Understanding Mechanical and Logical Failures in NAS QNAP TR-004 RAID Arrays

Differentiate between mechanical and logical failures in ⭐ NAS RAID arrays to recover data effectively.

Understanding Mechanical and Logical Failures in NAS QNAP TR-004 RAID Arrays

QNAP TR-004 NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from TR-004.

Understanding Mechanical and Logical Failures in NAS QNAP TR-004 RAID Arrays

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 QNAP also introduce some modifications to this process, and that is why data can be written to hard disk in a wide variety of ways.

Can a failed RAID rebuild process lead to data loss on NAS QNAP TR-004 devices?

Yes, a failed RAID rebuild process can potentially lead to data loss on NAS QNAP TR-004 devices. During a RAID rebuild, the NAS attempts to reconstruct the data on the failed drive by using the remaining drives in the array. If the rebuild process encounters any errors or issues, it may fail to successfully rebuild the RAID array, resulting in data loss. It is crucial to have a proper backup strategy in place to mitigate the risk of data loss in such situations.

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

Although NAS TR-004 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 QNAP TR-004. 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.

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How to recover data from a QNAP

How to recover data from a QNAP

TR-004 has 4 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 10;
  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • ZFS;
  • EXT4;
  • EXT3;
  • exFAT;
  • FAT32 (External Disk Only);
  • NTFS (External Disk Only);
  • HFS+ (External Disk Read Only);

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 QNAP TR-004 network-attached storage keeps QTS (QuTS hero) 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 TR-004, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Ralphie Beddington
    Ralphie Beddington 18.09.2023 03:41 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS QNAP TR-004 device be done if the storage disks have been physically removed or replaced?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 18.09.2023 03:59 #

      No, data recovery from a NAS QNAP TR-004 device cannot be done if the storage disks have been physically removed or replaced. The data recovery process typically requires access to the original storage disks in order to extract the data. If the disks have been removed or replaced, the original data may no longer be accessible. It is always recommended to consult a professional data recovery service for assistance in such cases.

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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 do you connect a digital camera to the QNAP TR-004 NAS device for saving photos?

    To connect a digital camera to the QNAP TR-004 NAS device for saving photos, follow these steps:

    1. Ensure that your digital camera has a USB connection or an SD card slot.
    2. Connect the digital camera to your computer using a USB cable or insert the SD card into your computer's card reader.
    3. Access the QNAP TR-004 NAS device's web interface by entering its IP address in a web browser.
    4. Login to the web interface using your administrator credentials.
    5. From the main dashboard, click on "Storage & Snapshots" and then "External Devices" from the left-hand side menu.
    6. Click on "USB" or "SD Card" to select the appropriate option based on your camera's connection method.
    7. Click on "Create" to create a shared folder on the NAS where your photos will be saved.
    8. Specify the details for the shared folder, such as name, description, and access permissions.
    9. Once the shared folder is created, go back to the "External Devices" page and click on "Connect" next to the USB or SD card option.
    10. Select the shared folder you created and click on "Connect" to establish the connection between the camera and the NAS device.
    11. The QNAP TR-004 NAS device will now start saving the photos from your digital camera to the specified shared folder.

    Make sure to safely disconnect the camera or remove the SD card from your computer after the photos are transferred to the NAS device.

  • What are the advantages of using a QNAP TR-004 NAS for storing and organizing photos from a digital camera?

    There are several advantages of using a QNAP TR-004 NAS for storing and organizing photos from a digital camera:

    1. Storage capacity: The QNAP TR-004 NAS offers multiple drive bays, allowing you to expand your storage capacity as needed. This is particularly useful for photographers who capture a large number of high-resolution photos, as it provides ample space to store and organize them.
    2. Data protection: The TR-004 NAS supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 1, which provides data redundancy. This means that even if one drive fails, your photos will still be protected and accessible. This is crucial for safeguarding your valuable photo collection.
    3. Centralized access: With the TR-004 NAS, you can access your photo collection from anywhere using a computer, smartphone, or tablet. This centralized access allows you to view, edit, and share your photos easily, without the need for physically transferring files.
    4. Seamless integration: The QNAP TR-004 NAS is designed to work seamlessly with QNAP's photo management software, such as Qphoto or Photo Station. These applications provide advanced features like facial recognition, tagging, and keyword search, making it easier to organize and find specific photos within your collection.
    5. Backup and synchronization: The TR-004 NAS supports various backup and synchronization options. You can schedule automatic backups of your photos to an external storage device or cloud storage service, ensuring that your data is always protected. Additionally, you can synchronize your photo library across multiple devices, allowing you to access and work on your photos from different devices simultaneously.
    6. Expandability: The TR-004 NAS is not limited to just storing and organizing photos. It can also be used for other purposes, such as media streaming, file sharing, and running applications. This flexibility allows you to utilize the NAS for multiple tasks, making it a versatile solution for managing your digital assets.

    Overall, the QNAP TR-004 NAS offers a reliable and feature-rich solution for storing and organizing your photos. It provides ample storage capacity, data protection, centralized access, advanced photo management features, backup and synchronization options, and expandability, making it an ideal choice for photographers.

  • Can the QNAP TR-004 NAS automatically backup and sync photos from a digital camera, and if so, what are the recommended settings for this feature?

    Yes, the QNAP TR-004 NAS can automatically backup and sync photos from a digital camera. To enable this feature, you need to connect your digital camera to one of the USB ports on the TR-004 NAS. Once the camera is connected, you can configure the settings through the QNAP NAS management interface.

    Here are the recommended settings for automatic backup and sync of photos from a digital camera:

    1. Connect the digital camera to one of the USB ports on the TR-004 NAS.
    2. Access the QNAP NAS management interface through a web browser.
    3. Navigate to the "External Device" section or a similar option.
    4. Locate the connected digital camera and select it.
    5. Enable the automatic backup and sync option for photos.
    6. Choose the destination folder on the NAS where the photos will be stored.
    7. Set the desired backup schedule (e.g., daily, weekly, etc.).
    8. Configure any additional settings, such as file naming conventions or file format conversions if required.
    9. Save the settings and exit the configuration interface.

    Once the settings are saved, the TR-004 NAS will automatically detect and backup new photos from the connected digital camera based on the configured schedule.

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