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Upgrading ReadyNAS Pioneer Pro
Hello all, I have an older ReadyNAS Pioneer Pro (RNDP600E ?) running the older Radiator 4.2.x... I'm in the process of upgrading both hardware and software, I know this is all unsupported. - I ju...
The steps are
(Optionally) make sure the latest BIOS is installed before you do the conversion. To do this you install http://www.readynas.com/download/addons/x86/4.2/BIOS_Update_Package_0.5-x86.bin as an add-on and reboot the NAS. Do this after you backup the NAS. This isn't necessary, but if you so want to update the bios it is easiest to do it prior to conversion (and you should do it before you upgrade the processor).
There is some information on RAM upgrades here: https://community.netgear.com/t5/New-ReadyNAS-Users-General/Memory-upgrade-for-ReadyNAS-Pro-6/m-p/1072954#M20197 Though 4GB modules are expensive. If you already have 4 GB, then I suggest leaving it as it is.
Basic instructions for the conversion itself are
- BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP
- Upload PREPR4TOR6_0.1-x86.bin as an add-on using the ReadyNAS web gui, but do not reboot afterwards (avoids the need to do manual factory resets)
- Upload R4toR6_6.9.5.bin using the ReadyNAS web gui firmware update
- After you upload the addon+firmware and reboot, it will update the firmware and start a factory default.
- Go through the setup process on the converted NAS
- Update the NAS to the current OS 6 (check for updates will work).
- Restore files from the backup.
Netgear won't provide paid support on a converted NAS (or one with a processor upgrade), so that is one consideration. There is a small risk that the process could fail, and if that were to happen it might not be possible to get the NAS running again.
The steps are
(Optionally) make sure the latest BIOS is installed before you do the conversion. To do this you install http://www.readynas.com/download/addons/x86/4.2/BIOS_Update_Package_0.5-x86.bin as an add-on and reboot the NAS. Do this after you backup the NAS. This isn't necessary, but if you so want to update the bios it is easiest to do it prior to conversion (and you should do it before you upgrade the processor).
There is some information on RAM upgrades here: https://community.netgear.com/t5/New-ReadyNAS-Users-General/Memory-upgrade-for-ReadyNAS-Pro-6/m-p/1072954#M20197 Though 4GB modules are expensive. If you already have 4 GB, then I suggest leaving it as it is.
Basic instructions for the conversion itself are
- BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP
- Upload PREPR4TOR6_0.1-x86.bin as an add-on using the ReadyNAS web gui, but do not reboot afterwards (avoids the need to do manual factory resets)
- Upload R4toR6_6.9.5.bin using the ReadyNAS web gui firmware update
- After you upload the addon+firmware and reboot, it will update the firmware and start a factory default.
- Go through the setup process on the converted NAS
- Update the NAS to the current OS 6 (check for updates will work).
- Restore files from the backup.
Netgear won't provide paid support on a converted NAS (or one with a processor upgrade), so that is one consideration. There is a small risk that the process could fail, and if that were to happen it might not be possible to get the NAS running again.
StephenB I followed your directions and it went really smoothly... The only strange thing I noticed was during the addon + firmware stage it said on the front panel at some point during the process "Err: Could not properly extract", but then went on and seemed to upgrade everything fine. Not sure if that is normal behavior or not?
Otherwise, it seems perfect.
On another note, I did manage to find some second hand RAM in the 2x 4GB variety so I got them, it's the Patriot brand which others have reported good, I'll report back once I test them.
I've installed the RAM and now I'm trying to get the heat sync off, it's a real bear. I loosened all for spring screws but it is really stuck on there... I'm trying to hold the screw mounts and gently twich back and forth hoping it will pop off but no luck so far... I read other had troubles with this too. Is it a bad idea to drip a little alcohol through the heatsink grill and hope it hits the paste to make it easier to remove?
I remember reading someone else tried dental floss but I'm not even sure where the actual contact is between the sink and the processor.
Any pointers here most welcome!
Run the NAS for a bit to warm up the CPU and see if that helps. You could stop the fan from spinning for a short period to speed that up. I don't recall there being any holes through which alcohol would reach the paste. I have replaced the CPU on three units, and just remember having to twist rather hard.
Sandshark Humm... I just came back from doing what you mentioned... I disconnected the fan and ran it hot and then shut down and tried to wiggle...
I then pushed the little clips and removed the fan from the heat sink altogether... Now there is just a black plastic mount, the heat sink and the metal plate that is attached to the 4 arms that have the screws with springs... Just to be clear, the metal mount w/ the four screw sits on top of the processor correct?
When I unscrew the four screws that made a pop sound which I'm assuming means I've completely unscrewed them... I've been twisting back and for on the 4 screw and trying to put my fingers under the heat sink w/o the fan and lift up... All of that doesn't seem to even budge this thing...
Should I just try to put a little more force of the the 4 screw twisting?
Many thanks!!!
Yes, the metal piece is the heatsink. Assuming the screws are fully disengaged, the twisting action is going to be more effective than pulling, and you probably do just need more force.
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