Product Reviews

As useful as it can be, network-attached storage (NAS) isn't the most glamorous category of hardware. A hard disk you can access from any PC on your network - it's not going to get the neighbours talking in the same way as that USB dance mat. But the new Windows Home Server operating system promises to make it a lot more exciting, and this unit from Tranquil PC is worthy of note because the UK maker has beaten its big-name competition to the shelves with the first product.

Windows Home Server is based on Microsoft's enterprise-level server software - but don't run away, it's actually very easy to use and could make your computing life much easier. That's because it aims to take care of the boring but important stuff: not just storing your files in one place, but automatically backing up your PCs every night.

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The hardware itself features the engineering we've come to expect from Tranquil: a 70% recycled steel and aluminium chassis with reassuring heft. As the name implies, there's not a single fan, making the system all but silent. A careful choice of components keeps its power draw to less than 20 watts, and Tranquil offsets five years of projected carbon emissions on each purchase.

Inside is a 500GB hard disk to store your files, enough for most people, with four USB ports to add extra storage if needed. Adding another disk takes advantage of another feature: the ability to mirror important folders to a second hard disk, so even if one dies, your files are safe. It's shame this is an external-only option, though.

For little more than a standard NAS drive, the T7-HSA offers a lot more, and while not everyone will need all its features, the backup alone could more than pay for itself. It's easy to use, too. Expect plenty more competition before long, but the Tranquil should go on your shortlist.