ASUS TS Mini SOHO Server (500GB Storage) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)In searching for a server, I wanted something easy on the electricity in order to keep it on all day. If this does indeed use only 27 watts when at max operating, it's perfect.

I use it for file storage, having WinAmp running at all times to be able to remotely (via Ipod Touch) turn on to stream to an Airport Express with Airfoil (iTunes gave me problems, read below), run uTorrent all the time, and stream to a WD TV Live.

It's doing all these things for me perfectly. The only thing I don't run on it that I had planned on is PlayOn to stream Hulu to the WD TV Live. The CPU is lacking for this, so I do run PlayOn from my laptop when needed.

In installing iTunes to WHS via instructions found on the net, I got it to install, but had the "stuttering/pausing" problem with iTunes. I have this happen once in a long while on my laptop, but with the Server, it was pausing every 3 seconds or so, continuously. I found if I had QuickTime player running, this got rid of the stutter for some reason, but QuickTime then consumed 50-60% CPU constantly. I didn't want to subject the CPU to this, so I switched to WinAmp and Airfoil, and the combination is working fine for my purposes. I'm still able to remotely control WinAmp with my Ipod Touch with a iAmpRemote, although with less capabilities that the Apple Remote and iTunes gives you (sort by artist, song, etc).

My server sits in my family room, so I also installed a USB sound card with XP drivers to the server, and can route sound directly from the server to my stereo via the USB Sound card.

So far, I've been very pleased with it. The Atom Processor is capable for what I use it for (and more so if you don't intend to run things like Winamp/iTunes, etc on it). Anything that takes a CPU power, like PlayOn to process video, will run slowly and not so well on it. So consider the trade offs of the small lower power consuming CPU, versus CPU power needed.

Click Here to see more reviews about: ASUS TS Mini SOHO Server (500GB Storage)

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 500GB version offers 1GB of DDR2 RAM, 500GB of internal storage, 500GB of ASUS WebStorage and much more.

Key Features

Easy data backup and restoration - choose from automated or manual backup
Quick and convenient file sharing with easy remote access via Internet and LAN
Large data capacity with ASUS exclusive WebStorage (500GB HDD + 500GB WebStorage)*
Enhanced data access and file management with 2x eSATA ports, 6x USB 2.0 ports and gigabit ethernet port
Uses less than 30 Watts when fully operational
Windows Home Server with ASUS System Web-based Management Software for maximum compatibility and convenience

Learn More

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 500GB 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 (500GB 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: 1GB DDR2-800
Hard Drive Storage: 500GB @ 7200rpm (1x 500GB)
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: 7.26 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


Check out other ASUS products that makes a great pairing with the TS Mini

ASUS O!Play HD Media Player
Stream and watch HD videos from your TS Mini on this ASUS O!Play HD media player paired with your HDTV. Ethernet enabled, O!Play plays H.264, Divx, RMVB, MP3 and much more right from your home network.
ASUS Thin and Light UL30A-X5 Laptop
Looking for great battery life and mobile processing power?Check out the Amazon exclusive thin and light UL30A-X5 Laptop.
Eee PC Touch T91 Tablet Netbook
The Eee PC T91 delivers ultimate portability and simplicity with an easy-to-use touchscreen that enables user to effortlessly navigate applications and the Web at a press of a finger.
ASUS VH242H 24-inch LCD Monitor with HDMI
Check out this 24-inch large Full HD LCD monitor. With built-in speakers and HDMI input, it is easy and affordable to get the ultimate entertainment right on your desk.

Get 21% OFF

Want to read more honest consumer review about ASUS TS Mini SOHO Server (500GB Storage) now ?