and even use their mobile as another surveillance camera feed with Synology Live Cam. Alerts and push notifications can be scheduled for specific events, and the system generates downloadable analytical reports.

The Surveillance Station further extends its functionality with an array of additional add-ons. These range from YouTube Live Streaming and video integrity tools to transaction checking and IFTTT/Webhook services.

It also offers features like motion detection, missing object detection, idle zone monitoring, and foreign object area tagging. Access to the Surveillance Station is conveniently provided through web browsers, desktop clients, and mobile clients, either over the local network or remotely.

One of the key features is the Smart Lapse creation, which lets you truncate long periods of recording into speedy sequences. For example, you can turn a full day’s footage into a few minutes for quick scanning. It also supports cloud recording with Synology C2 Surveillance (available with a free trial, then on a subscription basis).

The Surveillance Station also offers a Home Mode, which allows automated camera schedules to kick in when a defined user exits or enters the premises using WiFi links. More details on these features can be found in our review of Synology Surveillance Station 9.1 on our YouTube channel:

The CC400W camera, paired with Surveillance Station, supports sophisticated AI detection techniques like people detection, vehicle detection, intrusion detection, crowd detection, and loitering detection. It also offers a Smart Search feature that lets you search a predefined area of a recorded feed for specific incidents.

Vehicle Detection – Similar to its capability for human detection, the CC400W camera extends its intelligent recognition to vehicles as well. This feature proves particularly useful in situations when the premises are closed, and an unexpected vehicle enters the vicinity. The surveillance system can be programmed to provide ‘out of hours’ alerts, notifying owners whenever vehicles approach their premises during closed or off hours. It’s an excellent way to ensure the security of your property when you’re not physically present.

Intrusion Detection – The CC400W camera takes intrusion detection a notch higher with its advanced features. Users can draw lines on the feed that can have multiple bend or break points, marking out specific areas as off-limits. This allows the system to monitor if people or vehicles cross into these forbidden zones. Thanks to edge AI recognition, you can customize this feature to fit your needs—for example, allowing an area to be entered by people but not vehicles or vice versa. This level of customization helps create ‘no go’ zones at specific times, further enhancing the security of your premises.

Crowd Detection – The CC400W camera’s recognition capabilities extend beyond just humans and vehicles. It also offers nuanced crowd detection. For instance, the system could be programmed to ignore one or two people in a predefined area. However, if that number increases to five or six, it could trigger an alert. This crowd detection feature enables you to set thresholds for alerts based on the number of people in a particular area, ensuring you’re notified only when necessary.

Loitering Detection – Similar to crowd detection, loitering detection is another impressive feature of the CC400W camera. This function enables the camera to alert you when an individual or vehicle remains within a predefined area for an unusually long period. People just passing by won’t trigger an alert, but if they loiter around for a while, the system will notify you. This helps you keep an eye on any potential suspicious activity around your premises.

Smart Search – This feature significantly enhances the surveillance process by allowing you to focus on a specific area within recorded feeds. For instance, you can set the system to alert you of any movement, person, or vehicle in a predetermined spot, such as a door, desk, or window. By combining Smart Search with Smart Time Lapse, you can sift through weeks of recordings in a fraction of the time, automatically identifying any noteworthy events in a particular spot. It allows you to retroactively apply advanced surveillance parameters, even if they weren’t set up at the time of recording.

While the CC400W camera is impressive, it’s important to note that it does not support database storage. It cannot store a reference of specific people or faces and vehicle registrations for future comparison when they appear in the feed, allowing alerts to be scaled accordingly. To access this kind of functionality, a DVA system such as the Synology DVA1622 2-Bay or DVA3221 4 Bay is necessary. Similarly, the CC400W camera cannot keep numerical track of the number of people or objects crossing the set intrusion lines, making it impossible to maintain an accurate count—for instance, knowing who is in or out during a fire alarm. Thus, while the CC400W camera provides a range of advanced features, it has its limitations.

Recordings are sent via HTTPS/SRTP encryption to the NAS, are encrypted when recorded to the local memory card, and remain encrypted when backed up on the Surveillance C2 cloud service. Furthermore, the previously mentioned Synology CC400W camera is NDAA and TAA compliant, which gives it a distinct edge over lower-priced Chinese cameras. In conclusion, while the CC400W Camera does not match up to more expensive Deep Video Analysis systems like the DVA162/DVA3221, its exclusive features and exemption from surveillance licenses make it a compelling choice.

Surveillance Station boasts a vast array of features and services, many of which are either managed by the system itself or utilized in collaboration with the security camera. The integration of AI services with the CC400W camera opens up additional possibilities, although these are somewhat limited when compared to the capabilities unlocked with Synology’s DVA (Deep Video Analysis) NAS units. The CC400W can recognize humans and vehicles, create paths and exclusion zones, and assist in AI-driven searches to accelerate archive retrievals. However, lacking an onboard AI database means it cannot perform more complex AI tasks that require immediate access to an extensive, regularly updated system database—such as people counting, license plate recognition, and facial recognition. These advanced functionalities necessitate a DVA NAS and are crucial to consider when setting up a surveillance system aimed at recognition or identification, as these tasks require different system resources and camera capabilities.

What IS and ISN’T Possible with the Synology Camera AI-Assisted Services?

Now, despite the Synology CC400W, BC500 and TC500 Surveillance Cameras arriving with onboard hardware for AI-powered recognition tasks, it is worth highlighting that using them is NOT the same as using the Deep Video Analysis (DVA) series of NAS servers in Synology’s portfolio. These operations are managed from inside the camera and the alerts are handled and actioned by the NAS after the camera sends the appropriate alert – and these cameras so NOT have the same level of hardware as the DVA1622 and DVA3221 inside each of them! Additionally, whereas the DVA series manages multiple tasks internally from multiple cameras, only using the camera hardware as a life ‘feed’, these cameras cannot run deeper AI tasks that involve counting, internal database management and keeping records of AI referral data internally – they do not have the storage or processing power for that. So more complex people counting and specific facial recognition will not be immediately available to your PLUS series Diskstation, just because you are using the BC500, CC400W and/or TC500. Here is a breakdown of the services available to users with either Synology Cameras or a Synology DVA NAS:

AI Service Case Use BC500 & TC500 DVA1622 & DVA3221
People / Vehicle/Loitering Detection Reduce false alarm and protect against loitering YES YES
Crowd Detection Monitor public safety or quality of service YES YES
Intrusion Detection Protect perimeter and restricted area YES YES
Instant Search Investigate incidents quickly after they happen YES NO
People/Vehicle Counting Calculate occupancy in shops, food courts, or parking lots with aggregated counting of people and vehicles entering and leaving NO YES
Face Recognition Automate personnel identification and prevent unauthorized access NO YES
License Plate Recognition Identify license plates and set up triggers based on configurable allow or block lists NO YES

If you are unaware of the Synology Deep Video Analysis NAS system, you can find out more about it in the video reviews of the hardware and software below from our YouTube channel:

Synology CC400W Camera Review – Conclusion

The Synology CC400W, when viewed in isolation, stands out as a slightly above-average surveillance camera. It may not be at the cutting edge of technology, but it doesn’t aspire to be. Instead, Synology is focusing on expanding its camera lineup to complement its well-established surveillance NAS platform, aiming to offer robust and seamlessly integrated products rather than chasing the latest trends. The commitment to ensuring compatibility with third-party cameras while expanding its own range, including the CC400W, BC500, and TC500, is a smart move. It appeals to users seeking a unified first-party surveillance solution that minimizes compatibility issues and security vulnerabilities.

One of the CC400W’s strengths is its honesty about capabilities, a refreshing approach in a market often dominated by overhyped claims. This camera clearly delineates its role in the surveillance setup, highlighting a balanced workload between the camera and the Synology NAS. This straightforward integration is likely to attract users looking for a hassle-free surveillance solution. The camera’s enhanced security features, compliance with US certifications, and the absence of a requirement for a surveillance camera license further contribute to its appeal as a reliable, if not revolutionary, product designed for long-term use.

However, there are aspects of the CC400W that could be improved. Given its exclusive design for use with Synology systems and services, the absence of an included SD card at its price point is a notable oversight. Additionally, a two-year warranty feels somewhat limited, especially considering the camera’s likely deployment in business settings for five to ten years, exclusively within Synology’s ecosystem. Moreover, there seems to be a gap in understanding among users regarding the camera’s object detection capabilities versus object recognition and analysis—a distinction Synology could clarify more effectively. Despite these drawbacks, for those looking to expand their Synology surveillance setup without the complexities of camera licenses, desiring quick setup and integration under a single brand, the CC400W confidently meets these needs.

Synology CC400W PROS Synology CC400W CONS
  • Fast setup and near seamless integration with Synology NAS hardware
  • The audio in and out is as clear as a whistle No need for a camera license simplifies everything!
  • Sturdy and novel mounting base
  • The wireless connectivity was one of the smoothest setups I have experienced in a surveillance camera
  • Dedicated disconnection alerts in conjunction with SD card Edge recording works seamlessly!
  • Remarkably well built, compact yet sturdy.
  • The AI assisted object recognition (human and vehicle) although not perfect is still well presented and accessible in Surveillance Station
  • Camera firmware updates are managed by the NAS smoothly.
  • Significant certification and encryption standards mean unfettered deployment in US businesses
  • Surprisingly expensive given the hardware
  • Lack of an SD card, despite it being a Synology branded product with Synology services that take advantage of the SD card, at this price!
  • The two-year warranty seems weirdly short given the context of its deployment. Synology could do better in presenting the difference between their AI object cameras and deep video analysis NVRs, to avoid potential user confusion or disappointment.

 

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Test Netvue Birdfy Feeder

16 mars 2024 à 08:00

I. Présentation

Dans cet article, nous allons découvrir la Birdfy Feeder de chez Netvue ! Il s'agit d'une caméra de surveillance originale puisqu'elle intègre une mangeoire pour les oiseaux et elle est capable de les identifier précisément grâce à l'intelligence artificielle ! Nous verrons si elle est parvenue à bien identifier les oiseaux qui rôdent dans mon jardin, en Normandie.

Vous l'aurez compris, au-delà de vous permettre de surveiller votre jardin, votre cour, etc... Cette caméra va satisfaire les amoureux de la nature grâce à cette double fonction ! Personnellement, j'ai aimé l'idée et l'originalité de ce produit. Cela m'a donné envie de vous en parler !

Birdfy - Aperçu des oiseaux

Avant d'évoquer les caractéristiques de cette caméra, voici quelques mots sur la marque Netvue puisque c'est la première fois que nous en parlons sur IT-Connect. L'entreprise Netvue a été créée en 2010 et depuis le départ, elle mise sur l'IA pour enrichir ses produits. Elle propose des caméras de différents types : des caméras pour surveiller un bébé dans sa chambre, des caméras de vidéosurveillance filaire ou sans-fil, ainsi que la gamme Birdfy qui regroupe les caméras avec une mangeoire et une fonction de détection des oiseaux. Aujourd'hui, Netvue compte plus de 1 million d'utilisateurs, dans le monde entier.

Voici les caractéristiques principales de cette caméra :

  • Résolution Full HD (1080p)
  • Angle de vue : 135°
  • Détection des mouvements par infrarouge, avec reconnaissance des espèces d'oiseaux
  • Batterie de 5 000 mAh - Autonomie illimité grâce au panneau solaire
  • Certifiée IP65
  • Connectivité : Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz
  • Sirène anti-intrusion interne à la caméra
  • Mémoire sur carte microSD (de 16 Go à 128 Go) non inclus
  • Système audio bidirectionnel
  • Vision nocturne infrarouge
  • Gestion des zones de détection
  • Accès multi-utilisateurs
  • Enregistrements vidéos sur événements (ou manuel)
  • Enregistrement 24/7 disponible avec un abonnement mensuel payant
  • Visualisation du live et de l'historique des enregistrements
  • Supporte les températures comprises entre -10°C et +50°C
  • Poids : 1.35 kg
  • Coloris : bleu ou jaune
  • Garantie : 2 ans

Pour découvrir tous les produits Netvue et la gamme Birdfy, voici deux liens :

II. Package et design

Le packaging proposé par Netvue est soigné et il présente l'avantage de nous donner un bon aperçu sur le visuel du produit, ainsi que sur les fonctionnalités. Sans surprise, Netvue met en avant sa fonctionnalité de reconnaissance des oiseaux grâce à l'intelligence artificielle. À ce sujet, sachez que l'IA utilisée peut automatiquement reconnaitre plus de 6 000 espèces d'oiseaux différentes.

À l'intérieur de la boite, les différents éléments sont correctement protégés, soit par du plastique, soit par des blocs de mousse et du carton. Le matériel reçu était en parfait état. Voici la liste des éléments présents dans la boite :

  • Birdfy Feeder complète (toit, perchoir, caméra)
  • Kit de montage : vis, cheville, collier de serrage, gabarit de perçage, support de montage, rouleau scratch
  • Protection anti-écureuil, pour rendre accessible la réserve de grains en grimpant directement à l'arbre ou au support sur lequel est fixé la Birdfy Feeder
  • Câble d'alimentation USB-C
  • Notice d'utilisation

Le kit est très complet, la seule chose qui manque, c'est la carte microSD. Il y a de nombreux éléments pour le montage du Birdfy Feeder. Ceci vous permettra de vous en sortir, selon l'emplacement souhaité pour l'installation : dans un arbre, sur un mur, sur une clôture, etc...

III. Installation de la caméra

Nous allons finir d'évoquer le design de la caméra en découvrant comment l'installer. Pour ma part, elle a pris place sur un poteau de clôture. J'ai utilisé le rouleau de scratch (auto-agrippants) pour fixer le support de la caméra. Elle est bien fixée, et même après plus de deux mois à l'extérieur, elle n'a pas bougé et elle est bien en place. Nous pouvons voir que la caméra est incrustée directement dans la réserve de grains, ce qui permettra de bien capturer l'image des oiseaux qui viendront se poser sur le perchoir. La Birdfy Feeder a clairement des allures de "mangeoires pour oiseaux 2.0".

Le panneau solaire a été fixé sur la partie supérieure du poteau de clôture, avec une orientation plein sud. Le panneau solaire est relié à la caméra grâce au câble USB fournit par Netvue. La caméra est constamment à 100% de batterie grâce à l'énergie fournie par le panneau solaire. C'est un très bon point. Une fois que l'installation est effectuée, nous n'avons pas à revenir dessus, si ce n'est qu'il faudra alimenter la réserve de grains.

Du côté de votre smartphone, vous pouvez effectuer la mise en route de l'application officielle Netvue. Elle prend en charge les applications de la gamme Birdfy, mais aussi les autres caméras connectées de la marque. Le processus de mise en route est traditionnel et la caméra aura besoin de se connecter à votre WiFi. Il y a une autre application que nous pouvons utiliser et qui sera évoquée dans la suite de cet article.

IV. Configuration et utilisation au quotidien

L'application Netvue intègre une section nommée "Mes appareils" dans laquelle nous retrouvons tous les appareils Netvue rattachés à notre compte. Ici, il n'y a qu'une seule caméra. Cette application permet d'accéder à l'image en direct de la caméra, ce qui permet de voir ce qu'il se passe et éventuellement d'utiliser l'audio-bidirectionnel (vous pouvez parler via le micro de votre smartphone), ou encore de déclencher la sirène.

L'application n'est pas la plus intuitive du marché et souffre de quelques problèmes de traduction, bien qu'elle soit disponible en français. Nous retrouvons des paramètres pour gérer le comportement de la caméra, notamment les notifications, la vision nocturne, un calendrier de mise en veille, ou encore la sensibilité du capteur de mouvement pour la détection. Vous pouvez également accéder à l'historique des mouvements détectés, jour par jour.

Vous pouvez personnaliser les notifications pour indiquer pour quels types de mouvements, vous souhaitez recevoir une notification. Honnêtement, avec le défilé constant d'oiseaux sur la mangeoire, l'application émet des notifications à longueur de journée si l'on conserve la configuration par défaut. Il est préférable d'ajuster la configuration.

Par ailleurs, si vous souhaitez bénéficier d'une reconnaissance complète permettant de différencier les humains, les animaux, les animaux domestiques, ou encore les véhicules et les colis, vous devez prendre un abonnement "Netvue Protect". Pour une seule caméra, le plan de base est proposé à 3.99$ par mois. Puisqu'il s'agit d'une caméra Birdfy, nous pouvons profiter de l'IA de façon gratuite uniquement pour la reconnaissance des oiseaux. Pour le reste, la caméra va détecter les mouvements, mais sans faire de distinction. C'est dommage, car le système de détection est réellement efficace.

Au-delà de l'application Netvue, qui prend en charge toutes les caméras de la marque, il y a une seconde application nommée Birdfy, qui comme son nom l'indique, est dédiée à l'univers Birdfy. J'ai mis du temps à la découvrir, car je suis partie directement sur l'application Netvue, en ignorant celle-ci. Pourtant, elle est beaucoup plus cool pour les propriétaires de caméras Birdfy ! Plusieurs raisons à cela :

  • Les noms des oiseaux sont indiqués en français
  • Vous pouvez ajouter des images à votre collection, ce qui signifie que vous pouvez retrouver toutes vos images d'un même oiseau dans votre collection. Vous avez également accès à des captures d'autres membres de la communauté Birdfy (c'est-à-vous de partager manuellement une prise de vue).
  • La section "Communauté" vous permet de découvrir d'autres espèces d'oiseaux grâce aux captures partagées par les membres de la communauté Birdfy

Parfois, l'oiseau est tellement rapide, que la caméra n'a pas le temps de se déclencher suffisamment tôt pour qu'il soit visible sur les images. Résultat, il y a bien la détection d'un mouvement, mais pas d'oiseau sur les images.

Des oiseaux dans le jardin, il y en avait, mais suite à l'installation de cette caméra, c'est un balai incessant où les oiseaux se relaient tout au long de la journée pour venir manger quelques graines. Aujourd'hui, il y a des habitués : rouge-gorge familier, mésange bleue, moineau. Il y a presque une file d'attente, comme à la cantine. Les oiseaux ont pu profiter des graines tout l'hiver et nous avons des prises de vues quotidiennement ! Personnellement, je trouve ça top, et c'est d'autant plus cool avec les enfants.

V. Conclusion

Cette caméra est originale et surprenante : la fonction de caméra est efficace, avec de bonnes capacités de détection, et la reconnaissance des espèces d'oiseaux par IA est également au point. Nous sentons que Netvue travaille sur cette technologie depuis plusieurs années et c'est un produit abouti que nous propose cette marque.

Surtout, j'insiste sur le fait qu'elle apporte un vrai plus à votre jardin en attirant différentes espèces d'oiseaux. Désormais, je ne rêve plus que d'une chose : installer ce type de caméra au Costa Rica (pays où il y a près de 1 000 espèces d'oiseaux différentes). Par ailleurs, nous attendons une version avec un capteur vidéo 4K (ou 2K) pour des vidéos encore plus belles !

Au fait, quel est le tarif de cette caméra ?

Sur Amazon.fr, cette caméra est proposée au prix de 199,99 euros dans sa version "Lite + Panneau solaire", identique à celle présentée dans cet article. Il y a aussi des offres sur le site officiel, que vous pouvez retrouver sur cette page.

Voici notre lien Amazon, si vous le souhaitez :

The post Test Netvue Birdfy Feeder first appeared on IT-Connect.

The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard – Hardware Deep Dive Review

Par : Rob Andrews
15 mars 2024 à 15:00

The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard+CPU Combo – Should You Buy It?

If you have come to this article on the Topton N305 NAS Motherboard, then chances are you are a very specific kind of NAS user! When you want to build your own NAS from scratch, there is always the balance between POWER and POWER EFFICIENCY! The former, means you can get so much more done, as quickly as possible – the latter is a pursuit to ensure that this 24×7 DiY NAS server is not going to cost you a small fortune in electricity costs! Until recently, the 2020/2021 released Topton N5105/N6005 NAS+Mobo combo was considered the best balance in the market to provide a fair balance of performance, capability and power efficiency. However, because Intel has moved forward with its refresh of their processors into the newer generation (largely killing off the Intel Celeron and Pentium naming) AND brands such as Topton have now vastly improved their development techniques, many MANY eyes have now moved over to the newer Topton Intel N305 and N100 NAS Motherboard. Most ‘Build Your Own’ (BYO) NAS buyers are considering this highly praised little M-ITX combo for their new Plex Build, their new modest Container/VM server with Proxmox, or scaling up from a private cloud to a 5-6 drive UnRAID or TrueNAS server! But, is the N305 NAS motherboard actually any good? What are the main differences to consider between the N305 and N100 model? And is it reliable enough for your data? In this article we dig into the hardware and share what we find!

Note – You can watch the Topton N305 full hardware review and dive HERE on YouTube

Additionally, find our lists of the recommended NAS CPU+Mobo Combos HERE on NASCompares in a dedicated article

Where to Buy

(Amazon / Aliexpress)

ALIEXPRESS $279 HERE (Upgrades Available)

Amazon $348 HERE (Board Only)

Component Specification
Processor Intel Alder Lake-N i3-N305
Memory 1x SO-DIMM DDR5 4800MHz, up to 16/32GB
Storage 2x M.2 NVMe 3×1 Slot, 2x SATA3
PCIe Slot PCIe 3×1 (cut)
Graphics Intel UHD Graphics
Display Outputs 2x HDMI, 1x DP, 1x Type-C (all 4096 x 2160@60Hz)
Network Card 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G
4G LTE/SIM Yes
Wireless? MICROPCIe Slot (Shared with PCIe 3×1 Slot)
USB Ports 5x USB2.0, 1x USB3 via FPanel and Pins
Cooling Passive cooling with fanless heatsink
BIOS AMI EFI BIOS with various supports
TDP 9-15W
Power Input DC 12V (External PSU option)
Case Material Aluminium Alloy
Expansion PWM fan power connector, TPM Pin
Dimensions 158.0mm x 126.5mm x 60.2mm
Color Black or Gray (random)
Installation Desktop, Wall-mounted
Operating Environment 0°C to 70°C, 5%-85% Humidity

 


Topton N305 DiY NAS CPU+MoBo Combo – Hardware Design

The Topton N305 Board is offered on Aliexpress with various pricing options based on the included components. The basic package, which includes just the CPU and motherboard, is priced at $319. For an additional $10, customers can obtain the package with a SAS fan-out cable for enhanced storage capabilities, totalling $329. The most comprehensive option includes everything mentioned plus an external PSU, available for $359. This tiered pricing structure provides flexibility for buyers based on their specific needs and desired configurations.

The latest version of the Topton N305 ITX motherboard now includes a metal, high quality fan-assisted heatsink. This new feature aims to enhance cooling efficiency for the system. It’s a significant update for those looking for improved thermal management in their ITX setups.

The N305 CPU, a central component of Topton’s latest NAS and DiY switch motherboard, showcases Intel’s innovative engineering through its Alder Lake-N architecture, catering specifically to efficiency and performance. With its Intel 7 lithography, the processor strikes a balance between power consumption and computational prowess, offering a TDP of 9-15W. This optimization allows for reduced energy usage while maintaining high performance, making it an ideal choice for NAS systems where efficiency is paramount.

Embedded within the motherboard, the N305 CPU supports advanced memory capabilities, including DDR5, ensuring broad compatibility and future-proofing for evolving storage technologies. The processor’s ability to handle up to 16GB of memory alongside its versatile support for various memory speeds up to 4800 MHz underlines its capacity to manage intensive data transactions and storage operations. This flexibility is crucial for NAS applications, which demand rapid access to and processing of voluminous data sets.

Furthermore, the integration of Intel UHD Graphics within the CPU provides substantial support for multimedia tasks, extending the motherboard’s utility beyond mere storage. This feature, coupled with the processor’s support for multiple displays and high-definition outputs, enables the N305 NAS Motherboard to serve as a central hub for not only storage but also media streaming and light graphical tasks. The inclusion of advanced technologies like Intel Quick Sync Video highlights the CPU’s adeptness at encoding and decoding video streams efficiently, thereby enhancing the functionality of NAS systems built with the N305 motherboard for a variety of applications.

The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard incorporates a single SO-DIMM slot for memory, strategically located on the motherboard’s rear, optimizing space and accessibility. This design choice underscores the board’s compact and efficient layout, catering to users seeking a balance between performance and form factor in their NAS solutions. However, it’s important to note that this system does not support ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory. The absence of ECC support is typical for systems prioritizing cost-effectiveness and simplicity over the error correction capabilities critical in enterprise-level servers. Despite this, the motherboard’s memory compatibility, supporting up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM at speeds of 4800MHz (and compatibility with 5200/5600MHz), ensures robust performance for various NAS applications.

At the top section of the Mini-ITX NAS motherboard, there are two distinct SATA connection ports available for direct drive connections. Additionally, it features an SFF-8643 output. This output enables the connection of four more SATA drives. The connectivity expansion is facilitated through a compatible cable.

The motherboard utilizes a JMB585 controller for enhanced SATA drive management, bridging the gap between PCIe hosts and SATA/AHCI storage devices. This integration allows the board to support five SATA ports through the JMB585, enhancing its storage capabilities.

The controller also enables Port Multiplier support, significantly expanding potential storage configurations. This setup is particularly beneficial for users looking to maximize their storage options, offering a versatile solution for a variety of storage needs.

Example:

It supports command-based switching (CBS) and FIS (Frame Information Structure)-based switching (FBS). JMB585 also support TRIM to the SSD and can transmit and receive data by both of AHCI mode and legacy IDE mode to and from the host respectively.

Although this review is of the DC output version of the Topton N305 NAS board, there is also two 4-POWER (12V) connectors at the rear corner of the motherboard to supply additional power for bulk storage needs as required in some enclosures and backplanes.

This review focuses on the DC output variant of the Topton N305 NAS motherboard. Additionally, it features two 4-POWER (12V) connectors located at the rear corner. These connectors are designed to supply extra power for extensive storage needs. This capability is especially useful in certain enclosures and backplanes where additional power is necessary for bulk storage management.

The Topton N305 DC motherboard is supplied with an external power supply unit (PSU), specifically a 180W model produced by Chicony, a name that may not be familiar to all. No, me neither…

The fan-assisted CPU cooling system on the Topton N305 NAS motherboard receives commendation for its efficiency, producing minimal noise while maintaining a surprisingly low profile. This design choice enhances the overall user experience by ensuring effective thermal management without adding bulk or disruptive sound to the setup.

The N305 NAS motherboard facilitates M.2 NVMe storage through two 2280 slots. These slots are strategically located on the rear or base of the motherboard for easy access and efficient space utilization. This configuration allows for high-speed storage solutions to be incorporated seamlessly into the system, enhancing its performance capabilities.

The M.2 connectors on the N305 NAS motherboard are specified as PCIe Gen 3×1, providing a maximum bandwidth of 1000MB/s for each slot. While it may be seen as a drawback that 3×4 NVMe drives will operate in these 3×1 slots, limiting their maximum speed, this configuration remains noteworthy. Considering the motherboard’s compact scale and the overall allocation of 9 PCIe lanes, the inclusion of these connectors and their performance capability is still an impressive feat, balancing system expansion with available resources.

Our examination through SSH terminal within UnRAID has verified the configuration of the slots. It’s confirmed that they operate at the downgraded bandwidth of 3×1. This adjustment aligns with the system’s specifications and ensures compatibility within its infrastructure.

During our disk speed tests on the motherboard, a standard PCIe 3×4 NVMe drive was tested using a 1GB file. The results showed a sequential read/write speed of approximately 750-780MB/s. This performance is indicative of the operational bandwidth limits imposed by the 3×1 slot configuration on the motherboard.

In our tests transferring data between two M.2 NVMe drives with a 1GB file, the speeds achieved ranged from 320-330MB/s. This suggests that the two NVMe slots share a single lane or path on the motherboard. The shared pathway is likely the reason for these specific transfer speeds, indicating a bottleneck at the shared connection point.

Located at the front-bottom of the motherboard is a PCIe slot, specifically designed for further system enhancements and expansions. This slot opens up opportunities for additional upgrades, allowing users to customize their setups according to their specific needs. It represents a key feature for those looking to extend the motherboard’s capabilities beyond its initial configuration.

The PCIe slot on the motherboard operates with Gen 3×1 specifications, offering a maximum bandwidth of 1,000MB/s. Despite this limitation, it has been physically designed to accommodate longer cards, such as x4, x8, or x16. This thoughtful design ensures compatibility with a wider range of expansion cards, providing users with greater flexibility in upgrading their systems. It is something of a compromise between bandwidth capability and physical compatibility, enhancing the motherboard’s adaptability for various use cases. The limitations in PCIe speed and lane allocation on the motherboard stem from the CPU’s architecture, which provides 8-9 lanes. This constraint not only affects the N305 model but also has implications for the N100 version of the motherboard and CPU NAS combo. The lane count directly influences the number and types of devices that can be supported concurrently, impacting overall system expandability and performance. This highlights the importance of the CPU’s lane capacity in determining the motherboard’s capability for expansions and upgrades.

Located on the back of the motherboard is a MINIPCIe slot, primarily intended for adding a wireless network card. This slot, while versatile, is not suitable for a wide range of other expansions. Its inclusion provides an option for wireless connectivity, enhancing the board’s functionality without significantly diversifying its expansion capabilities. The MINIPCIe slot located at the rear of the motherboard is shared with the main PCIe 3×1 slot, meaning they cannot be used simultaneously. This configuration limits the ability to expand the system’s connectivity and upgrade capabilities at the same time. Users must choose between utilizing the MINIPCIe slot for wireless networking or the PCIe slot for other expansions, highlighting a trade-off in the motherboard’s design for flexibility versus functionality.

In an interesting move, likely catering to prosumer uses like pfsense and OpenWRT builds, the motherboard includes a 4G LTE/SIM card slot. This addition is somewhat unexpected but expands the board’s utility by enabling direct cellular network access. It suggests a broader vision for the motherboard’s applications, potentially appealing to users requiring remote or backup internet connectivity. Integrating the 4G LTE/SIM card slot for cellular network access into NAS systems like UnRAID may present challenges, as such operating systems might not support this type of cellular network interface. This limitation underscores the importance of verifying compatibility with the intended NAS OS to ensure full functionality of the onboard features. The presence of cellular connectivity options expands the potential use cases for the motherboard, although users must navigate the constraints of OS support.

The motherboard is equipped with four 2.5GbE network ports, each powered by an Intel i226-V controller. This setup significantly enhances the board’s networking capabilities, providing robust, high-speed connections suitable for demanding network environments. The inclusion of multiple 2.5GbE ports allows for flexible network configurations and supports advanced networking features, making it an ideal choice for users looking for high-performance networking options in their NAS setups. The integrated network card on the motherboard enables it to achieve a default network bandwidth of over 1GB per second. This high capacity can be distributed across multiple client devices or utilized fully by a single device through advanced networking techniques such as SMB3, load balancing, LAG, or trunking with a compatible smart switch.

This feature significantly enhances the motherboard’s network performance, catering to both distributed and concentrated network demands. Integrating a 10GbE NIC upgrade into the motherboard’s PCIe 3×1 slot could potentially elevate the network bandwidth to 2GB or 2000MB/s. This enhancement would leverage the available PCIe slot to significantly boost the networking capabilities of the system. Such an upgrade indicates a strong potential for achieving superior network performance, making the system well-suited for high-demand networking tasks. The performance ceiling for the two NVMe drives on the motherboard, even when configured in RAID 0/1, is around 1000MB/s. Meanwhile, connecting 5-6 SATA drives, depending on whether they are HDDs or SATA SSDs, can result in varying performance. With HDDs, expect around 600-800MB/s, and with SATA SSDs, performance can reach up to 1000-1100MB/s. This variation is due to the JMB585 SATA controller operating on a Gen 3 lane, influencing the overall throughput of connected storage devices.

The motherboard is designed with an abundance of USB ports, catering to various connectivity needs. Among these, two ports are uniquely positioned internally, providing a convenient option for connecting an OS boot drive directly on the motherboard. This feature enhances the flexibility and functionality of the system, allowing for streamlined setup and efficient use of space.

The motherboard features six USB 2.0 ports in total, with four positioned on the rear and two internally on the board, designed for versatile connectivity options, including the possibility of an OS boot drive connection. Additionally, it supports USB 3.2 connectivity through front panel and internal pins, expanding its compatibility with faster USB devices.

The motherboard is equipped with HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 outputs, supporting 4K resolution at 60FPS. This capability ensures high-quality video output for tasks requiring detailed visuals. Such features make the board suitable for applications beyond traditional computing tasks, including media playback and content creation that demands high-resolution displays.

We conducted a video analysis of the Topton N305 NAS Motherboard+CPU combo, exploring its BIOS features and conducting various tests using UnRAID. This in-depth examination aimed to understand the motherboard’s capabilities, performance, and how it handles in different scenarios, particularly focusing on its compatibility and performance with UnRAID as a potential NAS solution. This process provided valuable insights into its suitability for various computing tasks and its overall performance metrics.

The Topton N305 NAS Motherboard+CPU Combo – Should You Buy It?

As of 2024, the Topton N305 NAS motherboard stands out for its balance between power efficiency and functionality, especially at its price range. Its CPU, with a flexible TDP ranging from 9 to 15 watts, impressively manages to offer an 8-core, 8-thread configuration capable of reaching up to 3.8 GHz per core. This makes it an excellent choice for tasks like 4K transcoding on a Plex Media Server, with the potential to handle 8K content thanks to its integrated graphics hitting 1.25 GHz. Despite the limitation of having only 9 PCIe Gen 3 lanes, the design efficiently allocates these resources, supporting up to six SATA drives, two M.2 slots, and a PCIe expansion slot, all on a compact MITX board. While the N100 version presents a more cost-effective and slightly less powerful alternative, the modest increase in power consumption of the N305 variant justifies its higher performance capability, making it a superior choice for those needing a more potent setup. The N305’s design, which mirrors the physical and lane layout of the N100 while significantly enhancing performance, demonstrates an impressive achievement in maximizing the utility and efficiency of a small form factor motherboard.

Where to Buy

(Amazon / Aliexpress)

ALIEXPRESS $279 HERE (Upgrades Available)

Amazon $348 HERE (Board Only)

Component Specification
Processor Intel Alder Lake-N i3-N305
Memory 1x SO-DIMM DDR5 4800MHz, up to 16/32GB
Storage 2x M.2 NVMe 3×1 Slot, 2x SATA3
PCIe Slot PCIe 3×1 (cut)
Graphics Intel UHD Graphics
Display Outputs 2x HDMI, 1x DP, 1x Type-C (all 4096 x 2160@60Hz)
Network Card 4x Intel i226-V 2.5G
4G LTE/SIM Yes
Wireless? MICROPCIe Slot (Shared with PCIe 3×1 Slot)
USB Ports 5x USB2.0, 1x USB3 via FPanel and Pins
Cooling Passive cooling with fanless heatsink
BIOS AMI EFI BIOS with various supports
TDP 9-15W
Power Input DC 12V (External PSU option)
Case Material Aluminium Alloy
Expansion PWM fan power connector, TPM Pin
Dimensions 158.0mm x 126.5mm x 60.2mm
Color Black or Gray (random)
Installation Desktop, Wall-mounted
Operating Environment 0°C to 70°C, 5%-85% Humidity

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Synology BeeStation Hard Drive Upgrade – A Step By Step Guide

Par : Rob Andrews
8 mars 2024 à 15:00

How to Upgrade the Hard Drive in Your BeeStation

Why Would You want to change the hard drive in the Synology Beestation? Whether you are an existing owner of the Synology Beestation or a potential NAS buyer who is considering moving away from public cloud services onto your own personal cloud, the Beestastion and BSM provide a fantastically user-friendly alternative to the Synology Diskstation and DSM solutions that the brand has been releasing for almost 25 years. The Beestation can be set up in minutes, sets up all the apps, storage and services in 3 clicks and is BY FAR the most user-friendly NAS system I have ever used! However, it DOES have 1 weakness… one rather sizable Achilles heel… THAT 4TB hard drive inside! The Synology Beestation (At launch – so that might change as time goes on) arrives with a single 4TB Synology HAT3300/3310 5400RPM Hard Drive for storing all your data. This can lead to a lower glass ceiling when it comes to your long-term storage – fun fact, The latest iPhone Pro models supports upto 48MP Apple ProRAW images, which captures more dynamic range at the cost of much larger files, around 75MB for each image. That would still allow just under 60,000 images on a 4TB drives – but once you factor in video backups, PC backups and more, 4TB of capacity is actually going to run out quicker than you think, especially if you connect the maximum 8 supported users. Then there is the performance barrier of a single 5400RPM HDD. Hardware are not great for larger simultaneous input/outputs (e.g lots of individual write operation tasks happening at the same time) and the response times and smoothness of the BSM/BeeStation experience will be diminished. You are also losing out on RAID failover, something that is largely unavailable in a 1 bay, but short of using a dual drive cage adapter (more on that later on) this is unavoidable.

This brings us neatly back around to the subject of changing the HDD inside the Synology Beestation to something with a higher capacity, maybe a Pro series drive with 7200RPM and more cache. or perhaps even a faster SSD instead of an HDD? Synology has not allowed this system to support hot swapping or easy accessibility to the drive media (understandable, as a 1 Bay system). Synology have released this device as an entry-level product that is not designed for more specialized use, so providing the means to upgrade the media and migrate system processes over to a new drive is NOT a straightforward process. Additionally, we should also take some time to discuss the risks and Synology’s position on this.

IMPORTANT WARNING!

This is a really, really important point. Taking apart the Synology BeeStation runs a significant risk of not only damaging your data but also completely nullifying any hardware or software support that Synology will provide you. The BeeStation was designed to be a closed system and not targeted towards higher-end tech enthusiasts, and therefore does not allow the same easy dismantle procedure that you find in the DiskStation range. This Synology BeeStation was provided to me by Synology UK, and I am dismantling the system without their assurance or without their authorization to do so; the same needs to be applied to your own BeeStation system if you intend to follow the steps in this guide to tear down and dismantle it. This system was not designed to be taken apart, and taking it apart may result in the following:

  • You might cause damage to the hard drive inside via static electricity, motion, or physical pressure
  • The Beestation uses a passive cooling system and strategic heatsinks around the internal components, allowing the system to be low noise thanks to a lack of active cooling fan. But changing the storage media inside might compromise this passive cooling system and therefore lead to unpredictable internal system temps or a detrimental effect of the system as a whole.
  • The BeeStation casing is an exceptionally tight-fitting enclosure, and dismantling it will almost certainly leave marks and clear indications that you have done so, which will invalidate any hardware support available to you as you have tampered with the system and performed actions that are not covered by the hardware warranty.
  • You run the risk of scratching the internal motherboard, PCB, or delicate components during the dismantling of the BeeStation, which will result in complete system failure at worst and detrimental performance drops at best if this occurs.

Do not proceed with dismantling your Synology BeeStation unless you are happy to run the risk that it may be deemed inoperable or that your support by Synology may cease as a result.

Additionally, the Synology BeeStation includes numerous measures to back up the content of the system’s data and set up to the Synology C2 cloud, a connected USB drive, or at an object file/folder level to third-party cloud services. It is extremely recommended that you have an up-to-the-second backup in place before you attempt any of the steps in this guide. Any data loss resulting from following the steps in this guide is purely at your own discretion, and myself and NAS Compares cannot be held accountable. Bottom line, be aware that what you are doing right now is outside of what this system was supposed to do, and that you are doing so at your own risk. Understand? Good. Let’s get on with dismantling the BeeStation and tear down this cost-effective NAS.

Also, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you read through the steps completely first, before you begin dismantling your BeeStation NAS, as it’s decent bits more layered in the access compared with a normal Diskstation NAS system.

What Do You Need for this Guide

There are actually not too many things needed for upgrading your Synology BeeStation Drive. I recommend the following:

  • A Synology BeeStation (duh?)
  • A SATA HDD (or SATA 2.5″ SSD with 3.5″ physical Adapter – EXAMPLE)
  • A crosshead Phillip screw driver – the longer the better!
  • The Synology Assistant Client Tool for Windows, Mac or Linux (installed on a system that is on the same local area network as the Beestation) – HERE
  • A downloaded copy of the latest Synology BSM Software .pat file – Download it HERE

The Firmware is optional, as it depends on the upgrade path you choose, but it doesn’t hurt to have it downloaded and ready.

BACKUP YOUR DATA FIRST – How To Backup Your Beestation Personal Cloud NAS

It is INCREDIBLY important that you backup any important data that is already on your Synology Beestation, as the process of installing a new HDD or SSD into the system will result in it replacing the original 4TB HDD. Luckily, there are a couple of great options for backing up your data for restoration when your new HDD/SSD is up and running. The most extensive (and large) one that will ultimately save you time later re-creating shares and folder structure is using the system backup in the System Configuration menu. This allows you to create a full system backup to either the Synology C2 Cloud (subscription cloud service, but does include a trial period) or to a connected USB drive. Later in the guide, I will explain how to restore a full USB backup.

Alternatively, if you are not especially fussed about the system configuration and want a more file/folder-specific backup that only backs up the core/important data (ie you don’t have/want a 4TB backup, but just want some select files/folders), you can use the USB Backup or Cloud Backup options in Beefiles. These are chiefly designed to backup an area of storage from a 3rd Party Cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox or OneDrive) or USB with a specific BeeFiles Folder (you can create multiple). This also has the feature of ensuring the data is 2 way synchronized, which means you CAN use this to copy data form the NAS to the Cloud/USB automatically.

Personally, I would recommend using the System level backup if you can ensure you have a large enough C2 Storage/USB. But also, you should have at least TWO copies of your data, as the system level backup will be in a Synology BSM/Beestation format and will only work in another Beestation system – it won’t be visible via a traditional DAS/Direct connect method.

The last thing to discuss before we begin the Hardware portion of this guide is how you wish to disconnect from the BeeStation system. Installing a new HDD/SSD will also require the system to be formatted. This will happen during the re-initialization when you install a new drive, so you have two options before this. The first is to unlink the Beestation from your Synology Account (as the system is connected via a serial number to your synology account). You will then reconnect with it later on during re-initialization. The main benefit of this method is that Unlinking with the system will KEEP your data on the 4TB hard drive inside – which means if you need to reverse all this (or even just want the old data as a OS-level backup of sorts), this process will be easier and ensure your data is still in place.

Alternatively, you can opt to just fully factory reset the whole device, which will not only disconnect your Synology Account but also delete all the data from the 4TB Hard Drive. After you have chosen the option that suits your needs. Safely power down the device via the GUI or after the system restore. Then you need to leave the system alone for a few minutes (to allow the 4TB HDD to spin down) and then disconnect all USB, Ethernet and power cables.

How To Upgrade Your Beestation HDD – The Start

First thing you need to do is disconnect all ethernet (LAN), power cables and USB devices and give the system sufficient time to allow the HDD inside to spin down. Then carefully turn the device up and have the base vent panel face up. Again, be CAREFUL as this system features a mechanical HDD inside and that can be susceptible to shock/motion damage.

Next you need to slowly and carefully peel back the rubber foot panel located at the base, at the front of the Beestation (i.e the single LED light side). It is held in place with strong adhesive, but you can replace it back after opening the case up later, as the rubber foot sits in a grooved panel and the adhesive has plenty of reuse!

Under the rubber panel are two Phillips/cross-head screws. There are the ONLY external means to open up the enclosure/casing of the BeeStation.

Remove each of these screws (keep them to one side and make sure to remember they are the base screws, as the system has 2 kinds of screws in it’s construction and mixing them up with rip the screw holes to pieces!

Removing these two screws will allow you to apply a small above of pressure to leverage the front panel of the BeeStation NAS to be removed. Important – do this carefully (that word again!) as the entire casing is made up of 2 pieces and it’s super easy to crack it in two!

The top part of the front panel is actually an L-shaped panel that has the fully ventilated dust panel attached. Mkae sure that your ease the panel off carefully enough not to break those 4 hooks at the top, as these are what align the top panel with the rest of the casing.

Slight side note, but for those that care about dust build up on 24×7 systems like the BeeStation, this can be quite useful to perform cleaning. Anyway, carrying on!

Next up os removing the Hard Drive that the Beestation Personal Cloud arrives with. The first thing you need to remove is the 2 smaller screws located around the edge of the casing. DO NOT REMOVE THE 2 LARGER SCREWS IN THE MIDDLE!!! These larger screws hold the HDD in place and you need to do this much later, or else risk the drive moving around during the dismantling.

Each screw will be easy to remove, however there are actually 3 more screw located around the base of the framework. They are tricky to reach, and a longer screwdriver would be recommended, but it can be done with an ordinary 15cm + screwdriver will get the job done.

At the front base area, you can find two black Phillips/cross-head screws that you need to remove. You will need to come at there from a slight angle if you only have a short screwdriver. Important – DO NOT USE AN ELECTRIC/AUTOMATIC SCREWDRIVER!!! Notwithstanding that you will tear the soft screw to pieces, you might cause vibration that will be damaging to the HDD next to the screw! Do it the OLD SKOOL way!

The last screw is much harder to spot and reach, it is located at the bottom-back of the enclosure, on the NON-Motherboard side. You will need to come at it from a slight angle, even with a longer screwdriver. Note, you COULD have removed the top panel attached to the HDD in order to get to the screw a little easier, but I personally would rather the HDD remains in an immobile cage throughout this part of the Beestaion teardown. It’s your call!

That is the last screw that you need to remove and , once it is done, you can begin the removal of the HDD clip/cage.

The HDD Clip/cage will slide out sideways (with a little resistance). BE CAREFUL with the removal of the HDD cage/clips, as the right-hand side will have the controller board (which has the heatsink on top of the CPU, and a bare PCB – which can be super susceptible to static and moisture!

One you have removed the HDD Cage tray, you will now have three components on the table:

Next, removing the Hard Drive from its plastic handles. The HDD is held in place by 4 screws that go directly into the same four screw holes that are usually used by HDD bays on Diskstastion NAS that utilize trays. Ther are four screw in each corner. Important note for later – Make a note of the clips and direction that are on either side of the HDD – whether you want to reassemble this Beestation to the factory build OR you are considering exploring larger HDDs, getting these clips the wrong way around or in the wrong direction will, at best, mean it won’t for back together and you need to redo them, or at WORST, you end up damaging the controller board and casing as you attempt to re-insert the drive.

Each screw uses a counter-sunk system and also arrives with a rubber washer between the screw head and the plastic. This means that you do not need to fully remove the screw, as there is a small % of space left. Regardless, just remove the four screws and each of the side panels should come off very easily.

Once again, make sure you keep track of which panel goes with each side of the HDD – As this will be a right pain during reassembly. An important area of note here is that IF you are considering adding larger/alternative drives to the Beestation and you have your heart set on an SSD, you are going to need a 2.5″ to 3.5″ HDD adapter, as the screw holes that the tray clips AND the PCB Backboard are not available on a 2.5″ SSD. This does also open the door to the potential for a Dual 2.5″ SATA SSD to 3.5″ SATA Adapter case, which would provide the performance benefits of 2x SATA SSD in a RAID 0, or the redundancy benefits of 2x SATA SSDs in a RAID 1, if the case supports internal RAID 0/1). Here are two options:

2.5″ to 3.5″ SATA Adapter ($7.99+)

Find on Amazon HERE

SYNOLOGY ASSISTANT NOT CONFIGURED PICTURE

Find on Amazon HERE

However, there is considerably more to adding a new hard drive to the BeeStation than just the physical injection!

The one we want to focus on is the HDD tray/cage. Carefully turn it around and lay the drive facedown on the table.

Once the drive is ‘face down’, you need to carefully (yes, THAT word again! Take a drink) remove the two silver screws, Try to touch the blue PCB controller board as little as possible.

Once you have removed those two screws, you need to either slide the controller board away from the Hard drive, or slide the hard drive away. You are doing this to disconnect the SATA connector that is soldered to the controller board. Do NOT leverage the hard drive upwards/downwards, as you run the risk of breaking the connector.

The controller PCB should come away very easily and with little resistance. But before we move forward, it’s worth checking the SATA connector is unharmed.

Place the controller PCB delicately to one side and then get your new storage media drive (your new HDD or SSD) unpacked and ready

Slot the new SATA drive into the PCB via the SATA slot.

Then flip the drive and board over, then screw in the two silver screws to attached the PCB to the HDD. Next, reattached the two tray clips to either side of the new HDD – gain, make sure you select the correct clips for either side and in the correct direction.

Then slot the drive cage back into the base Beestastion black plastic casing. It will be a very specific alignment and you will know it is correct, as the back ports will be completely flush with the rear port cavities on the casing

Screw the 3 base screws in place once again. plus then re-screw the two top placement screws

Then slide back into place the L-shaped top panel. Ensure the 4 hooks at the top slide in neatly and the LED cover at the front/base will meet flush with the other plastic panel.

Re-screw the two silver screws that hold the L-shaped panel in place and then re-attached the rubber foot panel.

Reconnect the local area network/internet connection, as well as the USB drive (if you have a USB backup) and finally the power cable. Then press the power button and now move over to your network connection PC/Mac/Linux desktop and we can start the reinitialization.

Re-Installing BSM on your BeeStation

When the device begins booting, after a few minutes you will hear the system beep. However, instead of heading to the usual Synology Bee Portal site page, you need to open up the Synology Assistant tool. It will scan the local area network and it will find the Synology BeeStation, but it will say that it is in the process of ‘Upgrading’

Now the amount of time this takes will depend on a lot of factors (drive size, download speed if the system is collecting the BSM software online. After some time has passed (10-20 mins tops), the system will reboot ( you will hear the drive spin down and the light on the system will change from a flashing orange light to a slow white light.

1 – UPGRADING

2 – REINITIALIZING

After a few minutes, the synology assistant should now show the message ‘Starting Services’. Don’t forget to click the ‘search’ button at the top left to rescan to see any new changes to the system status.

After a period of time, the system will now show a new message that indicates that the system needs configuration in the synology assistant:

Now you just need to double-click the Beestation listing on the Synology Assistant tool, and it will open up a new tab on your web browser that will guide you through the original BSM installation process, via the Synology Beestation Portal web site:

When you have logged into your Synology Account and have gone through the first 4 steps of the installation, you will be asked if the system is showing an orange light. If it does not, you will need to follow to on-screen restart prompts using the reset button, which will all the system to reboot into ‘find’ mode. Once you have the On-screen serial number prompt and the light on the BeeStation is Solid orange (not flashing) you can go through the usual system setup prompts and connect the BeeStation with your Synology account as normal and log in as you would have before.

What if my Synology BeeStation does not boot into the usual installer?

There IS a chance that your BeeStation will instead display a message saying ‘Not Configured’ upon the first power on after installing your new drive, typically caused by a lack of facility to download the latest firmware (i.e the network connection is not present or restricted on your network). This will result in the system booting into a similar system setup window as found on the Synology Diskstation/DSM devices.

If this occurs, double-click the BeeStation listing on the Synology Assistant tool, and it will open a new tab on your web browser that shows the manual installation steps for BSM on your BeeStation system via the LAN. Just follow the steps on the screen to select the downloaded BSM image you have on your PC/Mac machine, as well as begin the installation to the new HDD/SSD – This will wipe the contents of the drive, but that is normal and you should be using a new/blank drive anyway.

This will install the latest BSM software and the system will restart after 10 mins and you can follow the steps outlined in the previous section to setup the Beestation with your new HDD/SSD for the first time.

How to Restore Your Data to the Upgraded Drive BeeStation?

Now that your BeeStation is up and running, with your new HDD/SSD, you might have a backup of your data on USB or on the Cloud that you want to restore. If you want to use the BeeFiles Backup services for USB/Cloud, you can do this easily with the options in the BeeFiles tool and your cloud sync or USB that you created earlier can be re-connected and the data will be sent back to the Beestation. However, if you have opted to do the system-wide backup in the System settings menu, you will need to head in the system config page and select the Restore Tab on the left hand side of the page:

Next, select the Restore option, ensuring that you either have the USB Backup drive you used connected to the BeeStation system, or you have established a connection with your appropriate Synology C2 account.

Next, you need to go through the list of Backup Images (if you have multiple) and select the appropriate system backup image you want Then you need to select the backup and proceed with restoring this system image

It is worth noting that this process can take a great deal of time (depending on the size of the backup, whether it is cloud/local based and the filled % of the capacity that back was of the original 4TB drive. In my tests, it took 35 mins to restore the system that had 300-400GB of data – it is a slow by methodical process.

Once that is done, the system will reboot and when it has finished, you will need to re-enter and connect your Synology Account. After you log back into the system, you can go into the system setting and BeeFiles again, and you will see that not only is all the data restored, but also that the Synology BSM software has resized the partition to ensure that you are not losing any of the extra space that is available on your new possibly larger HDD (i.e it does not reinstall the 4TB system image, then ignore the extra HDD space – it expands the volume to the full available space of the drive)

And there you go! You have now installed a new HDD or SSD in your Synology BeeStation. REMEMBER, this is NOT authorized by Synology as use for the BeeStation system and will result in the brand not supporting you in the event of issues encountered as a result of installing non-recommended configurations such as this. The Beestation is a simplified cloud alternative to Synology DSM systems. If you want to experiment with more complex configurations, larger storage and faster systems, you should look at the Synology Rackstation and Diskstation systems.


I hope you enjoyed this guide and found in useful/informative! REMEMBER, I did this to show you what the inside of your BeeStation Personal Cloud looks like, so YOU DON’T HAVE TO! If you have any further questions, you can reach out to me on robbie ( at ) nascompares.com, or use our free advice section located on the right hand side of the page. Alternatively, you can reach us on our Discord HERE, our community forum HERE, or for faster and more personal support over on KoFi Commissions HERE. If you use and/or share the content of this guide online, please help us spread awareness of our platform and the work we do by backlinking us appropriately! Thanks for reading!


Synology BeeStation Personal Cloud Review – Quick Conclusion

READ THE FULL BeeStation Review HERE

Synology has clearly done their homework on the development and presentation of the BeeStation private cloud. They are targeting a whole new audience with this system, and therefore, criticisms based on experiences with their other hardware are likely to fall on deaf ears. The BeeStation is probably one of the best middle grounds I have ever seen between an easy-to-use and exceptionally easy-to-set-up private cloud system, while still managing to provide smooth and seamless features for accessing and sharing your private cloud’s storage securely. Looking at this system with a more network-savvy microscope kind of defeats the point, and I’ve tried to be fair in my assessment. The lack of LAN access by default seems a little odd, and launching the BeeStation series in this single-bay, 4TB-only fashion may be a bit of a marketing misstep, but overall, what you’re seeing here is an effectively priced and scaled private cloud system. It’s a fantastic alternative to third-party clouds and existing simplified NAS systems. With many users keeping an eye on their budgets and tightening costs, Synology, known for its premium position in the market, had a challenge scaling down to this kind of user. However, I have to applaud Synology’s R&D for creating a simple and easy-to-use personal cloud solution that still carries a lot of their charm and great software reputation. It may not be as feature-rich as DSM, but BSM does exactly what it says it will do, and I think the target audience it’s designed for will enjoy the BeeStation a great deal!

SOFTWARE - 7/10
HARDWARE - 8/10
PERFORMANCE - 7/10
PRICE - 10/10
VALUE - 10/10


8.4
PROS
👍🏻User-friendly setup, ideal for beginners or those seeking a simple cloud solution.
👍🏻Secure data handling with encrypted data transmission.
👍🏻Comes with 4TB of storage included, offering good value.
👍🏻Compact and lightweight design, enhancing portability.
👍🏻Quiet operation, suitable for home or office environments.
👍🏻Integrates seamlessly with popular cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive.
👍🏻Affordable pricing at $199, a cost-effective alternative to third-party cloud services.
👍🏻Supports remote access, allowing data management from anywhere and across client devices/OS
👍🏻Synologys reputation for quality and reliability is still clear on this smaller scale.
👍🏻Several client tools (BeeFiles, BeePhotos and Desktop sync tool) for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android available for tailored access
👍🏻System configuration backup option to USB/C2 (Often absent in budget cloud solutions)
👍🏻AI Photo Recognition in BeePhotos for faces, Objects and geo data scraping + Advanced filter/search
CONS
👎🏻Lacks the extensive app support and customization found in Synology\'s DSM platform.
👎🏻Only available in a single-bay, 4TB configuration at launch, limiting expandability.
👎🏻Single 5400RPM HDD running everything leads to slowdown more than you think!
👎🏻LAN access is disabled by default, which may not suit all users.
👎🏻Designed for a specific user base, may not meet the needs of more advanced users.

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Test BMAX B8 Pro – Un mini PC avec un Intel Core i7

8 mars 2024 à 20:00

I. Présentation

Dans ce nouvel article, nous allons découvrir un mini PC : le BMAX B8 Pro, un modèle ultra compact qui n'est pas sans rappeler le format de la gamme NUC de chez Intel (désormais abandonnée). Voici une présentation et un avis sur ce modèle.

BMAX propose une large gamme d'ordinateurs compacts et le BMAX B8 Pro est l'un des modèles les plus récents ! Cela ne l'empêche pas d'avoir une belle configuration puisqu'il est équipé d'un processeur Intel Core i7, de 24 Go de RAM et d'un SSD NVMe de 1 To. Autant vous dire qu'il s'adresse aux utilisateurs plutôt exigeants !

Peu encombrant, les mini-PC conviennent à de nombreux usages, que ce soit pour faire de la bureautique, du multimédia, mais ils sont aussi idéal pour se faire un Lab à la maison ! De ce fait, je vais m'intéresser au côté "évolutif" de ce modèle.

Avis BMAX B8 Pro

II. Caractéristiques du BMAX B8 Pro

Commençons par découvrir les caractéristiques principales de ce modèle :

  • Processeur : Intel Core i7-1255U (10 cœurs - 12 threads - Jusqu'à 4.70 GHz en mode Turbo)
  • GPU : Intel Iris Xe (intégrée au processeur)
  • RAM : 24 Go LPDDR5
  • Stockage : 1 To SSD NVMe et 1 emplacement vide pour disque 2.5 pouces
  • Connectique en façade : 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C et 1 x Jack (prise audio)
  • Connectique à l'arrière : 2 x USB 2.0, 2 x HDMI 2.1 et 1 x RJ45 1 Gbit/s
  • Affichage : prise en charge de deux écrans grâce aux deux ports HDMI (4K @ 60 Hz), voire même trois écrans grâce à l'USB-C
  • WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
  • Alimentation : 19V/2.5A DC
  • Poids : 370 grammes
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) : 12.5 × 11.2 × 4.4cm
  • Système d'exploitation : Windows 11
  • Prix : 419.99 euros

III. Package, design et conception

Le carton a pris quelques coups pendant le transport, mais le matériel est indemne ! A l'intérieur, le mini PC est correctement protégé par un bloc de mousse assez épais, et c'est tant mieux ! Le mini PC est accompagné par une alimentation externe, un câble HDMI, un guide utilisateur, ainsi que quelques vis et un adapteur métallique permettant de l'installer à l'arrière d'un écran (via le support VESA).

Très léger et très compact, ce modèle ne prendra que peu de place sur votre bureau. Il peut même être invisible s'il est installé à l'arrière d'un écran... Pour ma part, ce sera posé sur le bureau car le support VESA de mes écrans est déjà occupé par un support multi-écrans.

Le boitier est entièrement en plastique et totalement gris, si ce n'est la partie supérieure qui est noire, brillante, et qui intègre le logo BMAX. Si l'on retourne le boitier, nous pouvons constater qu'il y a 4 patins antidérapants, ainsi que deux pas de vis en attente pour venir fixer le support métallique (si nécessaire).

A l'avant et à l'arrière du boitier, nous retrouvons la connectique évoquée dans la partie précédente de cet article. Sur le côté gauche, la coque du boitier est conçue de façon à laisser passer l'air, tout comme sur le côté droit où il y a une ouverture pour le dissipateur du processeur.

Le boitier est parfaitement assemblé et les finitions sont excellentes. Les plastiques sont propres, il n'y a pas la moindre rayures. Le boitier de ce BMAX aspire confiance ! Pour ceux qui ont déjà manipulé un NUC Intel, vous ne serez pas déçu.

IV. Evolutivité et performances

A. Mise en route et évolutivité

Dans cette partie de l'article, nous allons évoquer la mise en route du PC, les performances, et le côté évolutif de ce mini PC que j'ai eu l'occasion d'utiliser pendant plusieurs semaines. Ce modèle est livré avec Windows 11 Pro version 22H2 (licence valide), mais rien ne vous empêche d'installer un autre système (BMAX met en avant une compatibilité avec Ubuntu, par exemple). Windows 11 Pro est livré avec les applications de bases poussées par Microsoft et Google Chrome en supplément.

Quelques secondes suffisent pour démarrer le PC et accéder à sa session : nous remercions le processeur et le SSD ! Le PC se connecte sans problème au réseau grâce à sa puce Wi-Fi Realtek ou à son port RJ45. Si vous avez un réseau Wi-Fi 6 en 5 GHz, le B8 Pro pourra s'y connecter sans problème.

Lancé début 2022, le processeur Intel Core i7-1255U a une fréquence turbo annoncée à 4.7 GHz, mais sa fréquence nominale de base est un peu faible : 1.7 GHz. Toutefois, c'est un modèle facile à intégrer dans les mini PC et les laptops, et qui est peu gourmand en énergie : on le retrouve dans de nombreuses machines, notamment chez HP et ASUS.

BMAX a doté le modèle B8 Pro de 24 Go de RAM. D'ailleurs, c'est étonnant comme quantité de RAM : pourquoi pas 16 Go ou 32 Go qui sont des valeurs "plus habituelles" ? Je n'ai pas la réponse. D'un côté, 24 Go c'est déjà intéressant si l'on envisage de faire tourner quelques machines virtuelles... D'autant plus que la RAM est soudée à la carte mère, donc ce n'est pas évolutif.

Si l'on retire les 4 vis situées sous le boitier, nous pouvons l'ouvrir. L'occasion de constater qu'il y a bien un emplacement pour ajouter un disque SSD ou un disque dur au format 2.5 pouces. Nous avons également accès au disque SSD de 1 To, modèle "E940" dont j'ignore la marque (à voir sa durée de vie dans le temps !) : si besoin, nous pouvons le changer facilement.

B. Performances

J'ai eu l'occasion d'utiliser ce PC pour faire tourner plusieurs machines virtuelles, de quoi exploiter la RAM à ma disposition. Par exemple, aucun souci avec 3 VM Windows avec chacune 4 Go de RAM. De plus, l'espace de stockage de 1 To est confortable pour cet usage, surtout si les VMs ont des disques virtuels dynamiques.

En ce qui concerne les performances brutes, sachez que si l'on effectue du copier-coller de gros fichiers en local, sachez que le débit est d'environ 1 Go/s ! Voici le résultat d'un test effectué avec Crystal Disk Mark :

J'ai également effectué un benchmark du CPU et du GPU avec Geekbench, vous pouvez y accéder sur cette page :

Au-delà de la bureautique, sachez que ce modèle peut être utilisé pour faire du rétrogaming. Par exemple, avec l'émulateur RPCS3 pour les jeux de PS3, il fonctionne très bien. Finalement, c'est un modèle performant et polyvalent qui grâce à son Core i7, ses 24 Go de RAM et son téra-octets de stockage SSD NVMe parviendra à satisfaire de nombreuses personnes.

Par la suite, j'envisage d'utiliser ce modèle avec un autre système d'exploitation (probablement Proxmox ou VMware ESXi), ce qui me permettra de vous en parler dans un autre article. Ici, je préférais conserver le modèle dans sa configuration d'origine.

V. Conclusion

Chez BMAX, le B8 Pro se présente comme l'un des modèles les plus performants pour satisfaire les utilisateurs qui ont besoin d'un espace disque important et d'une quantité de mémoire vive non négligeable. Je suis agréablement surpris par la qualité de fabrication de ce mini PC et par ses performances ! Sachez que je l'utilise depuis plusieurs semaines pour faire tourner des machines virtuelles Windows et Linux.

Même si je suis légèrement frustré de ne pas pouvoir faire évoluer la RAM, ou qu'il ne soit pas livré avec 32 Go de RAM directement : ce processeur Intel Core i7 serait tout à fait capable de gérer un peu plus de RAM. C'est un point important à prendre en considérations.

Sur le site Geekbuying, le BMAX B8 Pro est proposé à 419.99 euros ! Il est expédié depuis l'entrepôt européen directement, ce qui signifie que vous n'aurez pas de frais de douane, en plus d'avoir une livraison rapide. Il y a régulièrement des codes promos ou des réductions, donc n'hésitez pas à vérifier son prix en utilisant le lien ci-dessous.

The post Test BMAX B8 Pro – Un mini PC avec un Intel Core i7 first appeared on IT-Connect.

Test Formovie Xming Page One – Un vidéoprojecteur sous Google TV

1 mars 2024 à 18:00

I. Présentation

Dans cet article, nous allons découvrir un vidéoprojecteur portable : le Xming Page One ! C'est un modèle sous Google TV fabriqué par la marque Formovie et qui a créé une nouvelle gamme baptisée Xming.

Dans de précédents articles, nous avions évoqué deux autres modèles de chez Formovie : Formovie DICE et Formovie P1. Le modèle Xming Page One est présenté par le fabricant comme étant "le premier projecteur LCD Google TV au monde avec la certification Netflix". Google TV et la certification Netflix, voilà déjà deux atouts pour ce vidéoprojecteur !

Pour faire plus ample connaissance avec ce vidéoprojecteur, voici ses caractéristiques principales :

- Résolution native : 1920 x 1080 (Full HD natif)
- Taille de l'écran : entre 40 et 120 pouces
- Luminosité : 500 CVIA Lumens
- Image : HDR10, mode cinéma, mode sport, mode jeu
- Taux de contraste : Min. 1500:1, Typ. 2000:1
- Réglage Focus : automatique (autofocus)
- Réglage trapèze automatique (correction en 4 points)
- Interfaces : 1 x HDMI 2.1 (ARC) + 1 x Jack 3.5mm + 1 x USB 2.0
- Diffusion sans-fil prise en charge (Chromecast intégré)
- Wi-Fi : 802.11a/b/g/n (2.4 et 5 GHz)
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Haut-parleur intégré (Dolby Audio) - 5 Watts x 2, par Boston Acoustics
- Dimensions : 207.4 x 190.5 x 127.4 mm
- Poids : 2.07 kg
- Garantie : 2 ans

Sans oublier son SoC MediaTek MT9630, sa mémoire interne eMMC de 16 Go et ses 2 Go de RAM.

Vous pouvez retrouver des informations complémentaires sur ces deux pages :

Remarque : la luminosité de 500 CVIA Lumens, ne doit pas être confondue avec la norme ANSI Lumens. Un article à ce sujet, précise que "La CVIA espère dépasser la norme traditionnelle des lumens ANSI en fournissant une représentation plus précise et plus authentique de la luminosité des projecteurs dans le monde réel." - 500 CVIA Lumens correspond à 300 ANSI Lumens.

II. Package et design

Le vidéoprojecteur est livré dans une boite au carton très basique, mais à l'intérieur, nous avons la bonne surprise de découvrir que l'ensemble se trouve dans une boite en polystyrène moulée. Elle pourra servir de boite de transport puisqu'il y a des compartiments et une lanière pour faciliter le transport. C'est bien vu de la part de Formovie car ceci assure un transport en toute sécurité, que ce soit pour la livraison du colis ou le transport au quotidien. Admettons tout de même qu'esthétiquement, nous avons vu mieux comme housse de transport, mais elle est originale.

Remarque : il est nécessaire d'acheter un adaptateur pour la prise secteur car celle intégrée au câble fourni n'est pas à la norme française (adaptée pour l'Amérique). J'ignore si c'est le cas avec tous les modèles, mais ceci engendre une dépense supplémentaire d'environ 10 euros.

Dans le même esprit que le Formovie DICE, même s'il n'y a pas de lanière intégrée au boitier, ce modèle bénéficie d'un boitier arrondi. Le design est moderne et les finitions sont bonnes. Au-delà de l'esthétique, ce qui me plait, c'est le format relativement compact !

Nous pouvons constater que ce vidéoprojecteur est équipé d'un port Jack, d'un port HDMI et d'un port USB. Ils sont situés à l'arrière du boitier, sur la partie basse. Le boitier est bien aéré, ce qui permet d'éviter que l'appareil chauffe, mais c'est également utile pour la diffusion de l'audio. Pour bien tenir en place, ce boitier intègre 4 patins antidérapants.

La télécommande en plastique ressemble à celle qui accompagne certaines Box TV sous Google TV (Android TV). Les fans de Netflix et de YouTube apprécieront la présence des deux touches d'accès rapide présentes sur la télécommande. Sinon, nous retrouvons un ensemble de touches utiles : accueil, retour arrière, des flèches directionnelles, bouton de validation, gestion du volume, ainsi qu'un accès aux réglages et un bouton pour activer la commande vocale (assistant Google).

Désormais, nous allons voir comment l'utiliser au quotidien, et nous allons évoquer la qualité d'image, la qualité audio, etc...

III. Utilisation au quotidien

Avant toute chose, ce vidéoprojecteur doit être branché au secteur : il n'intègre pas de batterie. Ensuite, il conviendra de l'allumer pour que l'image apparaisse sur le mur de votre logement. L'avantage, c'est que vous pourrez facilement lui trouver une place grâce à son format compact. De plus, sous le boitier, sachez qu'il y a un emplacement permettant de fixer un trépied : ça, c'est cool !

L'image de ce vidéoprojecteur peut être comprise entre 40 et 120 pouces, en fonction de la distance entre le vidéoprojecteur et le mur. Pour être plus précis, 40 pouces correspond à une diagonale de 101 cm, tandis que 120 pouces correspond à environ 3 mètres de diagonale. Ceci est important, car si le recul n'est pas suffisamment important, la mise au point automatique ne parviendra pas à ajuster l'image correctement.

Lors du premier lancement, le vidéoprojecteur nous invite à effectuer la configuration. Pour avoir une meilleure expérience et accéder à l'intégralité des fonctionnalités, il est préférable d'effectuer la configuration via Google TV. Avec Google TV, vous avez une intégration complète de vos services préférés, avec des recommandations personnalisées, les dernières nouveautés, etc... Ce qui permet d'enrichir l'expérience.

Xming Page One - Premier démarrage

Pour la mise en route, comptez une vingtaine de minutes. La majorité des actions sont à effectuer sur le smartphone, via l'application mobile Google Home, et ensuite le vidéoprojecteur initialise tous ses paramètres. C'est à ce moment-là qu'il y a un temps d'attendre d'environ 15 minutes.

Évoquons les réglages accessibles dans les paramètres du système. Il y a de nombreuses options de configuration, notamment pour ajuster l'image : mode image (standard, film, jeu, sport, etc.), luminosité, contraste, saturation, teinte, netteté, etc... Il y a également une section avec des paramètres avancés pour gérer le DNR, la température des couleurs, etc... Vous avez vraiment la main sur l'image.

Le système utilisé par ce vidéoprojecteur est Google TV 11, avec support de Google Chromecast. La dernière version stable actuelle est Google TV 12. En soi, ce n'est pas gênant d'être sur Google TV 11, ce qui me gêne un peu plus c'est le retard qui s'accumule au niveau des correctifs de sécurité : 1er septembre 2023. Heureusement que ce n'est pas un appareil tout le temps actif et connecté comme peut l'être un smartphone ou une tablette.

Formovie Xming Google TV

L'interface de Google TV est agréable et elle est pensée pour le streaming. La navigation est plutôt fluide dans l'ensemble, même s'il y a quelques latences par moment. En revanche, il n'y a pas de problème avec la lecture des flux vidéos. La télécommande, avec les différentes touches raccourcies, est appréciable aussi.

Vous avez accès à un large choix d'applications, que ce soit pour le streaming vidéo ou le streaming audio, ou d'autres usages. Voici quelques exemples : Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, MyCanal, Prime Video, TF1+, Molotov TV, DAZN, RMC Sport, YouTube Music, Spotify, Deezer, Radio FM, Navigateur TV, Google Meet, ou encore des applications de type VPN.

J'ai apprécié la qualité de l'image, que ce soit la luminosité, la fluidité ou le niveau de détail, c'est appréciable. Sans oublier qu'il est possible d'ajuster l'image dans les paramètres. De plus, le HDR est bien pris en charge : lorsqu'un contenu HDR est en cours de lecture, l'information est affichée à l'écran (en début de lecture).

Il est important de préciser / rappeler, que plus l'image est grande, plus "elle perd en luminosité". Dans le cas présent, vous pouvez envisager d'avoir une diagonale d'environ 1m60 pour conserver une luminosité suffisante en pleine journée (exemple ci-dessous). Bien entendu, lorsque la luminosité est faible ou que vous êtes dans le noir pour une séance cinéma, il n'y aura pas cette contrainte.

L'audio de Boston Acoustics offre également une bonne expérience et une bonne puissance (à 15% / 20% de volume, c'est déjà parfaitement audible). A la maison, ce sera amplement suffisant ! Il m'a convaincu, et il parviendra sans difficulté à couvrir le bruit généré par le ventilateur du vidéoprojecteur (environ 40 dB, constant). Personnellement, je le trouve un peu bruyant et ce bruit de fond gênera certains utilisateurs.

Au-delà d'utiliser Google TV, vous pouvez aussi connecter un ordinateur ou un autre périphérique pour diffuser une image via ce vidéoprojecteur. D'ailleurs, un bouton nommé "Live TV" est présent sur la page d'accueil de Google TV et il permet de basculer facilement vers la source HDMI.

Par contre, l'utilisation du port USB ne permet pas de lire nativement les médias présents sur une clé USB ou un disque externe : vous devez passer par des applications. Par exemple, pour lire une vidéo stockée sur une clé USB, vous devez installer VLC for Android (ou équivalent).

IV. Conclusion

Le vidéoprojecteur Xming Page One bénéficie de l'interface Google TV qui va forcément ravir de nombreux utilisateurs. Formovie a su s'approprier ce système pour le faire évoluer et intégrer de nombreux réglages, notamment pour ajuster l'image. L'expérience proposée est plus que satisfaisante.

Ce que j'ai apprécié : l'interface Google TV avec ses nombreuses fonctionnalités et applications, la fluidité de l'interface et des applications, le côté pratique de la télécommande, ainsi que la multitude de réglages à la portée de l'utilisateur. La prise HDMI aura également son rôle à jouer dans certains scénarios d'utilisation, tout comme la lecture de médias depuis un périphérique USB externe (même si cela implique l'installation d'apps).

Ce que je n'ai pas aimé : le bruit de fond constant du vidéoprojecteur, et la mise au point difficile si le recul n'est pas suffisant. Par ailleurs, la luminosité de l'image pourra être problématique en fonction des usages et des attentes.

Terminons cet article en évoquant le prix du Formovie Xming Page One : 499 euros, mais à l'occasion d'une vente flash proposée par Formovie, son prix tombe à 399 euros avec le code "PGO100".

Accédez à l'offre via le lien ci-dessous :

The post Test Formovie Xming Page One – Un vidéoprojecteur sous Google TV first appeared on IT-Connect.

CWWK AMD 7840HS CPU+Motherboard Combo Deep Dive

Par : Rob Andrews
1 mars 2024 à 15:00

CWWK AMD 7840HS NAS Motherboard – Any Good?

If you have been in the market for building your own NAS from scratch on a budget, then if you push past all the Intel Celeron, Pentium and Core CPU+Mobo combos that are flooded in the market, you might well come across this recently revealed AMD powered monster of a CPU+Motherbaord combination – The CWWK AMD-7840HS board. Arriving under several retailer brand (including Topton), this board arrives with an 8 Core CPU that can burst up to 5.1 Ghz, 2.7Ghz int. Gfx, 4x 2.5GbE, a PCIe Gen 4×8 slot, USB 4, 2x Gen 4×2 M,.2 slots an d support for up to 9 SATA drives. I mean.. WOW. The TDP is a little higher than some might like, the ECC support is up for debate (more on that later) and the 20 Lane CPU is definitely being spread out pretty wide – but there is no denying that this is a serious bot of kit. So, what exactly do you get when you pay $499+ for this SoC Mobile CPU and Motherboard combo? What’s the design like? And should you be considering this for your next TrueNAS Build? Let’s take a closer look at the AMD-7840HS NAS board.

Here are a few examples of where you can get this board online:

  • (Topton) 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7940HS $489 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (Topton) The AMD-7940HS CPU+Board + 1TB NVMe + 32GB DDR5 + SFF Cables + CPU HS $729 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (KingNovy) Complete Board + AMD-7940HS $509 (AliExpress) HERE
  • Learn more about other Recommended M-ITX CPU+Mobo Combos HERE in an article or HERE on YouTube

Note – Performance Testing and NAS Building are still ‘WiP’ on this board as I wait for the last few components to arrive for YouTube. I will update this article with additional information resources after testing is concluded

Specification Detail
Architecture Zen 4 (Phoenix)
Cores / Threads 8 / 16
Base / Boost Frequency 3.8 GHz / 5.1 GHz
TDP (Thermal Design Power) 35 W (Configurable 35-54 W)
Memory Support DDR5, LPDDR5x up to 7500 MT/s; Dual-channel; ECC support (in specific configurations of CPU)
Integrated Graphics Radeon 780M; Graphics engine boost clock: 2700MHz
PCI-Express Gen 4, 20 Lanes (CPU only)
Cache (L1/L2/L3) 64 KB per core / 1 MB per core / 16 MB shared
Process Size 4 nm
Socket Compatibility FP8
Production Status / Release Date Active / January 2023
Part Numbers 100-000000955 (FP7r2), 100-000000964 (FP7), 100-000001129 (FP8)
Maximum Temperature (tJMax) 100°C
Features AVX, AVX2, AVX-512, ECC Memory Support, AMD-V, Precision Boost 2


CWWK AMD 7840HS Mobo Physical Design

The CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo represents a significant leap in compact computing, catering to a wide range of users from enthusiasts to professionals requiring high-performance systems in small form factors.

This combination of AMD’s Ryzen 7 7840HS processor and a feature-rich Mini-ITX motherboard offers an intriguing blend of power, efficiency, and expansion capabilities, making it an ideal choice for various applications, including gaming, content creation, and server use.

The motherboard itself is a lovely bit of engineering, designed with a matte black PCB and a high-density, moisture-free fiber 10-layer circuit board, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and durability. This design philosophy extends to the motherboard’s support for AMD’s “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series processors, providing users with the ability to choose a CPU that best fits their performance needs without compromising on form factor.

One of the standout features of this motherboard is its expansion capabilities, particularly notable given its 17×17 standard Mini-ITX form factor. It includes a PCI-E x16 slot (PCle4.0 x8 signal) for graphics or network card expansions, two M.2 NVMe (PCle4.0 x2) slots for high-speed storage, and SFF-8643 sockets that support up to four SATA 3.0 connections via cable.

This level of expandability is uncommon in Mini-ITX motherboards, offering users the flexibility to build a compact yet powerful system that can handle demanding applications and storage needs.

Memory support is another area where the 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo shines. With dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slots supporting up to 5600MHz (and backward compatibility for server-grade ECC notebook memory), it allows for high-speed, reliable memory configurations up to 64GB. This capability is crucial for application ons requiring fast data access and processing, such as video editing and 3D rendering.

HOWEVER, there is definitely a debate as to whether you can actually use ECC memory! CWWK lists 4 different CPU SKUs for this mobo and only 1 of them (the 7735HS) actually supports ECC. So, in order to investigate, I installed 1x 16GB Kingston ECC SODIMM 4800Mhz module and ran some SSH commands. Sadly, it appears that the default 7840HS version of this motherboard combo does NOT support ECC (SEE VIDEO ABOVE)

The combo’s connectivity options are equally impressive, featuring four Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports, HDMI+DP+Type-C triple display outputs supporting 4K@60Hz, and multiple USB 3.2 and Type-C interfaces. Such comprehensive connectivity ensures that users can connect a wide array of peripherals, displays, and network connections, making the system versatile for different setups and applications.

The CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo is a great example of modern computing’s direction towards more efficient, powerful, and versatile systems within increasingly compact form factors. Whether for gaming, professional work, or server applications, this combo offers a compelling option for those seeking the pinnacle of performance and flexibility in a small package.

Its combination of a high-performance processor, expansive memory and storage options, and robust connectivity makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo features ASMedia SATA controllers, specifically the ASM1166 and ASM1164 chips, which are central to its enhanced SATA connectivity. These chips enable the motherboard to efficiently manage SATA connections, ensuring stable and rapid data transfer rates for a range of storage devices.

The inclusion of two SFF-8643 connectors, influenced by these ASMedia components, significantly boosts the motherboard’s storage expansion capabilities. These connectors allow for up to eight SATA devices to be connected through breakout cables, optimizing storage scalability within a compact form factor. However, it’s important to highlight that these connectors do not support NVMe drives, focusing instead on maximizing SATA device compatibility.

This motherboard also boasts a single standard SATA port, complementing the SFF-8643 connectors to offer comprehensive support for SATA-based storage configurations. The strategic integration of ASMedia SATA controllers underscores a commitment to providing versatile and reliable storage solutions, tailored for users prioritizing a balance of speed, capacity, and efficiency in their builds.

The AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS is a notable entry in AMD’s mobile processor lineup, launched in January 2023. Part of the Ryzen 7 series and built on the advanced Zen 4 (Phoenix) architecture, this chip is designed to deliver high performance for laptops and portable devices. With 8 cores and 16 threads thanks to AMD’s Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT), the 7840HS offers substantial multitasking capabilities. Operating at a base frequency of 3.8 GHz with the ability to boost up to 5.1 GHz, it combines speed with efficiency, all within a 35W thermal design power (TDP). This processor also supports DDR5 memory and has integrated Radeon 780M graphics, making it well-suited for both productivity tasks and gaming.

Physically, the Ryzen 7 7840HS is manufactured using TSMC’s 4 nm process technology, which houses 25,000 million transistors on a 178 mm² die. This compact yet powerful CPU is designed for AMD’s Socket FP8, underscoring its mobile-oriented design with a configurable TDP range of 35-54W. It supports a wide range of features, including ECC memory for data integrity and PCI-Express Gen 4 for high-speed component communication.  The Ryzen 7 7840HS stands out with its inclusion of the latest Ryzen AI technology, aimed at enhancing generative AI applications, and its leading-edge Radeon 780M integrated graphics. This combination not only boosts traditional computing tasks but also opens up new possibilities in AI and gaming. The processor’s architecture enables significant improvements in instructions per cycle (IPC), benefiting from larger caches and faster memory support up to LPDDR5x-7500. Its performance is competitive with top-tier processors in its category, reflecting AMD’s commitment to delivering powerful computing solutions.

The discussion around ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory support on the CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo reveals a nuanced landscape of compatibility and performance considerations. While the motherboard touts support for “server-grade ECC” memory, indicating an ability to correct data corruption on-the-fly and enhance system reliability, the reality of ECC support is more complex. It requires alignment across the CPU, motherboard, and the memory itself. The AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor, integral to this combo, along with other CPUs offered by CWWK, presents a mixed picture regarding ECC compatibility. Despite AMD’s general support for ECC across many of its CPUs, the specific models available with this motherboard, including the 7840HS, do not officially support ECC, highlighting a disconnect between processor capabilities and motherboard features. This discrepancy underscores the importance of thorough compatibility checks for users who prioritize ECC for its error-correcting capabilities, especially in environments where data integrity is paramount.4

The situation is further complicated by the motherboard’s design and the marketing of DDR5 memory with “on-die ECC,” which does not equate to traditional ECC memory’s error-correcting functionality. This type of ECC, often referred to as a marketing gimmick, fails to provide the same level of error correction and data integrity assurance as server-grade ECC memory. As enthusiasts and professionals debate the motherboard’s ECC support, it becomes evident that while the hardware may technically support ECC, the practical benefits and implementation may fall short without the full cooperation of the CPU and explicit support from the motherboard’s firmware. This scenario leaves users in a precarious position, needing to navigate between marketing claims and technical specifications to determine the true extent of ECC support and its relevance to their specific use cases.

Given the technical details and specifications of the CWWK 7840HS CPU+Motherboard combo, we can infer some positive and negative points about this hardware combination despite the inability to access the specific Reddit page for user insights.

===== Further Testing – COMING SOON =====

Check our YouTube channel for further videos on the AMD-7840HS NAS Motherboard for testing first (such as the video below):


CWWK AMD 7840HS NAS Motherboard Review Conclusion – Pros and Cons

Spec Highlights – 4x AMD MobileRyzen Options, SODIMM DDR5 Slots×2, ECC Supported, 2×M.2 2280 4×2 SSD Slots, PCIe 4×8 connector ×1 (x16 Physical), SFF-8643 x2 Connectors for SATA III, 4x 2.5GbE, USB 4 (20Gbs Limits) , Internal USB 2.0   $489 on AliExpress and Check on Amazon

The combination of the AMD “Zen 4” architecture Ryzen™ 5/7/9 series processors with a very unique motherboard offers a high-performance platform that is particularly suitable for building a low scale, but HIGH POWER Network Attached Storage (NAS) server. The Mini-ITX form factor of the motherboard, compatible with 1700 series CPU coolers, ensures that it can fit into compact NAS cases while providing adequate cooling for the powerful processors housed within. In the realm of NAS servers, storage options and connectivity are key. The motherboard’s two M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0 x2) slots are ideal for high-speed storage drives that can handle intense read and write operations typical in a NAS environment. The inclusion of 2 * SFF-8643 sockets, which support up to four connections each and a total of 9 SATA 3.0, is an advanced feature that provides flexibility and scalability for storage expansion. This is particularly beneficial for NAS setups where large storage pools and redundancy (such as RAID configurations) are important. Network connectivity is another critical aspect of NAS servers, and this motherboard delivers with its 4 * Intel i226-V 2.5G RJ45 UDE network ports, allowing for high-speed data transfer and network redundancy or link aggregation if required. However, the lack of 10GbE port might limit the network throughput if higher speeds are needed, in which case the PCIe Gen 5×16 slot could be employed for an additional network interface card, although this might be considered an inefficient use of this high-bandwidth expansion slot. Lastly, the wide array of USB ports, including USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C with a 20Gbps rate and additional USB3.2 and USB2.0 ports, adds to the versatility of this motherboard. The built-in set of USB3.2 pin sockets also allow for further expansion and connectivity options, essential for a NAS that may need to accommodate a variety of peripherals or provide additional data transfer interfaces.

PROS
  • High-Performance CPU: The AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor, with 8 cores and 16 threads capable of reaching up to 5.1GHz, offers excellent performance for demanding applications and multitasking. This makes the combo suitable for high-end gaming, content creation, and computational tasks.
  • Comprehensive Connectivity and Expansion: The motherboard’s design, featuring a PCI-E x16 slot (physically, in reality it is x8 operational), dual M.2 NVMe slots, multiple SATA3.0 connections, and 2.5G RJ45 network ports, provides a wide range of connectivity options. This allows for extensive storage solutions, high-speed internet connectivity, and the possibility of graphics or network card expansions, making it versatile for various use cases.
  • Advanced Memory Support: With dual-channel SO-DIMM DDR5 slots supporting up to 5600MHz and server-grade ECC notebook memory (still being investigated about it’s compatibility in Mobo vs CPU in the 7840HS), the combo offers cutting-edge memory technology with high-speed and reliable memory options, beneficial for workstations and servers requiring error correction for stability.
  • Efficient Power Consumption: The TDP rating of 35-54W for the CPU indicates efficient power usage, which is crucial for keeping the system cool and reducing energy costs, particularly in environments where the system might be running continuously, such as servers or media centers.
  • Compact and Durable Design: The Mini-ITX form factor is ideal for users looking to build small, space-efficient systems without compromising on performance. Additionally, the high-quality, moisture-free fiber circuit board with full protection enhances the durability and longevity of the motherboard.
CONS
  • Power Supply Requirements: The recommendation to use a power supply of more than 500W with 9 disks may necessitate a higher initial investment for users aiming to fully utilize the motherboard’s storage capabilities, especially in compact builds where space and cooling for large power supplies can be a concern.
  • Complexity for Beginners: The wealth of features and expansion options, while beneficial for experienced users, may overwhelm beginners. The technical nature of managing multiple storage devices, optimizing memory configurations, and ensuring compatibility with various components requires a certain level of expertise.
  • Limited PCI-E Bandwidth: The single PCI-E x16 slot operating at x8 signal might limit the performance of high-end graphics cards or other PCI-E devices. This could be a bottleneck for users aiming to achieve maximum graphical performance or looking to install multiple high-bandwidth PCI-E cards.
  • Cost: Given the high-end specifications and features, the CWWK 7840HS combo is likely to carry a premium price tag. This cost might be prohibitive for budget-conscious builders or those who do not require the advanced features offered by this combo.
  • Cooling Considerations: The compact Mini-ITX form factor, while advantageous for space-saving, may present challenges in terms of cooling, especially when housing high-performance components like the Ryzen 7840HS. Users will need to carefully consider cooling solutions to maintain optimal temperatures and prevent thermal throttling.

 

Here are a few examples of where you can get this board online:

  • (Topton) 8-Bay / 9-Bay Board AMD-7940HS $489 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (Topton) The AMD-7940HS CPU+Board + 1TB NVMe + 32GB DDR5 + SFF Cables + CPU HS $729 (AliExpress) HERE
  • (KingNovy) Complete Board + AMD-7940HS $509 (AliExpress) HERE
  • Learn more about other Recommended M-ITX CPU+Mobo Combos HERE in an article or HERE on YouTube
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Terramaster F4-424 Pro NAS – Should You Buy?

Par : Rob Andrews
28 février 2024 à 18:00

Does the Terramaster F4-424 Pro NAS Deserve Your Data?

Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Terramaster F4-424 Pro NAS. This review is also partnered with a YouTube video (HERE) and unlike our full review, this article is focused on helping you understand as quickly as possible whether the F4-424 Pro NAS is the right server for your needs. We have been covering the subject of Terra master NAS for several years and I think it would be fair to say that they are largely considered the ‘cost effective’ option in the NAS market. However in the last generation they made some huge changes to their systems and services. First scaling up the feature set of their TOS NAS platform (currently TOS 5.1, with TOS 6 in very early alpha) to include alot more of the popular requirements of modern Synology NAS users, including BTRFS, Flexible RAID configurations, AI powered photo tools, comprehensive backup tools, etc. Meanwhile, they continued to provide the same level of hardware as alternatives from QNAP and Asustor, such as 2.5GbE, M.2 NVMe Support, HDMI 2.0, newer CPUs, and more. Fast forward to the 2024 generation and we have their latest series, the F4-X24 series. Drawing first blood in terms of hardware over its rivals, its rocking out the gate with the Intel i3-N300 CPU 8 Core Processor and 32GB DDR5 Memory (with a more affordable Intel N95 version and less memory), they were the first to roll out a 2024 generation of devices.

Design Improvements

The Terramaster F4-424 Pro boasts significant design improvements over its predecessors. It features a more modern and streamlined chassis with better ventilation, improved drive trays, and easier access to internal components. Unlike the F4-423, which had a somewhat dated design with minimal ventilation and plastic trays, the F4-424 Pro offers a more robust build. The new design includes flush front-side ventilation, a Terramaster logo panel, and a single rear fan replacing the older model’s clunky dual fans. This redesign not only enhances aesthetics but also improves component accessibility and cooling efficiency.

The ease of accessing the NAS’s internals is a notable enhancement. With just two screws, users can remove the side panel to access the memory slot and M.2 NVMe slots. This feature contrasts sharply with the F4-423, where accessing the motherboard for upgrades was a cumbersome process. The new design clearly borrows successful elements from industry leaders like Synology and QNAP, positioning it as a competitive player in the market.

Impressive CPU and Memory

The heart of the F4-424 Pro is its Intel N300 processor, an 8-core, 8-thread CPU with a base speed of 1.8 GHz, capable of boosting up to 3.8 GHz. This processor sets a high benchmark for mid-range NAS devices, offering integrated graphics superior to many competitors. It also maintains a low 7-watt TDP, striking a balance between performance and energy efficiency.

The NAS comes equipped with 32 GB of DDR5 memory, a notable increase over many similar-priced NAS models in the market. While this exceeds the manufacturer’s stated maximum stable memory, Terramaster assures that their testing validates this configuration. This impressive combination of CPU and memory positions the F4-424 Pro as a strong contender for those seeking a mid-range NAS with high-end hardware capabilities.

Terramaster Operating System (TOS)

TOS, now in version 5.1, has evolved significantly, offering a range of fundamental and mid-level features. While it may not compete directly with the likes of Synology DSM or QNAP QTS in terms of application range, TOS focuses on getting the basics right. It includes multi-site backup options, a flexible RAID storage system, and support for both EXT4 and BTRFS file systems. Click the video below and you will be skipped ahead to the full section on TOS 5.1:

The system also boasts AI-powered photo recognition, a developing surveillance application, and multimedia streaming apps. While the lack of specific apps like a dedicated video station may be a downside for some, Terramaster compensates by providing an all-in-one mobile app and desktop interface that are user-friendly and accessible.

SSD and HDD Support

The F4-424 Pro allows for the installation of NVMe SSDs (Gen 3) in its M.2 slots, offering flexibility in utilizing these as storage pools or intelligent caching. This feature surpasses some competitors who restrict SSD usage or brand compatibility. The NAS supports a broad range of hard drives, up to 22 TB from Seagate and WD, without the restrictive compatibility issues seen in some other brands.

Plex Media Server Performance

The F4-424 Pro excels as a Plex Media Server, handling 4K media transcoding and playback with ease and even supporting early 8K performance. The NAS’s ability to handle high-resolution media without being the bottleneck in the system is a significant plus for users looking to future-proof their media streaming capabilities.

Potential to Upgrade towards TrueNAS Core, Scale and UnRAID

The F4-424 Pro currently drives with arguablely the BEST internal hardware of any 4-Bay Turnkey NAS released in the market so far. However, some users would much rather use the much longer established TrueNAS and UnRAID alternatives in the market. Whether that is because of hefty industry recommendation, or because of previous experience, some users might not want to be locked into using the software that a Turnkey NAS arrives with. So, it will definitely please some users that not only can you VERY EASILY install TrueNAS/UnRAID on the Terrmaster F4-424 Pro (or indeed any Terrmaster that features an x86 CPU). Even more, Terramaster have even made it official online that although they do not encourage users to do this, they will not deny any warranty claims from users who perform this OS change – something a few other brands have been quick to deny. Below is a walkthrough of just how easy it is to install TrueNAS CORE on a Terramaster NAS:

Note – I made a written step-by-step guide to Installing TrueNAS Core HERE. As well as another Video Guide HERE on running UnRAID on any Terramaster x86 NAS, as well as a written guide HERE

There will be users who say that it is cheaper and more flexible to build a server from scratch for TrueNAS or UnRAID, but there are also users who would much rather a ready made hardware solution that has a single warranty to follow, zero build time and already physically designed for 24×7 storage out the gate.

As good as all these sounds though, it is worth keeping in mind that the Terramaster F4-424 Pro is NOT going to be a solution that suits everyone, so let’s go through some of the reasons why you might want to give this NAS a miss.

Reasons to Maybe Skip the Terramaster F4-424 Pro

Nothing is perfect, and much like any other home server system, the F4-424 Pro is not going to be for everybody! To maintain the hardware vs value price point, some compromises were definitely made. Let’s discuss some reasons why the F4-424 Pro might not be ideal for your needs!

Lack of 10GbE Connectivity

One significant drawback is the absence of 10GbE connectivity. Despite its powerful hardware, the F4-424 Pro is limited to 2.5GbE ports. This limitation may hinder its performance in environments where higher network speeds are essential, particularly for users looking to maximize the potential of the NAS’s robust CPU.

Higher Price Point

The F4-424 Pro’s pricing, ranging from $599 to $699, positions it at a higher bracket compared to similar 4-bay NAS models. While it offers a better CPU and more memory, the price difference might not justify the incremental hardware improvements for some users, especially considering the lack of 10GbE.

Limited Range of Client Applications

Terramaster focuses more on hardware than software, resulting in a limited range of client applications for various platforms. This limitation might not suit users looking for a more tailored experience for specific services like video or photo management.

Memory Capacity Concerns

The NAS comes with 32 GB of memory, exceeding the CPU manufacturer’s recommended maximum of 16 GB. While Terramaster assures its functionality, this might raise concerns about long-term stability and performance, especially since this configuration is not standard in the industry.

Past Security Issues

Terramaster was previously impacted by the Deadbolt ransomware attack. While they have since improved security measures, it’s crucial for potential buyers to consider this history when evaluating the long-term security and reliability of the NAS.

Conclusion

The Terramaster F4-424 Pro NAS offers a compelling combination of design, performance, and features, making it an excellent choice for many users. However, its higher price, lack of 10GbE, and other considerations might make it less appealing for some.

Pros and Cons

Aspect Pros Cons
Design Modern chassis, improved ventilation Only available in 4 bay with this configuration (2 Bay used N95 CPU)
Hardware Powerful CPU, ample memory Higher price; lack of 10GbE
Software User-friendly TOS Limited client applications
Storage Versatile SSD/HDD support M.2 NVMe slots limited in speed (i.e x2 or X1)
Plex Performance Excellent for 4K and early 8K Still requires Plex Pass to use H/W transcoding
Security Improved post-Deadbolt Past ransomware impact

TerraMaster F4-424 Pro NAS Review – Quick Conclusion

The TerraMaster F4-424 Pro NAS is a powerful 4-bay system with an Intel i3 N300 CPU, 32GB DDR5 memory, and 2x M.2 NVMe SSD bays, offering impressive performance for tasks like Plex media streaming and transcoding. Its redesigned chassis, resembling Synology and QNAP models, improves cooling and accessibility, marking a significant design upgrade. TOS 5 software enhances GUI clarity, backup tools, storage options, and security. The absence of 10GbE and memory limitations are notable drawbacks. Nevertheless, it offers great value in the 4-bay NAS market, appealing to budget-conscious users seeking capable private server solutions.

SOFTWARE - 7/10
HARDWARE - 8/10
PERFORMANCE - 9/10
PRICE - 10/10
VALUE - 10/10


8.8
PROS
👍🏻Powerful Hardware:** Equipped with an Intel i3 N300 CPU and 32GB DDR5 memory, delivering robust performance.
👍🏻Redesigned Chassis:** Improved design for better cooling, hot-swapping, and internal accessibility.
👍🏻TOS 5 Software:** TerraMaster\'s TOS 5 software offers a clear GUI, enhanced backup tools, expanded storage options, and improved security features.
👍🏻Affordable Price:** Competitive pricing under $699 makes it an attractive option for its hardware and software capabilities.
👍🏻Flexible RAID Support:** Supports various RAID configurations, including TRAID for flexible disk array setup.
👍🏻Multiple Client Sync:** TerraSync tool efficiently synchronizes data across multiple users and devices.
👍🏻CCTV Surveillance:** Surveillance Manager offers video recording and monitoring features for added security.
👍🏻AI Photo Recognition:** Terra Photos uses AI algorithms to classify and manage photos effectively.
CONS
👎🏻No 10GbE Support:** Lacks 10GbE support, potentially limiting network speed for some users.
👎🏻Memory Over-specification:** The inclusion of 32GB memory may raise concerns, given the CPU\'s maximum support of 16GB.
👎🏻Limited Packaging Quality:** Packaging and presentation are basic and may not match the standards of competitors.


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Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions
If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a ☕ Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  
 
Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US
    
 
Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

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Test de la Radeon RX 7600 XT Hellhound de PowerColor

Par : Jerome G
28 février 2024 à 13:00

Radeon RX 7600 XT HellhoundAvec la Radeon RX 7600 XT, AMD renforce sa position pour du gaming en 1080p. Nous avons testé la Radeon RX 7600 XT Hellhound. Les promesses sont-elles tenues ?

Cet article Test de la Radeon RX 7600 XT Hellhound de PowerColor a été publié en premier par GinjFo.

Synology BeeStation Review – The “EASY MODE” NAS?

Par : Rob Andrews
19 février 2024 à 18:00

Synology BeeStation Personal Cloud Review

What IS the BeeStation? Of all the products I’ve spoken about from Synology in nearly 25 years of solutions from the brand, the new BeeStation is possibly one of the most conventional yet surprising they have ever released. We first spoke about the BeeStation, otherwise known as the BST150-4T, halfway through 2023, when we started hearing rumors about Synology’s new entry-level solution that was shaping up to challenge the likes of WD My Cloud and My Book solutions. Synology has been providing impressively capable personal cloud solutions for a considerably long time, but it would be fair to say that for the majority of users who just want a simple cloud solution that is easy even for a child to set up, DSM isn’t quite as straightforward as they would like. The BeeStation and BSM hope to remedy this with Synology providing what is potentially the most user-friendly and easy-to-use personal cloud solution they have ever provided, as well as inviting positive comparisons against the likes of Google Drive and iCloud in terms of price. Roll in the fact that the system already arrives pre-populated with four terabytes of storage and is priced at just $199, and what you find here is one of the biggest brands in the world in network attached storage trying to reinvent the wheel that they themselves had a big part in designing! If you are reading this, it is because you are wondering whether the Synology BeeStation is the perfect fit for your simple, low-scale, and low-cost private cloud. So today, I want to tell you the five reasons why I can highly recommend the Synology BeeStation, as well as providing five reasons why you might want to give it a miss.

Note – You can watch the FULL YouTube Review of the Synology BeeStation HERE

Synology BeeStation Personal Cloud Review – Quick Conclusion

Synology has clearly done their homework on the development and presentation of the BeeStation private cloud. They are targeting a whole new audience with this system, and therefore, criticisms based on experiences with their other hardware are likely to fall on deaf ears. The BeeStation is probably one of the best middle grounds I have ever seen between an easy-to-use and exceptionally easy-to-set-up private cloud system, while still managing to provide smooth and seamless features for accessing and sharing your private cloud’s storage securely. Looking at this system with a more network-savvy microscope kind of defeats the point, and I’ve tried to be fair in my assessment. The lack of LAN access by default seems a little odd, and launching the BeeStation series in this single-bay, 4TB-only fashion may be a bit of a marketing misstep, but overall, what you’re seeing here is an effectively priced and scaled private cloud system. It’s a fantastic alternative to third-party clouds and existing simplified NAS systems. With many users keeping an eye on their budgets and tightening costs, Synology, known for its premium position in the market, had a challenge scaling down to this kind of user. However, I have to applaud Synology’s R&D for creating a simple and easy-to-use personal cloud solution that still carries a lot of their charm and great software reputation. It may not be as feature-rich as DSM, but BSM does exactly what it says it will do, and I think the target audience it’s designed for will enjoy the BeeStation a great deal!

SOFTWARE - 7/10
HARDWARE - 8/10
PERFORMANCE - 7/10
PRICE - 10/10
VALUE - 10/10


8.4
PROS
👍🏻User-friendly setup, ideal for beginners or those seeking a simple cloud solution.
👍🏻Secure data handling with encrypted data transmission.
👍🏻Comes with 4TB of storage included, offering good value.
👍🏻Compact and lightweight design, enhancing portability.
👍🏻Quiet operation, suitable for home or office environments.
👍🏻Integrates seamlessly with popular cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive.
👍🏻Affordable pricing at $199, a cost-effective alternative to third-party cloud services.
👍🏻Supports remote access, allowing data management from anywhere and across client devices/OS
👍🏻Synologys reputation for quality and reliability is still clear on this smaller scale.
👍🏻Several client tools (BeeFiles, BeePhotos and Desktop sync tool) for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android available for tailored access
👍🏻System configuration backup option to USB/C2 (Often absent in budget cloud solutions)
👍🏻AI Photo Recognition in BeePhotos for faces, Objects and geo data scraping + Advanced filter/search
CONS
👎🏻Lacks the extensive app support and customization found in Synology\'s DSM platform.
👎🏻Only available in a single-bay, 4TB configuration at launch, limiting expandability.
👎🏻Single 5400RPM HDD running everything leads to slowdown more than you think!
👎🏻LAN access is disabled by default, which may not suit all users.
👎🏻Designed for a specific user base, may not meet the needs of more advanced users.


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Synology BeeStation Review – Packaging and Presentation

The BeeStation arrives in fairly modest packaging that, although is pretty comparable to the majority of other Synology NAS solutions in the market, I will highlight that it arrives with a four-terabyte hard drive pre-installed. Consequently, I’m a little surprised that the packaging was not just a little bit more robust.

As petty as this sounds, I appreciate that this is an affordable item and indeed, unlike a number of the other solutions which are going to be exclusively retail biased, this one has a higher possibility of being purchased over the counter and therefore protection isn’t quite as necessary for logistics as perhaps their other solutions are. Nevertheless, shock and motion damage in transit is a genuine real thing, and unlike a number of their other solutions that arrive in pre-cut foam packaging, this system is only held in place by a single-layer framework of cardboard. Not terrible, but not exactly great for a pre-populated NAS system. The kit arrives with the BeeStation system itself, a modest external power supply, an RJ45 Ethernet cable, and information on first-time setup and the inclusive 3-year warranty.

The external power supply is fantastically modest and comparable to that of other one by Synology NAS systems. This is an efficiently powered system that runs on an ARM 64-bit processor and with only a single hard drive inside, power consumption is going to be exceptionally low and therefore the max PSU power really doesn’t need to be that much. Additionally, the PSU features regional power clips. It’s a shame that they do not also include regional clips for other areas, as some people may be deploying this system in different places on the go because of its lightness and portability, but I understand why Synology probably doesn’t entertain this and continues to add further e-waste to the potential.

Overall, I can’t really fault the retail kit here; it’s providing everything you’re going to need to deploy this straight out of the box and up and running within 2 to 3 minutes. Even more so than any other Synology solution as this one even includes the storage media pre-populated with firmware already pre-configured for that specific drive. I do wish the retail packaging was a little bit more protective, but again this is a relatively minor point for a solution that’s $199 all in. Let’s discuss the hardware and design.

Specification Details
Capacity 4TB
Processor Realtek RTD1619B
Memory 1GB DDR4
LAN Port 1 x 1GbE RJ-45
External Ports 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1
Dimensions (HxWxD) 148.0 x 62.6 x 196.3mm
Weight 820g
Supported Browsers Google Chrome®, Firefox®, Microsoft Edge®, Safari® 14+
System Requirements Windows 10 64-bit (build 19041+), Windows 11, macOS 12.3+
Mobile Apps iOS 15+, Android 8+
Certifications RoHS, FCC, CE, BSMI, RCM, EAC, UKCA, KC, VCCI
Package Contents BeeStation unit, AC adapter, RJ-45 cable, Quick start guide
Warranty 3 years

Synology BeeStation Review – Design and Connectivity

Synology could have easily reused one of their existing hardware chassis from the DiskStation series when creating the BeeStation. However, the BeeStation is a completely unique and new chassis to the Synology product family and is one of the smallest enclosures they have ever released, especially when you factor in that it’s arriving with a 3.5-inch SATA hard drive already pre-installed.

The device has the Synology Bee logo adorned on either side, with ventilation on the base and the top panels. Cooling isn’t too much of an issue on this rather modest specification system. And thanks to the absence of any kind of SSD internally, rising temperatures are not really going to be a tremendous amount of concern, even in 24/7 operations. Indeed, the top ventilation panel cannot be removed and has a metal panel underneath to filter air as it passes through the system. Synology states on numerous official pages that it is not possible to deconstruct this system without fundamentally damaging the external casing and undermining the ventilation and cooling system.

As the BeeStation only holds a single hard drive internally, there is a decent enough argument here that trays or features such as hot swapping are going to be largely useless, given the entirety of the system. Storage and services are running from that lone drive and its removal would immediately compromise the system. However, it is worth remembering that the HAT3300 or HAT3310 Synology 5400 RPM hard drive is the only drive you can use in this system and Synology does not endorse the usage of third-party drives in this system.

Indeed, the Synology software for this system that arrives with all of the packages pre-installed, after a little bit of digging, shows that it is seemingly locked to a Synology drive. No doubt more enterprising users will be able to migrate this over to a third-party hard drive, potentially undermining any hardware or software support by Synology, but you can largely guarantee there will be users doing this. 4TB is perhaps too low a glass ceiling for many users.

Returning to the subject of design, though. You really cannot fault the scale of this system. And thanks to its low power and low stature, it is largely silent when in operation any noticeable noise and not Synology’s sign of the BeeStation.

The front of the system displays a single LED that denotes when the system is powered on. It’s likely to announce whether the BeeStation is in setup mode, normal usage, or if there is an error that needs addressing (the system also has the expected audio beep for notifications and warnings). There’s no front-mounted USB, but the system does have USB ports and more on the rear. The rear of the system shows some fairly entry-level ports and connections, but for the $199 price point and rather modest audience this system is aimed towards, there isn’t too much to fault here.

The BeeStation features two USB 3.2 Gen. 1, 5 Gbps ports, including Type A and Type C. These ports can be used to connect external USB storage to the BeeStation, and access to this storage is immediately accessible via the Bee Files software user interface on desktop and mobile.

Additionally, BeeStation Manager also includes the means to backup the whole system storage to a connected USB via the system settings interface, as well as a more tactile and customizable individual object file finder backup option in Bee Files. Numerous USB backups can be created, scheduled, and several filters applied to ensure that only important or necessary files are backed up when needed.

Much like Synology DSM, there is also the option for a backup to be actioned automatically when a selected USB is connected to the system and auto-dismounted when the job is completed. The Beestation is a 1-Bay and the result is that although these USBs can be used to add external storage or backup storage, they cannot be used to add any kind of expansion and expand the original storage while maintaining existing share paths for remote access users.

The notable physical connection is the network connection, a 1GbE network port that serves as the only remote access point for this system. Previously, I have criticized Synology for continuing the use of 1 GbE network ports when the majority of their competitors, even at this price point, have started rolling out 2.5 GbE as standard, and given the 2.5x network performance bandwidth and relative inexpense at the production level between these two connections, it’s understandable that users may be annoyed. However, this is a system running on a single hard drive that is already going to suffer occasional drops in performance when simultaneous access is happening. Equally, the modest Realtek CPU inside this system is not really hugely well equipped to spread itself out across the hardware configuration on offer and still maintain that same level of efficiency and capability. Therefore, I’m not hugely surprised that Synology has opted for 1GbE on this modest BeeStation system, but do be aware that this will bottleneck the potential 180 to 200 megabytes per second performance that a hard drive like this is capable of.

Synology has clearly tried to differentiate the BeeStation series from their existing DiskStation range of prosumer and business devices, and the design we’re seeing here is certainly a great way to do this. Yes, we’re not exactly looking at hardware that will absolutely blow your mind, but for $199 once again, we are looking at a very well-put-together and quality feeling product from a brand that already has a well-established reputation for these things to maintain. Let’s discuss the hardware inside this device and what keeps this thing moving!

Synology BeeStation Review – Internal Hardware

Despite these Synology BeeStation arriving at a very modest scale, they equip this device with the same CPU found inside the majority of their Value and J series boxes. In the comparisons that I have previously made between the BeeStation and the WD My Cloud series, it is worth remembering that Western Digital was always quite conservative when it came to the hardware on their personal cloud systems. WD still provides exceedingly low-powered dual-core 32-bit ARM Marvell processors that, in 2024, are really showing their age. By comparison, this Synology BeeStation arrives with a 64-bit ARM processor, featuring quad-core and also coming with 1GB of DDR4 memory. This is the same CPU found in the one-bay DS124 and 2-bay DS223, but the way the BeeStation utilizes this hardware is notably different from that of its arguably more fully-featured DiskStation alternative.

This CPU is actually capable of doing a great many more things than what the BeeStation and BSM offer, but does provide a very robust and comparatively more powerful base for these more streamlined operations than what is found by other cost-effective alternatives on the market.

The system also arrives with 1GB of DDR4 memory that, again, is double that found in the majority of more budget NAS systems, and given this system only supports up to eight simultaneous active users, 1GB of DDR4 memory is definitely more than enough to handle the comparatively simplistic photo, file management, and backup operations largely associated with this system. This memory is not upgradable, delivered via direct-soldered chips on the internal motherboard, but the CPU is not especially good at handling memory in larger quantities anyway (I believe the maximum supported memory by the processor is 4GB), and thus, this good base level memory and CPU are only really let down by one thing about this system – the single SATA hard drive inside!

As mentioned earlier, this system running from a single SATA hard drive presents quite large challenges with regards to multiple operations at any given time. Those eight maximum simultaneous users have plenty of CPU processing power and memory to divide between them, but a single SATA hard drive is going to struggle massively with up to eight users and their individual file processing demands at any given time. This is precisely the reason that users migrated away from hard drives for running operating systems, favoring the use of SSDs, as hard drives simply do not stand up well to the rigours of simultaneous input/output in 2024. So, once again, a complete bummer!

Examining the internal hardware on the BeeStation feels a little overzealous, given the target audience. This system is designed for being by their very nature, less tech-spec interested. I have to give Synology tremendous credit for constructing a much more powerful option in the personal cloud space than the majority of other vendors competing for this tier of the market. Now, I just wish for storage options, RAID options, and just generally better scaling options for buyers at launch. But it’s not about what you’ve got, right? It’s about what you do with it! Let’s discuss the software and services of the BeeStation.

Synology BeeStation Review – BSM Software, BeeFiles and BeePhotos

Synology has impressively reimagined their premium DSM software experience, streamlining it to introduce the more user-friendly BeeStation Manager (BSM) package. At launch, BSM offers a complete web-based GUI accessible via web browsers, a downloadable client tool for Windows or Mac systems for synchronized OS file management, and two mobile applications: BeeFiles and BeePhotos.

The user experience and software suite available for engaging with their private cloud on the BeeStation are categorized into three main areas: system management, file management, and photo management, starting with system management, which can be the most daunting aspect for users transitioning from public cloud services.

System Management

The setup process is notably user-friendly, marking one of the best NAS experiences in my extensive data storage career. Initially, you activate the device, connect it to a network, and proceed to the Synology online BeeStation portal to create a user account. This process, which includes entering the device’s serial number, downloading the latest firmware, and creating a user account, is streamlined and efficient, enabling a fully operational personal cloud setup in under three minutes.

The web management interface, although simpler compared to Synology’s DSM, emphasizes simplicity for home users and individuals moving away from cloud services, making it deliberately sparse yet functional.

Main Command Interface

The initial interface displays available storage and the allocation of storage types, offering features such as inviting additional users to your shared space. With hardware not designed for heavy-duty use, akin to Synology’s J series NAS, it supports adding up to eight users through an invitation system via the online portal.

Backup and Support

BSM includes simplified system backup options, using either a local USB drive or Synology’s C2 cloud service for offsite backups, with additional backup capabilities through BeeFiles. This feature underscores the importance of data security and system configuration preservation.

Alert settings for system events, such as unauthorized access attempts and storage issues, are standard, ensuring users are informed of system status and security. For hardware issues, BeeStation allows remote device access by Synology support, requiring user-generated unique keys, ensuring user consent before support can intervene.

Technical and LAN Access

The system defaults to disabling LAN access, a point of contention given its implications for local network performance versus internet-based access. This decision, aimed at simplifying security for less technical users, may limit user experience under certain conditions.

BeeFiles and BeePhotos

BeeFiles offers a straightforward approach to accessing storage, akin to services like Google Drive or Dropbox, with apps for web, mobile, and desktop use, enabling easy file management and sharing among up to eight users.

BeePhotos provides a dedicated platform for photo and video management, incorporating AI for facial and object recognition to enhance photo cataloging and search functionality, though it has room for improvement in object recognition specificity.

Performance and Optimization

The system’s reliance on a single 4TB 5400 RPM hard drive limits its performance, especially in high-demand operations like indexing and thumbnail generation. This highlights a potential area for future optimization and hardware upgrades to enhance user experience.

In summary, while the BeeStation system demonstrates a polished software experience and presents a functional and cost-effective alternative to cloud services, its performance and hardware limitations are areas poised for future improvements. As Synology expands the BeeStation hardware lineup, users can anticipate enhanced functionality and value from these tools.

Synology BeeStation Review – Verdict and Conclusion

The Synology BeeStation marks a significant shift in Synology’s product line, targeting a new segment of users with its simplified yet functional design. This device stands out as an excellent middle ground between ease of use and a comprehensive private cloud system, providing secure and seamless access to stored data. While it is incredibly user-friendly and easy to set up, the lack of LAN access by default and its single-bay, 4TB-only configuration at launch might limit its appeal to more tech-savvy users or those seeking greater flexibility and expandability. The BeeStation’s unique selling point is its simplicity, making it a compelling choice for those new to NAS systems or for users who prioritize ease of use over extensive customization options. However, its simplicity also means that it lacks the extensive app support found in Synology’s DSM platform, potentially disappointing users accustomed to the richer application ecosystem offered by Synology’s more advanced models.

For users concerned about security, the BeeStation still upholds Synology’s reputation for secure data handling, with encrypted data transmission as a standard feature. However, experienced users who prefer a more hands-on approach to their NAS setup might find the BeeStation’s lack of advanced configuration options and its reliance on internet access for setup somewhat restrictive. In terms of market positioning, the BeeStation fills a gap left by other brands like WD and Seagate in offering ‘Easy NAS’ systems. Its competitive pricing, particularly considering the included 4TB of storage, makes it an attractive option for users seeking a private cloud solution without the recurring costs associated with third-party cloud services. Despite these potential drawbacks, the BeeStation is a solid entry-level NAS solution, especially for those seeking a personal cloud with minimal setup and maintenance. It may not be as feature-rich as Synology’s DSM-based NAS devices, but for its intended audience, the BeeStation provides a well-balanced combination of functionality, ease of use, and affordability. Synology’s move to cater to a broader, less technically inclined audience with the BeeStation demonstrates their understanding of market trends and user needs, offering a solution that balances simplicity with the reliability and quality Synology is known for.

In the end, the Synology BeeStation is an ideal choice for users seeking a straightforward, reliable, and cost-effective personal cloud solution. It represents Synology’s commitment to diversifying their product range, catering to the evolving needs of different user segments. While it may not suit everyone, especially those looking for advanced features and customization, it excels in its role as a user-friendly, secure, and affordable entry-level NAS device.

 

Synology Beestation 4TB PROS Synology Beestation 4TB CONS
User-friendly setup, ideal for beginners or those seeking a simple cloud solution.

Secure data handling with encrypted data transmission.

Comes with 4TB of storage included, offering good value.

Compact and lightweight design, enhancing portability.

Quiet operation, suitable for home or office environments.

Integrates seamlessly with popular cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive.

Affordable pricing at $199, a cost-effective alternative to third-party cloud services.

Supports remote access, allowing data management from anywhere and across client devices/OS’.

Synology’s reputation for quality and reliability is still clear on this smaller scale.

Lacks the extensive app support and customization found in Synology’s DSM platform.

Only available in a single-bay, 4TB configuration at launch, limiting expandability.

LAN access is disabled by default, which may not suit all users.

Designed for a specific user base, may not meet the needs of more advanced users.

If you are thinking of buying a Synology NAS, please use the links below as it results in us at NASCompares receiving an affiliate fee from Amazon:
Need More Help Choosing the right NAS?

Choosing the right data storage solution for your needs can be very intimidating and it’s never too late to ask for help. With options ranging from NAS to DAS, Thunderbolt to SAS and connecting everything up so you can access all your lovely data at the touch of a button can be a lot simpler than you think. If you want some tips, guidance or help with everything from compatibility to suitability of a solution for you, why not drop me a message below and I will get back to you as soon as possible with what you should go for, its suitability and the best place to get it. This service is designed without profit in mind and in order to help you with your data storage needs, so I will try to answer your questions as soon as possible.

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The Synology BeeStation NAS Disassembly – Taking it to Pieces

Par : Rob Andrews
14 février 2024 à 18:00

Taking the Synology Beestation Apart to See What is Inside…

Synology is approaching a whole new kind of user with the release of the new BeeStation personal cloud simplified NAS system. For all of the years that we have discussed the Synology NAS platform, very few solutions from the brand have been this hassle-free and easy to use. A lot of this simplification by Synology in BeeStation, DSM, and the system’s approach to storage stems from the system being a far more closed platform than previous DiskStation and rackmount solutions that have come before it. Many more experienced storage veterans and IT specialists wonder about how the Synology BeeStation is put together, how its internal hardware and components differ from traditional DiskStation alternatives, and how exactly the system is managing that inclusive 4TB of storage. So in today’s video, I got my screwdriver out and decided to take apart and completely disassemble the Synology BeeStation 4TB model. If you are reading this article, that is likely because you are either a user on the fence who is considering buying this system and wants to know about how to take it apart in the event of maintenance, or you are a fellow reviewer or tech specialist who wants to use this guide as the means to understand how to take the BeeStation apart. Regardless of who you are, I hope you enjoy this guide and attribute and share it if you find it helpful. Before we delve further, we need to discuss a few disclaimers.

Synology Beestation Disasembly – IMPORTANT WARNING!

This is a really, really important point. Taking apart the Synology BeeStation runs a significant risk of not only damaging your data but also completely nullifying any hardware or software support that Synology will provide you. The BeeStation was designed to be a closed system and not targeted towards higher-end tech enthusiasts, and therefore does not allow the same easy dismantle procedure that you find in the DiskStation range. This Synology BeeStation was provided to me by Synology UK, and I am dismantling the system without their assurance or without their authorization to do so; the same needs to be applied to your own BeeStation system if you intend to follow the steps in this guide to tear down and dismantle it. This system was not designed to be taken apart, and taking it apart may result in the following:

  • You might cause damage to the hard drive inside via static electricity, motion, or physical pressure.
  • The BeeStation casing is an exceptionally tight-fitting enclosure, and dismantling it will almost certainly leave marks and clear indications that you have done so, which will invalidate any hardware support available to you as you have tampered with the system and performed actions that are not covered by the hardware warranty.
  • You run the risk of scratching the internal motherboard, PCB, or delicate components during the dismantling of the BeeStation, which will result in complete system failure at worst and detrimental performance drops at best if this occurs.

Do not proceed with dismantling your Synology BeeStation unless you are happy to run the risk that it may be deemed inoperable or that your support by Synology may cease as a result.

Additionally, the Synology BeeStation includes numerous measures to back up the content of the system’s data and set up to the Synology C2 cloud, a connected USB drive, or at an object file/folder level to third-party cloud services. It is extremely recommended that you have an up-to-the-second backup in place before you attempt any of the steps in this guide. Any data loss resulting from following the steps in this guide is purely at your own discretion, and myself and NAS Compares cannot be held accountable. Bottom line, be aware that what you are doing right now is outside of what this system was supposed to do, and that you are doing so at your own risk. Understand? Good. Let’s get on with dismantling the BeeStation and tear down this cost-effective NAS.

Also, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you read through the steps completely first, before you begin dismantling your BeeStation NAS, as it’s decent bits more layered in the access compared with a normal Diskstation NAS system.

Dismantling the Synology BeeStation Persona Cloud – A Step By Step Guide

First thing you need to do is disconnect all ethernet (LAN), power cables and USB devices and give the system sufficient time to allow the HDD inside to spin down. Then carefully turn the device up and have the base vent panel face up. Again, be CAREFUL as this system features a mechanical HDD inside and that can be susceptible to shock/motion damage.

Next you need to slowly and carefully peel back the rubber foot panel located at the base, at the front of the Beestation (i.e the single LED light side). It is held in place with strong adhesive, but you can replace it back after opening the case up later, as the rubber foot sits in a grooved panel and the adhesive has plenty of reuse!

Under the rubber panel are two Phillips/cross-head screws. There are the ONLY external means to open up the enclosure/casing of the BeeStation.

Remove each of these screws (keep them to one side and make sure to remember they are the base screws, as the system has 2 kinds of screws in it’s construction and mixing them up with rip the screw holes to pieces!

Removing these two scews will allow you to apply a small above of pressure to leverage the front panel of the BeeStation NAS to be removed. Important – do this carefully (that word again!) as the entire casing is made up of 2 pieces and its super easy to crack it in two!

The top part of the front panel is actually an L-shaped panel that has the fully ventilated dust panel attached. Mkae sure that your ease the panel off carefully enough not to break those 4 hooks at the top, as these are what align the top panel with the rest of the casing.

Slight side note, but for those that care about dust build up on 24×7 systems like the BeeStation, this can be quite useful to perform cleaning. Anyway, carrying on!

Next up os removing the Hard Drive that the Beestation Personal Cloud arrives with. The first thing you need to remove is the 2 smaller screws located around the edge of the casing. DO NOT REMOVE THE 2 LARGER SCREWS IN THE MIDDLE!!! These larger screws hold the HDD in place and you need to do this much later, or else risk the drive moving around during the dismantling.

Each screw will be easy to remove, however there are actually 3 more screw located around the base of the framework. They are tricky to reach, and a longer screwdriver would be recommended, but it can be done with an ordinary 15cm + screwdriver will get the job done.

At the front base area, you can find two black Phillips/cross-head screws that you need to remove. You will need to come at there from a slight angle if you only have a short screwdriver. Important – DO NOT USE AN ELECTRIC/AUTOMATIC SCREWDRIVER!!! Notwithstanding that you will tear the soft screw to pieces, you might cause vibration that will be damaging to the HDD next to the screw! Do it the OLD SKOOL way!

The last screw is much harder to spot and reach, it is located at the bottom-back of the enclosure, on the NON-Motherboard side. You will need to come at it from a slight angle, even with a longer screwdriver. Note, you COULD have removed the top panel attached to the HDD in order to get to the screw a little easier, but I personally would rather the HDD remains in an immobile cage throughout this part of the Beestaion teardown. It’s your call!

That is the last screw that you need to remove and , once it is done, you can begin the removal of the HDD clip/cage.

The HDD Clip/cage will slide out sideways (with a little resistance). BE CAREFUL with the removal of the HDD cage/clips, as the right-hand side will have the controller board (which has the heatsink on top of the CPU, and a bare PCB – which can be super susceptible to static and moisture!

One you have removed the HDD Cage tray, you will now have three components on the table:

The one we want to focus on is the HDD tray/cage. Carefully turn it around and lay the drive facedown on the table.

Once the drive is ‘face down’, you need to carefully (yes, THAT word again! Take a drink) remove the two silver screws, Try to touch the blue PCB controller board as little as possible.

Once you have removed those two screws, you need to either slide the controller board away from the Hard drive, or slide the hard drive away. You are doing this to disconnect the SATA connector that is soldered to the controller board. Do NOT leverage the hard drive upwards/downwards, as you run the risk of breaking the connector.

The controller PCB should come away very easily and with little resistance. But before we move forward, it’s worth checking the SATA connector is unharmed.

Take a closer look at the SATA connector. It should look like this:

This is what the storage side of the Synology Beestation BST150 looks like:

The underside of the controller board is where we find a large black heatsink panel that covers the HDD and 1GB DDR4 memory. IMPORTANT – I still have numerous tests to perform on this device for the review, comparison videos and guides for this device. Therefore I am not going to remove this heatsink, as it might result in detrimental performance that will undermine future content.

However, for those that want to know, underneath this heating panel is the Realtek RTD1619b quad core 64bit ARM processor that runs the Synology Beetstation and BSM services, as well as 1GB of DDR4 memory that arrives in presoldered modules on the main PCB. Ther is NOT an kind of SODIMM slot and, given the price and CPU choice in terms of efficiency, this is not a huge surprise.Therefore, memory upgrades on the Synology BeeStation are not possible.

The system software package is delivered via a smaller component that arrives pre-labeled at the factory with the software revision that the BeeStation arrives with. It is worth noting that, as time rolls on, Synology are going to be rolling out numerous firmware updates and (as is the case with the Synology Diskstation/DSM systems) it will update the installer and bootloader package on this chip no doubt.

Each of the physical connections (1GbE RJ45, Power delivery, USB Type A+C and physical buttons) are soldered to the PCB and are not provided on any kid of sister board.

Interesting, Synology have not just cloned and reused the DS124 hardware configuration here (though there are certainly areas of cross over) and instead have designed a whole new PCB layout and scale. The board (model ID and serial identification below) need to factor in the absence of any active cooling system (i.e a fan) on the Beestation, that was present on Diskstation systems like the DS124 and DS223j that arrive with a similar hardware configuration. Equally, this system changes one of the USB ports to Type C and has a very different back port arrangement to spread out.

Next, removing the Hard Drive from itsplastic handles. The HDD is held in place by 4 screws that go directly into the same four screw holes that are usually used by HDD bays on Diskstastion NAS that utilize trays. Ther are four screw in each corner. Important note for later – Make a note of the clips and direction that are on either side of the HDD – whether you want to reassemble this Beestation to the factory build OR you are considering exploring larger HDDs, getting these clips the wrong way around or in the wrong direction will, at best, mean it won’t for back together and you need to redo them, or at WORST, you end up damaging the controller board and casing as you attempt to re-insert the drive.

Each screw uses a counter-sunk system and also arrives with a rubber washer between the screw head and the plastic. This means that you do not need to fully remove the screw, as there is a small % of space left. Regardless, just remove the four screws and each of the side panels should come off very easily.

Once again, make sure you keep track of which panel goes with each side of the HDD – As this will be a right pain during reassembly. An important area of note here is that IF you are considering adding larger/alternative drives to the Beestation and you have your heart set on an SSD, you are going to need a 2.5″ to 3.5″ HDD adapter, as the screw holes that the tray clips AND the PCB Backboard are not available on a 2.5″ SSD. This does also open the door to the potential for a Dual 2.5″ SATA SSD to 3.5″ SATA Adapter case, which would provide the performance benefits of 2x SATA SSD in a RAID 0, or the redundancy benefits of 2x SATA SSDs in a RAID 1, if the case supports internal RAID 0/1). Here are two options:

2.5″ to 3.5″ SATA Adapter ($7.99+)

Find on Amazon HERE

2x SATA 2.5″ SATA to 1x 3.5″ SATA Adapter RAID Caddy (19.99+)

Find on Amazon HERE

However, there is considerably more to adding a new hard drive to the BeeStation than just the physical injection!

This reveals the drive in all it’s glory (in this case, a Synology HAT3300 which is a Seagate Ironwolf NAS HDD with Synology Firmware, but yours might well be the HAT3310, which is a Toshiba N300 drive with Synology FW). At launch, the Synology BeeStation arrived with just a single 4TB option, but no doubt in the further (perhaps when you are reading this) Synology have rolled out bigger HDD options or RAID equipped multi-bay versions.

But, there you go! That is the disassembly of the Synology BeeStation. I hope you enjoyed this guide and found in useful/informative! REMEMBER, I did this to show you what the inside of your BeeStation Personal Cloud looks like, so YOU DON’T HAVE TO! If you have any further questions, you can reach out to me on robbie ( at ) nascompares.com, or use our free advice section located on the right hand side of the page. Alternatively, you can reach us on our Discord HERE, our community forum HERE, or for faster and more personal support over on KoFi Commissions HERE. If you use and/or share the content of this guide online, please help us spread awareness of our platform and the work we do by backlinking us appropriately! Thanks for reading!


Synology BeeStation Personal Cloud Review – Quick Conclusion

READ THE FULL BeeStation Review HERE

Synology has clearly done their homework on the development and presentation of the BeeStation private cloud. They are targeting a whole new audience with this system, and therefore, criticisms based on experiences with their other hardware are likely to fall on deaf ears. The BeeStation is probably one of the best middle grounds I have ever seen between an easy-to-use and exceptionally easy-to-set-up private cloud system, while still managing to provide smooth and seamless features for accessing and sharing your private cloud’s storage securely. Looking at this system with a more network-savvy microscope kind of defeats the point, and I’ve tried to be fair in my assessment. The lack of LAN access by default seems a little odd, and launching the BeeStation series in this single-bay, 4TB-only fashion may be a bit of a marketing misstep, but overall, what you’re seeing here is an effectively priced and scaled private cloud system. It’s a fantastic alternative to third-party clouds and existing simplified NAS systems. With many users keeping an eye on their budgets and tightening costs, Synology, known for its premium position in the market, had a challenge scaling down to this kind of user. However, I have to applaud Synology’s R&D for creating a simple and easy-to-use personal cloud solution that still carries a lot of their charm and great software reputation. It may not be as feature-rich as DSM, but BSM does exactly what it says it will do, and I think the target audience it’s designed for will enjoy the BeeStation a great deal!

SOFTWARE - 7/10
HARDWARE - 8/10
PERFORMANCE - 7/10
PRICE - 10/10
VALUE - 10/10


8.4
PROS
👍🏻User-friendly setup, ideal for beginners or those seeking a simple cloud solution.
👍🏻Secure data handling with encrypted data transmission.
👍🏻Comes with 4TB of storage included, offering good value.
👍🏻Compact and lightweight design, enhancing portability.
👍🏻Quiet operation, suitable for home or office environments.
👍🏻Integrates seamlessly with popular cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive.
👍🏻Affordable pricing at $199, a cost-effective alternative to third-party cloud services.
👍🏻Supports remote access, allowing data management from anywhere and across client devices/OS
👍🏻Synologys reputation for quality and reliability is still clear on this smaller scale.
👍🏻Several client tools (BeeFiles, BeePhotos and Desktop sync tool) for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android available for tailored access
👍🏻System configuration backup option to USB/C2 (Often absent in budget cloud solutions)
👍🏻AI Photo Recognition in BeePhotos for faces, Objects and geo data scraping + Advanced filter/search
CONS
👎🏻Lacks the extensive app support and customization found in Synology\'s DSM platform.
👎🏻Only available in a single-bay, 4TB configuration at launch, limiting expandability.
👎🏻Single 5400RPM HDD running everything leads to slowdown more than you think!
👎🏻LAN access is disabled by default, which may not suit all users.
👎🏻Designed for a specific user base, may not meet the needs of more advanced users.

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This description contains links to Amazon. These links will take you to some of the products mentioned in today's content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Visit the NASCompares Deal Finder to find the best place to buy this device in your region, based on Service, Support and Reputation - Just Search for your NAS Drive in the Box Below

Need Advice on Data Storage from an Expert?

Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions
If you like this service, please consider supporting us. We use affiliate links on the blog allowing NAScompares information and advice service to be free of charge to you.Anything you purchase on the day you click on our links will generate a small commission which isused to run the website. Here is a link for Amazon and B&H.You can also get me a ☕ Ko-fi or old school Paypal. Thanks!To find out more about how to support this advice service check HEREIf you need to fix or configure a NAS, check Fiver Have you thought about helping others with your knowledge? Find Instructions Here  
 
Or support us by using our affiliate links on Amazon UK and Amazon US
    
 
Alternatively, why not ask me on the ASK NASCompares forum, by clicking the button below. This is a community hub that serves as a place that I can answer your question, chew the fat, share new release information and even get corrections posted. I will always get around to answering ALL queries, but as a one-man operation, I cannot promise speed! So by sharing your query in the ASK NASCompares section below, you can get a better range of solutions and suggestions, alongside my own.

☕ WE LOVE COFFEE ☕

 
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