Print your personal 3D NAS bay with the N5 Mini, capable of hosting up to five drives, and featuring customizable front covers.
The N5 Mini is a 3D printable and budget-friendly version of the Minisforum N5 Network Attached Storage (NAS) setup, offering users a unique and engaging experience for those in need of an NAS. This DIY project, made possible by the open-source nature of its design, allows anyone to create their own N5 Mini at home for free, with the added benefits of control and security that come from building from the ground up.
One of the key components of the N5 Mini is its enclosure, designed to be printed within a 175mm cubic volume. The Bambulab A1 Mini, a 3D printer used in the build guide by Harvest, is the best-known specific printer recommended for printing the N5 Mini enclosure due to its adequate print bed size. Other printers with at least a 175mm x 175mm x 175mm build volume should also work well.
Since the N5 Mini involves printing smooth, rounded shapes, a printer capable of good detail and surface quality is beneficial. It's also important to ensure that your filament type and printer settings suit the enclosure’s mechanical and thermal requirements, particularly for NAS usage. Faceplates can be printed with customizable designs, so having versatility in filament color or types is a plus.
The N5 Mini is smaller than the original Minisforum N5, measuring approximately 175mm in height. It is designed to be compatible with various mini PCs while maintaining the signature smooth, rounded shape of the Minisforum N5. The project offers users the flexibility to choose their preferred 3D printer, allowing them to tailor the build to their specific needs and resources.
The cost of the N5 Mini does not include the cost of the mini PC, which varies depending on the choice. Additionally, the project requires materials such as a power supply, cables, and a fan for cooling, which are included in the total cost. The N5 Mini enclosure has five bays, supporting up to five separate drives.
The Bambulab A1 Mini, while not a requirement for the N5 Mini project, is a recommended option. This printer, which received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars when reviewed, is considered one of the best 3D printers for beginners, making it an accessible choice for those new to the world of DIY NAS builds. With the N5 Mini, users can enjoy the benefits of a customizable, budget-friendly, and secure NAS solution.
[1] Source: [Link to the original source] [2] Source: [Link to the original source]
- To achieve the best results when printing the N5 Mini enclosure, a 3D printer capable of producing high-quality, detailed outputs is crucial, making printers like the Bambulab A1 Mini, which is suitable for beginners, an ideal choice.
- With the N5 Mini, users can leverage technology to construct their own Network Attached Storage (NAS) setup, with its fully customizable faceplates allowing for a personal touch, thanks to its compatibility with various filament colors and types.
