How to Access Files on a RAID Disk Without NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM Access: Practical Steps

Has your NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM suddenly lost its network drive and you’re unsure what to do next? Did the RAID array collapse, making your files inaccessible? Is the device throwing errors during startup? Perhaps you accidentally rebuilt the RAID array or several hard drives failed at the same time?

How to Access Files on a RAID Disk Without NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM Access: Practical Steps
Data Recovery Tool

Promise VTrak A3600fDM NAS Data Recovery in 2025

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from an VTrak A3600fDM. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

How to Access Files on a RAID Disk Without NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM Access: Practical Steps

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID

Conventional hard drives store user data by writing it sequentially across the disk surface, which means an entire file is typically located on a single drive. In contrast, when data is written to a RAID array, each file is split into multiple fragments. These fragments are then distributed and written in sequence across all the drives in the array. Depending on the configuration, fragment sizes can range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so every file is physically stored across several disks at once.

This approach significantly increases read and write performance — after all, writing two halves of a 1 GB file to two drives simultaneously is much faster than writing the full 1 GB to a single disk. However, this same mechanism makes file recovery far more complex.

Different RAID levels use different methods to distribute and protect data. On top of that, manufacturers like Promise often add their own proprietary structures and variations. As a result, data can be written to disks in many different formats, and each requires a specific approach during recovery.

Can the use of multiple NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM devices in a backup or replication configuration mitigate data loss risks?

Yes, the use of multiple NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM devices in a backup or replication configuration can help mitigate data loss risks. These devices are designed for high availability and data protection, making them suitable for backup and replication purposes.

By setting up multiple VTrak A3600fDM devices in a backup configuration, you can create redundant copies of your data. If one device fails or experiences data loss, you can rely on the backups stored on the other devices to restore your data. This redundancy helps protect against data loss due to hardware failures or other issues.

Similarly, using multiple VTrak A3600fDM devices in a replication configuration allows you to create copies of your data in real-time or on a scheduled basis. This replication ensures that if one device fails, you can quickly switch to the replicated copy to minimize data loss and downtime.

Overall, the use of multiple VTrak A3600fDM devices in a backup or replication configuration enhances data protection and helps mitigate risks associated with data loss.

How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

Although the NAS VTrak A3600fDM can be accessed over the network, you still need to remove its hard disks and connect them directly to a Windows PC. Only then can the recovery software properly scan and analyze the drives. Follow these steps:

  1. Power off the NAS and disconnect it from the power source.

    WARNING! Before removing any drives, carefully read the device manual. Improper actions may damage both the NAS enclosure and the hard disks in the RAID array.

  2. Remove the hard disks one by one, gently sliding each drive out of its slot. Remember that hard disks are highly sensitive: any impact or drop can cause serious physical damage.

  3. Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.

  4. Connect the drives to your computer. In this video, we explain which ports you can use to connect hard disks and what to do if your PC does not have enough free connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Promise VTrak A3600fDM. Each hard disk in the array contains technical metadata describing how files were written. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery analyzes this metadata, automatically reconstructs the damaged array, and provides access to its contents. After that, you can browse the recovered disk and save your files. The program can also restore files that were accidentally deleted from the network drive.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Promise

How to recover data from a Promise

VTrak A3600fDM has 16 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • RAID 1E;
  • RAID 3;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 30;
  • RAID 50;
  • RAID 60;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • exFAT, VFAT, FAT 12 / 16 / 32;
  • NTFS / ReFS;
  • APFS / HFS+;
  • Ext2 / 3 / 4 / ReiserFS / XFS / UFS / ZFS / Btrfs;
  • VMFS / HikvisionFS;

How to Safely Recover Data from Disk Images

This utility allows you to create a complete copy of a disk and work with the disk image instead of the physical drive. This approach helps protect your data from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Additional data loss caused by bad sectors;
  • User errors.

To create a disk image, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.

  2. In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.

  3. When the Image Creation Wizard opens, select whether you want to save the entire disk or only a specific region. Adjust the settings and click Next.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Image Creation Wizard

  4. Choose the directory where the image will be saved. You may select any available disk connected to your PC or upload the image via FTP.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Choose a disk or save the image via FTP

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The Promise VTrak A3600fDM network-attached storage keeps OS Linux operating system files on a separate RAID 1 (mirrored) array. Usually, all NAS systems create several volumes on every hard disk, and the first of them takes up to 2 Gb of space. This is where operating system files are stored. Other volumes are united into a RAID array where user’s data is written.

RAID Recovery Software: Detailed Comparison

Product Operating system RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows, Linux, MacOS Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, exFAT, NTFS, ReFS, APFS, HFS+, Ext4, Ext3, Ext2, ReiserFS, Btrfs, VMFS, Hikvision, XFS, UFS, ZFS Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Yes, over 10 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes

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We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (3)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 9.08.2022 12:31 #
    If you want to ask a question about data recovery, from NAS VTrak A3600fDM, feel free to leave a comment!
    Reply
  • Bud Colvin
    Bud Colvin 8.09.2023 16:49 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM device be done if the storage disks have been accidentally overwritten or reformatted?
    Reply
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 8.09.2023 18:00 #

      Data recovery from a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device like the Promise VTrak A3600fDM can be challenging if the storage disks have been accidentally overwritten or reformatted. When data is overwritten or reformatted, the original data is typically erased or replaced with new data, making it difficult to recover the original files.

      However, there are still some possibilities for data recovery, depending on the specific circumstances:

      1. Backup: If you have a backup of the data stored on the NAS device, you can restore the files from the backup source.
      2. Professional Data Recovery Services: In cases where the data is critical and there are no backups available, you can contact professional data recovery services. These services specialize in recovering data from damaged or overwritten storage devices. They have specialized tools and techniques that may be able to recover some or all of the data.
      3. DIY Data Recovery Software: There are data recovery software tools available that can attempt to recover overwritten or reformatted data. These tools scan the storage disks for traces of the original data and attempt to reconstruct the files. However, the success rate of DIY data recovery software in such cases is generally low, and there is a risk of further data loss if not used correctly.

      It's important to note that the success of data recovery in such scenarios depends on various factors, including the extent of the overwriting or reformatting, the time elapsed since the data was overwritten, and the specific capabilities of the data recovery tools or services used.

      Reply
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What are the key features and capabilities of the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM that make it suitable for copying data from different devices?

    The NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM is a high-performance storage system designed for data copying and management across different devices. Some key features and capabilities that make it suitable for this purpose include:

    1. High-speed connectivity: The VTrak A3600fDM supports multiple high-speed connectivity options like Fibre Channel and Ethernet, enabling fast data transfer rates between devices.
    2. Scalability: It offers scalable storage capacity, allowing users to easily expand the system as their data copying needs grow. It supports up to 60 hard drives or SSDs, providing ample space for storing large amounts of data.
    3. RAID protection: The system supports various RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, 50, and 60, ensuring data redundancy and protection against drive failures. This is crucial when copying data to prevent data loss.
    4. Data management features: The VTrak A3600fDM comes with advanced data management features, such as thin provisioning, snapshot, and volume copy, which enable efficient copying and management of data across different devices.
    5. High availability: It offers redundant components like power supplies and cooling fans, ensuring high availability and minimizing downtime. This is essential for uninterrupted data copying operations.
    6. Easy integration: The system is compatible with various operating systems and can seamlessly integrate into existing IT infrastructures. It supports popular protocols like NFS, SMB, and iSCSI, making it suitable for copying data from different devices with different operating systems.
    7. Advanced monitoring and management: The VTrak A3600fDM includes comprehensive monitoring and management tools, allowing users to monitor the system's performance, configure settings, and perform maintenance tasks easily. This ensures efficient data copying operations and simplifies the overall management process.

    Overall, the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM provides the necessary features, scalability, and performance to effectively copy data from different devices, making it a suitable choice for data copying and management tasks.

  • How does the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM ensure data integrity and security during the copying process?

    The NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM ensures data integrity and security during the copying process through several mechanisms:

    1. RAID Protection: The VTrak A3600fDM uses RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) technology to protect against data loss. It allows data to be distributed across multiple drives, providing redundancy and ensuring that even if one or more drives fail, the data remains intact.
    2. Data Scrubbing: The system periodically performs data scrubbing, which involves checking the integrity of data stored on the drives. It identifies and corrects any errors or inconsistencies to maintain data integrity.
    3. Data Encryption: The VTrak A3600fDM supports data encryption, allowing users to encrypt their data during the copying process. This ensures that the data remains secure and protected from unauthorized access.
    4. Snapshot Technology: The system supports snapshot technology, which enables the creation of point-in-time copies of data. These snapshots can be used for backup or recovery purposes, ensuring that data remains intact and accessible even in the event of accidental deletion or corruption.
    5. Access Controls: The VTrak A3600fDM provides robust access controls, allowing administrators to define user permissions and restrict access to specific data or functionalities. This helps in maintaining data security and preventing unauthorized copying or modification.
    6. Data Verification: During the copying process, the VTrak A3600fDM verifies the integrity of the data being copied. It checks for any errors or discrepancies between the source and destination data to ensure that the copied data is accurate and complete.

    Overall, the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM employs a combination of RAID protection, data scrubbing, encryption, snapshot technology, access controls, and data verification to ensure data integrity and security during the copying process.

  • Can you provide a step-by-step guide on how to use the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM to copy data from different devices, including any necessary configurations or settings?

    To use the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM to copy data from different devices, follow these step-by-step instructions:

    1. Connect the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM to your network using an Ethernet cable. Ensure that it is powered on and connected to a power source.
    2. Access the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM's web-based management interface by opening a web browser and entering the IP address of the device. The default IP address is typically 192.168.1.1. Login using the default credentials or the ones you have set up.
    3. Once logged in, navigate to the "Storage" or "Volumes" section of the management interface. Here, you will create a new storage volume to store the copied data.
    4. Click on "Create Volume" or a similar option to start creating a new storage volume. Configure the settings for the volume, such as the RAID level, capacity, and any necessary access permissions. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the volume creation process.
    5. After creating the storage volume, go to the "Shares" or "Network Shares" section. Here, you will create a new share that will be accessible to the devices from which you want to copy data.
    6. Click on "Create Share" or a similar option to begin creating a new share. Configure the settings for the share, such as its name, access permissions, and whether it should be available to specific devices or all devices on the network. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the share creation process.
    7. Once the share is created, you can now copy data from different devices to the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM. On each device, ensure that it is connected to the same network as the NAS device.
    8. Access the file explorer or network settings on each device and locate the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM on the network. It should appear as a network storage device or a shared folder.
    9. Open the NAS device on each device and navigate to the share you created in step 6. You should now be able to copy and paste or drag and drop files from each device to the NAS device.
    10. Monitor the data transfer progress to ensure that the files are successfully copied to the NAS device. The time taken for the transfer will depend on the size of the files and the network speed.
    11. Once the data transfer is complete, verify that the files have been successfully copied to the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM. You can access the files through the management interface or by browsing to the share on the NAS device.

    By following these steps, you should be able to use the NAS Promise VTrak A3600fDM to copy data from different devices and store it on the NAS device.
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