Troubleshooting NAS Build: HDDs Not Working - Something I'm Doing Wrong?

Troubleshooting NAS Build: HDDs Not Working - Something Is Wrong?

Building a Network Attached Storage (NAS) system can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. However, sometimes issues may arise, such as Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) not working. In this article, we will cover the key concepts of NAS building, focusing on the issue of HDDs not working, and provide troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the problem.

Understanding NAS Building

NAS building involves setting up a dedicated server to store and share files across a network. The process involves selecting the right hardware and software components, configuring the system, and setting up user access and permissions. In this scenario, the NAS build includes the following components:

• AMD Ryzen 97950X 3D CPU
• 128GB DDR4 (3200MHz) RAM
• RTX 4070 GPU
• 1TB 970 EVO SSD
• 46TB WD Red Plus HDDs (number unspecified)
• Focus GX-1000/1000W PSU

HDDs Not Working: Key Concepts

HDDs may not work for various reasons, including configuration issues, hardware compatibility problems, or physical damage. In this case, the WD Red Plus HDDs may not be recognized by the NAS system, causing issues with data storage and access.

Troubleshooting Steps

Here are some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the issue of HDDs not working in your NAS build:

1. Check the physical connections of the HDDs to ensure they are properly connected to the NAS system.
2. Verify that the HDDs are recognized by the system's BIOS or UEFI firmware.
3. Check the NAS software configuration to ensure that the HDDs are properly configured and assigned to the correct storage pool.
4. Update the NAS software and firmware to the latest version to ensure compatibility with the HDDs.
5. Test the HDDs using a separate computer or external enclosure to ensure they are functioning properly.
6. Replace any faulty or damaged HDDs with new ones that are compatible with the NAS system.

Code Block Example

Here is an example of how to check the physical connections of the HDDs using the Linux command line:

# lsblk
NAME MAJ:MIN RM SIZE RO TYPE MOUNTPOINT
sda 8:0 0 46.6T 0 disk
|-sda1 8:1 0 512M 0 part /boot/efi
|-sda2 8:2 0 1G 0 part /boot
|-sda3 8:3 0 46.1T 0 part
| `-md0 9:0 0 46.1T 0 raid1 /mnt/data
sdb 8:16 0 46.6T 0 disk
|-sdb1 8:17 0 512M 0 part /boot/efi
|-sdb2 8:18 0 1G 0 part /boot
|-sdb3 8:19 0 46.1T 0 part
| `-md0 9:0 0 46.1T 0 raid1 /mnt/data
sdc 8:32 0 931.5G 0 disk
`-sdc1 8:33 0 931.5G 0 part /mnt/backup

In summary, troubleshooting HDDs not working in a NAS build involves checking the physical connections, verifying system recognition, configuring the NAS software, updating the firmware, testing the HDDs, and replacing any faulty or damaged HDDs. By following these steps, you can resolve the issue and ensure that your NAS system is functioning properly.

References

• How to Check Hard Drive Connections in Linux
• Truenas: Troubleshooting Drives
• Synology: Checking Physical Connection of Hard Drive