Storage Options?

[nope7308]

I'm going to buy a new 13" rMBP next week, but I'm not prepared to pay Apple's 200% markup on SSD storage. So, I need some ideas...

Basically, I have a ton of files that need to be stored somewhere. An external HDD would be perfect, except I hate extra boxes/wires of any kind. Complicating matters, I frequently stream files from my computer to my HDTV (via PS3 media server), which requires that the files be streamed from the computer and not an external storage device. So, assuming I want to watch a movie, I'd have to transfer the file from my HDD to my computer, stream the file, and then delete the copy from my computer. Highly annoying.

Is there any workaround to this? Can I use cloud storage as an external HDD, but without having to transfer files to my computer before streaming? What are the transfer speeds like? Any other suggestions?

Honestly, I don't know how a company can ship a computer with only 128GB of storage; that's like selling a pen with only enough ink to write one sentence.

 

[Hellhammer]

Seems like a NAS would do the job. Just make sure it's DLNA compliant so it'll work with your PS3.

128GB is actually plenty if you don't use the drive to house media files but then again, even 1TB is quite limited for media storage so it's an endless loop.

 

[NewishMacGuy]

1. Maybe the rMBP-13 is just not the right computer for you and a uMBP-13 with cheaply upgradeable storage would be the better fit.

2. You can always use NAS, with either a NA HDD or a USB Drive attached to your Airport (if you have one).

Option 2 still means you have to put up with another box and cables but at least they'll be static and you can hide them away somewhere. It'll also be slower than option 1 but should still be quick enough to stream video assuming that you're running an 802.11n network and have good signal strength.


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[dsoekov]

I'd also suggest a NAS.. I have a Synology DS212J which is very mac friendly.
I use it to auto 'timemachine' backup 2 Macbook Pros, for extra storage, as an FTP server, and to stream video to my Samsung HDTV. It can take 6TB of internal storage plus extra usb drives.. And from what I hear it will work with your PS3 too. (Sorry if this is sounding like an ad!).
If you do go this route, just make sure you have a decent speed router as NewishMacGuy mentioned, if you want to stream HD video.

As for cables I've hidden the NAS in a cupboard with my router as it is best to connect them with an Ethernet cable. (My missus is very anti-cable also).

Good luck.