ReadyNAS Power Supply Replacement

Fortunately I was around before the smell wafted too far around the house and was able to turn the ReadyNas off before it died completely and took out any other part of the unit.

Browsing the forums, it became clear that power supply failure with my vintage of NV unit (silent power supply but pre-dating NV+) was not uncommon, despite applying a service action that both reversed the fan and also increased it's speed (and noise). In my case I found that the air intake filter was a bit congested, despite frequent application of the vacuum cleaner, so airflow had been reduced, presumably enough to tip it over the edge. In examining this I accidentally discovered it was actually quite easy to remove the filter fabric from the door by hinging the perforated metal part away from the door frame, what a pity this was not covered in the ReadyNAS instructions.

So I ordered a replacement from eAegis but unfortunately they had run out, so there was some delay - what to do?

The dead/dying power supply had what looks like an ATX power connector, but Infrant warn that it is not compatible with a desktop power supply. However, it is not that different and it is possible to modify an extension power supply cable and then power the ReadyNAS from a decent sized desktop ATX supply.

In fact, I later found (but can't refind) a post where someone recommended getting 1U server grade units instead, as much better quality and a similar price to replacement Infrant units, although warranty obviously voided and some metalwork required. If I had found this before my order I might well have been tempted.

So, anyway, my replacement unit turned up and has been fitted - everything hunky dory since. Here are the two units side by side:

The newer design on the left has been revised to improve airflow through the supply. Included with the new unit is a perspex baffle that helps guide air through the power supply - you clip it across the unit about a third of the way down. The actual power supply module looks identical, so it seems just cooling arrangements have been revised.