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Hi all,
I am a newbie to this forum and have not yet bought my Universal. I am waiting for my next visit to the UK. Long story.
Anyway, the main point of this topic is that for me, one of the main things missing from the Universal is large mass storage capability (videos, photos, etc.).
I therefore intend to develop an interface to connect a hard drive to the Universal. I am a professional hardware and software developer BTW.
As far as I understand from this site, the current position is this;
The USB interface does not support host mode. (whether due to software or hardware...).
There is no expansion port as fitted to the XDAII etc. (if only, then this would be a no brainer).
The SDIO/MMC card socket is probably the most likely interface to use.
Can anyone confirm these assumptions?
I would like to develop this either as a docking station or a replacement back for the universal. However initially I suspect it will be connected by a cable.
If anyone has any more information, please let me know. I suspect that I will end up developing an MMC/SDIO to ATA/IDE or USB host interface. Alternatively I could just wait for CE-ATA drives and hopefully someone else will have written the drivers...
lkingscott said:
The USB interface does not support host mode. (whether due to software or hardware...).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just off the top of my head.
One USB host channel is used for the GSM/UMTS/GPS data transfer. The second one is
not used. The third is configured, but its purpose is unclear.
There is no expansion port as fitted to the XDAII etc. (if only, then this would be a no brainer).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They didn't wire even the serial port, so what
expansion port are you taking about
The SDIO/MMC card socket is probably the most likely interface to use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have no other choice. USB and SDIO.
I will end up developing an MMC/SDIO to ATA/IDE or USB host interface.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MMC/SDIO<->USB is the best, if you will solve the power problem.
If you read my post more carefully, you will see that is exactly what I say - I.e. the Exec/universal has NO expansion port as far as I am aware (unlike the XDAII which has one which can even support ATA style interface (Compactflash...))
USB2 host via SDIO/MMC will be unlikely as the MMC/SDIO interface is so slow and would probably require 2 separate interfaces plus micro although Atmel have some promising looking devices with integrated USB... However SDIO - ATA/IDE could be done relatively easily with a decent microcontroller.
Power is no big deal, as an external device it would have its own power - internal battery... but if I get as far as making it part of a docking station or replacenment back, then a bigger battery or even 2 batteries would be the way to go.
To bad this is all hot air. Time wise you don't have the time. What is the lifespan of the universal? 18 months to two years. No way in that window will you have time to develop a "Docking" station. Well not as commercial product anyway.
Pesimistic or what...
32G MMC & SD cards are supposed to be available next year.... Maybe that's why they didn't bother with expansion options...
I could confirm all of your assumptions. I have a Universal for a while now and one biggest thing I really wanted is, a Mass Storage, like an external HDD. I posted a while ago, my dream addition is a backpack/docking station that has extended battery, and a mass storage, or at least a USB host port or a CF slot.
Besides all interfaces you mentioned, don't forget the Universal also has wireless interface: BT and IrDA.
I read there is BT HDD outhere (4GB) but kind of expensive and not sure if its in production already.
If there is a way to hook up an external HDD, I will be among the first customers.
Btw, where did you hear about the 32GB SD Card?
Other thing I can think of, there is a device such as Cowon A2 that has a USB host function. It certainly can read from Universal SD Card if they are hooked up together, but Universal will not be able to access the Cowon A2 big harddrive. They mention that Cowon A2 can only read and copy from, and not copy to.
Since internal mass storage isn't an option, then external storage via wireless has to be a reasonable alternative. I don't know if bluetooth HDs exist, but there is certainly a wi-fi option from ASUS - see http://uk.asus.com/products2.aspx?l1=12&l2=44
This takes a standard laptop 2.5" HD and can connect wirelessly to an existing network or it can act as an access point for direct connection with another device. It's not the fastest device in the world, but it works fine on a home network as a basic back up file server as well as a store for mp3s which can then be played by any other device on the network. I hope to get my XDA next month and see if it also can wirelessly play mp3s in this way.
sjdigital said:
Since internal mass storage isn't an option, then external storage via wireless has to be a reasonable alternative. I don't know if bluetooth HDs exist, but there is certainly a wi-fi option from ASUS - see http://uk.asus.com/products2.aspx?l1=12&l2=44
This takes a standard laptop 2.5" HD and can connect wirelessly to an existing network or it can act as an access point for direct connection with another device. It's not the fastest device in the world, but it works fine on a home network as a basic back up file server as well as a store for mp3s which can then be played by any other device on the network. I hope to get my XDA next month and see if it also can wirelessly play mp3s in this way.
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Click to collapse
2kg!!!!! :shock:
Who wants to carry that "portable" device? :lol:
I don't know where you get "2 kg" from? The thing weighs 200g according to the specification in the instructions (although whether that includes the HD itself I can't say!). It's certainly portable, if not pocketable, but the original post was about mass storage for music, videos, etc. and this device provides that very conveniently.
I found the weight there:
http://www.techfever.co.uk/products.asp?partno=4721&source=tempriser
but you're right, on the other website it says 200g:
http://www.techbuy.com.au/products/....5_Hard_Drive_Case_-_802.11g_Ethernet_USB.asp
but anyway, you need to use an external power source so for me it's not portable...
Yes, I have one and for sure it's nowhere near 2kg! It's a bit smaller than a video cassette (remember them?) and really is very handy. But as I said, portable rather than pocketable. But given the wireless capability of the XDA, the ASUS device is a realistic option for a semi-fixed file server that is accessible wirelessly. And it even has a built in ftp server so you can hook it up to your home network and acess it via the internet using your XDA or whatever. As I write this I'm listening to my mp3s which are stored on my ASUS and played back via a wireless media player. Neat, huh? And it's that capabilty that I want from an XDA but I want to wait until it has A2DP so that I can stream the audio to my hi-fi via bluetooth!!!
ASUS HDD
I have just bought an Asus WL-HDD hard drive case. I was hoping that it would be smaller than it is, the case is the most inefficient I have ever seen. However, it should do what I am looking for.
With a 60G Maxtor hard drive it weighs 315 grammes. Note that you also need a 5 volt supply - more wires, not exactly portable, however it's a good start.
After loads of pain getting to work properly, I have been playing with video streaming and it seems OK, even from an external hard drive plugged into its USB 1.1 port. Not bad, a 40 quid device that has all that and a host USB port and they couldn't get the USB port right on an Exec costing 10 times that...!!!
Now I have got the Asus going, there's other things it can do, like being an Access point and there's loads of tweaks out there from the open source community. Have a look at http://wl500g.info , you can even write your own software for it if you want.
BT would be useless as the max data rate is crap. There is no way that you could reliably stream video without lots of compression...
So, while the Asus product is not perfect, it does mean that I will not be bothering with the XDA add on. I will certainly now be buying an Exec and I now have the bug to start playing with WiFi embedded servers... As a start I think I will recase the Asus, including some LiIon batteries and built in card reader (it just hangs off the USB port). Not really a major development, but it will save carrying a power brick and a load of cables.
80211B
I have just noticed that the WiFi interface is 802.11b.
When I tried video streaming with the Asus WL-HDD, 802.11g would work fine, but 802.11b was just too slow. However I was streaming relatively high quality video.
Ho Hum. I think I'll still get one and try it. I suppose lower quality video can be used, but then some of the advantages of the high quality display are lost. Anyway, for my particular requirement I am more interested in still image display.
Lisa
Without trying to hijack this thread, yes, the WL-HDD isn't the fastest device around! But 11b wireless isn't the problem, even hard wired to my router it doesn't manage anything like 11b speeds. But I can happily play mp3s, and video files that aren't too high quality, that are stored on it. It can, for example, happily cope with playing video files generated from a consumer video camera. But are you actually streaming, or simply playing files stored on the device?
You've already found the wl500g forum where lots of info is available, you could also try www.macsat.com.
802.11b/g
I don't know what goes on with 802.11b or g, but the sustained data rates don't seem to be anywhere near 11 or 54Mbps.
Assuming a reasonable quality 500M MP4 or Divx video 2 hours long. That's around 5Gbits in 15000 secs, i.e. 333kbits/sec.
I have tried dfferent combinations of adapters, routers and pc cards and the results are always similar. Yet file copying times would indicate data rates nearer to those quoted.
Ho hum...
I normally have my WL-HDD connected by ethernet cable but I've just tried it wirelessly and data transfer is just over 5 Mbps. A long way short of 11b never mind 11g speeds. I can play a 30 minute 300MB MPEG movie on my laptop from a file on the WL-HDD. That's a data rate of about 1.3 Mbps. But I tried a 57MB avi file which is only 16 seconds long and it simply wouldn't play properly - it just stuttered along. But the data rate required for that is about 28 Mbps, which is clearly well beyond what the WL-HDD can manage.
But it should be able to cope with anything up to 5 Mbps, i.e. a one hour video file of about 2.2 GB (I think I've got my bits and Bytes, and Mega and Giga, right!)
WiFi 802.11g on your HTC Universal & Wizard
Check this guys!
http://www.pocketpcaddict.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=5880
Salam!
Just tryed it, but my network is in the list as "Available" and I dont have a connection
Linksys WRT54GS in G-only mode...
Hi,
Engadget says Universal supports external HDD (read comments at http://www.engadget.com/2005/09/02/...l-questions-weve-got-htc-universal/1#comments )
Is there a way to get in touch with them?
I do not fully understand what everybody is trying to achieve here. I use Resco explorer and connect over Wifi to my home network. I get a shared drive and can use all the harddisk space in the world. Grant it will only work at home, but that is where I need the external space the most.
I seem to have gotten myself in a little 'pickle' here and snapped off the antenna of my wireless NIC card on my computer during the moving process. Being rather crafty I attempted to repair it and got it partially functioning but it gets a very poor signal from the router (0/5 or 1/5) bars and the internet is beyond slow now on my desktop.
As a temporary fix I have just tethered my phone to do a few small things that I needed to get done, but with my throttle limit approaching and my cycle renewal still a week out this will not continue to work.
Is there a way to "tether" into my WiFi treating the phone as more of a wireless(or USB to comp) NIC card? It is out of my budget to replace the broken card at the moment and while possible, really not practical to relocate the router closer.
Tried to search around a little bit, and while I came up with a few similar thread none are exactly what I am seeking unless I am misunderstanding in my frustrated state.
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=use+phone+as+wireless+adapter
Found numerous results with ways to do this.
Pretty cool to know that this is an option just in case my usb wifi thing ever dies. Although it is only $10 bucks lol....don't mind spending that really.
Depending on the distance of your computer and router, the only idead i have is this. With a USB cable you could place your phone close to your router and let it use the wifi. With a service such as EasyTether, you could bridge the wifi on your phone to the computer with the USB cable I mentioned earlier. Another solution is if you phone is in bluetooth range to your computer you could actually tether that way using your wifi. Alike, place your phone close to your router so it can use wifi and then pair your phone and computer and tether like that.
G1ForFun said:
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=use+phone+as+wireless+adapter
Found numerous results with ways to do this.
Pretty cool to know that this is an option just in case my usb wifi thing ever dies. Although it is only $10 bucks lol....don't mind spending that really.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair enough, maybe I should have searched outside of XDA, sometimes I just like to stick my favorite native forum
Where did you find one for $10? The only decent ones with reviews I seem to find are $40+ and with the car emergency/move I just forked over cash for it's not something I wanted to shell out if I could easily tether as wireless adapter.
avarize said:
Fair enough, maybe I should have searched outside of XDA, sometimes I just like to stick my favorite native forum
Where did you find one for $10? The only decent ones with reviews I seem to find are $40+ and with the car emergency/move I just forked over cash for it's not something I wanted to shell out if I could easily tether as wireless adapter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well to be fair it was on sale. I got it off Newegg. Dont be to worried about reviews...with wireless there are so many factors that play into bad/dropped signal and a lot of the average joes have no idea how or why it is happening. And rather than troubleshoot it, it is much easier to just blame the adapter. Naturally, these are the majority of people who write reviews.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA App
removed.
Very nice review, my friend. I've been looking around for a good security camera for the home that is wireless. This one seems to have an AC output needed for power and by the looks of it doesn't seem like it would be weatherproof. Do you know if it can be mounted outside? Thanks .
Thank you for the review.
I've been thinking of getting 2~3 IP camera's when I move to my own house (hopefully soon). These look good for the price.
Do you have any idea if these work with Synology Surveillance Station? I'd like to manage the cams on my Synology NAS, and keep the recordings stored on it. Unfortunately, the brand is not on Synology's Camera Support List.
Do you happen to own a Synology and want to test Surveillance Station? Many thanks in advance!
I'm pretty sure they will not work with that system. As a matter of fact, I got confirmation that other outdoor camera from the same ESCAM company will not integrate with that app, but they are working on updated version, to be released soon.
That Synology sounds a bit too complicated, surveillance for professional use/monitoring. Sorry, don't have or use anything like that. I was very impressed with a simplicity of the camera above and will wait for their outdoor version to add to a few outside monitoring points (just to catch neighbors walking their dogs on our lawn lol!!!). For home, I just need it to monitor my kids and when we are away on vacation.
Motion detection
Hi, don't you know, that this Escam Pearl camera has motion detection, which sends pictures to FTP/e-mail? I can't see it in specs..
Thanks a lot!
PedroKV
pedrokv said:
Hi, don't you know, that this Escam Pearl camera has motion detection, which sends pictures to FTP/e-mail? I can't see it in specs..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Take a look at the one but last picture. Guess it does.
@vectron
There is a microSDHC card reader to store recordings locally, and you can store them on your Windows pc as well? Is there any option to save the recordings on a network share (e.g. on a NAS) (without a computer running)?
JoWannes said:
Take a look at the one but last picture. Guess it does.
@vectron
There is a microSDHC card reader to store recordings locally, and you can store them on your Windows pc as well? Is there any option to save the recordings on a network share (e.g. on a NAS) (without a computer running)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, unfortunately it either records directly to microSD or when you click manually from a phone/tablet or PC where it gets stored locally. Maybe you need something more advance for what you are looking for. Maybe something like Dropcam, though it cost $200 per indoor cam and $99 annually to have cloud recording (I think 1 week stored interval only, for more you need to pay a lot more). This ESCAM solution is really for a budget oriented surveillance. They just need to add outdoor camera support to their app, and it will be pretty good. For NAS storage, it probably needs some extra security options enabled or something (sorry, have no idea about this stuff, so just guessing).
vectron said:
Unfortunately, it's not weatherproof. This is for indoor use or if you mount it by the window looking outside for outdoor surveillance. I see DX has a lot of other ESCAM cameras for outdoor use: http://www.dx.com/s/escam - I will request to get some for review, and will ask which one they can suggest to me that integrates with their current app. That would be an ultimate solution to have a split screen with multiple views of indoor and outdoor monitoring points. Btw, it supports more than 4 views, since i see Windows app with 16 views. DX, also has a dedicated page for this QF100 camera now : http://c.dx.com/collection/201408/e..._medium=homerotate&utm_campaign=20140812escam
I actually think this wireless outdoor ESCAM version will work great with it: http://www.dx.com/p/escam-q6320wifi...w-24-ir-led-white-eu-plug-318846#.U-zR12O5Q08 - I will try to get a review sample to see how it integrates with QF100 and common app control.
I do have and reviewed DropCam as well. It's a nice camera which I use often when my kids are in the basement playing. But it's limited to a fixed wide angle and after awhile it overheats because it's such a tight design with hardly any airflow (also for internal use only). The biggest problem - you have to pay monthly fee to get video access, beside $200 price tag.
But honestly, this QF100 camera is very good for $56 and has a lot of features. Definitely recommend it!
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply, buddy. I def agree with you. This is a great budget camera and I honestly don't feel that DropCam is worth it at all. I'm not a big fan of annual fees with limitations on storage capacity. A camera system should be straight forward and simple for you to have complete access to because it is YOURS. I really hope a perfect outdoor system comes. Let me know how it turns out when you get that review sample .
opasha said:
Thanks for the reply, buddy. I def agree with you. This is a great budget camera and I honestly don't feel that DropCam is worth it at all. I'm not a big fan of annual fees with limitations on storage capacity. A camera system should be straight forward and simple for you to have complete access to because it is YOURS. I really hope a perfect outdoor system comes. Let me know how it turns out when you get that review sample .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got confirmation that outdoor camera they have right now will not integrate with their app. They are working on a new version of outdoor camera (I just assume the same guts as QF100 inside of their current outdoor camera enclosure), and I will update my review as soon as I get a sample!
Btw, Anker is working on their own version of "dropcam" ip camera, without monthly paid subscription but for indoor only. Will be interesting to see what they come up with (I was selected for beta testing, so perhaps will have my impressions in a few weeks).
vectron said:
I got confirmation that outdoor camera they have right now will not integrate with their app. They are working on a new version of outdoor camera (I just assume the same guts as QF100 inside of their current outdoor camera enclosure), and I will update my review as soon as I get a sample!
Btw, Anker is working on their own version of "dropcam" ip camera, without monthly paid subscription but for indoor only. Will be interesting to see what they come up with (I was selected for beta testing, so perhaps will have my impressions in a few weeks).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds good. Keep us posted. Sorry for the late replies, been pretty busy :angel:.
Hi,
I've just received that cam from DealExtreme.
Good Quality, all perfect on WiFi but, have you tested the factory DDNS to access from an outside network?
Vintorlok said:
Hi,
I've just received that cam from DealExtreme.
Good Quality, all perfect on WiFi but, have you tested the factory DDNS to access from an outside network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi
I'm wanting to get some of these cams from DealExtreme and mount them externally, but how to do cable them with the huge LAN/Power connector on the end?
Vintorlok said:
Hi,
I've just received that cam from DealExtreme.
Good Quality, all perfect on WiFi but, have you tested the factory DDNS to access from an outside network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely! Nothing needs to be configured, everything works by default. The day I had this camera setup and tested at home on my wifi, I was checking it remotely, later when over at friends house.
chris_h16 said:
Hi
I'm wanting to get some of these cams from DealExtreme and mount them externally, but how to do cable them with the huge LAN/Power connector on the end?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These cameras designed for internal (inside of the house) use only. Their housing is not designed for outside use, but the company is working on a new outside version that will work with the same control app. No need to use LAN cable since it's wireless. With power connector, unfortunately, no way around it. Need to bring out the wires. Btw, that is a common power tip on the connector and you can get usb cables with an adapter for that connector. So in theory you can power up multiple cameras from usb ac wall charger, like those 5 port ones from anker or bolse.
vectron said:
These cameras designed for internal (inside of the house) use only. Their housing is not designed for outside use, but the company is working on a new outside version that will work with the same control app. No need to use LAN cable since it's wireless. With power connector, unfortunately, no way around it. Need to bring out the wires. Btw, that is a common power tip on the connector and you can get usb cables with an adapter for that connector. So in theory you can power up multiple cameras from usb ac wall charger, like those 5 port ones from anker or bolse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's loads of escam outdoor cameras on dealextreme.
vectron said:
Absolutely! Nothing needs to be configured, everything works by default. The day I had this camera setup and tested at home on my wifi, I was checking it remotely, later when over at friends house.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Vectron,
I've tried it, typing on an outside network the dns URL http://XXXXXX.ipcam.so but I get this message:
Account [XXXXX] is offline.
What do I have to config to make it work?
chris_h16 said:
There's loads of escam outdoor cameras on dealextreme.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
None of them integrate with the same app used by QF100. It's not just about the camera. You want to have different cameras connecting to one app so you can monitor everything at once, rather than use different apps for different cameras ESCAM is working on a new outdoor version that will work with their existing app.
Vintorlok said:
Hi Vectron,
I've tried it, typing on an outside network the dns URL http://XXXXXX.ipcam.so but I get this message:
Account [XXXXX] is offline.
What do I have to config to make it work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I only use an app from my phone, and it works on wifi and 4G LTE. I'm not accessing it from the laptop/web browser.
Is there a good alternative for Synology Surveillance Station that works with the QF100?
The phone app doesn't work on 4g. Status is connection and nothing happens...
Has anyone got this to work other than reviewer?
I largely purchased this camera based on the review here...What a disappointment, either everyone is receiving a different version or the reviewer is making false claims... The camera does NOT work outside of the local LAN! This makes it useless. DDNS does not work. I'm computer savvy have a few other IP cameras and this model is not accessible outside the LAN even if you open all ports on the router. Support requests unanswered... the app is garbage, this camera does not work with other Android apps either, a wasted $60...
Here’s my review on Choetech’s Wireless Bluetooth Audio Transmitter/Receiver
Product link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MDV9ZHC
UPDATE: I just realized they have a PROMO code for $10 OFF to! ENTER this at amazon checkout: B8FC6Z6Q:good:
First off, this wireless bluetooth audio unit is truly a unique device. I love the ability to use it as a receiver and a transmitter! This device is about the size of a Gatorade cap - that’s nice. I can tell you that it also does exactly what it says, and it does it well!
I've used many different Bluetooth audio devices over time including big name devices like the Soundsports by Bose, Jawbone's Big Jambox, and many, many more. As far as it’s ability to respond to your needs, Choetech’s 2-in-1 Wireless Bluetooth Transmitter and Receiver is right up there with the more expensive units. For me to be happy with any Bluetooth device it had better be able to produce one thing - this can be summed up in a word like 'reliability' or 'consistency'. After all, if a Bluetooth device can't be found or can’t connect, what good is it? Choetech's Bluetooth 4.1 drivers are solid. I've had no issues with connectivity.
Secondly, I don't respond well at all to choppy or finicky audio connections. As a wedding DJ, I can say there is simply no room for that type of trouble! I didn't expect anything less than perfect when it came to the build quality of this Bluetooth transmitter. After all, Choetech have always produced some of the best wires and connectors in the game when it comes to devices and accessories.
If they would add an optical in/out port to it, that would be incredible. Maybe on the next one?
Anyways, if this device looks like it'll do the trick, and suit your needs, I'm here to say this is the one. If you're torn between brands, I can tell you Choetech's the way to go! I hope this helps someone! Thanks!
RAVPower RP-WD03 FileHub Plus - Portable NAS and 6000mAh Power Bank
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Unboxing
Presented as a thicker than usual power bank, it does not come with many accessories: 1x Micro-USB Cable and 1x User Manual. A compact LAN cable should have been included.
It is completely made of Plastic and it feels solid enough, but the glossy border is slightly useless in my opinion since, as you can notice, it looks already scratched/used.
As regards the size, it is as big as an old-style Power Bank, being 9.79x5.48x2.82mm, with a weight of 157g.
On the front, there is the Power/Mode button with an Activity LED (for SDCard R/W status) underneath, the usual Power LEDs required to check how much battery is left, and a Wireless LED that indicates whether LAN or Wireless mode is on (Wireless = Blue, Wired = Green).
Just like all Power Banks, also this one features all specs on the back about the USB Rating and Battery Capacity.
Underneath the rubber-made cover, there is the LAN port (10/100) required to use the Access Point feature and a standard USB port to charge other devices.
On one side there is a Micro-USB port to recharge the internal battery.
And finally, on the rear, there is a SD Card reader, fundamental for the NAS/File Sharing feature.
Efficiency and Battery Capacity
My USB Tester confirms that the battery capacity is correct, even slightly higher than what is declared by the manufacturer. (real ~6160mAh, declared 6000mAh)
It's a pity that the internal board has been capped to only 1A of USB Output. As soon as i switch from 1A to 2A, it stops providing power via the USB port. Anyway, at 1A, its efficiency is pretty good, with a stable 4.97V of output voltage.
NAS - Network Attached Storage / File Access
The most interesting feature about this "evolved" power bank is the possibility to share files between an SD Card and other devices, basically a Portable NAS running on a removable storage.
First of all, it doesn't necessarily require an ad-hoc app, since it is possible to access to the NAS even using a browser (10.10.10.254 address, no password by default), but using the app it is possible to get a more optimized experience.
The app is available on the Play Store (for Android of course), and is really well-made, polished and with no noticeable design flaws. RAVPower also made an app for Windows and Mac OS, but, considering that this is meant for portable usage, i will focus on Android only.
It is possible to access any file directly from the SD Card without downloading it locally on the device. It takes a bit to load, but it is still better than nothing.
Networking
Starting from the Wireless Access, the FileHub provides by default a WiFi connection, that can be configured later in the Settings. Even though it is only 2.4GHz, it is good enough for this usage, since it supports up to 300MBps in WiFi N mode (2x2).
In order to use the Bridge mode instead, it is necessary to connect the FileHub to another Wireless Network. Basically what you get is a WiFi repeater or extender, with the extra possibility to access all files. Just consider that this mode will cut down wireless performance, in my case more than half speed disappeared.
The Wired Access instead is more limited, since it doesn't give access to the FileHub but it works directly as an Access Point for a Wired Connection, disabling the Web Interface or any NAS feature. It works pretty good though, with no performance loss compared to my primary WiFi 2.4GHz connection.
Conclusions
For a reviewer, it is nice to have a way to access all Camera Photos without having to use an OTG Adapter, and the possibility to use the same device for multiple usages is an huge bonus, at least for me.
This is a great product and considering the quality of the firmware, as well as the software's quality, it is clear that RAVPower is supporting this device more than what i would have expected.
So, do i recommend? Yes, but consider that this is not a super-cheap product so, before choosing it, be sure that this is the right product for you, as a sort of niche product.
P.S.: Battery Life can vary based on the usage, thus i can't provide some reliable data about it.
Pros:
- Multiple Features in such a small device
- Well-Made firmware and apps
- Excellent WiFi Performance
Cons:
- No LAN Cable included in the box
- Useless Glossy Frame
- Limited USB Power Output (5V/1A)
Rating: 8.4
Packaging and Accessories: 7
Design and Materials: 7
Performance: 8
Features: 9.5
Software Quality: 10
Power Efficiency: 9
Price: 8 (based on Amazon price)
Official Product page: https://www.ravpower.com/rp-wd03-filehub-6000mah-power-bank-portable-wireless-router.html
You can find full-res images (I know, Quality isn't excellent) here: https://imgur.com/a/mYMz6
Alberto96 said:
RAVPower RP-WD03 FileHub Plus - Portable NAS and 6000mAh Power Bank
Unboxing
Presented as a thicker than usual power bank, it does not come with many accessories: 1x Micro-USB Cable and 1x User Manual. A compact LAN cable should have been included.
It is completely made of Plastic and it feels solid enough, but the glossy border is slightly useless in my opinion since, as you can notice, it looks already scratched/used.
As regards the size, it is as big as an old-style Power Bank, being 9.79x5.48x2.82mm, with a weight of 157g.
On the front, there is the Power/Mode button with an Activity LED (for SDCard R/W status) underneath, the usual Power LEDs required to check how much battery is left, and a Wireless LED that indicates whether LAN or Wireless mode is on (Wireless = Blue, Wired = Green).
Just like all Power Banks, also this one features all specs on the back about the USB Rating and Battery Capacity.
Underneath the rubber-made cover, there is the LAN port (10/100) required to use the Access Point feature and a standard USB port to charge other devices.
On one side there is a Micro-USB port to recharge the internal battery.
And finally, on the rear, there is a SD Card reader, fundamental for the NAS/File Sharing feature.
Efficiency and Battery Capacity
My USB Tester confirms that the battery capacity is correct, even slightly higher than what is declared by the manufacturer. (real ~6160mAh, declared 6000mAh)
It's a pity that the internal board has been capped to only 1A of USB Output. As soon as i switch from 1A to 2A, it stops providing power via the USB port. Anyway, at 1A, its efficiency is pretty good, with a stable 4.97V of output voltage.
NAS - Network Attached Storage / File Access
The most interesting feature about this "evolved" power bank is the possibility to share files between an SD Card and other devices, basically a Portable NAS running on a removable storage.
First of all, it doesn't necessarily require an ad-hoc app, since it is possible to access to the NAS even using a browser (10.10.10.254 address, no password by default), but using the app it is possible to get a more optimized experience.
The app is available on the Play Store (for Android of course), and is really well-made, polished and with no noticeable design flaws. RAVPower also made an app for Windows and Mac OS, but, considering that this is meant for portable usage, i will focus on Android only.
It is possible to access any file directly from the SD Card without downloading it locally on the device. It takes a bit to load, but it is still better than nothing.
Networking
Starting from the Wireless Access, the FileHub provides by default a WiFi connection, that can be configured later in the Settings. Even though it is only 2.4GHz, it is good enough for this usage, since it supports up to 300MBps in WiFi N mode (2x2).
In order to use the Bridge mode instead, it is necessary to connect the FileHub to another Wireless Network. Basically what you get is a WiFi repeater or extender, with the extra possibility to access all files. Just consider that this mode will cut down wireless performance, in my case more than half speed disappeared.
The Wired Access instead is more limited, since it doesn't give access to the FileHub but it works directly as an Access Point for a Wired Connection, disabling the Web Interface or any NAS feature. It works pretty good though, with no performance loss compared to my primary WiFi 2.4GHz connection.
Conclusions
For a reviewer, it is nice to have a way to access all Camera Photos without having to use an OTG Adapter, and the possibility to use the same device for multiple usages is an huge bonus, at least for me.
This is a great product and considering the quality of the firmware, as well as the software's quality, it is clear that RAVPower is supporting this device more than what i would have expected.
So, do i recommend? Yes, but consider that this is not a super-cheap product so, before choosing it, be sure that this is the right product for you, as a sort of niche product.
P.S.: Battery Life can vary based on the usage, thus i can't provide some reliable data about it.
Pros:
- Multiple Features in such a small device
- Well-Made firmware and apps
- Excellent WiFi Performance
Cons:
- No LAN Cable included in the box
- Useless Glossy Frame
- Limited USB Power Output (5V/1A)
Rating: 8.4
Packaging and Accessories: 7
Design and Materials: 7
Performance: 8
Features: 9.5
Software Quality: 10
Power Efficiency: 9
Price: 8 (based on Amazon price)
Official Product page: https://www.ravpower.com/rp-wd03-filehub-6000mah-power-bank-portable-wireless-router.html
You can find full-res images (I know, Quality isn't excellent) here: https://imgur.com/a/mYMz6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm surprised to read about the WD03 in 2017 - afaict it's four years old now and firmware support has long ceased. I would have loved to read about the fw version that came installed with the device, and whether the gaping security holes still exist (well-known root password plus telnet access, to name some).
Nevertheless, the device (and it's predecessor, the WD02) is, if properly hardened, still useful (search for filehub-config on github). To expect a fix for the wpa2 issue would be very optimistic though.
Thanks for the review.
Hi - latest firmware for the RP-WD03 is not sooo old, it's 2.000.056 from 2017-09-01...
Rofor said:
Hi - latest firmware for the RP-WD03 is not sooo old, it's 2.000.056 from 2017-09-01...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm surprised to see that downloads are back (after two years or so) - but only for the WD03 (guess which model I have). Will have a closer look when back home from travelling. Thanks!
I don't know if the last fw is very bad, or my wd is almost broken...
Anyway in the new fw if you see the new web interface under services you can find a very useful tool! Sd backup button!!! It is very useful!
020 firmware
steve8x8 said:
I'm surprised to read about the WD03 in 2017 - afaict it's four years old now and firmware support has long ceased. I would have loved to read about the fw version that came installed with the device, and whether the gaping security holes still exist (well-known root password plus telnet access, to name some).
Nevertheless, the device (and it's predecessor, the WD02) is, if properly hardened, still useful (search for filehub-config on github). To expect a fix for the wpa2 issue would be very optimistic though.
Thanks for the review.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes not much written in a while but the devices are still available, as is support and now so are the firmware updates. Looks like the 'factory' build has firmware 020 fitted (from a poll of 2 !) which has a few glitches but mainly when reconfiguring which I wouldn't expect to happen normally. Some may confuse if you expect to just plug and play. In answer to your query for 020 ;
EnterRouterMode.sh is still available
Root is not available (until you address using above)
Telnet (port 23) is still open and available
Other open ports are 80, 81, 85, 135 and 445
That's ok for the savvy who realise and can address but not so good for the plug and play user.
I am interested in upgrading to 056 but not so sure after comment from dettofatto. Anyone else care to comment on its 'stability'. Also any one checked is EnterRouterMode sill available on 056, easy to test just use your favourite search engine. I suspect telnet will be closed. Finally if 056 is unstable what recommendations are there for earlier versions.
A lot has already been written about the previous versions (01 and 02) and some about this version (03), I will be exploring further and if I find anything I think hasn't been written up I will.
Sorry for my english...
I think that my ravpower is broken, now amazon are sending me a new copy.
The new firmware has telnet closed, but has introduced the new backup button (under 10.10.10.254/app/services/sdbackup.html ).
Anyway You can restore an old firmware for restoring telnet.
Can you give us your fw, if <.20?
FW:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B4AhwoH61-dkWDFXUkZZZUlSYkU from https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=66322258&postcount=70
I've used this hack, you have used which of these?
https://github.com/digidem/filehub-config
https://github.com/derfrankie/RAVPower-FileHub-SD-Backup
https://github.com/steve8x8/filehub-config
dettofatto said:
Sorry for my english...
I think that my ravpower is broken, now amazon are sending me a new copy.
The new firmware has telnet closed, but has introduced the new backup button (under 10.10.10.254/app/services/sdbackup.html ).
Anyway You can restore an old firmware for restoring telnet.
Can you give us your fw, if <.20?
FW:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B4AhwoH61-dkWDFXUkZZZUlSYkU from https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=66322258&postcount=70
I've used this hack, you have used which of these?
https://github.com/digidem/filehub-config
https://github.com/derfrankie/RAVPower-FileHub-SD-Backup
https://github.com/steve8x8/filehub-config
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hopefully when you get the replacement ravpower all will be much better and you can confirm that 056 is stable.
I assume enterroutermode is still available in 056 because you reference hacks which require it
I have not tried any other versions of firmware other than 020 which is what it came with.
For that hacks I am aware of all of these and think these are all I have seen. So far I have only used a simple one line command to re-enable the root password which you can find elsewhere on this forum. This is all I needed because telnet is already enabled In 020.
Mine was broken...
Now the new copy is almost perfect.
This is the new option:
Thanks for the info. I also notice there is an ADMIN and GUEST user account. But seems only Admin user can ever see the files. I was hoping Guest account could see all and be given Read-only access. But no good. Makes hard to share, anyone can delete.
Admin/Guest account and Read-only guest access
Got it working, so 'Guest' account only has read access. At least it seems to work. You need to read detail PDF on RAV website. Talks about Admin & Guest accounts, and that the device automatically creates a directory called 'Share' and that 'Guest' account can only see inside here.
Further the 'delete' is grayed out for everything I put in 'Share' from Admin, so Guest can't delete stuff. Although Guest can create new directories and copy new stuff in. Maybe it knows what stuff Guest created.
Regardless this is perfect as it allows Guest users with no password to share move files for a long drive. They can all log in a Guest.
One other odd note (below) in manual about charging. Not really sure this is true, that it would hurt battery. I thought with amps a device pulls what it needs, its just an issue if you don't have enough amps. As in a 2a charger does not PUSH 2a, the device only sucks 1a. Anyone know for sure?
"Using a charger with an output higher than 1.0 A will damage the internal battery more or less"
Hello RavPower gang! I have my SanDisk formatted to exfat and can see the files when it is connected to my Windows 10 PC. I cannot see them when connecting through the FileHub app on my phone. I also tried reformatting the card with my Note 8. I've tried formatting 2 cards on my PC and on my Note 8 and no dice! All I can see is a "Safely Remove" notification, but it won't let me do anything from that screen except go back or home. What do I need to do?
Thanks All!
Is it possible to use the filehub as a simple smb/cifs fileserver on a 192.168.0.n network?
Yup.
I prefer Gl.inet.
I know that they missing the powerbank feature, but they are customizable as hell, quite affordable and very nice as VPN/TOR/NAS/Pineapple clone or whatever you can build resp. program with OpenWRT/lede.
Highly recommended.
PS
Very detailed and elaborate review.y
Kudos.