01-17-2025, 12:05 PM
Thank you for reaching out, and I’m glad to help you build a NAS that fits your use case and budget. Based on your requirements, here’s a recommended hardware setup to create a robust, reliable, and future-proof NAS:
Use Case Analysis
Photo and Video Storage:
10TB+ storage needs with scalability for growth.
Remote Access:
Remote file transfers while on vacation.
Editing from NAS:
Requires a fast storage setup and adequate network performance (e.g., 2.5GbE or faster).
Blue Iris Recordings:
14 cameras require significant storage and continuous write performance.
Budget:
$400 for components, excluding drives.
Recommended Build
Core Components:
CPU:
Intel Core i3-12100 (~$110)
4 cores (8 threads) with integrated Intel UHD 730 graphics for lightweight tasks and Blue Iris support.
Supports Quick Sync Video for hardware-accelerated transcoding (useful for Plex).
Motherboard:
ASUS PRIME H610I-PLUS D4 (Mini-ITX) (~$120)
Compact Mini-ITX size to fit in your Jonsbo N3 case.
4 SATA ports for HDDs and 1 M.2 slot for NVMe SSD.
Supports 2.5GbE networking for better performance.
RAM:
16GB DDR4 3200MHz (2 x 8GB) (~$50)
Sufficient for your current needs and expandable if experimenting with more features (e.g., Docker or VMs).
Storage (Boot and Cache):
1TB NVMe SSD (e.g., Kingston NV2 or WD Blue SN570) (~$50)
Fast boot drive for the OS (e.g., TrueNAS or Unraid) and caching for photo/video editing.
Power Supply:
EVGA 500 W1, 80+ WHITE 500W Power Supply (~$40)
Reliable and affordable PSU to handle your setup.
Cooling:
Use the stock Intel cooler included with the CPU.
Network Recommendations
Onboard 2.5GbE Port:
Included on the H610I-PLUS motherboard. Ensure your router/switch supports 2.5GbE to take full advantage.
Optional Dual NIC Setup:
If you want to replicate your Blue Iris workstation’s dual NIC setup, consider adding a second PCIe NIC (e.g., Intel i350-T2).
NAS Software
TrueNAS Core or TrueNAS Scale:
Best for ZFS storage and reliability. Ideal for your photos, videos, and Blue Iris recordings.
Unraid:
Flexible for mixed-use setups, including Docker for additional experimentation.
Estimated Total Cost
Component Price
Intel i3-12100 $110
ASUS H610I-PLUS $120
16GB DDR4 RAM $50
1TB NVMe SSD $50
EVGA 500W PSU $40
Total $370
Why This Build?
Performance: Handles photo/video editing, Blue Iris, and Plex transcoding.
Scalability: Expandable storage and memory for future needs.
Budget-Friendly: Stays within your $400 budget while delivering excellent value.
Use Case Analysis
Photo and Video Storage:
10TB+ storage needs with scalability for growth.
Remote Access:
Remote file transfers while on vacation.
Editing from NAS:
Requires a fast storage setup and adequate network performance (e.g., 2.5GbE or faster).
Blue Iris Recordings:
14 cameras require significant storage and continuous write performance.
Budget:
$400 for components, excluding drives.
Recommended Build
Core Components:
CPU:
Intel Core i3-12100 (~$110)
4 cores (8 threads) with integrated Intel UHD 730 graphics for lightweight tasks and Blue Iris support.
Supports Quick Sync Video for hardware-accelerated transcoding (useful for Plex).
Motherboard:
ASUS PRIME H610I-PLUS D4 (Mini-ITX) (~$120)
Compact Mini-ITX size to fit in your Jonsbo N3 case.
4 SATA ports for HDDs and 1 M.2 slot for NVMe SSD.
Supports 2.5GbE networking for better performance.
RAM:
16GB DDR4 3200MHz (2 x 8GB) (~$50)
Sufficient for your current needs and expandable if experimenting with more features (e.g., Docker or VMs).
Storage (Boot and Cache):
1TB NVMe SSD (e.g., Kingston NV2 or WD Blue SN570) (~$50)
Fast boot drive for the OS (e.g., TrueNAS or Unraid) and caching for photo/video editing.
Power Supply:
EVGA 500 W1, 80+ WHITE 500W Power Supply (~$40)
Reliable and affordable PSU to handle your setup.
Cooling:
Use the stock Intel cooler included with the CPU.
Network Recommendations
Onboard 2.5GbE Port:
Included on the H610I-PLUS motherboard. Ensure your router/switch supports 2.5GbE to take full advantage.
Optional Dual NIC Setup:
If you want to replicate your Blue Iris workstation’s dual NIC setup, consider adding a second PCIe NIC (e.g., Intel i350-T2).
NAS Software
TrueNAS Core or TrueNAS Scale:
Best for ZFS storage and reliability. Ideal for your photos, videos, and Blue Iris recordings.
Unraid:
Flexible for mixed-use setups, including Docker for additional experimentation.
Estimated Total Cost
Component Price
Intel i3-12100 $110
ASUS H610I-PLUS $120
16GB DDR4 RAM $50
1TB NVMe SSD $50
EVGA 500W PSU $40
Total $370
Why This Build?
Performance: Handles photo/video editing, Blue Iris, and Plex transcoding.
Scalability: Expandable storage and memory for future needs.
Budget-Friendly: Stays within your $400 budget while delivering excellent value.