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Buffalo HD-WH8TU3R1 DriveStation Duo DAS Storage System - 2-Bay - 8 TB Installed - USB 3.0 - RAID 0/1/JBOD
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This DAS system is built around a Serial ATA/300 controller that manages the two internal hard drive bays. Both bays are populated from the factory with drives optimized for NAS workloads, ensuring stable performance during extended read/write operations. The host connection is handled by a single USB 3.0 port, providing high-speed data transfer rates up to 5 Gbps for efficient file access and backup operations.
The hardware supports three RAID configurations: RAID 0 for striping and increased performance, RAID 1 for mirroring and data redundancy, and JBOD (Just a Bunch Of Disks) for treating each drive independently. The hot-swappable drive trays allow for easy drive replacement without powering down the entire system, minimizing downtime during maintenance or capacity upgrades.
Relevant factors for this section include Number of Hard Drives Supported, Number of Hard Drives Installed, Total Hard Drive Capacity Installed, Number of Total Expansion Bays. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The DriveStation Duo combines out-of-the-box readiness with robust data management features. Its preconfigured storage eliminates the need for users to source and install drives separately, while the included backup software automates protection for both PCs and Macs.
Universal Connectivity
USB 3.0 interface ensures broad compatibility with modern Windows and macOS computers without requiring additional drivers or network setup.
- Plug-and-play operation
- Backward compatible with USB 2.0
Built-In Data Protection
RAID 1 mirroring safeguards data against a single drive failure, while hot-swappable bays enable quick recovery without system interruption.
- Automatic data redundancy
- Minimal downtime for drive replacement
Automated Backup Workflows
Bundled NovaBACKUP Buffalo Edition for Windows and native Time Machine support for macOS allow users to schedule regular, hands-off backups.
- Cross-platform software inclusion
- Set-and-forget scheduling
Deployment / Use Cases
This DAS system is ideal for environments where simple, direct-attached storage expansion is preferred over networked solutions. Its compact footprint and quiet operation make it suitable for deskside use in home offices, small businesses, or creative studios.
Primary use cases include serving as a primary backup target for a single computer or as a secondary storage pool for large media files, project archives, or system images. The RAID 1 configuration is particularly valuable for professionals who need an immediate local copy of critical documents, financial records, or client work.
SOHO Backup Hub
Acts as a centralized backup destination for one or two computers, leveraging scheduled software to protect business data automatically.
Media and Project Storage
Provides fast, direct-access storage for video editors, photographers, or designers working with large asset libraries, with RAID 0 available for performance-centric workflows.
Physical Profile
The DriveStation Duo features a compact, vertical desktop design measuring 5 inches high, 3.40 inches wide, and 8.03 inches deep. Its small footprint conserves desk space while the 4.85-pound weight ensures stability. The chassis is constructed for durability and efficient cooling, with ventilation supporting the 24/7 operation of the internal NAS-grade hard drives.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 5" (127 mm), 3.40" (86.36 mm), 8.03" (203.96 mm), 4.85 lb (2199.92 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 3.40" (86.36 mm)
- Depth
- 8.03" (203.96 mm)
- Height
- 5" (127 mm)
- Weight
- 4.85 lb (2199.92 g)
What's in the Box
The system ships complete with all necessary components for immediate setup and operation.
Highlights
- 2-bay DAS system with 8 TB of preinstalled NAS-optimized hard drives
- USB 3.0 host interface for high-speed connectivity to PCs and Macs
- Supports RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD configurations for flexibility
- Hot-swappable drive bays enable easy maintenance and upgrades
- Includes NovaBACKUP Buffalo Edition for Windows and Time Machine support for macOS
- Designed for continuous 24/7 operation in SOHO environments
- Compact desktop form factor with a small footprint
- TAA compliant and backed by a 3-year limited warranty
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Buffalo Americas, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | HD-WH8TU3R1 |
| Brand Name | Buffalo |
| Product Line | DriveStation Duo |
| Product Series | HD-WHU3/R1 |
| Product Model | HD-WH8TU3/R1 |
| Product Name | DriveStation Duo HD-WH8TU3/R1 DAS Storage System |
| Product Type | DAS Storage System |
| Storage | |
| Number of Hard Drives Supported | 2 |
| Number of Hard Drives Installed | 2 |
| Total Hard Drive Capacity Installed | 8 TB |
| I/O Expansions | |
| Number of Total Expansion Bays | 2 |
| Controllers | |
| Controller Type | Serial ATA/300 |
| RAID Supported | Yes |
| RAID Levels | 0, 1, JBOD |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Drive Interface | Serial ATA/300 |
| Host Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Total Number of USB Ports | 1 |
| Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 1 |
| Power Description | |
| Maximum Power Supply Wattage | 48 W |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Height | 5" (127 mm) |
| Width | 3.40" (86.36 mm) |
| Depth | 8.03" (203.96 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 4.85 lb (2199.92 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | DriveStation Duo HD-WH8TU3/R1 DAS Storage System Setup CD-ROM Quick-Setup Guide USB 3.0 Cable AC Adapter Warranty Statement |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 3 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What is the total storage capacity of the Buffalo DriveStation Duo HD-WH8TU3R1?
This DAS system comes with two hard drives preinstalled, providing a total of 8 terabytes (TB) of raw storage capacity. The usable capacity will depend on the RAID configuration selected; for example, RAID 1 mirroring halves the available space to 4 TB for redundancy, while RAID 0 striping makes the full 8 TB available for performance.
What RAID levels does this storage system support?
The DriveStation Duo supports three RAID modes: RAID 0 (striping for performance), RAID 1 (mirroring for data protection), and JBOD (treating each drive independently). This flexibility allows users to prioritize either speed, redundancy, or simple storage expansion based on their specific needs.
How do I connect the DriveStation Duo to my computer?
Connection is straightforward via the included USB 3.0 cable. Plug one end into the USB 3.0 port on the back of the DriveStation Duo and the other into an available USB port on your Windows PC or Mac. The system is plug-and-play, typically requiring no additional drivers for modern operating systems.
Does this system include backup software?
Yes, it includes NovaBACKUP Buffalo Edition for Windows, which allows you to schedule automatic backups of your PC or office server. For Mac users, the system is fully compatible with Apple's native Time Machine software, enabling scheduled backups directly through macOS.
Are the hard drives hot-swappable?
Yes, the DriveStation Duo features hot-swappable drive bays. This means you can remove and replace a hard drive without powering down the entire system, which is crucial for maintaining uptime during drive failures or capacity upgrades in RAID 1 or JBOD configurations.
What is the warranty coverage for this product?
Buffalo backs the DriveStation Duo HD-WH8TU3R1 with a 3-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. The system is also TAA compliant and manufactured in Japan, meeting specific trade agreement requirements for certain procurement scenarios.
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