FAQ · 50 questions
HDD Capacity Calculation
Covers: bitrate, retention period, HDD capacity, RAID, recording, backup
Where should I start when sizing and choosing the right hard disks?
Start by defining the intended use, the number of devices, the installation environment, the capacity required and your plans for future expansion. Then choose the model and technical specifications based on what the project actually needs.
Which technical specifications matter most for hard disks?
Depending on the project, the most important specifications are capacity, speed, compatibility, environmental ratings, management features and scalability. Basing your choice on a single figure is usually not enough.
Is a cheaper hard disk model always the right choice?
No. The purchase price is only one factor. You also need to consider reliability, features, service life, after-sales service and maintenance costs.
How do I work out how much hard disk capacity a storage system needs?
Base the calculation on the number of devices, actual usage, how long the system will be in use and how much the project is likely to grow. It is also wise to keep some capacity in reserve.
Can storage systems be upgraded later?
In many cases, some of the capacity or equipment can be upgraded. However, this depends on the product's architecture and its hardware limitations, so check before you buy.
Why isn't my storage system working properly?
First check the power, the cable or connection, the settings, the network address and the software status. Then you can move on to more in-depth checks and the logs.
Why does my storage system drop its connection from time to time?
Common causes include unstable power, an unreliable cable or link, heavy load, incorrect settings and firmware issues. Reviewing the event log and testing step by step will help you pinpoint the cause.
Does cable quality affect the performance of storage systems?
Yes. The cable, connectors, cable run length and installation quality all directly affect connection stability, so they should be selected and tested to the project's standards.
Do storage systems need an internet connection?
Not necessarily for basic operation. Some management or remote-access features may require internet access, but local operation can work independently.
Can storage systems be managed remotely?
Yes, if the product and the network architecture support it. Remote access must also be protected with authentication, a secure connection and access restrictions.
How can I make my storage system more secure?
The key measures are using strong passwords, removing default accounts, keeping the firmware up to date, restricting access and segmenting the network logically.
Why does firmware matter for storage systems?
Firmware is the software built into the product, and it can affect performance, security and compatibility. Always upgrade it with the correct file and follow the official instructions.
What should I do before upgrading the firmware on a storage system?
Check the exact model and the current firmware version, choose a compatible file and, if possible, back up the settings. A stable power supply and connection are essential during the upgrade.
Are storage systems compatible with products from other brands?
It depends on which standards and protocols are supported. Basic compatibility may be available, but proprietary features cannot always be guaranteed.
What role do ONVIF and similar standards play in storage systems?
Common standards like these are used to improve interoperability between equipment and software. However, you should also check the version and the exact features your project needs.
Do storage systems need routine maintenance?
Yes. Regular checks of the connections, software status, equipment health, temperature and error logs can prevent sudden failures.
How can I troubleshoot a storage fault more quickly?
Record the problem precisely and note when it occurs and under what conditions. Then check the power, connections, settings and logs step by step.
What information should I include when requesting support for a storage issue?
It is very helpful to provide the exact model, the serial number (if available), the firmware version, a description of the problem and when it started, the status of the indicator lights or any error messages, and any relevant images or logs.
Does a large storage project need a dedicated design?
Yes. Large projects should be designed as an integrated whole, taking capacity, redundancy, management, security, power and future expansion into account.
Why is it important to document a storage system?
Keeping drawings, network addresses, settings, port numbers and repair records on file makes troubleshooting and future expansion faster and less costly.
Should I allow for spare capacity in a hard disk capacity calculation?
For enterprise projects, it is usually advisable to set aside some port, processing, storage or bandwidth capacity for future growth.
What are the differences between hard disk models?
They usually differ in capacity, speed, features, number of ports or channels, processor type, environmental ratings and management capabilities. Compare them against your project's requirements.
Do higher specifications always mean better storage performance?
Not necessarily. If other parts of the project are the bottleneck, improving one specification on its own will not deliver the result you want. The entire chain needs to be designed as a balanced whole.
Are storage systems suitable for industrial environments?
In industrial environments, you need to assess temperature, dust, vibration, noise, power and installation conditions and, where necessary, choose an industrial-grade model or suitable protection.
What should I consider when installing storage systems outdoors?
Make sure the equipment's resistance to temperature, humidity, water and dust, its mechanical protection and the cabling method all suit the actual conditions on site.
Why does operating temperature matter for hard disks?
High temperatures can shorten component life and reduce the product's stability. Good ventilation and staying within the specified temperature range are important.
Do storage systems need a UPS?
If a power outage would interrupt the service or cause data loss, putting sensitive equipment on a UPS can be worthwhile.
Can several storage devices be used on the same network?
Yes. With a properly designed addressing scheme, network capacity, VLANs and management resources, multiple devices can be deployed within a standard architecture.
How do VLANs help with storage systems?
VLANs can separate the traffic of different services and improve management, security and broadcast control. However, they must be designed correctly and configured on the equipment at both ends.
What is SNMP used for in managing storage systems?
SNMP allows monitoring systems to collect management information such as interface status, resource usage and certain health indicators.
What is an OID on a storage system?
An OID (object identifier) identifies a management variable in SNMP. Monitoring software uses OIDs to read parameters such as port status, CPU load or memory usage.
Why should I monitor CPU and memory usage on storage systems?
An abnormal rise in resource usage can be a sign of heavy load, incorrect settings or a software problem. Monitoring it helps you detect problems early.
Why do accurate time and date settings matter on storage systems?
Synchronized clocks are essential for accurate event logging, fault analysis and correlating events across multiple devices. Using NTP is recommended on professional networks.
How do I back up the settings of my storage system?
If the product has a backup function, export the settings before any major change and keep the file in a secure, documented location.
Does installing storage systems require a specialist?
Simple projects can sometimes be installed by following the instructions. In enterprise or complex projects, however, having trained personnel handle the design and installation reduces the risk of errors.
When should a specialist be sent on site for a storage issue?
A specialist should be sent when the problem cannot be resolved by phone or remote support, or when physical testing, part replacement, measurements or an infrastructure inspection is needed on site.
Is installation training available for storage systems?
For eligible organizations and projects, we can arrange specialized installation and setup training tailored to the products and the project's needs.
Is repair training available for storage systems?
For customers and organizations that buy in volume, we can run specialized repair and servicing courses in line with our training procedures.
Does KDT offer advice on sizing and choosing hard disks?
Yes. We offer expert consultation to assess your project's needs, select the equipment and design the solution. Getting this advice before you buy can help you avoid making the wrong choice.
Does after-sales service for storage systems continue after the warranty expires?
As long as a product can still be supported technically and its technology has not become obsolete, we can continue to provide repairs and spare parts after the warranty expires.
Are genuine spare parts available for storage systems?
Subject to availability, and provided the model is still supported, our after-sales service team can look into your request and supply the parts you need.
What are my options when storage systems become outdated?
Depending on the product and the state of its technology, the options to consider are repair, spare parts, an upgrade or replacement with a newer model.
Is there an upgrade program for storage systems?
For models and cases covered by our upgrade program, we can look into buying back your existing product and replacing it with a higher-end model.
How can I reduce the total cost of ownership of storage systems?
Choosing the right product, installing it to standard, servicing it regularly, monitoring its health and making use of repair and upgrade services can all reduce lifecycle costs.
What is the biggest mistake people make when buying hard disks?
A common mistake is choosing a product on price or a single technical specification alone, while overlooking compatibility, infrastructure, after-sales service and future expansion needs.
What information should I give KDT's specialists to help me size and choose hard disks?
Tell us the project type, the number of devices, the installation location, distances, the capacity required, how long the system will be in use, your existing infrastructure and the features you expect. This helps us make a more accurate recommendation.
Does KDT provide on-site and remote support for storage systems?
Depending on the product and the problem, we provide phone and remote support and, if needed, can send a specialist to the project site.
How do I properly accept a completed storage project?
After installation, check that all equipment is working properly and review the settings, security, documentation, scenario tests and operator training. Record the results in writing.
Can storage systems be integrated with other equipment?
If a common protocol, API, SDK or standard is available, integration can be explored. The details need to be confirmed for the exact models involved.
What does KDT recommend for new projects?
We recommend reviewing the project's requirements and the existing infrastructure before you buy, so that equipment selection, network capacity, power, storage and after-sales service arrangements are aligned from the start.
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