NAS by stefan @ 2016-08-26
The AS6204T 4-bay NAS from ASUSTOR, equipped with a low-power Celeron J3160 Braswell CPU and 4GB of RAM can handle without issue the well-optimized ADM OS which transforms it into a machine with multiple functions: backups, different service hosting, virtual machine installation and operation, media center for online and offline content, gaming computer thanks to the included emulators and more.
At first we would like to thank ASUSTOR for offering us a sample of their AS6204T 4-bay NAS model for testing and reviewing.
“Founded in 2011, ASUSTOR Inc. is a leading innovator and provider of private cloud storage (network attached storage) and video surveillance (network video recorder) solutions. We are devoted to providing the world with unparalleled user experiences and the most complete set of network storage solutions possible.”
The first NAS models to be powered by the latest Intel Celeron processors
AS62 series devices are powered by Intel Celeron Braswell quad-core processors, equipped with 4GB of dual-channel memory, and feature read speeds of over 224.77 MB/s and write speeds of over 220.28 MB/s under RAID 5 configurations.
Hardware encryption engine
Focusing on enterprise-class file encryption needs, ASUSTOR has launched the AS61/AS62 series models with built-in hardware encryption engines, allowing data to be completely protected from the moment it is first stored on the NAS. This means that you never have to worry about your confidential data falling into the wrong hands even if your hard disks become lost or stolen. The built-in AES-NI hardware encryption engine also provides read speeds of over 224.71 MB/s and write speeds of over 132.56 MB/s for encrypted data.
Dual-channel power
The AS61/AS62 models are the first NAS devices in the world to support dual-channel memory, be able to smoothly playback 4K video and be powered by the latest Intel Celeron N3050/N3150 Braswell processors. Furthermore, AS61/62 series devices are not only energy efficient, but offer a combination of performance and price that is unmatched in its class. Get ready to enjoy brilliant ultra-high-definition 4K video from the comfort of your own home!
Connect with a new generation of I/O technology for limitless possibilities
A professional grade NAS needs to be equipped with a diverse array of expansion functionality. ASUSTOR has built in USB 3.0, USB 2.0, eSATA, gigabit Ethernet and HDMI 1.4b ports along with a high fidelity audio S/PDIF port, allowing the NAS to connect to different types of external devices and not be limited to its internal capacity. ASUSTOR NAS redefines the meaning of flexibility and expandability in network storage.
Increased reliability and speed
The built-in dual Ethernet ports combined with the link aggregation function, allows your NAS to maintain its connection even if one of your Ethernet connections fail, significantly decreasing the likelihood of unexpected disconnections. Additionally, link aggregation provides faster transfer speeds than a single connection could, along with load balancing which automatically balances network traffic load across the two connections, making it the optimal choice for users who require high speed reliability.
Effortlessly upgrade memory
Depending on your usage preferences, you can decide whether or not you want to upgrade memory. AS61/62 devices provide users with the ability to flexibly upgrade memory so there is no need to worry about the memory before you purchasing the device. When upgrading memory, you simply need to remove the cover of the NAS to do it (There are 2 expansion memory slots in total. Memory can be expanded up to a maximum of 8GB.), letting you easily improve system performance and allowing your NAS to simultaneously run more Apps.
Quick and Easy File Access
The built-in File Explorer App allows you to access the files on your NAS through a Web browser. Enjoy drag and drop file transfers along with a directory structure view that lets you easily organize your data. Accessing files on your NAS never been easier.
iSCSI LUN Snapshots
ASUSTOR’s snapshot technology provides almost instantaneous creation of snapshots. It saves a significant amount of time and storage capacity when compared with traditional LUN backups.
Should files become damaged or corrupted, the simple and intuitive interface allows administrators to quickly restore data, completing disaster recovery in the fastest time possible and providing uninterrupted service.
Create a Stable, Reliable and High Quality Surveillance System
The powerful AS61/AS62 Series devices provide you with stress free reliability when installing a surveillance system in your home or office environment. Installing the Surveillance Center App from App Central instantly turns your NAS into 24/7, high definition surveillance system. Surveillance Center provides comprehensive cross-platform support, allowing both Windows and Mac users to use familiar web browsers to access their surveillance feeds. Furthermore, ASUSTOR also offers the free AiSecure mobile app that gives users access to all their surveillance feeds while on the go. AiSecure also provides the ability to receive instant push notifications from Surveillance Center, allowing users to keep up with the latest developments. No matter if you need to protect individual assets, loved ones or your business, the powerful AS61/AS62 Series devices are your optimal choice when creating a comprehensive surveillance system.
Create the Ultimate Home Multimedia Center
Enjoy electrifying digital entertainment on demand with ASUSTOR NAS. The built-in HDMI interface and variety of multimedia Apps let you to enjoy all of your favorite multimedia from your NAS by directly connecting it to an LCD/LED TV or amplifier.
ASUSTOR NAS supports Full HD (1080p) output, allowing you to savor your movies, TV shows, music and photos in high definition. What's more, through ASUSTOR's App Central, you can install additional multimedia server Apps such as UPnP Media Server and iTunes Server giving your NAS the ability to stream multimedia content to your computers, TVs and mobile devices.
Additionally, you can also further add a surround sound amplifier to create an unprecedented high definition multi-channel listening experience. Imagine watching your favorite racing movie and being immersed in the roar of the engines. Feel the thrill and the sense of speed as you listen to the sounds of cars whizzing by. Prepare for an unparalleled entertainment experience that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Even More Reliable After-Sales Service
ASUSTOR has extended the warranty period on all of its products to three years, continuing to make customer service a huge priority. It is ASUSTOR's mission to continue to provide its customers with products of the highest quality along with only the most reliable and attentive after-sales service and technical support.
In this article we will concentrate our attention upon another NAS from ASUSTOR, with the AS6204T code name, which incorporates an Intel Celeron J3160 Braswell quad-core processor (1.6GHz frequency, while Boost drives the speed up to 2.08GHz), no less than 4GB of pre-installed RAM, 4 drive bays for plenty of storage, dual Ethernet connections, 4K video output and more; let’s get into more detail right away, but first we have the packaging stage! The product is shipped inside a medium-sized cardboard enclosure, which is provided with a plastic handle and comes with the usual ASUSTOR brand color scheme:
In the front we’ve got a photo of the product from two different angles, along with some small icons representing some of the functions:
On one of the box sides, we will get to see a listing of current ASUSTOR models; the model corresponding to the one inside the cardboard enclosure is ticked:
Also nearby we will get to see the list of technical specifications, along with a presentation of the available mobile applications and package contents:
ASUSTOR does not miss out on listing the main product functions in multiple languages:
After lifting the top cover, we will find an extra cardboard layer with congratulations on our purchase decision, but also some links to different Internet resources:
The NAS along with its bundle are carefully protected inside with foam material:
Speaking of the bundle, this is located in a separate, plain cardboard box:
The AS6204T is supplied with two LAN cables, the power lead, one power brick but also screws for 2.5’’ and 3.5’’ drives:
The power adapter is rated on the output as 12V at 7.5A; we also learn from its sticker that it was manufactured by Delta Electronics Incorporated:
Documentation is available on the supplied disk, along with the one included on the Multilanguage leaflet:
ASUSTOR continues to build their tower NASes on a proven platform, which comes with the usual gunmetal metallic cover and a black plastic front:
Since we are talking about a model which is also suited for small business, the drive bays are provided with locks:
In the top left corner, we will get to see the chromed ASUSTOR logo, along with the Power button and two status LEDs:
On the same line, but further down we have the LAN activity LEDs, along with an USB 3.0 port which is accompanied by an USB copy button and LED:
This unit also comes fitted with a status LCD display and buttons for navigating through the menus; the initial NAS setup can be also performed from here, without the use of a computer:
The four drive trays are provided with ventilation grills and the top status LEDs are handy when one of a drive is beginning to fail:
On the left side of the NAS chassis, ASUSTOR has used a ventilation grill in order to provide cool air for the internal motherboard:
The opposite side features a similar design, minus the ventilation grill:
A quick look in the back reveals the 120mm fan which is in charge of keeping both drives and motherboard cool at all times; its speed can be regulated via the available software profiles in ADM:
On its right side, we have the S/PDIF audio output, one HDMI port but also two eSATA ports in order to expand the storage even further:
A bit down we will get to see two LAN ports, two USB 2.0 ports which are accompanied by two other USB 3.0 ports, a Reset button, the DC-IN port but also a Kensington lock port:
On the bottom area of the unit we do have four large rubber feet, but also some additional product stickers with the serial number and MAC addresses:
The drive bays are pretty easy to eject:
Their construction design is similar to the ASUSTOR units we have reviewed in the past (and sported the same chassis design):
The provided frontal ventilation grill is available on each for keeping the drives cool:
On the bottom area of the trays we will clearly see the pre-drilled holes for 2.5’’ drive installation:
Transparent plastic channels are used for reflecting the LED light on the daughter-board to the frontal area of the unit:
After removing the drive trays, we will be able to see the daughter-board SATA Data/Power connectors clearly:
The removal of the aluminum cover can be done in a jiffy for easy maintenance and cleaning; since the unit does not have the power supply inside, it is considerably less heavy and the number of cables inside is minimized:
Between the drive cage and the back fan there is a considerable amount of space:
The motherboard is fully covered by a black plastic layer, but has cut-outs in the SODIMM memory slots area:
AS6204T comes pre-fitted with two 2GB DDR3L 1600MHz SODIMM modules:
If we opt-in for the initialization/configuration via PC, we’d better use the Control Center application from the ASUSTOR website in order to find the NAS easy on the local network:
The rest of the setup will continue via a wizard in a browser window:
The wizard instructs us to update the NAS server if a newer version is found, go straight to initialization procedure or upload an update file manually:
When the firmware is updating, a progress bar is shown, along with the steps the NAS needs to perform in order to complete the task:
The setup will then continue with the initialization:
First we are being asked for the NAS name and password for the administrator account:
Date & Time Settings can be configured next:
Network Settings menu allows us to leave the configuration options as-is or perform manual settings:
The Volume Settings must be specified afterwards; we are also informed that all data written previously on the drives will be deleted upon volume creation:
The Initialization steps will be then shown via a progress bar:
AS6204T must be also registered in order to gain access to App Center and install additional modules:
We will be then redirected to the ADM login page:
Before we began testing, we have tested that our RAID0 array has been correctly created and the default share folders are online:
The login screen prompts us to enter up the credentials:
The interface of ADM is easy to use and its desktop resembles the GUI of a mobile operating system:
The top bar also allows us to perform different power management tasks or sign out the current user:
The configuration of the NAS is split into multiple sections; first we do have Access Control, from where we are able to define new Local Users, Local Groups, Domain Users/Groups, work with the default Shared Folders or create new ones but also define the App Privileges:
The Activity Monitor section does allow the user to see the consumption of the system resources (CPU, Memory, Network, Disk Usage and running Processes):
The App Central is next, which does offer a lot of modules in order to enhance the NAS functionality; 3rd party applications are also available here, while Beta applications are placed separately:
If we have just started working with ADM, ASUSTOR puts at users’ disposal a manual which explains the usage of the main sections:
Backup and Restore area takes care of extra tasks in this area, so we can perform Remote Sync, FTP backups, Internal backups, External backups, enable One Touch Backup, perform Cloud Backups or adjust some more System Settings:
If we have External devices connected to the server, we can work with them in the appropriate section:
Next we could remind of File Explorer, which allows performing different actions on the files, located on the installed drives; from here we can also access external devices, mount virtual drives, work with the Recycle Bins and more:
Services are available in a different section and here we can work with Windows services, Mac OS X, NFS, enable the FTP server, Web Server and more:
More system settings can be customized from the Settings part of ADM; the General area allows us to customized the web access page options, and also modify the Sign In Page Style:
The Network area is pretty self-explanatory; besides LAN we can also configure Wi-Fi settings (if a suitable dongle is connected), but also work with Proxies:
VPN settings are next:
Regional Options comes with the Date & Time, Time Zone and Language tabs:
Hardware section is allowing the user to customize more in-depth the System behavior regarding the display, buzzer, but also places at his/her disposal the Energy Control tab, Power settings, Fan Control profiles and some more LCD Panel options:
Notification area follows:
ADM Defender is practically the included firewall section of the NAS:
Certificates can be added or exported from the next area:
ADM version can be updated automatically or manually via a file:
Network Recycle Bin options are available next:
Energy Saver section takes care of the power management settings of the NAS:
Ease of Access allows easy access to the NAS from other networks, EZ-Router telling us when the service functions properly or not:
The NAS can be always brought to factory defaults when needed:
Registration options can be seen in the last menu area:
Storage Manager section of the interface allows us to manage, create or erase new volumes, define spare drives, see the current disk status but also work with iSCSI and iSCSI LUN. A newly introduced feature is MyArchive, which permits hard drives to be used as removable drives so we can swap between different data disks, whenever needed. The AS6204T has bays 2,3,4 reserved for this.MyArchive drives can be formatted in several ways such as EXT4, NTFS and HFS+; when no longer needed for MyArchive use, removed MyArchive disks can be placed into eSATA/USB external enclosures and be directly accessible via Windows PC (NTFS file system) or Apple Mac devices (HFS+ file system):
System Information gives us more information about the hardware/software status of the server, the currently logged users but also provides a wizard named Dr. ASUSTOR which scans for system issues and proposes solutions:
The Avast Anti-Virus application module can be installed for free, but will only operate after we register with a free account on the Avast website:
DataSync for Dropbox provides an extra backup for our cloud account:
The data sync can be performed in three different ways:
A similar application is provided for OneDrive cloud services:
VirtualBox helps us install and operate different machines; as the Windows application, it is easy to work with and besides that we also have the possibility to install VM additions which will enable display 2D acceleration:
Download Center is the area to go to for downloading different content; a torrent search engine is fully integrated:
A Mail Server module can be easily installed on the server:
Photo Gallery is there for us to upload photos, organize albums, perform slideshows and more:
Roundcube email GUI can be installed separately:
UPnP Media can be shared via the respective application; we can add different sources for indexing from the same interface:
ASUSTOR Portal, which is the HDMI GUI interface segment has some configuration options of its own, which are accessible to work with within ADM:
LooksGood is an application which can manage TV Recordings (when applicable), browse and playback video content, but also transcode files:
The video files can be transcoded on-the-fly:
When on desktop, the video files will play back in a separate browser window, via VLC plugin:
Depending on the transcoding settings and length of the file, it will take some processing time:
An iTunes Server can be also enabled via the respective application:
SoundsGood is one of the music players of ADM, which organizes the content after it has been indexed:
Takeasy is a handy tool when we need to download any clip from websites like YouTube (at the preferred resolution):
All videos are afterwards available for offline playback:
Media Cast is also an interesting application module, which permits you to cast YouTube videos from your mobile device directly to your TV; this is a great deal for people which do not own Smart TVs:
As we have mentioned before, ASUSTOR Portal is the easy to use interface when the NAS is operated without a PC and it is connected via the HDMI interface to a TV or monitor; just recently the version has been boosted to V2, bringing us a more revised look. As the previous Portal version, from it we are able to launch the ADM for configuration, along with the Chrome and Chromium browsers (based on personal preference):
Some of the settings can be configured by pressing the small gear pictogram:
Virtual Box application for running and managing virtual machines can be also operated from here; the newly-created virtual machines will also have their own icons posted on the dashboard for easy launch:
If Chrome or Chromium are not our cup of tea, then we can always install Firefox from App Center and browse with it:
The full LibreOffice suite can be installed and operated for creating new content:
Our preferred media center application, Popcorn Time Community Edition is available for us on the ASUSTOR NAS and functions perfectly for both Movies and TV Shows:
If we would like to playback offline multimedia content, then KODI can help us with that:
Besides the usual functions you will find in a NAS from other manufacturers, ASUSTOR is going further and also includes game emulators like Mednafen; this one is installable from App Center and we can run game ISOs from multiple console types. We went ahead to test the Playstation One section, loaded up some ROMs and after downloading the suitable Playstation BIOS version from the web, everything went smoothly. Besides the actual emulation, we also get to configure lots of stuff, in order to increase graphics fidelity:
Games can run either in windowed or full screen modes; we have tried multiple titles and they worked as a charm on the Celeron N3150 Braswell CPU:
As mentioned before, by using the ASUSTOR proprietary MyArchive feature, the drives formatted this way (starting from the second bay of the NAS) can be formatted EXT4, NTFS or HFS+, EXT4 encryption being currently possible and can be treated as removable storage anytime when needed, for moving from NAS to NAS or to a PC (on SATA or USB enclosure). Thanks to the plug-and-play feature of MyArchive mode, it is easy to use with the Surveillance Center application; video can be recorded to a MyArchive volume, when it fills up it can be ejected for replacement or storage and if we need to view again some old footage we can always mount the drive back in any free bay and playback the content.
The drives which we would like to become MyArchive volumes can be set up via Volume Setup Wizard:
Only one drive can be chosen at a time for creation:
EXT4 format also supports encryption, the other partition formats will be soon available for encryption soon:
A summary screen will be displayed before the settings are performed:
After the volumes are created, they will show up with a different pictogram in Storage Manager and we can also eject them at will:
Each MyArchive volume is seen as a separate shared folder, for easy management:
One of the easy to use ASUSTOR mobile applications is AiMaster, which permits initialization and NAS interaction after all has been set up:
The NAS can be detected in multiple ways, but the Auto Detect is the easiest method:
We will be prompted for the user/pass in order to connect to the server:
The ADM desktop will be then ready for us to work with:
The multiple sections have been adapted for mobile devices:
System Info
Activity Monitor
Log
Installed Applications
Certain options can be also accessed from the top right corner:
CPU : Intel I5 4690K Retail
CPU Cooler: Noctua NH-D14
Motherboard : BIOSTAR GAMING Z97X
RAM : GeIL EVO CORSA 16GB 2400MHz C11
(2GB Exceleram DDR1333 for NASPT compatibility)
Video : HIS 280X
Power Supply : Cooler Master 850W
SSD : OCZ Vertex 4 256GB
Case: Cooler Master ATCS840
To test the NAS performances, the AS6204T NAS was populated with one OCZ Vertex 4 SSD along with one KingFast SLC E-Drive in RAID 0, formatted with a single volume and the NAS was connected directly to the computer, to avoid any limitations by implying additional hardware like a router. The first simple test was performed by loading the test file onto a RAM drive and then it was copied to the NAS, on its shared folder. The speed was recorded with Total Commander:
The second test was to copy the same file back to the computer; for eliminating any HDD speed limitations, the file was copied back to the RAM drive:
For performing a more advanced test, the Intel NAS Performance Toolkit was used, for performing 5 different test runs. Here are the results:
As extras, we have also included ATTO Disk Benchmark and Anvil:
We have performed the same benchmarks but this time with an encrypted folder:
The AS6204T 4-bay NAS from ASUSTOR, equipped with a low-power Celeron J3160 Braswell CPU and 4GB of RAM can handle without issue the well-optimized ADM OS which transforms it into a machine with multiple functions: backups, different service hosting, virtual machine installation and operation, media center for online and offline content, gaming computer thanks to the included emulators and more.
Despite the fact that we are dealing with a less powerful central SoC from Intel, the system has proven as being quite speedy to boot and shut down, even when we had more applications running on it at the same time, while the frontal display is handy for performing different tasks (including finding out the current IP address for initialization purposes).
After registering the NAS on the web, we get full access to the App Center, which includes tons of modules from ASUSTOR and different other 3rd parties, most of which have very recent updates. Here we will also get to install ASUSTOR Portal, the interface which helps the NAS to be used on HDMI without the need of a computer, just by plugging in a mouse and keyboard.
Regarding the HDMI interface, 4K output is possible, but only at 30Hz since the output is provided on HDMI 1.4b and not HDMI 2.0 as we have seen with the QNAP TVS-882 Turbo vNAS.
The NAS performances are very good while using non-encrypted folders, but when the encryption is enabled we could see a small performance hit.
Indeed, we get tons of features packed into a relatively small enclosure thanks to the external power supply but some may ask…..at what price? Well, the currently tested model can be found out in online shops for about 529 Euros, which we think that it is a fair price for what it is offered on the table.
We would like to thank to ASUSTOR for making this review possible!