Sunday 22 September 2013

my multimedia server based on Synology

In this blog I explain you how I created the (for me) ideal environment for keeping my important documents save and backed up and at the same time benefit from some extra features the Synology server offers.

first a bit of history: 
My geeky side always wants to try out professional stuff and use it at home. So for years (2002-2009) all my files, consisting of a few gigabyte of business & personal documents and hundreds of gigabytes of music, videos and photographs where hosted on a Windows Small Business Server (SBS) in our basement. But when I realized what the power-consumption of my 24x7 standby Quad-XEON server was I decided to downsize and move everything to a WD MyBook WorldEdition, a small 1 disk NAS. With a 2TB hard-disc in it, the important documents also safely in the cloud with DropBox and/or GoogleDrive, this offered enough space. My unstable Exchange-Outlook environment was migrated to Google Apps with GMail and this turned out much better then I ever hoped. My XBMC-devices around the house could access the media files on the MyBook via LAN or WiFi. 

Until one day the disc in the MyBook started making strange noises, rebooting, taking hours to re-index all media-files and in the end I even lost some pictures I'd rather not had lost. It was finally time for Synology. I already heard a lot of it from friends (via social media) and I quickly opted for the DS213+ model, a pretty fast 2-disc NAS, so possible to mirror the data. I started building it with one 3TB WD RED (specially developed for NAS-purpose) and when everything worked I added a second 3TB WD RED disc so my data would be constantly mirrored (Raid1). Maybe a 4-disc NAS with a Raid5/10 scheme would've been better and more efficient but that also comes with a different price-tag. 

So now I have my Synology DS213+ up and running. It keeps copies of my personal and business documents which I now primarily store in the GoogleDrive and Dropbox clouds so I can access them from wherever I am and from whatever device I am using (PC at home, laptop at work, tablet or smartphone on the road). The Synology Operating System or DiskStation Manager (DSM) as they call it is a very powerful Linux based OS which allows even non-Linux users to benefit from a real server. It is amazing if you see what you can get out of this little box. All my printers are shared and we can directly print from the computers, iPads, iPhones, Android tablets and smartphones. Video and music are streaming to DLNA devices like our smart TV, tablets and phones. We're browsing through all our digital pictures/albums on the TV or tablet. And I even connected an outside IP Security Camera which I can see from wherever I am on my smartphone. You can manage users and groups in case you do not want everyone to have access at everything.

Backup options
Even though my data is stored on 2 different harddrives it is still not safe, what if our cellar floods or the house burns down? My video and music collection is not so important, my documents are stored in various clouds, but the tens of GBs of pictures we shot over the last years is not something I would like to loose. The Synology offers some interesting back-up solutions in different price ranges. For my pictures I choose Amazon Glacier backup. It is a very economic solution, I pay less then 1US$ per month to store around 20GB of pictures on Amazon's servers in Ireland. It is not as easy accessible as other cloud solutions but I will only need it in case of emergency. From my PC I also make a copy to Copy.com where I got a lot of storage for free by inviting friends (follow this link and start with 15+5GB for free)

Bonus for the MultiMedia freaks
For those who like to download movies and TV shows there's a whole bunch of Apps in a community available for the Synology. After some attempts with various tools/apps I came up with this set-up:


  • SABnzbd for downloading content from Usenet* (a paid usenet provider will be necessary);
  • SickBeard an app that automatically monitors if there are new episodes of my favourite TV Shows (like Dexter, Breaking Bad, the Big Bang Theory) available and if he pushes them to SABnzbd;
  • CouchPotato is to movies what SickBeard is to TV Shows.


read this blog to find out more about how to install and configure them on your Synology. I used this manual too and it fitted me right, especially since also I prefer to watch via XBMC.

*) to be able to use Usenet you will need a paid subscription to one of the Usenet providers. I use NewsDemon which offers a good and fast service (I can download at the maximum bandwidth my provider offers). Warning: downloading copyright protected content from Usenet is not legal everywhere so I strongly recommend you inform yourself before doing anything illegal. Oh, and do not blame me of course ;-)

And finally there is COPS, a Calibre-based App for easily accessing all your eBooks and ePubs from your tablet/e-reader on the server.


...and what does this all cost?
The hardware can be yours around 600€ for a Synology DS213+ w/ 2 mirrored harddrives of 3TB, but I also build a solution around the cheaper 1-disc DS112j (250€ incl. one 2TB disc) which works just fine as long as you do not download and stream at the same time.
In case you need help setting it up, just leave me a comment or contact me via the known social media (see right column)




88 comments:

  1. The Synology offers some interesting back-up solutions in different price ranges. But for my data I choose virtual data rooms backup.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I'm agreed with Sam, it's very important to understand how it works and avoid hacker attacks.
    security-online.net

    ReplyDelete
  3. First thing first I am certain some of you are pondering like I at first was, exactly what is a Media Server..visit the site

    ReplyDelete
  4. This description will be used in a number of places, on your website, in iTunes, you will also use this description when submitting your podcast to directories for listing here
    here

    ReplyDelete
  5. Huge database upheld ventures require the information planner range of abilities and the task director ought to guarantee that the individual appointed to this job on the undertaking has the draftsman range of abilities and experience.https://www.dbdesigner.net/

    ReplyDelete
  6. However, all the hard drives in this machine will share the same computing resources, such as RAM, CPU speed, etc.uk managed server hosting

    ReplyDelete
  7. There is also a particle enclosure which acts as an additional barrier to stop dust from entering the room data recovery london

    ReplyDelete
  8. It is conceivable to figure out how to compose a program in 10 minutes, and extremely all you have to get familiar with another dialect is your most loved web search tool, however you won't be a specialist. https://www.techpally.com/serverless-architecture-advantages/

    ReplyDelete
  9. The hard drive is brimming with circle platters, shafts, actuator arms, and other delicate segments.data recovery services

    ReplyDelete
  10. I'm glad I found this web site, I couldn't find any knowledge on this matter prior to.Also operate a site and if you are ever interested in doing some visitor writing for me if possible feel free to let me know, im always look for people to check out my web site. artists contracts

    ReplyDelete
  11. Here are some of the reasons that click here the brightest minds in the database world think that changes are coming:

    ReplyDelete
  12. Today data recovery is a multi-million dollar industry. The quantity of data recovery firms out there appears to surpass the quantity of drive-through joints for the whole planet. raid data recovery tips

    ReplyDelete
  13. Enjoyed reading the post. However, images are't loading, could you please fix this ? .

    ReplyDelete
  14. thanks you for sharing you idea ^-^)
    regards
    From ExamBD.com

    ReplyDelete
  15. How fast is that? Really fast. Almost instantaneous. Now consider there are 1,000 microseconds in a millisecond. This means the average LCD has a response time of 6,000 microseconds versus the nearly instant 0.1 microseconds of the LG 55EM9600.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Mantis Funding is a leading non-banking financial company located in New York. The company brings the perfect combo of speed and ease to the world of business financing; providing efficient access to capital for small businesses. Mantis is faster than the banks, infinitely more flexible, and makes funding approvals transparent and easier.
    Mantis Funding was launched in 2013 with the express purpose of creating quick and straightforward funding solutions for small businesses of America. With its engaging customer care approach, Mantis Funding doesn't just provide capital but also uses its platform to lend a helping hand and financial mentoring to SME owners.

    ReplyDelete
  17. As one of America's most well respected alternative financing companies, we at Mantis Funding have always made it our aim to help our clients – the small business owners of America. Our business model is designed to serve the varied financial needs of the SMEs of the country – helping them grow with timely access to capital. Mantis Funding offers encompass the entire range of alternative lending industry – from quick cash advance to a long-term line of credit to customized credit plans – covering the diverse requirements of different industries.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Game server hosting is usually a specialized version of internet hosting, created to for gamers to implement to experience games via the internet. best ark survival server hosting

    ReplyDelete
  19. Synology has a wide variety of NAS systems according to your need. The Best Budget NAS is a Synology NAS DS218+ click to read more

    ReplyDelete
  20. This tablet is absorbed into your blood approximately 30 to 60 minutes after the intake and start acting on your system by inhibiting the enzyme PDE5 (phosphodiesterase type) found in penis. Kamagra
    Kamagra
    Kamagra
    Kamagra
    Kamagra
    Kamagra

    ReplyDelete
  21. Javelin Male Enhancement overall good health is important to good healthy sexual living. Review your current health and medications with your doctor, eat right and get plenty of exercise, then consider natural male enhancement products if needed.Female sexual enhancement pills, female libido enhancers and other similar products will be the subject of a future article.Disclaimer: The Erectile Dysfunction (ED), Male Impotence and male enhancement pill

    ReplyDelete
  22. Vitrexotin RXproduct, always remember to review the ingredients and dosages carefully. Different

    ReplyDelete
  23. Vigrafirmt Male Enhancement
    products and supplements work differently on different individuals so your results ma

    ReplyDelete
  24. a professional. Make sure that you install air purification units that are easy to install, inspect, monitor and repair. Before you get one, it is important that you consult a good professional.Flexuline

    ReplyDelete
  25. Nutrapharmex Ketohealth experts do not recommend colon cleanses because they can change the body's fluid balance and electrolyte. Prolonged fasting can sometimes lead to more serious health issues

    ReplyDelete
  26. zzzoomer I really like reading through a post that will make people think. Also, many thanks for permitting me to comment!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Ciagra Male Enhancement Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is a unique tree with no close living relatives. Ginkgo extract treats circulation problems of impotence and increases blood flow to most tissues and organs,

    ReplyDelete
  28. Nutrapharmex Keto However, if you are sick and tired of being confused, tired of taking the weight off only to put it back on, and tired of wondering how to take the first steps to deciding the right diet

    ReplyDelete
  29. about what you put Exceptional Keto into your body, and not base your decision upon taste alone. Unfortunately, the majority of people base their beverage choices on taste and usually upon

    ReplyDelete
  30. Cartel Health a large number at the same time. By analyzing the data, the operational costs can be cut down and better healthcare opportunities can be available for the patients in need of it.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Pretty! This has been a really wonderful post. Canon EOS M100 Many thanks for providing this information.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Italian products online The fish heart, dried and salted, is a forte of Sicilian and Sardinian food, like bottarga and increased in value by admirers of fish. The preparing of the core of fish is like that of fish roe. The heart is salted and put between two tables under a press. Following 20 days it is set to dry in the shade, in a ventilated region. The relieved fish heart has a solid taste, thusly it doesn't need exceptional flavoring. It is utilized in hors d'oeuvres, simply prepared with additional virgin olive oil, in plates of mixed greens or ground chips on pasta.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Parmigiano Reggiano One conventional utilization of an entire Parmigiano Reggiano head is to utilize it as a serving pot. On uncommon events, when one has many visitors to serve (culinary fairs, feasts, huge parties) the entire head is spent and altogether burrowed out so the exposed outside layer stays, steaming pasta would then be able to be poured in it and served from in that.

    ReplyDelete
  34. I wanted to thank you for this excellent read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it. I already bookmarked your site to check out the new stuff you post.
    Latest Cryptocurrency News
    Top VPN Services
    Bitcoin Casino Sites
    Darknet Market Comparison
    Top TOR Hosting Providers
    Market List
    Buy and Sell Bitcoin

    ReplyDelete
  35. Excellent site you have here.. It’s hard to find high-quality writing like yours these days. I honestly appreciate individuals like you! Take care!!
    english-course

    ReplyDelete
  36. This is very amazing post. Its very helpful for us.Thanks to Admin for shearing with us.
    Largo Pawn Shop is in a relationship with all-things-digital. Our love for 24/7 connectivity does not compromise human contact. Connectivity and community can go hand in hand. We are vital and virtual. We’re a ‘bring yourself and your +1’ company. We are youthful. Notice, we didn’t say young. Because anyone can be youthful. Your 70-year-old grandma included. We include - we’re populist, not elitist. We’re chilled out. But never complacent. ‘Easy’ is not lazy. We understand the difference because we live it.
    Largo Pawn Shop

    ReplyDelete
  37. For All Latest News Specially
    USA News
    For All Latest News Specially
    World News

    ReplyDelete
  38. This is a cool website. I have to admit it! And this post/article is well written. Cheers for the website owner and author. Thank you.

    Please check out the links below.


    Ted's Woodworking


    Ultimate Small Shop


    WoodProfits

    ReplyDelete
  39. Your site is truly cool and this is an awesome moving article. Online Upholstery Fabric Store

    ReplyDelete
  40. You have completed certain reliable points there. I did some research on the subject and found that almost everyone will agree with your blog.

    Artificial Intelligence Training in Bangalore

    ReplyDelete
  41. It's a nice blog, and appreciating a good article is always important for me since I promote my own brand of Custom Leather Jackets in Alaska. Please click the link to proceed to shop as we specialize in full grain and high-quality leather products. You will always find your money's worth at Leather Crave.

    ReplyDelete
  42. PT BOLA Situs Bola Online Aman & Terpercaya yang memberikan Promo dan Bonus Menarik untuk para Membernya.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Dengan menggunakan tour guide jepang dari Tanogaido Tours and Travel (PT. Tanogaido Fantasi Pratama), maka Anda juga bisa konsultasi mengenai apa saja yang dibutuhkan selama berlibur di Jepang.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Outgrown basic NAS, needed reliable data backup with redundancy. Upgraded from single-disk NAS to Synology DS213+ with mirrored drives (RAID 1) for extra security and performance. reach out here https://sistajewelrystudio.com/affordable-designer-wedding-dresses/

    ReplyDelete