Storage and peripheral developer Iomega has formally launched its Iomega StorCenter ix2-200 network-attached storage (NAS) device, bringing a potentially dizzying array of enterprise-level storage, service, and management features to home and small business users. Although Iomega claims the ix2-200 can be up and running in just a few minutes, the device is definitely trying to outdo all the competition by packing in just about every feature that’s ever been offered in a NAS device.
“The new StorCenter ix2-200 is definitely the easiest to use small office and consumer network storage appliance in the marketplace today,” said iomega president Jonathan Huberman, in a statement. “Combining EMC’s world class enterprise storage and security technologies with advanced media serving features makes the ix2-200 a versatile and affordable NAS appliance that gives smaller organizations, work groups and home users not only cost-effective and robust network storage but some of the same sophisticated data management capabilities as a Fortune 100 corporation—but without any need for IT experience.”
Everyday computer users may disagree, but there’s no denying the ix2-200 brings the features, including device-to-device replication for reliable backups, RAID 1 support, user-swappable hard drives, and front-mounded QuickTransfer button for fast copying of selected files. The ix2-200 also acts as a DLNA and iTunes media server, can be accessed remotely from anywhere a user can get Internet access, and can serve as a repository for Time Machine backups under Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard and newer. The device also acts as a print server, can support up to five Axis network video cameras for IP-based video surveillance in the home or office, and supports Picture Transfer Protocol for USB-based transfer of photos off digital cameras. Of course, the device packs gigabit Ethernet, and there’s even Bluetooth for offloading contacts, images, and more from smartphones and other devices. Since Iomega is an EMC subsidiary, the ix2-200 also comes with EMC Retrospect Express Backup Software with unlimited client licenses.
The StorCenter ix2-200 comes in 1, 2 and 4 TB capacities, with suggested prices of $269.99, $269.99, and $699.99, respectively. The 1 and 2 TB configurations are available now in the Americas and Europe; the 4 TB configuration will be available later in October. All three configurations should land in Asia in November 2009.
