Appendix C: RAID Basics

Overview

A Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) is an array of several hard disks that provide data security and high performance. A RAID system accesses several hard disks simultaneously, which improves I/O performance over a single hard disk. Data security is enhanced by a RAID, since data loss due to a hard disk failure is minimized by regenerating redundant data from the other RAID hard disks.

Benefits

RAID improves I/O performance, and increases data security through fault tolerance and redundant data storage.

Improved Performance

RAID provides access to several hard disk drives simultaneously, which greatly increases I/O performance.

Data Security

Hard disk drive failure unfortunately is a common occurrence. A RAID helps prevent against the loss of data due to hard disk failure. A RAID offers additional hard disk drives that can avert data loss from a hard disk drive failure. If a hard drive fails, the RAID volume can regenerate data from the data and parity stored on its other hard disk drives.

RAID Levels

The Thecus N3200PRO supports standard RAID levels 0, 1, 5, and JBOD. You choose a RAID level when you create a system volume. The factors for selecting a RAID level are:

•Your requirements for performance

•Your need for data security

•Number of hard disk drives in the system, capacity of hard disk drives in the system

The following is a description of each RAID level:

RAID 0

RAID 0 is best suited for applications that need high bandwidth but do not require a high level of data security. The RAID 0 level provides the best performance of all the RAID levels, but it does not provide data redundancy.

RAID 0 uses disk striping and breaking up data into blocks to write across all hard drives in the volume. The system can then use multiple hard drives for faster read and write. The stripe size parameter that was set when the RAID was created determines the size of each block. No parity calculations complicate the write operation.

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Thecus Technology N3200PRO manual Appendix C RAID Basics, Benefits, RAID Levels, Improved Performance, Data Security
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N3200PRO specifications

The Thecus Technology N3200PRO is a high-performance Network Attached Storage (NAS) device designed for home and small office use. With its ability to deliver robust data storage, the N3200PRO stands out as a versatile solution for users who require secure access to their files across multiple devices. This NAS unit supports a range of functionalities, making it suitable for both enthusiasts and professionals.

One of the main features of the N3200PRO is its capability to accommodate three SATA hard drives, providing up to 6TB of total storage space. This allows users to configure the device in various RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, and JBOD, ensuring data redundancy, improved performance, or a combination of both. This flexibility in storage configuration is crucial for businesses looking to optimize their data management.

The N3200PRO boasts a powerful Intel Atom dual-core processor, along with a substantial 512MB of DDR2 RAM. This hardware configuration enhances the device's performance, enabling smooth multitasking, quick file transfers, and efficient media streaming. The intuitive user interface, powered by Thecus’ proprietary ThecusOS, allows users to easily navigate through settings, monitor system performance, and manage files, making it a user-friendly option for those less tech-savvy.

Furthermore, the device supports multiple network protocols, including CIFS/SMB, AFP, and FTP, ensuring compatibility with a variety of operating systems. This feature is particularly beneficial for mixed environments using Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. Additionally, the N3200PRO comes equipped with USB ports for easy external storage expansion, allowing users to back up data or transfer files seamlessly.

Another notable characteristic of the N3200PRO is its robust data protection features, including snapshot and file versioning capabilities. This allows users to create point-in-time copies of their data, safeguarding against accidental deletion or corruption. With built-in support for remote access and cloud integration, users can access their files from anywhere, ensuring flexibility and convenience.

In summary, the Thecus Technology N3200PRO is a well-rounded NAS solution that combines performance, scalability, and user-friendly features. With its robust storage capabilities, efficient hardware, and advanced data protection measures, it is an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their data management and accessibility in a modern computing environment.
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