SmartStor Articles

What is the default port for finding the NAS over the WWW

2010-06-14T13:20:18.0000000

What is the default port for finding the NAS over the WWW?

The default port now is 443.

Can I read / write data to the NS4600 when it is rebuilding the RAID system?

2010-05-16T11:50:30.0000000

Can I read / write data to the NS4600 when it is rebuilding the RAID system?

Yes, you can read and write data to the NAS 4600 during a rebuild process.

How do I set up the iSCSI interface on the NAS 4600 in Windows PC

2010-05-16T11:43:32.0000000

How do I set up the iSCSI interface on the NAS 4600 in Windows PC?

NOTE:

1. Make sure that the NAS 4600 is running the latest firmware

2. If the iSCSI interface is the preferred medium, it is recommended that the user set up the iSCSI option during the initial creation of the ARRAY. This will allow the user to designate the desired capacity of the ARRAY.

3. iSCSI interface set up after the creation of the ARRAY will only allot 10GB disk space for the iSCSI interface, or 0 capacity if the ARRAY volume has been extended.

Procedure:

1. In the Web utility, access RAID & File System > iSCSI management > Service Settings, select Enable, select OK.

2. Select the Create tab > Capacity > username and password, select OK.

3. In the Host system, activate and select the iSCSI initiator.

4. Select the Target tab > Quick Connect. This will connect the host to the target, the NAS 4600.

5. Select the Discovery tab and make sure that the Target portal reflects the corresponding IP address for the NAS 4600.

6. Select Computer Management > Disk management. Select the corresponding volume and initialize using GPT partition.

7. Upon completion of the disk initialization, the volume will be accessible under “My Computer”

Does the NS4600 support Link Aggregation?

2010-04-19T17:15:30.0000000

Q: Does the NS4600 support Link Aggregation?

A: No. Link aggregation is not a feature that is supported with the NS4600 iSCSI connection as there is only one active network port. The iSCSI connection for the NS4600 is for volume access only.

Q: Does the NS4600 support Link Aggregation?

A: No. Link Aggregation is not a feature supported with the SmartStor NS4600. Although it does support an iSCSI session by enabling the service, it lacks the functionality to support Link Aggregation due to the fact that SmartStor NS4600 has only one Gigabit port. Link Aggregation requires multiple NIC ports to bond them into a group.
The SmartStor NS4600 as well as the iSCSI enabled service provides only volume access.

Can I back up data from a mounted external USB HDD from SmartSYNC on the NAS 4600 SmartNAVI?

2010-04-18T10:21:44.0000000

You can back up data under SmartSYNC in the NAS 4600 SmartNAVI, provided the external hard disk drive is qualified in the compatibility list and, the drive is visible under My Computer in the PC.

Can I backup data from a mounted external USB Hard Drive (HDD) using the SmartSYNC utility within the NS4600 SmartNAVI?

Yes, you can backup data from an external USB Hard Drive using the SmartSYNC feature within the NS4600 SmartNAVI; provided the external USB Hard Drive has been qualified and listed on the NS4600 compatibility list. And the external device is detected and shown in 'My Computer' from a Windows compatible operating system.

Why doesn't my NS4600 firmware download work?

2010-04-18T10:05:14.0000000

If you attempt to download and flash a new firmware version on to your NS4600 and it does not work, ensure that the following conditions are met prior to flashing the firmware:

1. Make sure that you have downloaded the correct firmware version for your unit.

2. Make sure that you have a minimum of 5GB of free space on the volume.

Why can't I play all my videos on the PS3?

2010-04-07T04:44:52.0000000

Why can't I play all my videos on the PS3?

While the PS3 support a wide variety of Video formats it does not support them all check out the link below to see what formats are supported.

http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/video/filetypes.html

Since MKV files are an unsupported format they will be displayed with the title "Unsupported Data" like shown below, then if you try to play them you will get error message "The data type is not supported".

In other situations you might come across a video that looks like it will play indicated by the picture but when you go to play the video you get an error "The data type is not Supported. (800288C0)" This also means the video is encoded in a format that is not supported by the PS3 at this time.

How do I setup the NAS's DLNA so the PS3 can see the NAS's?

2010-04-07T04:32:51.0000000

How do I setup the NAS's DLNA so the PS3 can see the NAS's?

Fist you should have the latest firmware on your NAS, second you will need the latest DLNA plug-in both can be found at www.promise.com.

After you install the latest DLNA plug-in go to File & Print\Application Plug-ins and make sure the DLNA plug-in is enabled.

This part is optimal, When searching for a DLNA device on the PS3 it will give the NAS a name the name of the NAS can be changed here under Network in the Setup tab. Where is says Computer Name this is what will be displayed on the NAS.

Now that you have your DLNA plug-in installed and enabled go to your PS3 and go to Video and select "Search for Media Servers" Your PS3 will begin to scan your network for any DLNA device. This may take 1-2 minutes.

If this done correctly then your PS3 should now see the NAS like shown below.

How do I use my NS2300/NS4300 as a media server and access it via the internet?

2010-03-23T14:46:42.0000000

To use your NS2300/4300 as a media server you will have to enable the DLNA plugin which will allow the SMARTSTOR Media Center to run. In order to acess the SMARTSTOR Media Center you will have to forward the IP address of the NS by following this procedure:

Log in to your local router and enable Port Forwarding. [Please refer to your router documentation for information on enabling this feature...]
Enable port 3056 in your router and have it forwarded to the IP address of the NS2300/4300.
Once the port is assigned, open a browser and enter the IP address of your cable modem:
http://xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx:3056 where x is the IP address of the cable modem.

How Can I use my Smartstor NS4600 with iSCSI?

2010-03-23T10:24:30.0000000

To connect to the NS4600 using the ISCSI protocol you require an iSCSI software initiator or an iSCSI Host Bus Adapter which must be connected to the same network as the NS4600.

Follow this procedure to set up the NS4600 for iSCSI connectivity:

Log in to the Promise Array Storage Manager (PASM).
Go to Administrator and enter the Main Menu.
Click on RAID MANAGMENT and select iSCSI MANAGMENT.
You will need to set up your disk volumes for iSCSI acess to be available. Note: You will need to have space available on your RAID array when it is initially created. If you use all the diskspace in the array creation you will not be able to set up any volumes.
Once the disk volume(s) is created a default iSCSI indentifier will be available for each volume you created, identifiying the disk volume on the iSCSI initiator of your host system.
Once you have completed this process, go to your iSCSI initiator and log in to the NS4600. Be sure to input the IP address of the NS4600 port on the host initator side.

NS4600 Using Safe Mode to Update or Downgrade firmware

2010-02-27T19:20:45.0000000

This procedure can be used to restore the NS4600 after bad flash or downgrade firmware on the NS4600 to earlier build. Downgrades should “ONLY” be done if necessary (such as restoring a feature that is currently inoperable).

Download the NS4600 Firmware you intend to flash from the Promise support site.
Make a note of the current IP address of your NAS by writing it down.
Power off the NS4600. Hold the power button and reset button (pin hole located to the left of chassis screw – bottom left - will need paperclip or push pin) for 5 seconds to power-on in Safe Mode. The status and Ethernet LED will both flash blue after 10 seconds. The NS4600 will boot completely into Safe Mode after 30 to 45 seconds.
Open a browser and enter: \\ipaddress (example: \\192.168.50.149)
The Public Folder Share (RAM disk) will appear in the browser. Open the Public Folder Share and copy the firmware file to it.
Open another browser and enter: //ipaddress (example: //192.168.50.149)
The Safe Mode webpage will appear. Enter the firmware filename and select “OK” to begin the firmware update process. The NS4600 will reboot after the update completes successfully.

NOTE: Do not interrupt the Firmware update process. Doing so can result in permanent damage to the unit which will require an RMA replacement.
If the Safe Mode update or downgrade process fails to restore NS4600 to functional state, please contact technical support for “RMA” replacement.

How do I flash the firmware on a NAS 4300?

2010-02-21T10:37:40.0000000

Updating Firmware on the NS4300

Firmware Versions

The first step it to determine if the firmware on your unit needs to be upgraded, so you have to log in to the WebPAM management interface and check which firmware revision is present on your unit. You can do this by expanding the System tree on the left side of the interface and clicking on the System Information link; the firmware revision will be listed under Version.

Here is the firmware version history:

Service Release 1 1.01.0000.05

Service Release 2 1.02.0000.05

Service Release 3 1.03.0000.06

Service Release 4 1.04.0000.11

Service Release 5 1.05.0000.03

Service Release 5.1 1.05.0000.07

Service Release 5.2 1.05.0000.08

Service Release 5.3 1.05.0000.12

If you have SR3 or earlier firmware installed, please update to SR4 firmware before updating to SR5.x firmware, and if you have SR4 or SR5 firmware installed, you may update to directly to SR5.3.

Creating a RAID Volume

You must have a disk volume present on your unit to perform a firmware upgrade; if you do not have one yet, you can create one by logging in to WebPAM, selecting RAID and Filesystems and clicking on RAID Management. Click the Create tab on the right side, choose the RAID level you want to use, assign the disks you would like to use for the RAID array, and click OK. Your volume should be ready for use once it completes the format process.

Getting the Firmware

You begin the upgrade process by downloading the required firmware release files on to your computer from the Promise support web page.

Connect to the NS4300 shares over your network and log in. If you are using Windows you would go to the Start menu, select the Run… option, and enter the name you gave the NS4300.

For example: \\My_NAS

Open the PUBLIC folder and copy the firmware upgrade files there.

Upgrading the Firmware

Log back in to WebPAM if your session has timed out, expand the Management tree, click on System Upgrade and click on the Firmware Upgrade tab.

Select the PUBLIC folder in the Folder drop-down, enter the name of the firmware file you want to load and click OK. The system should perform the upgrade and then display a dialog indicating the status of the firmware update. If it was successful you will see a message that the unit will reboot to complete the process.

ns4300_010205.upg for SR2

ns4300_010306.upg for SR3

ns4300_010411.upg for SR4

ns4300_010507.upg for SR5.1

ns4300_010508.upg for SR5.2

ns4300_010512.upg for SR5.3

Repeat this procedure for each of the required versions until the unit is running the latest firmware release.

How do I update the firmware on a NAS 2300?

2010-02-21T10:27:21.0000000

Updating Firmware on the NS2300

Firmware Versions

Here is the firmware version history:

Initial Release 1.03.0000.07

Service Release 1 1.05.0000.05

Service Release 1.1 1.05.0000.09

Service Release 1.3 1.05.0000.12

You must perform incremental firmware updates for this product. For example, if your unit has the initial firmware release version of 1.03.0000.07 on it, you must install Service Release 1 and Service Release 1.1 before you can install the latest Service Release 1.3.

Creating a RAID Volume

Getting the Firmware

You begin the upgrade process by downloading the required firmware release files on to your computer from the Promise support web page.

Connect to the NS2300 shares over your network and log in. If you are using Windows you would go to the Start menu, select the Run… option, and enter the name you gave the NS2300.

For example: \\My_NAS

Open the PUBLIC folder and copy the firmware upgrade files there.

Upgrading the Firmware

Log back in to WebPAM if your session has timed out, expand the Management tree, click on System Upgrade and click on the Firmware Upgrade tab.

ns2300_010505.upg for SR1

ns2300_010509.upg for SR1.1

ns2300_0105012.upg for SR1.3

Repeat this procedure for each of the required versions until the unit is running the latest firmware release.

Accessing Remote Access Media Center on NS4300N and NS2300N

2009-05-21T14:57:00.0000000

Remote Access Media Center (Phase One)

As of Firmware 01.05.0000.08 for NS4300N, Firmware 01.05.0000.09 for NS2300N and DLNA Plugin v01.01.0000.07, the NS4300N/NS2300N feature a Remote Access Media Center for accessing Digital Content (Music, Pictures and Videos) remotely from anywhere in the world. The Remote Access Media Center is built on PHP and HTML therefore the service can be accessed by any device with a Web Browser and Media Player. Supported devices include (but not limited too): iPod Touch, iPhone, Windows Mobile 5 and 6 Devices, Nokia N Series Smart Phones, Windows PC and Macs.

To use the feature we recommend the following:

· Give the NS4300N/NS2300N a Static IP (as Routers can sometimes handed out new IPs upon renew of lease)

· Port 80 (TCP and UDP) must be forwarded on your Router to the internal IP of the NS4300N/NS2300N

· User most know your “external” IP provided by your ISP or use DDNS (see manual for setup). Dyndns.com provides free DDNS. DDNS allows you to use a hostname (such as example.smartstor.com) of your choosing to access a device that is host via a Dynamic IP (such as the IP provided by your ISP).

· Entering your DDNS hostname, internal IP or external IP along with port 3056 will provide access to the Remote Access Media Center Login page. Example: http://example.promise.com:3056 or http://192.168.1.200:3056

NS4300N Remote Access Media Center Login Page

NOTE: Playback is always limited to the playback support of the device. Example: iPhone and iPod Touch can play m4v, mov and mp4 video files via Safari and Quicktime but NOT AVI, mkv, etc. Windows Mobile Devices can playback Divx, avi, mp4, mov and a host of other formats using Windows Media Player, Core Player, TCPMP, etc.

Only Owner/Creator can write to files/folders under MAC OS 10.5.x- Other users are denied

2009-03-04T14:12:00.0000000

When a user (owner) of the NAS (NS2300N/NS4300N) creates a file or folder on the NAS under MAC OS X (10.5.x) using SMB or AFP ONLY the owner can write to the file or folder (see screenshot). This behavior is due to how MAC OS X handles UMASK (permissions) on files and folders. The behavior is by design. See this document on the Apple website: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2202?viewlocale=en_US. The document explains how the OS handles UMASK settings and how to create custom UMASK as a workaround.

Example: User1 access public directory under AFP and creates a folder called "untitled folder". Inside folder "test" User1 creates a text file called "text.txt. User2 logs into the NAS under AFP and attempts to save changes to text.txt and encounters error: "Operation Cannot be completed because you do not have sufficent write privileages".

Or when attempting to open the Untitled Folder encounters the following error: "The Folder Untitled Folder could not be opened because you do not have sufficient write privileges".

Future Change: SR2 for NS2300N and SR6 for NS4300N will introduce additional settings that will allow file permissions to be changed to Read and Write for files and folders accessed under AFP. SMB under MAC OS X will remain unchanged.

Additional questions or concerns, please contact Promise Technical Support via web support or phone.

NS2300N/NS4300N/NS4600N: Orange LED flashes after Abnormal Shutdown (File System Check)

2009-03-02T14:13:00.0000000

After an Abnormal System Shutdown, whether the abnormal shutdown occurs because of power failure or not properly powering the down the NAS, File System Check will "automatically" run on the subsequent "power-on". During this period the status indicator LED on the front of the NAS will flashing "orange" and "shares" will NOT be accessible until the File System Check has completed. This is "NORMAL" behavior and is done to ensure that the File System is healthy and does not contain errors (minor or major) which can affect data integrity in the short or long term.

NOTE: File System Check is only available on NS2300N SR1 (or higher) Firmware and NS4300N SR5 (or higher) Firmware. The File System Check Progress meter will progress to 95% within the first few minutes and remain at 95% until the process is complete. Again, this behavior is "NORMAL".

NS4300N/NS4600N Internet or WAN - "NAS to NAS Replication" Port

2009-03-02T13:58:00.0000000

NAS to NAS Replication Port

When using the SmartStor NS4300N or NS4600N NAS Replication Feature over the Internet, WAN, or VPN, the following port must be open in the Router and Firewall for the replication process to function as expected.

TCP Port 873

UDP Port 873

If you continue to have issues with NAS-to-NAS Replication, such as "replication" does not begin, begins and stops abruptly, or simply hangs with no progress:

1. Ensure that "email notification" is properly setup in Promise Array Storage Management (Web Interface). Use the Test button to verify.

2. Run NAS to NAS Replication. Upon failure the SmartStor will send an email notification with "error details". Please forward the email notification to Promise Technical Support via opening a web support case or by phone (send via email to tech once contact has been established).

Latest updates for Windows Vista (all versions) and Windows 2008 disables SmartNAVI (and older SmartSync) detection of NS2300N/NS4300N

2009-03-02T13:23:00.0000000

Microsoft recently changed the Default Dynamic Ports used in Windows Vista (all versions) and Windows 2008 (all versions). Default Dynamic Ports have been changed from 1025 through 5000 range to 49152 through 65535 range. SmartNAVI (and the older discontinued SmartSync) uses 49152. Microsoft has changed the port range to comply with the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) recommendations. This affects NS2300N and NS4300N. Details from Microsoft on the changes is located here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929851

How to apply workaround:

1. To apply the workaround under Vista and Windows 2008, UAC (User Access Control) must be disabled. To disable UAC, proceed to Control Panel > Users Accounts > Turn User Access Control On or Off. Reboot is required once change has been made.

2. After Reboot, open command prompt (located under accessories on the Program Menu under Start). Type each line and then press "enter". Reboot when finished and then enable UAC (then reboot again).

netsh int ipv4 set dynamicport tcp start=1025 num=3975
netsh int ipv4 set dynamicport udp start=1025 num=3975
netsh int ipv6 set dynamicport tcp start=1025 num=3975
netsh int ipv4 set dynamicport udp start=1025 num=3975

Permanent Solution: Will be available in the next few weeks. If you apply the workaround above, you will need to reverse once the new version of the Firmware and SmarNAVI is available.

3. Reversing Changes:

To reverse the changes and restore Dynamic Ports to Vista/2008 default values, use these paramaters (following same instructions above):

netsh int ipv4 set dynamicport tcp start=49152 num=16183
netsh int ipv4 set dynamicport udp start=49152 num=16183
netsh int ipv6 set dynamicport tcp start=49152 num=16183
netsh int ipv4 set dynamicport udp start=49152 num=16183

Additional questions and or concerns, please contact Promise Technical Support.

Hard Reset SmartStor NS2300N

2008-11-06T01:12:00.0000000

This article will detail how to Hard Reset the SmartStor NS2300N to the factory defaults for the installed firmware.

This process DOES NOT harm any data that may be present on the unit, and DOES NOT remove any installed plug-ins.

You may need to reset the NAS for any number of reasons. If you are experiencing any of the following, a reset should resolve your problem:

1. File Permissions are not functioning currently. User has read/write access to folder but cannot read/write.
2. Directories appear empty using any service (SMB/CIFS, AFP, NFS, FTP)
3. Plugins are not functioning correctly.

   Examples:

   Plugin automatically disables after hours or days.
   Plugin cannot be enabled.
   Using DLNA Plugin, no device (360, PS3, PCH) detected SmartStor as Media Server.
   No content is available to iTunes using iTunes Server Plugin yet music files exist in music folder.

RESET PROCEDURE

1. Verify that the Array/Volume" is "Functional" and that you can read and write to Array/Volume. Perform a simply test by read and write a file to one of your directories.

2. On the rear of the SmartStor NS2300N you will find a small pin sized hole to the right of the USB Port. Push and hold the reset button using a paper clip or push pin until the SmartStor NS2300N "Powers Off". This generally takes about 25 to 30 seconds.

3. Power-On SmartStor NS2300N and log into PASM (remember, password has been reset to default which is "admin"). You will need to re-enable services such as Windows, Macintosh, Unix/Linux, FTP and Printer Service. You will also need to enable permissions under "File and Print > File Sharing" and File and Print > Sharing Setup" as these have been reset due to the configuration files being cleared. Once you reapply the permissions your NAS will become accessible again from clients.

PLUG-INs

If you find that your plug-ins have been disabled after the reset ensure that the Application Plug-in option is checked.

Hard Reset of SmartStor NS4300N

2008-11-06T01:06:00.0000000

This article will detail how to Hard Reset the SmartStor NS4300N to factory defaults. This process DOES NOT harm DATA in the Public, Music, Video, Pictures, Download or other user created directories. BACKUP ALL DATA in the "admin" directory as these directories are tied to usernames and username are cleared with the "reset".

***Please use this procedure with SR5 Firmware v01.05.0000.03 or v01.05.0000.07 (or higher) ONLY!!!! DO NOT USE with previous builds unless you plan to start over.***

You may need to reset the NAS for any number of reasons. If you are experiencing any of the following, a reset should resolve your problem:

1. File Permissions are not functioning currently. User has read/write access to folder but cannot read/write.
2. Directories appear empty using any service (SMB/CIFS, AFP, NFS, FTP)
3. Plugins are not functioning correctly.

   Examples:

   Plugins automatically disables after hours or days.
   Plugin cannot be enabled.
   Using DLNA Plugin, no device (360, PS3, PCH) detected SmartStor as Media Server.
   No content is available to iTunes using iTunes Plugin yet music files exist in music folder.

RESET PROCEDURE

1. Verify that the SmartStor NS4300N is on SR5 Firmware. Open PASM (Promise Array Storage Management) using your Web Browser, login and proceed to System > System Information. If the version is 01.05.0000.03, you are on SR5. If the version is 01.04.xxxx.xx or lower, you need to upgrade to SR5 first BEFORE proceeding. Also make sure your "Array/Volume" is "Functional" and that you can read and write to Array/Volume. Perform a simply test by read and write a file to one of your directories.

2. On the rear of the SmartStor NS4300N you will find a small pin sized hole directly below the Ethernet connector. Push and hold the reset button using a paper clip or push pin until the SmartStor NS4300N "Powers Off". This generally takes about 25 to 30 seconds.

3. Power-On SmartStor NS4300N and log into PASM (remember, password has been reset to default which is "admin"). You will need to re-enable services such as Windows, Macintosh, Unix/Linux, FTP and Printer Service. You will also need to enable permissions under "File and Print > File Sharing" and File and Print > Sharing Setup" as these have been reset due to the configuration files being cleared. Once you reapply the permissions your NAS will become accessible again from clients.

Using iTunes Server – SmartStor NS4300N and NS2300N

2008-07-14T04:15:00.0000000

The SmartStor NS4300N and NS2300N can function as an iTunes Server allowing iTunes Clients to access and stream music. To load the iTunes Server Plug-In via SmartNAVI open the SmartNAVI GUI and select NAS Management from the Menu Icons. Select “Add Plug-In” and browse to the location where the Plug-In is stored. Select the Plug-In, select “Open” and then select “OK”.

Once the Plug-In is loaded select “Configuration Plug-In”, select “ITUNES” from the windows on the right and then select “Enable” on the bottom on right. Once the Plug-In is enabled, you are finished with configuring the Plug-In.

If you have not copied Music to the Music Share Folder do so now. Select Share Folder from the Menu Icons, select Share Folder List, and then double click on the “Music” shortcut to open the Music Share Folder. Copy Music and close Folder when finished.

Open iTunes in Windows or MAC OS X and then select the NS4300N or NS2300N under “Shared” on the left pane of iTunes to view and playback music. The NS4300N or NS2300N will appear under its “network name" such as “defiant” (in this case). Network name by default is similar to this: “NS4300N_897425” and can be changed via Web Management or in SmartNAVI under NAS Management.

Hard Drive/Array Rebuild Times

2008-07-14T03:34:00.0000000

Having created ATA RAID back in 1997 we (Promise) know a lot about rebuilding arrays under various conditions. The RAID Engine is designed to set the rebuild speed at a low-medium priority in order maintain decent performance while the array or volume is being accessed during rebuild. Rebuilds can take anywhere from a few hours to 24 hours:

250GB Drive 6 hours*

500GB Drive 12 hours*

750GB 18 hours*

1TB Disk 24 hours*

*All Rebuild times are approx and can vary depending on system activity and disk performance.

If your rebuild is exceeding the times list above:

-Make sure the Disk is on our AVL (Approved Vendors List). We are very serious about the AVL when it comes to Drives as we must approve the Hardware and the Firmware of the Drive.

-The Disk (being rebuilt – the replacement Disk) could be “unhealthy” and suffering from numerous bad sectors which results in the Disk attempting to recover the bad sectors. If you are using Enterprise Class or RAID Edition Drives that feature Time Limited Error Recovery, this recovery process will be kept to a minimum of less than 10 seconds per bad sector. Non Enterprise Class Drives can take minutes during recovery and could slow the rebuild process significantly.

Download Station – Downloading HTTP and FTP Files

2008-07-14T03:16:00.0000000

The Download Station not only downloads torrent files but also HTTP and FTP downloads. You can download movie trailers, game videos, game demos and more using the Download Station. Open SmartNAVI GUI and select Download Station from the Menu Icons on Top Menu. Select “Add New Link” and paste the direct Link to the Download in the Window and select “Add”. If you do not see the words “Link Added Successfully” you have a Bad Link (URL). Please confirm the link (URL) and again.

When Download is finished, select “Downloaded List”, select the file to “Open” from the list and then select “Open”. The Downloads folder will open allowing you to view and access your downloaded files.

Download Station – Downloading Torrents

2008-07-14T03:00:00.0000000

To download Torrents using SmartStor NS4300N or NS2300N, open the SmartNAVI GUI (Windows or MAC) and select Download Station from the Menu Icons on Top Menu. Select “Add New Link”, browse your computer to the folder where the torrent download file s(.torrent) is stored, select the file and then select “Add”. If you do not see the words “Link Added Successfully” you have a bad file or the Link is Dead. Please try another torrent file. NOTE: This download is legal as Nine Inch Nails is giving away their latest album for free (http://www.nin.com).

How do I use “One Touch Backup on SmartStor NS4300N and NS2300N?

2008-07-14T02:00:00.0000000

To use the One Touch Backup feature you MUST create a scheduled backup first in SmartNAVI (or SmartSYNC NAS Utility – which is now old discontinued software). Open the SmartNAVI Messenger in Windows XP/Vista, select the desired NAS unit from the list to access the SmartNAVI GUI. Then select the SmartSYNC Icon from the top menu. Select “Back/Schedule – NAS” on the left pane then select files you wish to backup.

When finished selecting files select “schedule” from the bottom right pane, choose the interval and time to backup your files, and then select “add”.

You are finished creating a schedule and can use the One Touch feature but “pushing” the “One Touch Button” on the front of the NS4300N (located below power switch). The NS2300N does not have a dedicated “One Touch Button”, to use the feature; simply push the “Power Button” for “1 Sec”. If you own multiple SmartStors, you will need to log into each unit and create a schedule.

Only One USB Drive is detected when Two USB Drives are attached

2008-07-13T00:15:00.0000000

Due to USB Performance Limitations of the Freescale SoC used in the NS4300N and NS2300N, we have disabled the ability to use 2 or more USB drives at one time. USB Drives should be connected one at a time.

What is DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance)?

2008-07-12T13:18:00.0000000

The Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) is a global collaboration of 245 of your most trusted brands, all working together to help you create the home entertainment environment you’ve always imagined. DLNA member companies are thriving to provide a Digital Living Environment in which you can access and share “user created content” such as personal movies, music, images from your Wireless Phone/Smartphone/PDA and more. DLNA provides mechanisms to protect DRM so users can also enjoy and share Premium content.

DLNA Website

http://www.dlna.org

-DLNA Retail Video featuring SmartStor NS4300N

http://www.dlna.org/digital_living/getting_started/ also available on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afNR0_TCRFg

-DLNA Retail Website Flash Animation Uses Cases feature SmartStor NS4300N (Audio Use Case)

http://www.dlna.org/retail/home (make sure you have “Flash” installed)

Currently the DLNA Landscape consists primarily of Digital Media Players/Renderers (DMP/DMR) and Digital Media Servers (DMS). The Promise SmartStor NS4300N and NS2300N are DLNA Digital Media Servers that comply with the 1.0 Specification.

Digital Media Players/Renderers such as the PS3 (PS3 is DMP only) Buffalo’s LinkTheater HD and Pioneer Elites Blu-Ray/Plasma (to name a few) are designed to be used in the living room, bedroom, den and other rooms in the digital home. Digital Media Players feature an Ethernet Network Connection (10/100 or 10/100/1000) and or a Wireless Network Connection (WiFi) along with HD Connections (HDMI and or Component), Analog Video Connections (S-Video and or Composite), Analog Audio Connections (left-right RCA) and Digital Audio Connections (Optical and or SPDIF/Coax). Digital Media Players/Renderers connect to the network and discover Digital Media Servers “automatically” allowing the user to browse and playback digital content such as Music, Pictures and Videos.

PS3 Media Server List

The difference between a Digital Media Player and Digital Media Renderer is a Digital Media Renderer can accept instructions from a Digital Media Controller. A Digital Media Controller such as the Nokia N95 Smartphone or Nokia N810 Internet Tablet can browse the network automatically discovering Digital Media Servers allowing the user to select content and then select a Digital Media Renderer from a list of available Renderers to playback the content (See Images below). These are just a few uses cases for DLNA. The aforementioned N95 Smartphone is also a Mobile Digital Media Server (M-DMS). You can share images on the N95 accessing them with a Digital Media Player and you can also print directly to DLNA Printers such as the HP 7280 or use the N95 to “push” a image to a Digital Media Renderer (image of choice is automatically displayed on TV). The possibilities are endless and the ecosystem is just starting to expand and grow.

List of available Media Servers Video Content and Renderer to playback is selected

Promise is very committed to DLNA and the future of the Digital Home. Promise is hard at work on some future digital media products as we continue to push ourselves as a leader in the digital living ecosystem. Stay Tuned!

Can I configure-setup my NS4300N/NS2300N from within MAC OS X (10.4.x and 10.5.x)?

2008-07-11T16:41:00.0000000

Yes, we recently released a new Management GUI called SmartNAVI. SmartNAVI is available for Windows 2000/XP/Vista and MAC OS X 10.4.x/10.5.x. SmartNAVI automatically detects all SmartStor NAS Enclosures on the Local Area Network and Home Network.

SmartNAVI allows the user to configure the NS4300N/NS2300N manually or with “One Click Setup”. SmartNAVI also allows for User Management, Share Folder Management with “direct” access to Shares, Volume Management, Plug-In Management (installation of DLNA, BitTorrent and iTunes Server Plug-Ins), access to SmartSync Backup Client (this will be available in late July/Early August) and much more. SmartNAVI can be downloaded for NS4300N (release version) and NS2300N (beta version) via the Tech Support Download Page.

NS4300N/NS2300N is unable to join Active Directory Domain under Windows 2003 or 2008 when using special characters in the Active Directory Domain Administrator Password

2008-07-11T16:19:00.0000000

The Active Directory support for the NS4300N/NS2300N has a small limitation with some special characters in the Domain Administrator Password that prevents the NN4300N/NS2300N from joining the Domain. The special characters are: #, $, % and &. ! and @ are acceptable special characters and work as expected. This issue will be resolved in SR5 Firmware which is scheduled for release in late July to early/mid August 2008. We apologize for the inconvenience this issue has caused.

In the meantime, you can work-around the issue by changing the AD Administrator Password to not use #, $, % and & special characters. Once you change the password, add the NS4300N/NS2300N to the domain, then change the password back (or create another).

Can I use my XBOX 360 to stream content such as Music, Pictures and Videos from NS4300N/NS2300N?

2008-07-11T15:57:00.0000000

Can I use my XBOX 360 to stream content such as Music, Pictures and Videos from NS4300N/NS2300N?

The XBOX 360 does not support generic UPnP or DLNA therefore the 360 cannot discover and stream content from the NS4300N/NS2300N as you can with the PS3 (PS3 is UPnP and DLNA Certified). The next version of the DLNA Plug-In (SR5 Release) will support XBOX 360. SR5 is scheduled for end July/early August 2008.

What ports are used by the BitTorrent Download Station in SmartNAVI?

2008-07-11T15:32:00.0000000

What ports are used by the BitTorrent Download Station in SmartNAVI?

The Download Station uses the following ports listed below to access the BitTorrent and eDonkey Networks. If you are experiencing issues such as “unable to connect” you may need to open the ports on your router and or firewall (see router manual for information on “how to”). This information applies to Torrent Downloads only. If you are attempting to download from HTTP or FTP Links, you do not need to open any ports unless you have ports 80 and 21 blocked (these are always open in routers and firewalls by default).

Ports Used by BitTorrent and Edonkey Networks

BitTorrent : 6881,6882 – TCP, UDP

Edonkey : 18617 – TCP, UDP

Active Directory and FTP

2008-07-11T14:40:00.0000000

When using Active Directory with NS4300N/NS2300N (this means NAS Device is part of Active Directory Domain), FTP File Sharing is disabled if the service was already enabled. Any attempt to enable FTP File Sharing will result in the service being disabled. This behavior is "by-design" as the Active Directory Domain Controller is in complete control of User and File System Access to the NS4300/NS2300N. Active Directory and Windows feature a very complex file security protocol and attributes, enabling FTP with Active Directory will result in conflicts and also compromise overall security.

If you want to use the NS4300N/NS2300N as an FTP with Active Directory enabled we recommend using Windows FTP Server (allowing Windows Server to Control FTP Access) with the NS4300N/NS2300N as the Storage for the FTP.

Is there any information on Windows Active Directory domain support for SmartStor NS4300N?

2007-09-07T10:24:00.0000000

FW Version: 1.01.0000.05

Question: How to join Windows AD (Active Directory) domain?

Answer:

Please check the DNS setting of “Network” setting on WebPASM. User needs to set the IP of

internal DNS server to primary or second DNS setting of Network setting. KDC (Kerberos Key

Distribution Center) means AD domain controller. If user wants to use a domain name in the setting

for KDC, please make sure the domain name can be resolved by internal DNS server. After check

the “Network” setting, set KDC name or IP to KDC field of “Protocol Control/Windows” page on

WebPASM. Other setting please refers SmartStor’s Product Manual.

Example:

The AD domain is “example.com”, AD domain controller is “server.example.com” and internal

DNS server is “192.168.1.2”.

Step 1: Fill in “192.168.1.2” to “Primary DNS” field at “Network” and press “OK” to apply the

setting.

Step 2: Fill in “example.com” to “Domain or Workgroup name” field at “Protocol

Control/Windows”.

Step 3: Fill in “server.example.com” to “KDC” field at “Protocol Control/Windows” and also fill

the other field accordingly then press “OK” to apply the setting. If you can see a message “join AD

domain is success” after you press the “OK”, it means you are joining domain successfully.

OS support:

1. Windows 2K, 2003 Server (32-bit)

2. Windows 2003 Server (64-bit)

I''m looking for DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) certified NAS box, does Promise offer any?

2007-07-30T23:26:00.0000000

Company:	Promise Technology, Inc.
Website:	www.promise.com.tw/web_en/ns4300_en.htm
Product Name:	SmartStor
Model Number:	NS4300N
*Product Description:	SmartStor™ NS4300N is a 4-bay SATA NAS device which provides SOHO and SMB users an easy and cost-effective network storage solution for sharing network resources and files. Available immediately through the company’s global distribution network, the SmartStor™ NS4300N supports up to four hot-swappable SATA 3Gb/s hard drives, Promise’s OEM proven RAID technology with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support and comprehensive data protection features that safeguard digital contents and make them readily available for networked users.