(Note: I offered these same instructions about a year ago, but I felt it was time for a refresher for my newer readers).
HP offers two versions of it's new MediaSmart Server, the EX485 and the EX487. However, you won't see me talking much about the EX487 for one simple reason. The price difference between the two models is $150 and yet the specs are identical except that the EX487 comes with two 750 drives vs. only one in the EX485.
Let's do the math. You are paying $150 for a pre-installed 750GB drive? The Western Digital 1TB green drive is only $104 (which includes free shipping from Newegg). So if you are the least bit technically savvy (and if you are reading this blog, I assume that you are) save yourself around $50 and get and extra 250GB by doing it yourself.
Follow these simple instructions (which work on the EX470 as well):
- Pull out the lowest empty drive tray.
- Push down the back panel marked 1. Don't worry, you won't break it.
- With the hard drive connectors facing away from you, angle the drive into the left set of pins in the tray (marked 2).
- Flex the plastic on the right to snap the 2 opposite pins into place (marked 3).
- Slide the tray back into the computer. Do *not* push on the handle or the tray will not slide easily. You can do this with the MediaSmart Server powered on.
- Lower the front try hinge until it snaps (the LED should turn purple)
- Go to the Windows Home Server console (i.e. double click the tray icon)
- Click on Server Storage where you should see the drive you just added
- Highlight the drive and click Add.
Enjoy.
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5 comments:
Reading the article i will choose the EX485, that HD is too expensive! :)
Chris, John and I were just talking about this with Dave on the Home Server Show (#28) the other day. With the quickly falling HD prices, I'm sure HP will have to adjust their pricing. I rather see them put out a 1.5TB (2x750) and a 3 TB (2x1.5TB) at the current price point. Just my thoughts.
Also you should mention that the latest software on EX487 will be provided on EX485 via HP updates. Its a no brainer then.
@old_shepherdian - I think you are getting your model numbers confused. The EX470/475 are the old models, the EX485/487 are the new models. I'm simply pointing out that with the new models (which have the same software) you are paying $150 for a 750GB drive.
You are correct in that some of the software that ships on the newer models can be back ported to the older models. Thanks.
This device is a commodity. Small and quiet which would allow you to position it anywhere in the house. I wouldn’t have a problem positioning it in the kitchen or TV room.
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