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Geeky Gadgets
30-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Easily Build a Budget NAS with a Raspberry Pi 4 and Save Big on Storage
Have you ever wished for a simple, affordable way to centralize your files, stream media, or back up your data—without shelling out hundreds of dollars for a commercial solution? Here's the good news: with a Raspberry Pi 4, you can build your own budget-friendly NAS (Network Attached Storage) system that's powerful enough to handle everyday storage needs. Imagine having a compact, energy-efficient device sitting quietly on your desk, seamlessly managing your data across devices. Whether you're a tech enthusiast eager to tinker or someone looking for a practical DIY project, this hands-on breakdown will show you how to transform a Raspberry Pi into a reliable storage hub. In this guide by Microck, you'll discover how to assemble, configure, and optimize an affordable NAS using the Raspberry Pi 4 mini PC. From selecting the right hardware—like USB to SATA adapters and powered hubs—to mastering the OpenMediaVault software, every step is designed to make the process approachable and rewarding. Along the way, you'll uncover tips to maximize performance and tackle common challenges, making sure your setup is both efficient and frustration-free. Whether your goal is to create a secure backup system or a media streaming hub, this project offers endless possibilities for customization. Let's explore how this tiny yet versatile device can transform the way you manage your digital life. DIY Raspberry Pi 4 NAS What is a NAS and Why Use a Raspberry Pi 4? A NAS is a centralized storage solution that allows you to store, access, and share files across multiple devices within your network. It is particularly useful for tasks such as managing backups, streaming media, or hosting personal projects. The Raspberry Pi 4 is an excellent choice for building a DIY NAS due to its affordability, compact design, and energy efficiency. Equipped with a quad-core processor, multiple USB 3.0 ports, and support for both wired and wireless connectivity, the Raspberry Pi 4 delivers sufficient performance for most home storage needs. Whether you are a tech enthusiast or simply looking for a budget-friendly alternative to commercial NAS devices, the Raspberry Pi 4 offers a versatile and customizable platform. Essential Components for Your DIY NAS To build your NAS, you'll need the following hardware components: Raspberry Pi 4: Choose the 4GB or 8GB RAM model for better performance, especially if you plan to run additional services or manage large amounts of data. Choose the 4GB or 8GB RAM model for better performance, especially if you plan to run additional services or manage large amounts of data. USB to SATA Adapters: These adapters connect your hard drives to the Raspberry Pi's USB ports. Ensure they support the UAS protocol for faster data transfer speeds. These adapters connect your hard drives to the Raspberry Pi's USB ports. Ensure they support the UAS protocol for faster data transfer speeds. Powered USB Hubs: Necessary for powering multiple drives, particularly 3.5-inch models that require external power sources. Necessary for powering multiple drives, particularly 3.5-inch models that require external power sources. Hard Drives: Select reliable 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch drives based on your storage capacity needs and budget. Select reliable 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch drives based on your storage capacity needs and budget. Optional Enclosures: Use 3D-printed or commercially available enclosures to organize and protect your components. Additionally, ensure your power supply is adequate to support both the Raspberry Pi and any connected drives. Insufficient power can lead to performance issues or hardware instability, so investing in a high-quality power source is essential. Raspberry Pi 4 Budget NAS Build Watch this video on YouTube. Explore further guides and articles from our vast library that you may find relevant to your interests in Raspberry Pi. Installing and Configuring the Software The software foundation of your NAS is OpenMediaVault (OMV), a dedicated operating system designed for NAS functionality. Follow these steps to set up your system: Download and Install OMV: Obtain the OMV image and flash it onto a microSD card using tools like Balena Etcher. Insert the card into your Raspberry Pi and boot it up. Obtain the OMV image and flash it onto a microSD card using tools like Balena Etcher. Insert the card into your Raspberry Pi and boot it up. Network Configuration: Use a wired Ethernet connection for better stability. If necessary, configure wireless access during the initial setup process. Use a wired Ethernet connection for better stability. If necessary, configure wireless access during the initial setup process. Enable SSH Access: Tools like PuTTY (for Windows) or the terminal (for Linux/Mac) allow you to manage your NAS remotely, making it easier to perform updates or troubleshoot issues. OMV's web-based interface simplifies tasks such as managing storage, creating shared folders, and setting user permissions. Its intuitive design makes it accessible even for beginners, while still offering advanced features for experienced users. Optimizing Storage and Automating Backups Proper storage configuration and automated backups are critical to maximizing the efficiency and reliability of your NAS. Here's how to get started: Logical Volume Manager (LVM): Combine multiple drives into a single storage pool for easier management and scalability as your data needs grow. Combine multiple drives into a single storage pool for easier management and scalability as your data needs grow. File System: Format your drives using the ext4 file system, which is known for its reliability and performance in Linux-based systems. Format your drives using the ext4 file system, which is known for its reliability and performance in Linux-based systems. Shared Folders: Use OMV's interface to create shared folders and assign permissions, making sure secure access for different users or devices on your network. Use OMV's interface to create shared folders and assign permissions, making sure secure access for different users or devices on your network. Rsync for Backups: Automate file synchronization between your NAS and other devices using Rsync. Schedule regular backups to protect your data from accidental loss. Automate file synchronization between your NAS and other devices using Rsync. Schedule regular backups to protect your data from accidental loss. Compression Tools: Use compression utilities to reduce the size of backup files, optimizing your available storage space. Automation not only saves time but also ensures that your data is consistently backed up without requiring manual intervention. This is especially useful for maintaining regular backups of critical files. Expanding Functionality with Additional Features Your NAS can serve more purposes than just file storage. By using Docker, you can add advanced features and applications to your system: Webtop: Deploy a remote Linux desktop environment, allowing you to access and manage your NAS from virtually anywhere. Deploy a remote Linux desktop environment, allowing you to access and manage your NAS from virtually anywhere. Portainer: Simplify the management and monitoring of Docker containers with this user-friendly tool, allowing you to run additional services effortlessly. Simplify the management and monitoring of Docker containers with this user-friendly tool, allowing you to run additional services effortlessly. Media Servers: Install applications like Plex or Jellyfin to turn your NAS into a media streaming hub for your home network. These enhancements transform your NAS into a multi-functional device, capable of handling a wide range of tasks beyond basic storage. Troubleshooting Common Challenges Building a DIY NAS can present challenges, but most issues can be resolved with patience and research. Here are some common problems and solutions: Power Supply Issues: Use high-quality power cables and powered USB hubs to ensure stable operation, especially when connecting multiple drives. Use high-quality power cables and powered USB hubs to ensure stable operation, especially when connecting multiple drives. USB Adapter Compatibility: Verify that your USB to SATA adapters support the UAS protocol to avoid drive detection problems. Verify that your USB to SATA adapters support the UAS protocol to avoid drive detection problems. Drive Permissions: If shared folders are inaccessible from Windows devices, check your OMV permissions and SMB settings to resolve access issues. If shared folders are inaccessible from Windows devices, check your OMV permissions and SMB settings to resolve access issues. Plugin Failures: If OMV plugins fail to work, disabling the NTP server or adjusting time synchronization settings can often resolve the issue. By addressing these challenges proactively, you can ensure a smoother experience and a more reliable NAS setup. Building a Reliable and Versatile NAS Constructing a NAS with a Raspberry Pi 4 is a rewarding project that combines affordability with functionality. By carefully selecting hardware, configuring software, and optimizing storage, you can create a system tailored to your specific needs. While challenges may arise, they offer opportunities to learn and refine your setup. With the flexibility to expand and customize, your DIY NAS can evolve into a powerful tool for managing your digital life, offering both convenience and peace of mind. Media Credit: Microck Filed Under: Guides, Hardware Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
GSM Arena
13-07-2025
- GSM Arena
Weekly poll: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 or Z Flip7 FE?
Peter, 13 July 2025 They are here – Samsung launched its next-gen foldables this week. This includes a new Fold and a new Flip model and, for the first time, a cheaper Flip FE. Do you have your eyes set on a particular model – and if yes, which one? The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is significantly thinner than its predecessor – it went from 12.1mm/5.6mm to 8.9mm/4.2mm when folded/unfolded. It's lighter too, 215g vs. 239g. That's 3g less than the S25 Ultra! However, Samsung had to make some sacrifices: the battery capacity stayed the same (4,400mAh) as did charging (25W/15W) and S Pen support has been removed. Both displays have gotten bigger – 6.5' cover display (up from 6.3') and 8.0' inside (up from 7.6'). This comes with increased dimensions, though, a folded phone now measures 158.4 x 72.8mm, compared to 153.5 x 68.1mm before. For what it's worth, the vanilla S25 is 70.5mm wide and the Edge is 75.6mm, so the Z Fold7 is still usable one-handed. The phone now boasts a 200MP main camera and other upgrades – check out the camera samples we took out and about in New York. One change that may prove less popular is that Samsung removed the under-display camera inside and replaced it with a 10MP punch hole camera – it offers better quality, sure, but now there's a hole in the 8' display. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 has slimmed down as well – from 14.9mm/6.9mm on its predecessor to 13.7mm/6.5mm (the weight is essentially unchanged at 188g). However, this model brings a bigger battery – 4,300mAh isn't huge, but surprising to see given the slimmer build (and since Samsung couldn't increase the capacity of the Z Fold7 battery). Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 This one also has bigger displays inside and out – an edge-to-edge 4.1' cover display and a 6.9' inner display. However, the only notable change in the camera setup is the 10-bit HDR video support (also available on the Z Fold7). That means no dedicated zoom lens, so you'll have to make do with 2x in-sensor zoom from the 50MP main. Check out our camera samples to see what that looks like. Don't miss our Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 hands-on if you want to know more about these foldables. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE is kind of a re-release of the Z Flip6. Here's the comparison – long story short, last year's Exynos 2400 (from the S24 series) replaces the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy. The performance is about the same, but efficiency is a concern. The S24+ (Exynos 2400, 4,900mAh battery) scored 12:30 in our Active Use test, while the S24 Ultra (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 5,000mAh) lasted longer and scored 13:49. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE The FE has the same battery capacity as the Z Flip6, 4,000mAh, despite being thicker than the Z Flip7. Also, it has less RAM, 8GB vs. 12GB. And if that wasn't enough, the Z Flip7 FE is not available from US carriers (retailers do sell unlocked units, though). While we're on the topic of chipsets, we should note that the premium Galaxy Z Flip7 is powered exclusively by the Exynos 2500 – yes, even in the North American market. Have a look at the pricing. The Z Flip7 FE starts at $200/£200/€200 less than the Z Flip6 did last year, but you can still find Z Flip6 units – and they often cost less than the FE. As for the other two, the Z Fold7 got pricier, while the Z Flip7 costs the same as the Z Flip6 did at launch. Samsung's new foldables Has the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 won you over with slimmer and lighter design or has it turned you away with its price hike? Or was it the removed features? Vote below and leave a comment with your thoughts. What about the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7? It fixes most of the major complaints we had with the Z Flip6, other than the camera and charge speed. What do you think? The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE is necessary – foldables can be quite expensive! But it's still more than something like a Motorola Razr or Razr+. How do you feel about the FE? Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 256GB 12GB RAM $ 1,999.99 $ 1,999.99 512GB 12GB RAM $ 1,999.99 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 256GB 12GB RAM $ 1,099.99 $ 1,099.99 512GB 12GB RAM $ 1,099.99 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE 5G 128GB 8GB RAM $ 899.99 $ 899.99 256GB 8GB RAM $ 899.99
