Moving on to a new Server

Channels DVR Server
#1

I know you all will be able to point me in the right direction.
I randomly checked my DVR server page because commercial skip wasn't working anymore, low and behold the Nvidia Shield DVR server is ending.
It got me thinking, what NAS is one that you all recommend? I am looking for something easy and reliable for migrating my server over too.
I have knowledge with PC's, but not with NAS devices. Also, which option will bring the server back up automatically if I have a power outage? Which one do you believe will have the best support going forward?

I saw the list on the: Channels — Channels DVR Server I just want what you think is best for NAS.

#2

Really depends on if you can use a NAS for things besides Channels DVR.
I use Synology NAS's because I trust the brand and already had them before using Channels DVR.
Something to keep in mind is getting an Intel based NAS if you want hardware transcoding.

Anytime you ask "What's best for me", understand you'll get advice based on what's best for the person giving the advice. Like asking what's the best car, truck, motorcycle, TV, streaming device, streaming service...

#3

Thank you. I haven't built a network with a NAS before because I haven't needed it. I do a local Backup of my PC and physically disconnect it. (Years ago I had a lightning strike and everything plugged in was damaged)

The purpose of the NAS is only going to be for the Channels DVR. So I need to make sure one is INTEL based. Got it.

#4

A good resource is the google docs spreadsheet here that shows which NAS models support hardware transcoding. Spreadsheet last updated 28-May-2024

2 Likes
#5

It doesn’t sound like you are even going to use the NAS as a NAS. Do you use TVE as a source? If you do I’d just go with a Beelink with a n95 or n100. They run about $130-175 depending on storage and sales. You are going to get much better performance for the price with a Beelink vs. a NAS.

#6

Ok, that's something I didn't think of. So just a Mini PC with Windows/Linux might be a better solution.

#7

Or install Linux on it if you're more comfortable w/Linux.

1 Like
#8

Thank you all for pointing me in the right direction with a MINI PC versus a NAS. Happy Recording.

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#9

If you are interested i have a tutorial on how to install ubuntu server. A beelink + linux server would be a winning combo.

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#10

I agree with the recommendation to get a Mini PC as you are experienced with Windows. Belink makes solid low energy consumption mini PCs. The N95 and N100 mentioned are no longer made with the N150 the latest. They all have enough CPU to do the job. The Belink computers come with Windows 11 Pro installed and they work great out of the box. You could install a SATA SSD or HDD inside the box or use an external HDD. Channels runs wonderfully under Windows 11 and you can install and never touch it again if you like as the major release will update automatically. The same goes for Windows. Just set your busy hours to avoid the times of day you record or get on once a month the Wednesday after patch Tuesday and do the upgrade at a time it will not interferer with your recordings and playback.

I'm a believer in running things on the OS you are most comfortable with as it leads to the least headaches.

3 Likes
#11

True....

#12

Thanks for the guide, I'll start with WIN 11 and see how it goes. If I don't like it then I'll give Unbunto a try.

#13

If you go this route make sure you go into the bios and set the power on state to power up after power loss. Power state articles link

1 Like
#14

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