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View Full Version : 2012 home server: Acer Easystore vs. ... ?



JHW
Jun 23rd, 2012, 03:55 PM
Folks,

I need to set up a server for home use. The main uses for this machine will be to back up other computers, stream music, photos, and some video to other computers and devices (Squeezebox, DLNA video to a tablet), possibly running some torrents as well. I would like the machine to be as energy-efficient and unobtrusive as possible, and not looking to spend too much money. For what I need to do, I think a NAS is probably insufficient (most NAS setups can't handle Squeezebox)

I had initially considered an Acer Easystore H340 (they are available used on Craigslist, etc.) but they are getting long in the tooth and there may be a better answer. I would build my own system if there is a considerable cost savings to be had. Converting an old desktop machine for the task is an option, but they tend to suck up a lot of power.

I am happy to go with Windows Home Server or any relatively simple Linux-based option (Amahi, etc.)

All advice welcome. Thanks in advance.

Calmuser
Jun 23rd, 2012, 05:24 PM
my acer is still working strong!

does everything I need.

The only problem I for see with this route is the non-support of 3TB HD's and 2TB with Advanced formatting without doing some tinkering.

you could build your own with one of those all in ones low power mobos, and install v2 of WHS. But then you lose the main selling point of WHS, the drive extender functionality. There are 3rd party add-ons that are supposed to fix that though.

AncasterRFD
Jun 23rd, 2012, 09:06 PM
I really like my H340, 8TB capacity, 720/1080p network shares to PC laptops/Macbooks/WD live but it's underpowered to AirVideo the same HD mkv's to iPad/iPhone/iPod, stutters; AVIs are fine.
Unless I have it configured wrong, I did this: http://www.mswhs.com/2010/06/air-video-on-windows-home-server/