ReadyNAS Device Compatibility List

StephenB wrote:

I like the WDC Reds (I am using 9 WD30EFRX in various ReadyNAS at the moment, plus 1 WD20EFRX and 1 WD60EFRX). I've heard good things about the WDC Red Pro line, but they aren't on the NAS HCL yet, and I'm not sure I need the higher performance anyway. Seagate VN might be just as good, though I had a run of bad seagates several years ago (multiple models) and decided to switch to WDC at that point. My general advice is that over the long term you are usually better off going with fewer/larger drives, and leaving slots open for future expansion. Replacing a working drive with a larger one is expensive when you figure the cost per TB gained. A corollary is that when you do replace a drive with a larger one, you generally want to get the biggest new drive you can afford (taking compatibility into account of course). For instance, going from 3 TB to 4 TB would requires replacing 2 drives at $160 each - costing you $320 per TB gained with RAID. Going from 3 TB to 6 TB would require replacing two drives at $260 each, costing about $170 per TB gained. If you have an open slot, then inserting a new 4 TB drive would only cost you $160 - $40 per TB gained (assuming 3x4TB to start with). Of course if you have a use for the drives you are replacing, then the economics changes.

I'm coming to a similar conclusion about size. Been looking at WD3001FFSX and WD40EFRX (and WD30EFRX). I was trying to discern if NASWare 2.0 vs 3.0 was any benefit, and if NASWare is any benefit in the ReadyNAS at all? I have not worked with NASWare. Mostly PERC based RAID. My first NAS coming ;)

I am leaning towards 4x 3TB to meet current needs and first 6-12 months, then add 1 or 2 4TB drives when needed. You're right about replacing, better to add. Then there is the option for USB30 and eSATA adds, right? Or do they not perform as well as the internal bays as part of the RAID volume? (I can move that Q to another thread if the discussion is too involved?)

I really appreciate your time. I'd much rather ask up front from experienced experts than try to solve problems after :)

I'm expecting to order my system later today, just waiting to select the drives.