Buffalo expands LinkStation NAS abilities with V-series
updated 09:55 pm EDT, Tue October 12, 2010
Transfers at up to 76MB/sec, iOS app access
Buffalo Technology is in the process of revamping its consumer-oriented network storage solution offerings, introducing a new V-series set of drives that feature higher transfer speeds than most competing NAS drives, as well as WebAccess i apps for iOS devices, giving users ways to stream and upload digital content directly to and from their mobile devices. Future models in the line will also feature RAID redundancy, and all the drives in the V-series feature Time Machine and iTunes compatibility along with built-in FTP and print server software.
The new drives, starting with the currently-available LinkStation Pro, are said by the company to be the highest-performing NAS drives in the consumer arena, using a 1.6Ghz onboard processor to achieve network transfer speeds of up to 76MB per second, significantly faster than even a direct USB2 connection, which the drives also sport alongside the usual Ethernet connection for easy attachment of peripherals like cameras and printers.
The forthcoming LinkStation Pro Duo and LinkStation Pro Quad (featuring two and four drives respectively) use RAID redundancy and user-removeable drives for servicing without tools. Software included with the drives can perform scheduled backups to an external USB drive or other Buffalo NAS drive for Windows clients, and supports Time Machine software and Bonjour services for Mac users.
The V-series is unusual in that it features a built-in Bittorrent client, allowing users to download directly to the drive. By use of Buffalo's free WebAccess i and WebAccess i HD apps for iPod/iPhone and iPad (respectively), iOS device owners can stream content and supported files -- as well as upload photos and videos -- remotely using either Wi-Fi or 3G. The drives are also DLNA certified for use with other devices such as PlayStations and XBoxes.
The LinkStation Pro LS-VL is currently available in 1TB ($190) and 2TB ($260) capacities. The LinkStation Pro Duo will be available later this month with 2TB ($260) and 2TB ($450) capacities. The LinkStation Pro Quad will debut in November with 2TB ($270), 4TB ($580), 6TB ($900) and 8TB ($1040) capacities.
