HP MediaVault 2120
Visitors to this site know that we’re primarily devoted Windows Home Server products, especially the MediaSmart Server. However some users don’t need all the features that the MediaSmart Server provides, and are looking for a good, inexpensive network backup and storage solution.
In this situation the MediaVault should be considered, as it provides much of the features of the MediaSmart Server, in a smaller form factor and with a lower cost. The main differences of the MediaVault in comparison to the MediaSmart Server are the following.
- Less Expandable – with only two internal drive bays and two USB ports
- Less Extensible – no support for Add-Ins, though experienced Linux users may be able to gain more functionality
- Less Powerful – Utilizes a 500mhz ARM9 chip with 128MB RAM
Despite these limitations, the MediaVault still offers file-based backup (via NTI Shadow), Remote Access, TZO DDNS services, iTunes streaming, Twonky DLNA streaming, RAID1 for data redundancy, gigabit ethernet, and storage expandability to 4TB.
In my inbox today I received weekly HPShopping deals, and they have the MediaVault 2120 with 500GB storage for $199 with Free Shipping, which is $80 off the retail price. Those of you with EPP benefits can get it for even less.
For more info on the MediaVault products, be sure to check out Lee’s Site for everything you wanted to know about the MediaVault.
Article by Alex Kuretz
I'm Alex Kuretz, and I'm the founder of MediaSmartServer.net. I was the Lead Test and Integration Engineer at HP for the MediaSmart Server until April 2008 when I moved on to other opportunites outside HP. I've kept active in the WHS community, creating several add-ins and helping users make the most of their Home Servers.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I would go for it if it would hold 2 more drives. USB is not a fulltime option for dives IMHO.
Kuddos to HP though for making this stuff. Keep the options coming!!