USB Hard Drive, Linksys NSLU2, and Home network

[rockymtnhigh]

Last week I picked up a Linksys NSLU2 Network Storage Link, which alows you to connect two USB hard drives to a lan through the device, which is actually a REALLY small linux box.

I connected two USB drives to it; one is an old IDE drive in a external case; the other is a brand new WD 320 GB "My Book." The WD is what I intend to use - and probably setup a FTP server so I can connect to my data from work.

Here is the issue. The WD is supposed to shut itself down when it is not in use; by going into standby. This helps reduce heat, and prolongs the life of the drive. Yestersday I connected it - and it works great, BUT it never goes into standby, and by the end of the day, the drive is pretty darn hot.

I know I could connect the drive directly to one of my PCs, and it probably would go into standby. I suspect the Linksys linux box is constantly feeding it info, so it thinks it is active. BUT I don't want to have my machine on during the day when I am at work - just my HD and linksys box.

Anyone have any familiarity with this Linksys device, and this sort of issue?

I like the WD drive, but would consider exchanging it if there was a better option. Although I have high hopes for it to be eventually connected to a E* vip622.

And I can still return the Linksys storage link if it proves to be un-useful. But I hope I don't have to.

Also - do people have heat issues with ethernet-connected external HDs? I am interested in feedback.

Best,

- MG

 

[SatAdam]

The linksys won't let a drive sleep. I use Seagate externals drives that have fans inside them.

I also run uNSLUng firmware on my slug, it acts as my intranet server and runs twonkyvision for my uPNP devices. (Mine has also been de-underclocked and runs at 266mhz now )

If you want to get rid of the little gem, I'll take it off your hands if they won't exchange it for you.