Upgrading to Ultra 6+ from NV+

nandu wrote:
1) Is there any file size limitation on Time Machine backups on the newer units? The NV+ has a 2TB file size limit which is a big limitation. I wanted to use the newer unit with at least 4 disks of 3Tb. I want over 5tb available to Time Machine.

We've taken out the Time Machine capacity limitation as of 4.2.16 (back in April) on the Ultras and the Pros.

2) I see from the specifications that the Ultra 6+ and the Pro 6 have noise levels of about 25dbA, which are considerably less than the NV+. Are these numbers for a fully loaded unit? Can an Ultra 6+ or Pro 6 reliably be used in a quiet setting (living room or bedroom) without being annoying? Currently, I am using a fully loaded NV+ with a Noctua 92mm fan replacing the stock fan -- it is virtually inaudible.

The larger fan on the Ultra/Pro allows it to spin at a slower RPM thus it is quieter than the NV+, even fully loaded.

3) Are WD Caviar green drives supported without issue? These drives make some clicking noises due to the head parking -- does this need to be disabled before the disks are used in the ReadyNAS? I had to use a DOS utility supplied by WD to disable the head parking (a real pain to do since I don't have any windows machines any more) and it would be a real help if the ReadyNAS were to take care of this on its own.

Caviar Green is supported -- check our HCL -- http://www.readynas.com/hcl

Thanks for the help. My NV+ and NV have served me well. I am hoping my experience with the Ultra 6+ or the Pro 6 will be as positive. And by the way, if anyone has any ideas on whether the Pro 6 would be preferable to the Ultra 6+, please feel free to chip in. I am less interested in features -- I am more concerned about overall responsiveness and noise.

The Pro has a faster CPU that allows it to transcode full 1080p videos whereas the Ultra 6+ can do 720p. This can be important if you plan on running Plex (see http://www.readynas.com/plex) in full HD mode.