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Forum Discussion
Sandshark
Jul 09, 2026Sensei
Links to instructions for installing TrueNAS with front panel display capability on some ReadyNAS
For those looking to install an alternate OS on their RN42x, 52x, or 62x unit, here is a link to some very good instructions on installing TrueNAS Scale: https://www.reddit.com/r/truenas/comments/1ozklya/truenas_installation_on_readynas_426_a_stepbystep/
Though it's included in that post, here is the link to a project that makes the front display useful in TrueNAS Scale: https://github.com/riplatt/truenas-rn426-panel
Given it requires no special Kernel and TrueNAS Scale is Debian based, I suspect that the display project can be used as the basis for doing the same under other Linux OS's (at least Debian-based ones).
I take no credit other than finding this and have not done the install myself, so cannot help you if you need it. Personally, I'm looking at OMV.
5 Replies
- StephenBGuru - Experienced User
Thanks for sharing.
I took a quick look - the instructions give the RAM requirement as 16 GB.
RN52x NAS come with 4 GB ECC ram, the RN62x come with 8 GB ECC - so you definitely should upgrade the RAM before conversion. If you want to run apps, you probably should upgrade to 32 GB.
- portalmanAspirant
Before anyone gets deep on this, I’m fairly sure that approach to driving the front panel won’t work on a Pro6, only those newer models with navigation buttons.
id love to be proved wrong however!
- portalmanAspirant
Oh, and fan control is another thing to think about before jumping right in on your main NAS.
- SandsharkSensei
Yes, the display part works only on native OS6 units. The huge amount of RAM required is one reason I think OMV is better suited to most ReadyNAS and the only choice for some. But I posted this for those who think otherwise. Netgear uses lmsensors for fan control, and it should work fine in other Linux variations.
- portalmanAspirant
Yes exactly. I’ve got fan control all configured but people need to know it’s a pretty involved and manual process. It’s not an out of the box or add an app experience.
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