In a few weeks time I'll be getting a Uniti2 :-). With which I'll be using a WD My Book Live NAS drive and PMC Twenty 23 speakers. I am very excited but would like to get things right the offs off!
For the majority of my music I plan on streaming from the NAS drive and using the n-stream app on my iPad as the controller.
A few questions I have...
1. Does the standard of the router make a difference? (I currently use Netgear n150 with which I have no issues with for general Internet usage).
2. Does the quality of Ethernet Cable make a difference? I've currently been told no, but then I see so called high quality stuff selling for £100s per metre!
3. Finally, what are the benefits of using an Ethernet switch? Rather than wiring the NAS and Uniti directly to the router.
Thanks in advance for any advice.
Cant wait to get it all!
Richard
Posted on: 09 August 2012 by Iver van de Zand
Hi Richard,
ad 2.) you should look for the correct category (indicated on the cable itself). Go for at least cat5e or Cat6. Both are capable of handling much more data than the standard Cat5. In terms of price there is hardly any difference. Especially if you consider to use High-Res or movies from your NAS, data traffic is auite intense, and your cables should be able to handle.
Ad 3.) an Ethernet switch allows you to connect other "sources or devices") to your chain of Nas and Uniti2. Obe is for example Internet connection (necessary to get album art etc), another could be an Apple Airport Express, or a Laptop connection if you opt to use something like Assett as a UpnP server. I'd advize you to buy a switch with at least 8 slots or even better 16. AGain, price differences are not to big. Netgear provides very good stuff for small prices.
Good Luck,
Iver
Posted on: 09 August 2012 by Iver van de Zand
Hi Richy, I am not that technical. Possibly since the cable only transfers data from A to B. Maybe others here can explain. Only thing I know is that things are like they are: if you search the threads here a bit, you will see it goes the same for everybody either with entry level equipent or full-blown 555 series.
Iver
Posted on: 10 August 2012 by Richy
Could someone help me out with q1 please.
is an Ethernet switch only worthwhile if I wish to connect more devices? I still have 3 slots left on my current router soIcahn I not just use these?
