AC100 mini server being used as NAS device. I have a boot drive question..PCI-e.

kojack
kojack Member Posts: 2 New User

I have an ac100 mini server I am reconfiguring to become a NAS device. I want to use the 4 hotswappable drives for storage only and no OS installed on them. Can I use an pci-e adapter and install a small SSD using the adapter to install the OS on? I will be using trueNAS software for the OS and configuration of the system. The server will be loaded with 4 18tb hdd and one ssd once completed. I will also be installing a 120mm fan in the back for cooling, and a better cpu cooler if I can fit one in there!

Answers

  • JackE
    JackE ACE Posts: 45,186 Trailblazer

    »>Can I use an pci-e adapter and install a small SSD using the adapter to install the OS on?»>

    The specs suggest the PCIe socket supports boot devices. So I'd guess that a $20 PCIe-to-m2 SSD adapter should work just fine. 1TB m2 SATA3 or NVME cards are about the best deals on the planet right now. Less than $100.

    Jack E/NJ

  • kojack
    kojack Member Posts: 2 New User

    Hi Jack E, just getting around to responding. I tried this and it didn't seem to work. I have the drive installed into the pci slot, and TrueNAS on a USB drive but the system does not recognize the boot.

  • JackE
    JackE ACE Posts: 45,186 Trailblazer
    edited 11:12AM

    > >TrueNAS on a USB drive but the system does not recognize the boot.> >

    What operating system and drive are you trying to boot from? TrueNAS from a USB drive? Do you mean the AC100 isn't booting TrueNAS from the USB drive? Or do you mean the AC100 is booting but TrueNAS doesn't recognize the SSD and adapter in the PCIe socket?

    Jack E/NJ