How do I setup local storage backup on a USB device (brand new 250gb SSD)

[ydwivedi]

I am trying to setup local backup using USB port on SmartHub VMB4540, which came with Costco Package of Arlo Pro 4 XL Security Camera bundle. Three cameras are hooked up to SmartHUB and are functioning well.

Next, I have connected brand NEW wd2500aajs western digital 250gb SSD to Arlo SmartHub (Base Station) using USB sata cable. The led light on SSD is constantly lighted (not blinking). This is not getting detected and Arlo Apps (or my.arlo.com) shows "No USB device connected".  - see attachment two picture for details.

Questions:

1. Does SSD 250gb drive wd2500aajs supported?

2. Do i need to format this brand new drive on pc before used with SmartHub?

3. I am not able to see this SSD when connecting USB cable to my PC - why?

[StephenB]

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@ydwivedi wrote:

1. Does SSD 250gb drive wd2500aajs supported?

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Arlo doesn't have a compatibility list, but it should work if properly powered. However, it is not an SSD - it is an old 7200 RPM mechanical drive.  I think it was launched around 2007; yours appears to have been manufactured in Aug 2011.  So if it is "new", it's been sitting on a shelf for 10 years.

A 256 GB flash drive would be a better option, and would cost about $35 USD in the US.

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@ydwivedi wrote:

2. Do i need to format this brand new drive on pc before used with SmartHub?

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It does need to be formatted (FAT32), but that can be done in the base station.

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@ydwivedi wrote:

3. I am not able to see this SSD when connecting USB cable to my PC - why?

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It can't be powered from a normal USB 2 port - it requires a separate power adapter.  Though given the age of the drive, it might also simply have failed.

Again, it's not an SSD, and you'd be better off using a modern flash drive.

[ydwivedi · Accepted solution]

Thanks StephenB, Guru for you details and excellent summary!

"Again, it's not an SSD, and you'd be better off using a modern flash drive"

Is the Costco sandisk below a good match or would you recommend something better (can spend about $75 , USB 3.1 and faster speed options planning long term...believe SmartHub support lower speed USB 3.0)?

https://www.costco.com/sandisk-cz600-cruzer-glide-usb-3.0-256-gb-flash-drive.product.100290584.html

[StephenB]

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@ydwivedi wrote:

https://www.costco.com/sandisk-cz600-cruzer-glide-usb-3.0-256-gb-flash-drive.product.100290584.html

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This should be fine.

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@ydwivedi wrote:

USB 3.1 and faster speed options planning long term...believe SmartHub support lower speed USB 3.0)?

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I suspect the SmartHub support USB 2.0 (the datasheet doesn't specify).  But it is compatible with USB 3.0.

[ydwivedi]

Thank you Stephen, Guru!

I have accepted your solution and bought 256GB (ScanDisk Ultra Luxe USB 3.1 Flash Drive) and will be monitoring local storage options/ usage gradually. I have made video adjustments on the 3 cameras.

Thank you very much for all the guidance and support provided on my 2 messages. You are simply amazing!!

I am very new to this product but may I ask you to request 2 things below (product enhancement thru moderator, gurus and exports like you)?

"I suspect the SmartHub support USB 2.0 (the datasheet doesn't specify).  But it is compatible with USB 3.0"

and your first statement about "Compatibility list not available".

1. Please ask Arlo development team to enhance and provide USB latest support. USB 2.0 is way too old technology transferring video files (10+ years, USB 3.1 is my Flash drive bought today) and market is changing rapidly with new product lines and advance features - - Survival of the fittest.

2. Local Storage compatibility metrics is not very hard to publish. To remain on the technological forefront for competence product support are the key.

Thanks - Yogi