[SOLVED] Converting old PC to DIY NAS

[amitshesh]

I have a Dell Inspiron 570 that is no longer in use because I recently built a PC. I use a WD My Book Live as a NAS in my home network. I want to replace it with a newer NAS setup because although it is functioning perfectly, it is close to 9 years old. I'm wondering if I should buy a Synology and put drives in it, buy a newer version of WD Book, or convert my old PC into a DIY NAS. Here are the details:

Use of current NAS:

1. Store RAW photo files, store processed photos.
2. Store music.
3. Store important documents.
4. Use case: see/edit photos from other PCs within home network, use DLNA to see photos on existing devices, see/edit documents from other devices within home network. No remote access.
5. Future storage requirements: about 2-3TB (I primarily store photos, no movies, etc.). Access to media from other devices is primary use.
6. Periodic, manual backups to a USB external drive using synctoy.

Old PC configuration:
AMD Athlon X2 II
8GB RAM
256GB SSD
I think the ethernet port is gigabit (whatever came with Inspiron 570)
If converted into NAS, I plan to put 2 HDDs of 2/4TB each, possibly in a RAID1 config. Upgrade later if needed.

Why I'm thinking DIY NAS: money and reusing what I have. Its that simple.

My concerns:

1. Power consumption: I know it will be higher if I used my old PC, but how much higher? What can I do to reduce consumption, especially at idle time?
2. The old PC works just fine. But I'm wondering if I should buy a better/more powerful PSU for this, not sure how much the Dell one can handle.
3. Size: having a tower means I cannot tuck the NAS in a shelf.
4. Price: 2-bay diskless enclosure will be $150. Old PC is free. Both will require HDDs.
5. Although I've built a PC successfully, I have never set up a RAID or a specific OS for NAS. I plan to use OpenMediaVault, although FreeNAS is also OK.
6. The plug-n-play vs having to tinker every time I want to change something.

Suggestions?

 

[USAFRet]

Regarding the RAID 1...don't rely on that for data protection. It is ONLY for physical drive redundancy, and only if you really need 24/7 uptime.
Your data needs an actual backup.

Now, to your question:
Building a home NAS from an old PC can certainly work. Doesn't need to be powerful.

What something like a Synology or QNAP gives you is a comprehensive software suite. Much easier config and maintenance.
The DIY is certainly cheaper, since you already have most or all of the parts needed.

Several years ago I did exactly the same as you. Repurpose an old system as the house server.
Later (2017), wanting to upgrade that, a 4 bay QNAP won the contest hands down.