Build a Compact 12V DC Home NAS Server on a Budget

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Building a Compact and Low Voltage DC-Powered NAS Server
3. The Benefits of a NAS Server
4. Choosing the Right Hardware for Your NAS Build
5. The Mini ITX Embedded Motherboard: A Hidden Gem
6. The Power-Efficient Intel Atom D2550 CPU
7. Installing and Configuring the Hardware
8. Selecting and Installing the Operating System
9. Windows Server: A Powerful and Flexible Choice
10. Setting Up File Sharing on the NAS Server
11. Data Backup and Security on the NAS Server
12. Conclusion

Building a Small and Silent Terabyte NAS Server for Your Home Network

Are you in need of a small and efficient NAS server for your home network? Look no further! In this video, I will guide you through the process of building a compact and low voltage DC-powered NAS server that is suitable for operating off batteries and solar power. With a mix of used and new hardware, you can have your very own home NAS server to store and access all your digital assets.

Introduction

A NAS server, or Network Attached Storage server, is a device that brings together all your digital files in one central location. Whether it's documents, Music, videos, software, drivers, user manuals, or automatic data backups, a NAS server allows you to store and access these files from any computer on your home network. Not only does it provide convenient access, but it also offers data backup capabilities, freeing you from the need to rely on third-party cloud services.

Pros:

• Consolidates all digital assets in one place
• Provides convenient access from any computer on the home network
• Allows for easy data backup and restoration
• Freedom from paying cloud storage fees

Cons:

• Requires time and effort to set up and configure
• Initial investment in hardware may be required

Building a Compact and Low Voltage DC-Powered NAS Server

When building a NAS server, there are several key requirements to consider. Firstly, the server needs to be compact and have a low voltage DC power consumption, making it suitable for off-GRID environments powered by batteries and solar power. Additionally, a silent operation is desired, necessitating passive cooling and the use of solid-state drives for storage. A clean and minimalistic build with minimal wiring is also preferred.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HARDWARE FOR YOUR NAS BUILD

The heart of any NAS server is the motherboard, and for this build, we will be using a Mini ITX embedded motherboard. This motherboard, the rare emb-cv1, combines used and new hardware, providing both reliability and affordability. It features a dual-core Intel Atom D2550 CPU, operating at a low power consumption of only 10 watts. The Intel NM10 chipset, though from 2012, ensures smooth functionality.

Pros:

• Compact size and low power consumption
• Affordable option for a custom NAS server build
• Reliable and efficient Intel Atom D2550 CPU
• Integration of essential headers for industrial applications

Cons:

• Relatively outdated technology

The Mini ITX Embedded Motherboard: A Hidden Gem

The Mini ITX embedded motherboard we will be using for this build is not commonly available to the general public. Built by industrial manufacturer Aeon, with ties to Asus, this motherboard offers a customized layout aimed at industrial applications. The presence of GPIO, LVD, and serial headers adds to its uniqueness. While considered outdated by some, repurposing older hardware gives new life to what others deem outdated technology.

The Power-Efficient Intel Atom D2550 CPU

Providing the processing power for our NAS server is the Intel Atom D2550 CPU. This dual-core CPU, clocked at 1.86 GHz, excels in power efficiency, making it ideal for low-power environments. Originally launched in 2008, Intel Atom CPUs are commonly used in netbooks, phones, tablets, and motherboards where energy efficiency triumphs over high performance. Coupled with the Intel NM10 chipset, this CPU ensures reliable performance.

Installing and Configuring the Hardware

To start the build, we need to ensure the motherboard is free from Dust, as we are using a used Mini ITX embedded motherboard. After cleaning the motherboard, we move on to the case selection. While many ITX cases are overpriced, we find a suitable one, although slightly worn, that meets our requirements for a compact build with reasonable ventilation.

Selecting and Installing the Operating System

When it comes to choosing the operating system for our NAS server, several options are available. While popular choices like FreeNAS or TrueNAS offer flexibility and power, we opt for Windows Server. Drawing from our experience with Windows and Linux, Windows Server 2008 provides the control and familiarity we desire. Although securing an older operating system requires expertise, the benefits outweigh the complexities.

Windows Server: A Powerful and Flexible Choice

Windows Server offers several advantages that make it user-friendly, even for non-experts. Its familiar desktop-like interface and built-in management console simplify the addition and removal of features, giving users complete control over their server. Windows Server's file sharing capability makes it effortless to share folders within the network, allowing seamless access for users.

Setting Up File Sharing on the NAS Server

Configuring file sharing on the NAS server is a straightforward process. By creating a folder, assigning user access rights, and sharing it over the network, users can access the shared folder from their computers. With just a few clicks, files can be copied to and from the NAS server with ease. Windows Server's simplicity and usability ensure hassle-free file sharing within the home network.

Data Backup and Security on the NAS Server

One of the critical reasons for having a NAS server is data backup. By installing free backup software on both the NAS server and desktop computers, complete backup images of hard drives can be created and stored in a shared folder. Automatic backups to redundant SSDs ensure data security and provide peace of mind. Windows Server's extensive range of applications and services allows for customization and tailored backup solutions.

Conclusion

Building your own NAS server offers unmatched flexibility and control over your data. With the right hardware and operating system, a small and silent terabyte NAS server can be constructed for your home network. Enjoy the convenience of centralized file storage, seamless file sharing, and the freedom from relying on third-party cloud services. Take control of your data and explore endless possibilities with your personalized NAS server.

Highlights:

• Build a compact and low voltage DC-powered NAS server
• Consolidate all your digital assets in one place
• Enjoy convenient access from any computer on the home network
• Ensure data backup and security without paying monthly fees
• Make use of a Mini ITX embedded motherboard with a power-efficient Intel Atom D2550 CPU
• Install and configure the Windows Server operating system for full control
• Set up file sharing and easily access shared folders within the home network
• Implement data backup solutions using free software and redundant SSDs
• Personalize your NAS server with a clean and minimalistic build

FAQ:

Q: Can I build a NAS server with a different motherboard? A: Yes, you can choose a different motherboard as long as it meets the compact size and low power consumption requirements.

Q: Is Windows Server the best choice for a NAS server? A: Windows Server offers flexibility and familiarity, but there are other options like FreeNAS or TrueNAS that have their own advantages.

Q: Can I access the shared folders on the NAS server from a Mac or Linux computer? A: Yes, Windows Server supports file sharing with Mac and Linux computers as well.

Q: How much storage can the NAS server hold? A: The NAS server can accommodate four to eight terabytes of data, but you can expand its storage capacity as needed.

Q: Can I use the NAS server as a backup solution for my entire network? A: Yes, with the right software and configuration, you can back up all the computers on your network to the NAS server.

Resources:

• Link to used Mini ITX embedded motherboard on eBay
• Windows Server 2008 download page
• Free backup software options
• Information about FreeNAS
• Information about TrueNAS