How to Set Up a Multi-Drive Storage Enclosure

A multi-drive storage enclosure is not difficult to set up.

One way to set up multiple drive storage is to create a home network and use a PC, which can usually handle up to four drives at a time. This solution is costly, though, and it requires some maintenance. Fortunately, some other options are available. A multi-drive storage system could meet your home network for years to come.

Things You'll Need

• SATA hard drives
• Storage bot
• Wireless router (optional)

Instructions

1. Set up a PC-based network. This is one dependable solution, but it’s not cost-effective and has management overhead as well. A PC network also can be costly to upgrade. Several RAID solutions are available, but they can be complicated, offer limited flexibility, and for those on a tight budget, upgrading can be a prohibitive.

   One good workaround is to use a “storage bot” such as the Dobro. This is system is put out by Data Robotics. It connects to your computer via a USB 2 port – how easy is that! The Dobro can handle up to four SATA drives of any capacity with up to several terabytes of data storage. Most bots are intelligent enough to handle varied drive capacities, so you can upgrade effortlessly and inexpensively as you need more space.

2. A storage bot offers integrated data protection systems, ensuring that your data is secure without having to use a costly RAID system. The bot typically notifies you when your drives are nearly full. It also will shut down the drives if it suspects that your data is in jeopardy.

3. Determine the amount of storage space you need. Don't install four 720 GB drives if you will never use them. On the other hand, make sure you allow for expansion. The most cost-effective way to build a bot system is to properly estimate your storage requirements. Remember, you can easily upgrade. Even if you fill up your existing drives, the beauty of a bot is that it can connect multiple drives to your computer.

4. A network isn’t required, but it can be very helpful, depending on your needs. Purchase a wireless network router. Lynksys and D-Link both make some good products. After you’ve connected your drive to your computer, open the Windows "Start" menu, click "Computer," then right-click on the bot and go to "Sharing." Check the box to allow sharing on your network. You can now access your data from a laptop or a desktop PC anywhere in your home, whether you are connected via wireless or via Ethernet.