Reviews of the Drobo (Second generation, 4TB)
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CNET Review
The Good: Protects your data automatically; easily expandable with SATA hard drives of any size; features both USB 2.0 and FireWire 800 interfaces; faster processor than the original Drobo; works with DroboShare.
The Bad: Subpar throughput on Windows XP; no eSATA; Ethernet can be added but costs $200; no bundled backup software; takes a long time to start; FireWire 800 doesn't work well with 64-bit Windows Vista; short one-year warranty; terrible phone tech support; relatively expensive.
The Bottom Line: The second-generation Drobo adds a FireWire 800 connection, but the original USB-only on the now discounted Drobo might be the best bet for Windows users until better FireWire 800 drivers arrive. The device remains the most automated and easy-to-use redundant backup product we've seen.
Manufacturer: Data Robotics, Inc.
Part number: DRO-4DD10-WDC1TB-4
General
- Device Type Hard drive array
- Width 6 in
- Depth 10.7 in
- Height 6.3 in
Cabinet (Chassis)
- Installed Devices / Modules Qty 4
- Supported Devices / Modules Qty 4
Storage
- Total Array Capacity 4 TB
- Max Supported Capacity 16 TB
- HDD Array External Interface FireWire 800, Hi-Speed USB
- Optical Storage None
Processor
- Processor None
Storage Controller
- Type Serial ATA - Integrated ( IEEE 1394b (FireWire 800) / Hi-Speed USB )
- Supported Devices Hard drive
Storage Controller (2nd)
- Type None
Storage Hard Drive
- Type Hot-swap - Plug-in module
- Capacity 4 x 1 TB
- Interface Type Serial ATA-I, Serial ATA-II
Storage Hard Drive (2nd)
- Type None
Expansion / Connectivity
- Expansion Bays Total (Free) 4 ( 0 ) x Internal - 3.5" x 1/2H
- Expansion Slots Total (Free) None
- Interfaces 1 x Hi-Speed USB - 4 pin USB Type B, 1 x IEEE 1394b (FireWire 800)
- Connections 1
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included 1 x USB cable - 6 ft, 1 x IEEE 1394b cable - 6 ft
- Software Included Drivers & Utilities
- Compliant Standards UL, FCC Part 15 B
Power
- Power Device Power adapter - External
- Voltage Required AC 100/200 V
- Power Consumption Operational 40 Watt
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year
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