nas or usb hdd ?

[mikk]

What are the advantages of an nas drive over an external usb hdd for storing/playing films on a smart tv. I've have been using the latter but recently picked up an LG nas drive. A single pc would be accessing it for now.

[03ahmads]

NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. Therefore it can be accessed from anywhere in the home network or even the world if it has the required features. So for yourself you wouldn't need to transfer to your usb, rather keep everything on the NAS as your Smart TV will be able to see it along with any other computer in the house. Depending on your setup, you may get much increased transfer speeds as opposed to an external drive. Of course Raid also comes into it, so you wouldn't ever have to back anything up again, you would need a NAS with a minimum of 2 bays & one which supports your required Raid type. It all depends on the end user. But NAS drives offer a lot depending on how much you spend on one. Some have integrated media players which will play literally anything you throw at them. Was contemplating a NAS drive myself last week for literally the same scenario as yourself but in the end have decided against it.

[cunny]

I have both setups. I use the nas allot as no messing putting stuff on usb drive. The kids access it over wireless to watch stuff.

In all its down to end user requirements. Personally I have done away with discs completely. I could not be bothered carrying the usb drive to pc when I wanted to put new content on it

[mikk]

How does the wireless work, is it good with HD files?

[03ahmads]

How does the wireless work, is it good with HD files?

Would all depend on your setup, the nas drive you have, the speed of your internet connection, how good your wireless is and the receiving wireless device.

[billy2]

nas for me also, and also use this [ame="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Icy-Box-Ib-3221stu-b-Aluminium-Technology/dp/product-description/B001AIBHEO"]Icy Box - Ib-3221stu-b - Aluminium Case For 2 X 3.5" Sata Hdd, Jbod System With Usb 2.0 Interface - Easyswap Technology: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories[/ame]

[rg66]

A NAS would be great for a home network but you can take a USB drive anywhere and a 2.5 inch drive can fit in your pocket.

[billy2]

yes but you can access your nas from any where you wont, my brother can log into my nas and view my movies and music on his pc

[zycronic]

If its going to remain in the house and not be moved then a NAS drive is a very good purchase and a great way of sharing. You need a good LAN speed to make the most of it as wireless can really hinder its ability.

The only problem with a usb drive is for anyone else wanting to gain access to its content, that person has to plug it into their computer were the NAS solves that problem.

[Hero_uk1]

Hi

Can someone please send me a guide on how to setup NAS drive so that my brother can access music and films from his house? i would also like to access my NAS drive on my phone if im out and about.

Thanks

[polako]

what is the brand and mdel of the NAS because the NAS units are capable to do DLNA and if your brother can not see the info on the computer maybe he is blocking the incoming ports used by upnp so they can talk each other. check dlna.org and search the model number and check the unit certificate to know what media files can be streamed from your unit

[billy2]

for me i logged into my nas and setup webaccess settings and this is where you make up your password to log into your nas.
it will also give you a webaccess URL TO use to log into your nas from your web browsers this is what my one looks like http://buffalonas.com/***********"/

[Hero_uk1]

NAS issue

Thanks for the reply guys

im using a pluscom NAS adaptor (ebay job) with a seagate HDD. Please some one guide me how to setup so my brother can access from his home and i can access from my phone. i have Virgin media super hub.

Thanks

[mikk]

VLC without pc

I guess even though these 'smart tvs' claim usb plug n play I doubt they will open all the codecs used in films today. That would mean software that can. VLC is the obvious one but would it run standalone from a nas drive, the external hdd no chance, right?
edit: ok, it will. There is portable VLC, winamp and AVS. Any preference?

[Curious123]

I brought a Panasonic wifi enbabled 'Smart' tv a couple of weeks ago and this tv literally plays almost any video format you can throw at it. I also brought a Netgear ReadyNas NAS drive around the same time. I found that my Panasonic was fine handling HD video using wifi but couldn't handle 3D format unless connected by ethernet cable. The ReadyNAS has built-in torrent client so it is possible to download stuff and leave it downloading 24/7. As everyone has said a NAS is great for access from anywhere and also for storing files so everyone can access without running around with a USB drive. I have been overdoing the downloading a little bit and just received a letter from VM reminding me about their traffic shaping policies! I think I had better be a good boy and ease up before they decide to disconnect me!