ACEMAGIC's compact NAS system now ships with AMD's Ryzen Embedded R2544 processor, offering up to 136TB storage and ECC memory support at a discounted price.
The ACEMAGIC N3A is now available for $339, down from its $499 list price, offering a compelling option for users seeking a compact network-attached storage solution with extensive expansion capabilities.
Originally announced with an AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor, the shipping version actually features the Ryzen Embedded R2544 chip—a change that trades some graphics performance for significantly enhanced memory capabilities. The R2544 supports up to 64GB of ECC RAM, making it particularly attractive for users prioritizing data integrity and system reliability.
Storage Configuration
The N3A's standout feature is its impressive storage capacity. The system includes:
- Four drive bays supporting both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA hard drives
- Two M.2 2280 slots for PCIe 3.0 SSDs (up to 4TB each)
- MicroSD card reader for additional removable storage
When fully populated with four hard drives, the system can accommodate up to 136TB of total storage space. However, users implementing RAID configurations for data redundancy will see reduced usable capacity.
Hardware Specifications
The compact system measures 270 x 150 x 185mm (10.6" x 5.9" x 7.3") and features a metal chassis with a magnetically-attached front panel for easy access to drive bays.
Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded R2544 (Zen+ architecture, 2022 release)
- 4 cores, 8 threads
- Base frequency: 3.35 GHz
- Boost frequency: 3.7 GHz
- TDP: 35-54W
- ECC memory support
Memory: 2 SODIMM slots supporting up to 64GB DDR4-3200
Connectivity:
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (10 Gbps with DisplayPort Alt Mode)
- 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (5 Gbps)
- 2x USB 2.0 Type-A (480 Mbps)
- HDMI 2.0
- DisplayPort 1.4
- 3.5mm audio jack
- DC power jack (19V/6.3A)
The system supports up to three simultaneous displays and can run both Windows and Linux operating systems.
Software Flexibility
With its x86 architecture, the N3A can run a wide range of popular NAS operating systems including Unraid, TrueNAS, and OpenMediaVault. This flexibility allows users to choose the software solution that best fits their needs, whether they prioritize ease of use, advanced features, or specific protocol support.
Power Considerations
The Ryzen Embedded R2544's 35-54W TDP represents a significant power draw compared to more efficient alternatives like the Intel N150 (6W). Users planning 24/7 operation should factor this into their total cost of ownership calculations, particularly in regions with high electricity costs.
Pricing and Availability
The $339 price point applies to the barebones configuration, which ships without memory or storage. Users will need to factor in the cost of RAM and drives when calculating their total investment. Given the system's support for ECC memory and high-capacity drives, the N3A appears positioned as a premium option for users who prioritize data integrity and expansion potential over power efficiency.
The ACEMAGIC N3A represents a practical solution for users seeking a compact, expandable NAS system with robust memory support and flexible software options. While the power-hungry processor may deter some energy-conscious users, the combination of extensive storage options and ECC support makes it particularly suitable for applications where data integrity is paramount.
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