Accessing RAID Disk Files Without Operational NAS Promise VTrak M500p: Practical Steps

When the ⭐ NAS is not working, access RAID disk files by connecting them to a PC, configuring RAID, and using recovery software for data recovery.

Accessing RAID Disk Files Without Operational NAS Promise VTrak M500p: Practical Steps

Promise VTrak M500p NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from VTrak M500p.

Accessing RAID Disk Files Without Operational NAS Promise VTrak M500p: Practical Steps

RAID Recovery™ 2.6
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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Why can’t ordinary software tools restore files from RAID?

Conventional hard disks keep user’s data by writing it to their surface in a consecutive way, and this is how an entire file is stored on a single hard disk. However, when data is written to a RAID system, a file is divided into several parts. Then these parts are written consecutively to all hard disks within such array. The size of such parts may range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so each file is stored on several hard disks at the same time.

Such approach helps to speed up read and write operations, and it is evident that saving two parts of a file having the size of 1 GB to two hard disks simultaneously is much faster than saving the same 1 GB of data to one hard disk. However, this peculiarity makes file recovery more complicated.

Various RAID levels store information in different ways. Additionally, manufacturers like Promise also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

How can a NAS Promise VTrak M500p device's cache settings impact data loss risks?

The cache settings of a NAS Promise VTrak M500p device can impact data loss risks in the following ways:

  1. Write-back vs. Write-through cache mode: The device may offer the option to configure its cache in either write-back or write-through mode. In write-back mode, data is initially written to the cache and then asynchronously written to the disk. This can improve performance but increases the risk of data loss in case of a power outage or system failure before the data is written to the disk. In write-through mode, data is immediately written to the disk, reducing the risk of data loss but potentially impacting performance.
  2. Cache size: The size of the cache in the device can also impact data loss risks. A larger cache can improve performance by allowing more data to be temporarily stored in memory before being written to the disk. However, if the cache is not properly protected, a power failure or system crash can result in data loss if the data in the cache has not been written to the disk.
  3. Cache protection mechanisms: The device may offer various cache protection mechanisms to reduce the risk of data loss. For example, it may have a battery backup unit (BBU) that can provide power to the cache in case of a power outage, allowing data to be safely written to the disk. It may also have features like cache mirroring or RAID protection to ensure redundancy and data integrity in case of a cache failure.
  4. Proper configuration and monitoring: It is crucial to properly configure and monitor the cache settings of the device to minimize data loss risks. This includes ensuring that the cache is adequately protected, regularly checking the status of the cache, and implementing appropriate backup and disaster recovery strategies to mitigate the impact of any potential data loss.

In summary, the cache settings of a NAS Promise VTrak M500p device can significantly impact data loss risks. It is vital to carefully consider the write-back/write-through mode, cache size, cache protection mechanisms, and proper configuration and monitoring to ensure data integrity and minimize the chances of data loss.

How to take hard disks out of the NAS and connect them to a PC?

Although NAS VTrak M500p can be accessed over the network, you still need to take the hard disks out of the storage device and connect them to a Windows computer. Only in this case will the software be able to scan them properly. Here is what you should do:

  1. Turn off the storage and disconnect it from the power supply.

    WARNING! Before you start taking hard disks out of your NAS device, read the manual carefully. Incorrect actions may damage your network-attached storage and/or the hard disks within the RAID system.

  2. Take the hard disks out of the NAS one by one, carefully removing them from their slots. Remember that the disks are extremely vulnerable: hitting or dropping them may result in serious physical damage.

  3. Make sure to mark each hard disk in accordance with how they were installed inside the NAS.

  4. Remove the hard disks and connect them to the computer. In this video, we have explored what ports are used to connect hard disks, and what to do if there are not enough ports or connectors.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Restoring data with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program recovers data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Promise VTrak M500p. The hard disks that make up the RAID contain technical information about the algorithm used to save files. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery reads this information and puts the damaged array together. Then you can open the disk and save your files. Also, you can recover the files accidentally deleted from the network drive.

Go to view
How to recover data from a Promise

How to recover data from a Promise

VTrak M500p has 15 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;

Safe recovery from disk images

This utility lets you save an entire copy of the disk to file and then work with this image instead of the actual disk. Such feature helps to protect data on the disk from:

  • Overwriting during the recovery process;
  • Loss resulting from bad sectors;
  • User mistakes.

To create an image, do the following:

  1. Make sure that you have enough free space to save the image. The image file size usually equals the disk size.

  2. Select the disk in the main window, and choose from the menu ToolsSave Disk. You can select multiple disks to be saved.

  3. When the image creation wizard starts, you can choose to save the entire disk or select only a part of it. Specify the parameters and click Next.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: Image Creation Wizard
  4. At this stage, you need to choose a directory where to save the image. Choose any disk connected to this PC, or save the image by FTP.

    Hetman Raid Recovery: hoose any disk connected to this PC, or save the image by FTP

Where are user’s files stored?

The Promise VTrak M500p 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.

Comparison of software for RAID recovery

Product Operating system License type RAID controller support Supported file systems Virtual RAID controller support Data recovery from damaged RAID File preview
Hetman RAID Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
DiskInternals RAID Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
R-Studio Windows, Mac, Linux Paid Yes, over 200 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
UFS Explorer RAID Recovery Windows, Mac, Linux Paid Yes, over 1,000 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes
EaseUS Data Recovery Windows Paid Yes, over 20 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ No Yes Yes
ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery Windows Free Yes, over 100 controllers FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ Yes Yes Yes

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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 M500p, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Alfred Haig
    Alfred Haig 8.09.2023 09:54 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Promise VTrak M500p device be performed if there are issues with the network interface card or port?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 8.09.2023 10:59 #

      Yes, data recovery from a NAS Promise VTrak M500p device can still be performed even if there are issues with the network interface card or port.

      In such cases, you can try the following steps:

      1. Check for physical issues: Ensure that the network cable is properly connected and not damaged. Try using a different cable or port to rule out any physical issues with the network connection.
      2. Use a different network interface: If the network interface card is faulty, you can try using a different network interface card or port on the NAS device. Some NAS devices have multiple network interfaces, so you can switch to a different one.
      3. Direct connection: If the NAS device supports it, you can directly connect it to a computer using an Ethernet cable. This bypasses the network interface card and allows you to access the data directly from the NAS.
      4. Data recovery software: If none of the above options work, you can use data recovery software that supports NAS devices. Connect the NAS device directly to a computer and use the software to scan and recover the data from the NAS.
      5. Professional data recovery services: If you are unable to recover the data yourself, you can seek the help of professional data recovery services. They have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from faulty NAS devices, including those with network interface issues.

      It is important to note that if the NAS device itself has hardware failures or the data is encrypted, the recovery process may be more complex and require professional assistance.

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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

  • How does the NAS Promise VTrak M500p ensure the safe and efficient storage of photos from a digital camera?

    The NAS Promise VTrak M500p ensures the safe and efficient storage of photos from a digital camera in the following ways:

    1. High storage capacity: The VTrak M500p offers a large storage capacity, allowing you to store a large number of photos without worrying about running out of space. It supports multiple hard drives and can be expanded as per your requirements.
    2. RAID protection: The VTrak M500p supports RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations, which provide data redundancy and protection against drive failures. If a hard drive fails, the data can be rebuilt from the remaining drives, ensuring that your photos are safe and accessible.
    3. Data backup: The NAS system allows you to schedule automatic backups of your photos to an external storage device or to the cloud. This ensures that even if something happens to the NAS system, your photos are still backed up and can be easily recovered.
    4. Fast data transfer: The VTrak M500p supports high-speed data transfer protocols like Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and Thunderbolt, allowing you to quickly transfer your photos from the digital camera to the NAS system. This ensures efficient storage and minimizes the time required for the transfer process.
    5. User-friendly interface: The NAS system provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily manage and organize your photos. You can create folders, apply tags, and search for specific photos, making it convenient to find and access your stored photos whenever needed.

    Overall, the NAS Promise VTrak M500p offers a combination of high storage capacity, data protection, backup options, fast data transfer, and user-friendly features, ensuring the safe and efficient storage of photos from a digital camera.

  • What are the key features and capabilities of the NAS Promise VTrak M500p that make it suitable for saving and organizing large quantities of photos?

    The NAS Promise VTrak M500p offers several key features and capabilities that make it suitable for saving and organizing large quantities of photos:

    1. High Capacity: The VTrak M500p provides a high storage capacity, allowing you to save a large number of photos. It supports up to 16 hard drives, providing scalability and flexibility to accommodate your growing photo collection.
    2. High Performance: With its advanced RAID controller and support for high-speed interfaces like Thunderbolt 3 and 10Gb Ethernet, the VTrak M500p offers fast data transfer speeds. This ensures quick access to your photos, allowing you to browse and organize them without any lag.
    3. RAID Support: The VTrak M500p supports various RAID levels, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. This allows you to configure the storage system according to your specific needs, balancing performance, data protection, and capacity utilization.
    4. Data Protection: The NAS Promise VTrak M500p offers advanced data protection features such as hot-swappable drives, redundant power supplies, and hardware-based RAID controllers. These features help safeguard your photos against drive failures and ensure data integrity.
    5. Scalability: The VTrak M500p is designed for scalability, allowing you to expand your storage capacity as your photo collection grows. You can easily add more hard drives or even connect multiple VTrak systems together to create a larger storage pool.
    6. Advanced Management Tools: The VTrak M500p comes with comprehensive management software that provides an intuitive interface to configure and monitor the storage system. It offers features like remote management, volume management, and RAID configuration, making it easy to organize and manage your photo library.
    7. Data Accessibility: The VTrak M500p supports various file sharing protocols such as SMB, AFP, and NFS, enabling seamless access to your photos from different devices and platforms. This allows you to access and organize your photos from desktops, laptops, or mobile devices.

    Overall, the NAS Promise VTrak M500p offers high capacity, performance, data protection, scalability, and advanced management tools, making it a suitable choice for saving and organizing large quantities of photos.

  • Can the NAS Promise VTrak M500p be easily integrated with various digital cameras and photo management software?

    The NAS Promise VTrak M500p is primarily a network-attached storage device designed for data storage and management rather than direct integration with digital cameras. However, it can be used as a centralized storage solution for storing photos and videos captured by various digital cameras.

    To integrate digital cameras with the NAS, you would typically connect the cameras to a computer or a network and then transfer the files to the NAS device using the provided software or manually through file sharing. The NAS can support various protocols such as FTP, SMB, or NFS for file transfer.

    As for photo management software, the NAS does not have built-in software specifically for photo management. However, it can be used with popular photo management applications like Adobe Lightroom, Apple Photos, or Google Photos. These software applications can be installed on a computer or a server connected to the NAS, and the photos can be stored and managed on the NAS device.

    Overall, while the NAS Promise VTrak M500p may not have direct camera integration or dedicated photo management software, it can serve as a reliable and scalable storage solution for managing and storing photos captured by various digital cameras.

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