Thecus N1200 (Black)

With computers becoming more and more an essential part of everyday life, many users are looking to not only expand their storage capacity, but the number of computers in their personal network as well. Traditionally, users would have to invest in several pieces of equipment to accomplish this task, often at great expense and extensive setup. The N1200 is a device that combines storage and networking into one convenient device. With the N1200's RouStor Technology, users can enjoy the benefits of Thecus' renowned network storage with the convenience of a 4-port switch built-in. Now, expanding a network and increasing storage capacity has never been easier.

The N1200 comes with one standard-sized 3.5" SATA hard disk bay, allowing users to choose the amount of storage capacity that suits their needs. The N1200 is also the world's first one-bay NAS device to support both 2.5" and 3.5" hard disks. Users can use 3.5" hard disks for maximum performance and better cost savings, or they can opt for 2.5" hard disks for quieter operation, lower operating temperatures, and lower power consumption. If that's not enough, users can also utilize the N1200's speedy eSATA and two USB 2.0 ports to easily increase capacity when they need it. Its 45mm x 181mm x 160mm space-saving dimensions mean that the N1200 fits easily on a desk without monopolizing real estate, and a built-in Kensington lock security slot ensures that the N1200 stays where you left it. The one-touch copy button makes it easy to back up your files from digital cameras or USB flash drives, and handy LED indicators keep you informed of the N1200’s status at-a-glance.

Of course, the N1200 is more than a simple NAS solution. Part of Thecus' RouStor line of products, the N1200 also has a 4-port 10/100 switch in addition to a Gigabit Ethernet port built right in. With the 4-port switch, users can easily expand their network at the home or office without the need to purchase separate networking components. With the N1200, users can upgrade their networks and their storage capacity in one easy step. What's more, the N1200 is compatible with PCs, Macs, and Linux boxes, which means that different computers on the network can easily backup their data regardless of operating system. The N1200 also comes with a mini PCI slot. With it, users can easily install either a mini PCI wireless card or a USB wireless dongle for instant wireless access to the N1200. With multiple connectivity options and multiple OS support, users can share, store, and access their data more conveniently than ever before.

The N1200 also comes equipped with an Embedded Media Server from Mediabolic. The software resides on the N1200 and aggregates personal media so that it was can be accessed by a variety of players, such as network TVs, IP set-top boxes, and digital media adapters. This software is DLNA Certified, which means that increased interoperability with other DLNA certified devices. It aggregates content from multiple sources on the network into a single, unified directory, and enables advanced digital rights management, an auto setup wizard, and auto-generating video thumbnails. With Mediabolic's Embedded Media Server, accessing, sharing, and enjoying your media files has never been easier.

As a Thecus product, the N1200 comes with a robust selection of features that make administration and management a simple affair. All administration is done via an intuitive web-based interface that is available in 9 languages. The Thecus Backup Utility allows PC and MAC users to easily backup their data on a regular basis, while the Download Manager makes it easy to schedule BT, HTTP, and FTP transfers during off-peak hours. The N1200 can also act as an iTunes® Server, which allows users to stream music throughout their network. Users can easily share their favorite photos with the Photo Web Server software, and the built-in Print Server enables convenient network printing with the Internet Printing Protocol. Setting up the N1200 is a breeze with the included Setup Wizard, and if something should go awry, the N1200 can even automatically e-mail system messages to a specified e-mail account.

What's new...

Thecus N1200 Review With the N1200, Thecus has focused on home users looking for a repository for their multimedia content and its claim to fame is being the first desktop appliance to support both 3.5in. and 2.5in hard disks. Date: 04/06/2007