2big network

Needs speed

IDG

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Encased in dull grey metal like much of LaCie's line of larger hard-drive systems, the 2big network — a network-attached storage device — would sit well next one of Apple's pro-level Macs. However, on its own it looks a little like an air-conditioning unit or heater.

Pros

  • Metal design keeps noise down, simple software, low cost.

Cons

  • Quite slow, poor Web interface, no RAID 0 mode.

Bottom Line

The 2big network's main flaw is that it was far slower than other drives we've looked at. Even considering the low price, and that some of these drives had three or four drives to the 2big's two, its performance was poor.

Would you buy this?

  • Price

    $ 599.00 (AUD)

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The one giveaway of its computing purpose is the big blue HAL-style inset dome on its front. The ribbed metal sides help to dissipate heat, so the 2big can run its fan slower — producing less noise. The two drives inside are removable via two drive trays at the back of the unit.

The Web interface is basic and doesn't make it easy for you to find what you're looking for. The bundled Ethernet Agent offers easier control, but runs as an always-on System Tray application.

Changing between Safe 100 and Big modes (RAID 1 and JBOD) was faster than other systems, but the lack of a RAID 0 option will put off users looking for a fast unit for project sharing.

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