Promise Technology, Inc. has launched the SmartStor DS4600 Direct Attached Storage (DAS) device for Windows, Apple Mac and Linux users. The company will boost its small businesses and home user range by offering four 2 TB HDDs connected through USB or Firewire.



DAS is a method of storage where, as the name implies, the storage device is directly connected to a PC or server. It offers a cost-effective method for storage, ideal for smaller businesses, home users and retailers.

This is Promise’s first DAS solution for the home market and extends the proven SmartStor range of NAS products. It offers users a simple way for these customers to implement DAS. The product uses Promise’s RAID technology and expertise in enterprise storage to deliver features such as robust error handling, extended rebuild features, hot swap support and hot spare function to small business customers. These are features more associated with enterprise-class products but the Promise DAS offers ease of use and install as well as these powerful functions.

With a lack of recognised storage expertise in many smaller companies, Promise has developed simple configuration tools for easy install. Promise’s One Touch Configuration allows setup without the need to install any additional software. Through the use of the One Touch button, small business users can create RAID 1 or RAID 5 volumes automatically. In addition, the use of Promise’s SmartNAVI Management GUI allows users to perform many tasks from the desktop, including the ability to choose their own RAID mode.

Backup has been made easier by the use of Backup-Tool SmartSYNC for Windows via USB 2.0 interface, offered free with the DS4600. The DS4600 is compatible with Time Machine so also offers easy backup for Apple Mac users.

In keeping with the current imperative to reduce power consumption and keep electricity costs down. The SmartStor offers users lower power consumption of just 7 watts through the use of automatic fan management and spin down of HDDs.

Promise also offers Windows users some additional functionality including MultiMedia management, Media Player for audio and video and Photo Album for managing huge numbers of images.

"Consumers and end-users are rapidly transitioning to Notebooks and Netbooks as their primary computer in the home and in the office. Notebooks and Netbooks are limited in terms of internal storage leaving the average consumer or end-user scrambling to expand their storage for backup of valuable data and digital content," said Billy Harrison, Promise Technology's Product Manager for CE Products - NAS and DAS.

Service and Support
The offering is backed by the Promise 2-year limited warranty with 24/7 telephone and email support.

Pricing and Availability
The Promise SmartStor DS4600 costs £379 (ex VAT) and is available from authorised Promise distributors, selected eshops and etailers.