If you’re someone in need of expanding your computer’s storage capacity, whether due to a budget-friendly PC purchase or the accumulation of large files, then the product you’re seeking is a DAS (Direct Attached Storage). With DAS, you can increase your PC’s storage space without requiring a larger computer tower or the hassle of opening up your PC to connect new disks. Everything is handled externally, offering convenience, affordability, and the flexibility to move your storage between different computers without any additional effort.
What Is a DAS?
The acronym DAS stands for Direct Attached Storage, and as the name suggests, it’s all about directly connecting storage to your computer without the need for much else. Unlike a NAS (Network Attached Storage), which might be easily confused with DAS, these devices lack a server connected to the network. As a result, they are not accessible from anywhere; they are exclusively connected to the specific computer you intend to use.
In simpler terms, think of it as plugging in a USB flash drive or an external hard drive to your PC. You gain access to all the files stored on these devices, but with DAS, there’s a notable difference. DAS units are more versatile, allowing you to attach multiple disks, thus expanding or swapping their content and achieving nearly limitless storage capacity.
Examples of DAS Devices
Numerous DAS models and brands exist, all operating on a similar principle. The choice largely depends on the speed you require and the number of drive bays you need.
One such DAS device is offered by TerraMaster, featuring four available drive bays that can accommodate both 3.5″ SATA hard drives and 2.5″ SSD units. With a USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface (Type C) delivering speeds of up to 5 Gbps, it boasts a maximum capacity of 72 TB (18 x 4 drives), providing a substantial storage solution.
However, TerraMaster is just one option, and your choice should align with your specific needs. For example, Sabrent offers a DAS device with five drive bays, each of which can be powered on or off individually. It boasts an impressive speed of up to 10 Gbps and a maximum capacity of 110 TB (22 x 5 drives), making it a high-quality DAS solution for those seeking advanced performance.
It’s important to note that these DAS products do not come with included hard drives; you’ll need to either attach your own or purchase them separately. You can even repurpose old hard drives from devices like game consoles, such as PlayStation or Xbox. This flexibility allows you to customize your DAS to suit your specific storage needs.
You can use DAS devices to create your own library akin to Netflix or simply employ them for backing up critical files from your computers. Keep in mind that unlike NAS devices, DAS units are accessible only via a direct cable connection to your computer. However, they are compatible with MacOS, Windows, and Linux, providing you with the option to use a single DAS for all your computer systems.