SilverStone NAS NS311

Performance:

Whether you are using the USB or network interface, Windows, Mac OS, and UNIX/Linux support the SilverStone Technology NS311. We had tested the SilverStone NS311 when using a Western Digital 80GB IDE hard drive, and the client computers used were Fedora Core 6 with the Linux 2.6.19 kernel. While we had primarily tested the NS311 with its network functionality, Genesys Logic Inc. manufactures the USB 2.0 to IDE adapter. In the way of any compatibility issues with Linux, we had experienced none. After the drive was installed (which only took a couple of minutes) we were set and ready to begin testing. Below are several screenshots from the web-based interface for the SilverStone NS311. Of the noteworthy options found in this area include the ability to turn the NS311 into a DHCP server, upgradeable firmware, Samba (SMB) and FTP server setup, and scan/check disk utility.

We had connected to the SilverStone NS311 with the Western Digital hard drive from a number of different computers using both Samba and FTP. In all of these tests, the NS311 had functioned successfully as a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device.

Conclusion:

Late last month we had reviewed the SilverStone Temjin TJ09 and were completely blown away by its exceptional design and we went as far as calling it the best case we had seen all year. While they are most noted for their cases and power supplies, the NS311 is a prime example that SilverStone is able to push the envelope of innovation within their company. The device had functioned as expected for being a network attached storage device and we had no real complaints about the NS311. It would be ideal if SilverStone had a Serial ATA version of the NS311 as well as a multi-drive NAS device, but we are sure that is only a matter of time until such products reach the market. At this time the SilverStone NS311 can be found for approximately $95 USD.