Desktop Computer Review: ASUS TS Mini SOHO Server (2TB Storage) Review

I got my TS Mini (2TB) about a week ago from AMAZON ([...]) and it was for $[...] with free shipping and got it in 3 days. The outer box said it was 500GB so I got concerned but when I opened it the product box itself said 2TB. I physically opened the server and yes I did indeed see two seagate drives each 1TB. When I booted it up it showed 1TB and also 2GB of memory. Not sure why some other people got the wrong one.

So far I am very happy with its performance as expected from an ASUS product. I own several ASUS products including motherboards, Video cards and related computer equipment.

PROS:
1). Easy to setup - was a breeze to have it "seen" by my other computers on my home network as well as PS3
2). The quality of construction is also good
3). Super quiet can hardly hear it even with my ears up against it
4). Runs surprisingly cool I can barely feel any heat around it the fans run super quiet
5). User friendly interface for management
6). Lots of USB ports and an eSATA port to expand
7). Gigabit port
8). Very low power consumption
9). Tons of great features

CONS:
1). 32-bit Architecture. I wish this was a 64-bit Architecture but for my needs to store and stream data I can live with 32-bit
2). Some of the "advanced" settings are not very clearly indicated/mentioned in the documentation but I was able to get around it by googling some of the info and setting it up that way. I really wish they had provided some instructions how to take full advantage of some of the neat features...they left it for the user to "discover"

Over all a 5 STAR but for the Lack of good documentation/instructions on some advanced features I give it a 4.

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Product Description:
The new ASUS Small Office Home Office (SOHO) Server TS mini helps you centralize your files to improve data management, enhance media streaming, and better utilize home networks.

Designed to simplify a user's digital life, the TS mini centralizes files such as photos, music, and videos from multiple home computers-to enable easy storing, sharing and securing of the files within a home or remotely through the Internet.
Equipped with Intel Atom processor N280, the TS mini delivers efficient, 24/7 performance. Operating on the Microsoft Windows Home Server Platform, TS Mini simplifies the management and protection of digital content.

The TS mini features up to 2GB of DDR2 RAM memory, Gigabit Ethernet support, supports up to 4TB of internal storage, exclusive 500GB of ASUS WebStorage online storage*, six USB ports, and two eSATA ports to meet future growth requirements. The 2TB version offers 2GB of DDR2 RAM, 2TB of internal storage, 500GB of ASUS WebStorage and much more.

Key Features

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Enhanced Data Access and File Management

The TS mini functions as a data management center, automatically backing up data from up to 10 computers daily.

With six USB and two eSATA ports, the TS mini lets you directly back up, synchronize, and manage your files across various USB and eSATA devices and the internal hard disk drive.

In a recovery scenario, you will be able to easily restore files or bring computers back online by loading the latest information saved on the TS mini. With the TS Mini, it is easy to have peace of mind.

Convenient Content Sharing at Home and Easy Remote Access

The TS mini makes it easy for users to stream photos, music, video and other digital content to various devices including HD media players, TVs, computers, Media PCs, and gaming consoles in their around home-for all-around home entertainment access.

With the Remote Access feature, while away from home, you can access the TS mini and its content using your personal Windows Live account.

While connected, you can also stream music and multimedia content through the online connection.

Large Data Capacity with ASUS' Exclusive WebStorage*

On top of the 2TB of hard drive storage, the ASUS TS mini comes with a full year of free 500GB ASUS WebStorage* that allows you to store, share, and access your files over the Web.

With ASUS WebStorage, you can boost your storage limit and synchronize backups online for improved data security.

Additionally, you can save large files on the Web, and upload it to social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter anywhere there is internet access.

ASUS WebStorage allows you to create multiple logins for sharing your favorite files securely.

With this free cloud storage, you will have the redundancy and safety of online backup to make sure that your most precious data is never lost.*

Enhanced Data Access and File Management

You can use the TS mini as a user-friendly management console to consolidate data from various sources.

With six USB and two eSATA ports-the most I/O interface for a home server-the TS mini lets home users directly back up, synchronize, and manage their files across various USB and eSATA devices and the internal hard disk drive.

With the eSATA ports, you can quickly access and store your data up to 3Gb/s. That is like transferring 2 movies in just 15 seconds!

Less Power Consumption than a Light Bulb**

In line with global energy-saving initiatives, the TS mini was developed to use minimal power-consuming 24.5W of power in idle mode and 27.9W when activated.

Such energy-saving capabilities make the TS mini the ideal choice for 24-by-7, non-stop data center operations. That is less power consumption than a typical 60W light bulb!

And because the TS mini consumes so little power, it is able to run at a much quieter sound level. At only 28 Decibels during full operation, the TS mini is quieter than a whisper.

Warranty

ASUS 1 Year Limited Warranty

ASUS SOHO Server TS Mini comes with 1 year limited warranty.
Please visit Support.ASUS.com for more details on warranty policy.

What's in the Box

TS Mini (2TB version)
Quick start guide
User manual
AC adapter
Power cord
RJ45 LAN cable
HDD screws package
Software installation CD
Recovery CD
Restore CD
Warranty card

Specifications

CPU: Intel Atom Processor N280 1.66GHz
Memory: 2GB DDR2-800
Hard Drive Storage: 2TB @ 7200rpm (2x 1TB)
Cloud Storage: 500GB ASUS WebStorage*
Networking: 1x 10/100/1000 (Gigabit) RJ45 LAN
Interfaces: 6x USB 2.0, 2x eSATA, 1x Kensington Lock
Buttons: Power on/off button, Recovery button
LED Indicators: System, HDD1, HDD2, Network status indicators
AC Power Adapter (Watt): Output: 19V, 90W,Input: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz universal
Dimensions: 9.6 (H) x 3.8 (W) x 8 (D) inches
Approximate Weight: 8.58 lbs.
Operation Noise: 28 dBa (near silent)
Operating System: Powered by Microsoft Windows Home Server
Color: Piano Black

All specifications are subject to change without notice.
Color and bundled software versions are subject to change without notice.
Product may not be exactly as shown in photos.
*ASUS WebStorage service is complimentary for the first 12 months.
**Compared to a typical incandescent 60W light bulb

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