RAID Array Recovery on NAS Thecus N199: What to Do When It’s Broken

When your ⭐ NAS RAID array breaks, use these steps to recover your data and restore system functionality.

RAID Array Recovery on NAS Thecus N199: What to Do When It’s Broken

Thecus N199 NAS Data Recovery in 2024

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from N199.

RAID Array Recovery on NAS Thecus N199: What to Do When It’s Broken

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

What is a NAS Thecus N199 (Network Attached Storage) device?

The Thecus N199 is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device produced by Thecus Technology Corp. It is a compact and high-performance storage solution designed for small businesses and home users.

The NAS Thecus N199 allows users to store and share data over a network, providing centralized storage for multiple devices. It typically consists of one or more hard drives (or SSDs) that are connected to a local area network (LAN) through an Ethernet port.

The device offers various features such as data backup and synchronization, file sharing, media streaming, and remote access. It often runs on a dedicated operating system specifically designed for NAS devices, allowing users to easily manage and configure the storage settings through a web-based interface.

The Thecus N199 is known for its reliability, performance, and scalability, making it suitable for both personal and professional use cases where data storage and accessibility are crucial.

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

Although NAS N199 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 Thecus N199. 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 Thecus

How to recover data from a Thecus

N199 has 1 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

RAID 1, JBOD

NAS supports:

  • EXT3;
  • EXT4;
  • XFS;

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 Thecus N199 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 N199, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Montie Harcourt-Vernon
    Montie Harcourt-Vernon 14.09.2023 18:45 #
    Can data recovery from a NAS Thecus N199 device be performed if there are issues with the network protocols or settings?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 14.09.2023 19:59 #

      Yes, data recovery from a NAS Thecus N199 device can still be performed even if there are issues with the network protocols or settings. In such cases, you may not be able to access the NAS device through the network, but you can still recover the data by directly connecting the NAS hard drives to a computer.

      Here are the general steps to recover data from a NAS Thecus N199 device:

      1. Shut down the NAS device and remove the hard drives.
      2. Connect the hard drives to a computer using a SATA to USB adapter or by installing them internally.
      3. Use data recovery software such as EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Recuva, or Disk Drill to scan the connected NAS hard drives and recover the desired data.
      4. Select the files you want to recover and save them to a different storage location, preferably an external hard drive or another computer.
      5. Once the data is recovered, you can troubleshoot and fix the network issues on the NAS device separately.

      Keep in mind that data recovery success depends on the condition of the hard drives and the extent of the issues with the NAS device. It is always recommended to consult with a professional data recovery service if you are unsure or if the data is critical.

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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 specifications of the NAS Thecus N199 that make it suitable for use as a media center?

    The Thecus N199 is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that can be used as a media center due to its key features and specifications. Here are some of the key aspects that make it suitable for this purpose:

    1. Storage Capacity: The Thecus N199 comes with multiple drive bays, allowing you to install multiple hard drives and create a large storage capacity. This is essential for storing a vast media library, including movies, TV shows, music, and photos.
    2. Media Streaming: The NAS supports various media streaming protocols like DLNA, UPnP, and iTunes server. This enables you to stream media content to compatible devices such as smart TVs, media players, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
    3. HDMI Output: The Thecus N199 features an HDMI output port, which allows you to connect the NAS directly to a TV or monitor. This eliminates the need for a separate media player and provides a convenient way to access and play media files directly on your TV.
    4. Media Server Software: The NAS comes with pre-installed media server software, such as Plex or Twonky Media Server. These software applications organize and categorize your media library, making it easy to browse and stream content to different devices.
    5. Transcoding Capabilities: The Thecus N199 offers hardware transcoding capabilities, allowing it to convert media files to different formats and resolutions on the fly. This is particularly useful when streaming media to devices that may not support the original file format or resolution.
    6. Remote Access and Mobile Apps: The NAS provides remote access functionality, enabling you to access your media library from anywhere using a web browser or dedicated mobile apps. This allows you to stream media content even when you are away from home.
    7. RAID Support: The Thecus N199 supports various RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10. RAID provides data redundancy and protection against drive failures, ensuring the safety of your media files.
    8. Expandability: The NAS offers expansion options, allowing you to add additional storage capacity through external devices or expansion units. This is beneficial if you have a growing media collection and need to accommodate more files.

    Overall, the Thecus N199 combines ample storage capacity, media streaming capabilities, transcoding support, and convenient connectivity options, making it a suitable choice for use as a media center.

  • Can the NAS Thecus N199 support popular media formats and streaming services, such as 4K video playback and Netflix?

    The NAS Thecus N199 is an older model and does not have built-in support for popular media formats and streaming services like 4K video playback and Netflix. It may not have the necessary hardware capabilities or software compatibility to handle these features. It's always recommended to check the product specifications and supported features before purchasing a NAS device.

  • How user-friendly is the NAS Thecus N199 in terms of setting up and managing a media center, including organizing media files and accessing them on various devices?

    The user-friendliness of the NAS Thecus N199 in terms of setting up and managing a media center is generally considered to be good. It offers a web-based interface that allows users to easily configure and customize their media center settings.

    Setting up the NAS Thecus N199 involves a straightforward process of connecting the device to the network and accessing the web interface through a browser. The interface provides step-by-step instructions for initial configuration, including creating user accounts and setting up shared folders.

    Organizing media files on the NAS is also relatively simple. The device supports various file systems, allowing users to organize their media in a way that suits their preferences. It supports media server applications like Plex, XBMC, and Twonky, which provide intuitive interfaces for organizing and streaming media files.

    Accessing media files on various devices is convenient with the Thecus N199. It supports DLNA, UPnP, and other media streaming protocols, enabling seamless media playback on compatible devices such as smart TVs, game consoles, and mobile devices. Additionally, the NAS can be accessed remotely through mobile apps or web interfaces, allowing users to stream their media from anywhere.

    Overall, the NAS Thecus N199 offers a user-friendly experience for setting up and managing a media center. Its web-based interface, support for media server applications, and compatibility with multiple devices make it easy to organize and access media files.

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