Mediagate MG-35 -- new firmware available [Text View] - Page 2

KAS

12-01-05, 07:05 PM

Thomas J. Coyle

12-01-05, 09:07 PM

KAS,

If the new firmware would support the SMB protocol, there would be no need for a 3rd party application to be installed on a host computer. I believe that the SMB protocol is in the public domain.

Regards,
TCIII

skymatrix

12-01-05, 09:20 PM

I can't give out too many details at this point (since I do not have them), but I have been beta testing updated firmware for the MG-35 that allows access to the internal hdd via a network connection for the past few weeks. As indicated above, this is done with a 3rd party program which needs to be installed on a computer attached to the network. After installation, the MG-35 shows up as a local hdd allowing for transfer of data across the network. So far, the software has been very stable. I do not know the plans for releasing this feature widely, but it is my understanding that AL Tech would be required to pay a fee to the third party provider of the software.

Perhaps... however, the Driver software is available free of charge from here (and on the Korean Altech website):

http://www.ximeta.com/support/downloads/windows_xp/drivers/v3x/ndas-3.10.1230-setup-enu-full.exe

At the moment, only the Korean Firmware v1.4.3 with the NDAS capability is available. However one needs to know what to enter for the 20 character "NDAS device ID" and the optional "Write Key" to make it all work. I believe it is a permutation of the MG-35 MAC Address, however I need someone to translate the Korean pdf file into English, to confirm this.

I've done some screen grabs here of the relevant information from the Korean pdf file. Anyone good at translating Korean ???

Image #1 (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/NDAS_MG-35.gif)

>>> Image #2 (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/NDAS_Device_ID.gif) <<<

Myrica

12-02-05, 12:10 PM

wkmitchell

12-02-05, 04:35 PM

Yes, it would be great to hear some positive results. I'm curious why they didn't use the open source samba protocol, perhaps it might conflict with the ntfs file system in some applications?

jtovar

12-02-05, 06:05 PM

I had a friend try to translate the piece of manual that skymatrix posted earliers. Since I can't post URLs, I'm going to post 4 time just so I can.

I also just ordered my mg-35 today and the guy I order it from says he has the update and we could get it also, but it's about $20. He said you have to provid the MAC address of the mg-35 when ordering. I'm not sure why though. I should receive mine next Mon or Tues...can't wait.

jtovar

12-02-05, 06:05 PM

Please ignore this...I need 3 more replies to post URLs

jtovar

12-02-05, 06:08 PM

pcmicrostore has the mg-35 with 80GB drive for $199.00 plus free shipping. I would post the link, but can't.

jtovar

12-02-05, 06:10 PM

Whoops,sorry about the last post. Looks like shipping is not free anymore, but $199 is not bad for the unit with a 80GB drive.

jtovar

12-02-05, 06:15 PM

skymatrix

12-02-05, 06:42 PM

OK, I can post URLs now. Here is the translation to the best of my friends abilities......
http://www.hi-nrg.net/ebay/NDAS_MG-35edit.gif

Basically it says:
-After making network changes, the unit needs to be restarted.
-NDAS function requires at least frimware version 1.4.3
-If not using NDAS, turn it off
-The maximum speed to transfer files locally is 10Mbs

Here is also the like to pcmicrostore 80GB version for $199
http://www.pcmicrostore.com/partdetail.aspx?q=p:10503376

I hope this helps....

jtovar... Thanks for providing that translation, although it's probably the second page that is the essential one that needs translating, regarding the "NDAS Device ID", especially the line referring to the "MAC addres" (sic)... (I have drawn a RED rectangle around this part)

>>> NDAS Device ID (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/NDAS_Device_ID.gif) <<<

The full "Korean" pdf file is also available here... Korean Manual (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/2005.11.08_Korean_NDASPCSW_ManualCD.pdf)

Would it be possible for your friend to translate that one also?

It would be much appreciated... thanx.

jtovar

12-02-05, 08:19 PM

Hi skymatrix,

Well....I asked him and the information doesn't seem to helpful, at least to me since I don't have one yet, but here is what he said. Sorry if the English sounds poor, but that's kind of how it is translated.

2. NDAS Device ID
-This value is used to communicate through the MAC Address which is the product serial number.
-It can be found on the CD or on some other misc recipt/manual

3. Write KEY
-This value allows to all read/write functions
-It can be found on the CD or on some other misc recipt/manual

Just curious, but how many digit fit in each NDAS Device ID box? Could you put the IP address or MAC address in there? How about the Write Key? How many characters go in there?

Lastly, where did you get the 1.4.3 firmware?

I hope this helps...

jtovar

12-02-05, 08:53 PM

skymatrix,

Here is a link to a NetDisk description of Device ID.
http://www.hi-nrg.net/ebay/ndas.gif

I wonder what you get for $20 when you contact the mfg and "upgrade" to the NDAS feature. If the firmware is already working fine and there is no additional unique data being added for existing units to become NDAS enable, I wonder what the Deice ID could possible be. I wonder if the new firmware does some algorithm with the MAC Address to come up with a Device ID??

Here is a quote I found for another NDAS product. It kind of explains the difference of using the 5 digit key. Looks like the device is read only with the Device ID, but if you put in the 5 digit key, it enables the write ablilty to the device.

"...There’s more to do as the new Device Management utility requires each Network Drive to be registered with the client using the 20-character ID code found on a sticker on the base of the unit. This allows read only access to the unit and a second five-character key found in the same location must be also be entered if write access is to be granted."

sapest

12-02-05, 08:56 PM

I have been following this thread as I attempt to find a local Canadian source for the MG-35, & now I see, as previously identified, there is the MG-35 & MG-35NDAS listed as 2 different products. However, certain comments in this thread make me think that the MG-35 can be firmware upgraded (at least with Korean s'ware) to provided the same functions.

Can someone confirm -
Is the difference between the 2 products just the ability to copy PC hosted files across a network to the NDAS (local HDD) unit?

The Korean firmware upgrade gives the MG-35 the same ability?

Many thx

Steve

jtovar

12-02-05, 09:59 PM

Here is some updated information regarding the NDAS feature of the mg-35.

I called the place I ordered the mediagate from and they claim that with the updated firmware, NDAS software, and the Device/key#'s, the mg-35 shows up as a networked drive on your pc and that you can transfer you files to it over the newwork. The guy I spoke with was Korean and was able to successfully do this since he was able to read their website. So you ask....how can I do this?

Well, since I can't comfirm the claims until my box gets here on Monday, I will attempt to go through the process he told me.

1) Get the 1.4.3 firmware from the Korean website...where exactly, I'm not sure.
2)Download the ximeta DNAS software from the Korean website also or, as skymatrix pointed out, from http://www.ximeta.com/support/downloads/windows_xp/drivers/v3x/index.php
3)Contact the mfg in Korea by emailing them your MAC address and pay them $10 for the Device key.

You should know have a NDAS mg-35

I will try all of this out next week(fingers crossed)....

jtovar

12-02-05, 10:37 PM

skymatrix

12-02-05, 11:39 PM

I can't read Korean, but this might be the place where you contact them and send them your MAC address to upgrade to the NDAS feature.

http://www.ikeeper.co.kr/bbsemarket/online/shop.php

Skymatrix, where did you get the firmware 1.4.3? Is it in English? I found it on the Korean website, but I don't want to install it and then find out it's in Korean.

Thanks...

jtovar... I'm at work today so I'm limited in what information I can give you at the moment, but I'll get back to you tonight (at least it will be night here in oz :).

The 1.4.3 NDAS firmware is only publicly available in Korean at present, but it is still usable if you are familiar with the layout of the older english versions. I intend to talk to one of the tech guys at AL Tech next week, to see if I can flush out more info on obtaining an English NDAS upgrade, and exactly how much it will cost etc. So stay tuned! Thanx for your help so far as well ! "I'll be back..." ;-)

ps... I'll put a link to the Korean 1.4.3 firmware on my webspace later as well... But note that it is "only" in Korean, so probably worth waiting for the english version... but I have no idea when they'll release that.

Things are certainly hotting up with this little MG-35 baby... I really do hope the hacker community takes it on, because it has so much more potential built in!

KAS

12-03-05, 02:04 AM

Well well, this actually sounds quite nice...
now, let's hear some reports from people who got it working, how did you do it etc. can you also tell us something about the write speed? Is it true, that it's working at 12mbit/sec ?<<m>>

I have been using the 1.4.3 English firmware with the related ximeta app for about 2 weeks and it has worked very well (I was told that it is ok to comment on my use of it, but I am not able to post it). As indicated, it allows the MG-35 to show up as a local drive (not a networked drive) on the computer that has the ximeta app. I have left the NDAS option on (in the setup screen of the MG-35 when using 1.4.3) the whole time and have not had any playback problems. As soon as the MG-35 is turned on, the ximeta app detects it and "mounts" it for read/write capabilities (assuming you set it up that way when you initially registered it). The transfer rates are relatively slow - around 10 mb/sec although it does occasionally spike higher (is there an app I can use to test the actual speed?). I have transferred large amounts of data over it and it has not had any problems. I have even been able to transfer data while using the MG-35, but after awhile it did drop the connection (I am not sure what the threshold for this is yet). Another cool feature that this allows for is to turn on the network sharing option on the MG-35 drive (from the computer with the ximeta app) and then the MG-35 will show up as part of the network (although the host computer needs to remain on). From another computer on my network (not the one with the ximeta app), I was able to watch an uncompressed iso file that was stored on the MG-35 without any problems. Theoretically, this would allow for multiple MG-35s on a network to play movies not only from any NAS devices, but also from each other (although there could be streaming problems with this).

skymatrix

12-03-05, 05:01 AM

I have been using the 1.4.3 English firmware with the related ximeta app for about 2 weeks and it has worked very well (I was told that it is ok to comment on my use of it, but I am not able to post it)...

Thanks for that info KAS. Sounds good! I guess we all should just be patient and wait for them to publicly release the new English firmware, as long as they don't overcharge for the NDAS update! FREE would be even better ;)

UPDATE:

English version 1.4.3 now available here: v1.4.3 ENGLISH (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/MG-35_1.4.3_Firmware.zip) <<<

and the Ximeta NDAS driver software is here... http://www.ximeta.com/support/downloads/windows_xp/drivers/v3x/ndas-3.10.1230-setup-enu-full.exe

= Or =
get it from AL Tech Korean website here... http://www.airlinktek.com/corean/atboard_view.php?section1=firmware&section2=mediagate&prod=0521

<<< Click on the link at the bottom of the page that says ndas-3.10.1230-setup-enu-full.exe >>>

But... to register your MG-35 for NDAS you will need a 20 character NDAS device ID and a 5 digit Write Key, which I unfortunately can't help you with :( Or as mentioned by jtovar, you could try ordering these codes from AL Tech. But Before you do this, you'll need to install the v1.4.3 firmware first, so that you can obtain your own unique MG-35 MAC address, (which will now appear on your MG-35 setup screen, as shown here... but with a diiferent MAC address of course... Example (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/NDAS_MG-35.gif) )

ps... I've had no problems updating and "down"dating the firmware to and fro between all versions of MG-35 firmwares. BUT!!! be very careful you don't actually power off the MG-35 until you get the final message to power off. Note that the final message in the Korean version can sometimes leave you wondering whether it actually says to turn off now! So I usually wait a minute longer before powering off and on again, to be sure!

jhaveri

12-03-05, 06:16 AM

I have been using the 1.4.3 English firmware with the related ximeta app for about 2 weeks and it has worked very well (I was told that it is ok to comment on my use of it, but I am not able to post it). .

Kas:

I looked at the bottom of mu unit. The Serial Number is 15 alphanumeric characters, including a 0 and 1.

Then there is PM8-MG35HDDxxxx where x is a number

and at the bottom is

P followed by 11 numbers (a total 12 )

I don't see any 20 or 5 characters Device Id or Write key.

Can you tell us how where you got Device ID? I guess Write key will be sent by Airlink when I pay $10.

Thanks,

jhaveri

skymatrix

12-03-05, 06:27 AM

Kas:

I looked at the bottom of mu unit. The Serial Number is 15 alphanumeric characters, including a 0 and 1.

Then there is PM8-MG35HDDxxxx where x is a number

and at the bottom is

P followed by 11 numbers (a total 12 )

I don't see any 20 or 5 characters Device Id or Write key.

Can you tell us how where you got Device ID? I guess Write key will be sent by Airlink when I pay $10.

Thanks,

jhaveri

Correct. The Device ID and Write keys aren't on these units, as up until now, this had nothing to do with AL Tech or the MG-35, as AL Tech has just started licensing the NDAS technology from Ximeta. Therefore you'll have to order the codes from AL Tech (or perhaps try to hack them... good luck ;)

Kas and jtovar might be able to enlighten you some more, as I don't know whether I'll even bother to obtain the codes as I personally don't have a need for an internal hard disk. I only use my MG-35 hooked up to my NAS Network drives. This enables me to expand my data at will. However I am interested in new technology, so I may just decide to stick a hard drive in the unit just to experiment with NDAS.

ps. You can find more info about the NDAS technology at the Ximeta website here... http://www.ximeta.com/technology/ndas/index.php

KAS

12-03-05, 09:06 AM

jhaveri

12-03-05, 03:13 PM

skymatrix is correct. I needed to give my MAC address to AL Tech and they sent me a unique ID# and Write Key.

Thanks KAS. Can you please tell me which one was of those numbers is a mac id in my post above? Looks like the back of my unit does not have a MAC ID posted?

jhaveri

KAS

12-03-05, 03:22 PM

Thanks KAS. Can you please tell me which one was of those numbers is a mac id in my post above? Looks like the back of my unit does not have a MAC ID posted?
jhaveri

I had this same problem (I couldn't find the MAC ID anywhere on my MG-35). However, when you instal 1.4.3 and go to the setup screen, it shows the MAC ID of the unit. It is in the following format:

XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX

jhaveri

12-03-05, 11:18 PM

I had this same problem (I couldn't find the MAC ID anywhere on my MG-35). However, when you instal 1.4.3 and go to the setup screen, it shows the MAC ID of the unit. It is in the following format:

XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX

Thanks KAS:

I am now waiting for the 1.4.3 firmware in English. Since, you are testing the English 1.4.3, any idea when they will release? I am quite excited about the possiblity of writing to internal HD by NDAS, The way it is for me now, is that I have to plug USB port in NSLU2, copy files. Go downstairs to unplug USB, and watch DVD on MG35, what a pain.

jhaveri

jtovar

12-04-05, 12:16 AM

KAS,

Do you have the contact information for Al Tech? When I receive my mg-35 I want to contact them to get the Device ID and Key.

Thanks...

Leyton01

12-04-05, 03:34 AM

The relationship between Ximeta and Al Tech is an interesting one looking at some pictures from Ximeta's website. The media share mini looks a lot like the MG-25 (go to the ximeta website and select mediashare mini from the products dropdown on the left) the picture under "Automatic Organization of Media Files" shows a "Mediagate" logo in the top right corner which is the name the MG-XXs are sold here in Australia. Looks like the companies are working closely to together on a number of things which makes you wonder about the royalty payments.

jtovar

12-04-05, 04:15 AM

Leyton01,

What's funny about that product is that I thought Al Tech was working with Ximeta for the NDAS functionality, yet the Ximeta product doesn't even have an ethernet port...hmmm. That's kind of strange.

skymatrix

12-04-05, 04:29 AM

What's even more interesting is that there is (or at least there was) a picture on one of Ximeta's pages (can't remember which one now) that shows the MG-35 as well !!

I also have a couple of MediaGate MG-25's, and I can say that they are identical to Ximeta's mediashare minis !

Here's a real basic *NOT* ;) overview of NDAS technology...
http://www.ximeta.com/files/01453436.pdf

and here's Ximeta's blurb about licensing NDAS to their partners... http://www.ximeta.com/partners/licensing.php

jhaveri

12-04-05, 09:19 AM

I only use my MG-35 hooked up to my NAS Network drives. This enables me to expand my data at will. However I am interested in new technology, so I may just decide to stick a hard drive in the unit just to experiment with NDAS.

skymatrix:

I have NSLU2 (running unslung firmware with usfd.o module for NTFS read/write) and MG-35 on a LINKSYS 10/100 network switch (which has a 811g wireless bridge in an uplink port).

I get horrible stuttering if I play a DVD in HD connected to NSLU2. If I rencode the DVD less than say 4500 Kbps , the stuttering go away.

Since you are playing the DVD from external HD on NAS, do you:

1) Get stuttering playing DVDs?

2) If not, do you reencode at a lower bit rate?

3) If you have no stuttering with original DVD rips, then can you post your NAS device setup details ; like which NAS and hows it is connected?

If I can play DVD from NSLU2 or other NAS even if I need to replace NSLU2, I will have no need of internal HD and hence no need for the NDAS function. Because with NAS, I can copy files over the network to my HD without problem.

Thanks skymatrix for any help with the NAS related stuttering.

jhaveri

KAS

12-04-05, 09:51 AM

I get horrible stuttering if I play a DVD in HD connected to NSLU2. If I rencode the DVD less than say 4500 Kbps , the stuttering go away.
jhaveri
I have a similar set up and for the most part it works great. I do get some stuttering on a few movies (the odd thing is that it is not usually the high paced action sequences, but the slower outdoor daylight scenes) and was wondering if you are just compressing the size of the file or using a program to reduce the bitrate (maybe this is one and the same - I am no expert in DVD structure). Is there a program that can just lower the bitrate of certain parts of a movie (that you can set to a certain ceiling) rather than just compressing the whole thing?

Thanks

atreis

12-04-05, 09:56 AM

jhaveri

12-04-05, 10:23 AM

I have a similar set up and for the most part it works great. I do get some stuttering on a few movies (the odd thing is that it is not usually the high paced action sequences, but the slower outdoor daylight scenes) and was wondering if you are just compressing the size of the file or using a program to reduce the bitrate (maybe this is one and the same - I am no expert in DVD structure). Is there a program that can just lower the bitrate of certain parts of a movie (that you can set to a certain ceiling) rather than just compressing the whole thing?

Thanks

KAS:

I use Nero Recode2 to compress DVD to 4.37 G. So I do not have direct control of bitrate. But for most DVDS it is less than 4500 kbps when play them in WinDVD and look at bitrate info.

I have also used Ulead DVD Movie factory and TMPGEnc to directly control bitrate at 4500 kbps (usually 2 pass with variable bitrate, 4500 being average), and they play without stutter. But I got tired of reencoding, and bought an internal HD and all the stuttering is gone.

As far as NAS device is concerned has anyone experience with the Kuro Box?

jhaveri

jhaveri

12-04-05, 10:26 AM

I have some AVIs (Xvid, AC3) encoded at a high bit-rate that the MG-35 seems to have trouble playing. (It plays the audio okay, but skips many frames of the video). Anyone know of software that can be used to re-encode AVIs down to a lower bitrate for use on the MG-35 (preferably still in Xvid, AC3)?

Thanks.

I use VirtualDub or Gordian Knot with xvid 2 pass. You can download it from www.doom9.org . Go to the download section. On the top you will see...

Gordian Knot rippack 0.35.0 pack2 - contains basic software to do SBC, DivX5 and XviD encoding as described in my guides - contains vStrip 0.8f CSS, DGIndex 1.2.1, BeSweet 1.5b30, azidts 0.1, vsfilter, Decomb 5.2.1, fluxsmooth, Convolution3D, Deen, TomsMoComp, AviSynth 2.55, VobSub 2.23, VirtualDubMod 1.5.10.1/2540, Nandub RC2 lumafix ecffix, chapterXtractor 0.962 and Robot4Rip 0.5.

jhaveri

skymatrix

12-04-05, 10:36 AM

skymatrix:

I have NSLU2 (running unslung firmware with usfd.o module for NTFS read/write) and MG-35 on a LINKSYS 10/100 network switch (which has a 811g wireless bridge in an uplink port).

I get horrible stuttering if I play a DVD in HD connected to NSLU2. If I rencode the DVD less than say 4500 Kbps , the stuttering go away.

Since you are playing the DVD from external HD on NAS, do you:

1) Get stuttering playing DVDs?

2) If not, do you reencode at a lower bit rate?

3) If you have no stuttering with original DVD rips, then can you post your NAS device setup details ; like which NAS and hows it is connected?

If I can play DVD from NSLU2 or other NAS even if I need to replace NSLU2, I will have no need of internal HD and hence no need for the NDAS function. Because with NAS, I can copy files over the network to my HD without problem.

Thanks skymatrix for any help with the NAS related stuttering.

jhaveri

ok... jhaveri... I can say without a doubt that your problem is with the Linksys network switch !!!! I bought one the other day, believing it would be fast enough, but was very disappointed, as it also caused playback to stutter. I do NOT get this when I playback via my D-Link Router/Modem. I took the Linksys switch back for a refund. I will probably get a D-Link switch although I am thinking of perhaps purchasing a new D-Link ADSL 2+ modem with a built in 4-port router. I will get one tomorrow and test it, as I'll be able to take it back if it doesn't perform.

Through my current (old) D-Link modem/router 4-port 10/100 switch (Model DSL-504) I am able to play back full DVDs uncompressed up to about 8000 kbps, without any stuttering. I had a similar experience to you whereby the Linksys switch would choke on anything over about 4500 kbps.

jhaveri... have you experimented (just as a temporary test) by going direct with a crossover Ethernet cable straight to your MG-35? Do you still get stuttering? I'd be very surprised if you do.

I mainly play DVD rips that have been encoded into DivX avi files (with dts or AC3 sound), usually via the good ol' Dr DivX. I'm very happy with the results. I usually do 2xpass @ 1500kbps. (After much testing this seemed optimum for me). I also have some iso files of DVDs that are not compressed. I gave up compressing DVDs when I realised that DivX would give such great results at a much lower size. I usually create iso images when I xfer the VRO files from my standalone DVD Recorder, especially when they are interlaced, because I can't seem to obtain good encodes of interlaced stuff. On the DVD Recorder, XP recording mode equates to about 8000-10000kbps. SP to about 4500-5500kbps, so these are good for testing various bitrates via the network to the MG-35.

jhaveri

12-04-05, 10:41 AM

ok... jhaveri... I can say without a doubt that your problem is with the Linksys network switch !!!! I bought one the other day, believing it would be fast enough, but was very disappointed, as it also caused playback to stutter. I do NOT get this when I playback via my D-Link Router/Modem. I took the Linksys switch back for a refund. I will probably get a D-Link switch although I am thinking of perhaps purchasing a new ADSL 2+ modem with a built in 4-port router. I will get one tomorrow and test it, as I'll be able to take it back if it doesn't perform.

Through the D-Link modem/router 4-port 10/100 switch I am able to play back full DVDs uncompressed up to about 8000 kbps.

There is a sale for Dlink 10/100/1000 switch at CompUSA today that I will buy and try. By the way, I also have a Linksys 4 port router. Unfortunately it is on my 2nd floor, and MG35, NSLU2 is downstairs with the TV. So the switch is downstair, with a wireless bridge in the switch's uplink port to communicate with my router upstairs where both the PC and cable modem is connected.

jhaveri

jwtseng

12-04-05, 10:49 AM

Any Mac OS X and MG-35 users here? How do I set up a shared folder on my iMac so that the MG-35 can see it?

skymatrix

12-04-05, 11:36 AM

jhaveri... I just tried playing an original dual-layer DVD of "There's Something About Mary" in my computer LG DVD Drive. I ran DVD43 first, (www.dvd43.com (http://www.dvd43.com)) so that it unencrypts transparently in the background on the fly. Then I "shared" the VIDEO_TS folder of the DVD Drive. (For some strange reason if I try to share the root folder of the DVD Drive, the text comes up scrambled on the MG-35 screen). Anyway... it played brilliantly... with no stutters at all, including the normal FF/REW on the remote as well, and full menu operation. Who needs a standalone DVD player now ;) !! (And this is all playing via my old D-Link modem/router 10/100 switch).

Here's some pics...
Front of Modem (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/modem_front.jpg)
Rear of Modem (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/modem_rear.jpg)

Maxtor NAS (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/Maxtor_NAS.jpg)

Mary in the DVD Drive (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/mary1.jpg)
Mary in the MG-35 (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/mary2.jpg)
Mary on the screen (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/mary3.jpg)

ps. I haven't tried playing via wireless, (as my house is all wired). Anyway, I'm sure this probably would cause stutters at the high bitrates.

I've also just tried running both of my MG-35s at the same time, in different rooms, playing the same iso dvd image from my Maxtor NAS, at the same time, with no stutters.... so it shows that the MG-35 is quite capable, as is the Maxtor NAS. I'm quite impressed!

UPDATE:
He he... I just had to try it... I switched on both my MG-35s and tried to play the same DVD disc at the same time... my LG DVD Drive was having hysterics! No way it could handle the random accesses from both MG-35s at the same time. That was to be expected... but it sure was fun trying!

KAS

12-04-05, 01:50 PM

I've also just tried running both of my MG-35s at the same time, in different rooms, playing the same iso dvd image from my Maxtor NAS, at the same time, with no stutters.... so it shows that the MG-35 is quite capable, as is the Maxtor NAS. I'm quite impressed!

That is quite impressive. I was thinking about getting another MG-35 but wasn't sure how well it would work under these conditions (although I think the Maxtor NAS is a lot better than my NSLU2 re data flow). I may need to update may NAS for this to work for me.

He he... I just had to try it... I switched on both my MG-35s and tried to play the same DVD disc at the same time... my LG DVD Drive was having hysterics! No way it could handle the random accesses from both MG-35s at the same time. That was to be expected... but it sure was fun trying!

I didn't even think about sharing a DVD drive on a networked computer. Very cool that it works (with one MG-35 at a time that is).

Is there any program that you are aware of that I could test the data transfer rates from (1) NAS to computer, (2) NAS to MG-35 and (3) computer to MG-35? I found some that can do computer to computer, but nothing that can track between other network devices yet.

Thanks

jhaveri

12-04-05, 05:14 PM

ok... jhaveri... I can say without a doubt that your problem is with the Linksys network switch !!!!

jhaveri... have you experimented (just as a temporary test) by going direct with a crossover Ethernet cable straight to your MG-35? Do you still get stuttering? I'd be very surprised if you do.

skymatrix:

Thanks for the info. I am almost convinced that it is my switch. So I am going to first try the crossover cable as you have suggested.

But I still have one more thing to resolve. You are using Maxtor NAS and I am using NSLU2. It is possible that the problem is not in the switch but NSLU2. It may not be able serve peak DVD rates as high as 9000 kbps at times to MG-35. Maybe the Maxtor NAS can. Have you tried NSLU2 in your setup?

In any case, here is how I will proceed:

1) Try crossover cable between MG35 and NSLU2. If stuttering is gone, it is the switch, and I will buy Dlink gigabit switch.

2) If it still stutters with the crossover cable, I think it is NSLU2 serving at high bitrates, probably due to Samba. In that case, I will have to get Maxtor NAS or even some other NAS such as Kuro Box or Linkstation.

Readers, if you have success with playing uncompressed DVD of external drive without stutter, would you please post your NAS device, switch , info here.

jhaveri

skymatrix

12-04-05, 06:36 PM

Is there any program that you are aware of that I could test the data transfer rates from (1) NAS to computer, (2) NAS to MG-35 and (3) computer to MG-35? I found some that can do computer to computer, but nothing that can track between other network devices yet.

Thanks

Unfortunately I don't know of a program that can do this, but it may exist.

jhaveri ... I also have a Buffalo Linkstation NAS, which I think is even faster than the Maxtor NAS. I have it unhooked at the moment, because it's giving me some headaches. It has the ability (like the Maxtor) to power the HDD off after about 20mins of non-use. Trouble is, it doesn't always like automatically powering the HDD back up again, and thus I quite regularly need to manually reset it, by powering it off, and then on again, kind of defeating the purpose of having the NAS in the first place!. But once I resolve that issue, I'll be using both NASs together. I have tried in the past using a laptop HDD in the LinkStation. That seemed a lot more reliable, but then I was limited to a much smaller HDD. It may be a firmware (or even a power supply) issue with the LinkStation, so I've got to look into upgrading the firmware again.
UPDATE: I upgraded the firmware in my LinkStation, and now the power issues seem to have gone away!

I haven't got a NSLU2 to test, and when I did my research, I was getting lots of reports of it being rather slow at xferring data, so I gave it a miss. I was also reading about how you can speed it up by doing various firmware/hardware updates... it certainly has a lot of backing by the hacker community, which is good.

I need to get one of these Superbit dvd discs... (http://www.sonypictures.com/cthe/superbit/what_is_superbit.html) for testing, but I'm not sure if they are available in Australia yet... (UPDATE: ok, apparently they are, but they're quite limited here... (http://www.hifi-writer.com/he/superbit/superbit.htm))

Perhaps I'll just have to do some tests to see which of the DVDs I own have the highest bitrate encodings... probably one of my dual-layer discs without any extras... I'll have to get around to checking... yeah,... one of these days... (Well actually, I'll experiment after I get back from work tonight... just so I can confirm what seems to be the highest bitrates my system can handle, before stuttering kicks in). I'll let you all know...

Thomas J. Coyle

12-04-05, 08:27 PM

jhaveri

12-04-05, 10:14 PM

jhaveri,

I have one of the NSLU2s and I believe that it may be too slow for the streaming of ripped DVD IFO/VOB files without stuttering and a 10/100 switch or router, unless it is malfunctioning, should be fine for streaming a ripped DVD from any NAS that is recently available.

I am presently using my MG-35 with an unRaid server through a series of 10/100 switches and the MG-35 plays my ripped DVDs (IFO/VOB) files just fine without stuttering.

Regards,
TCIII

Thomas:

You are right on. As skymatrix had suggested I connected MG-35 with a crossover cable to NSLU2, and it still stutters, exactly same as with a switch.

skymatrix: I agree with Thomas, I don't think it is my 10/100 Linksys switch that is a problem. Now I am convinced that my NSLU2 is too slow in serving high bitrate DVDs.

Thomas:

I want to get one of this unRaid server. Would you please give me some more details, what brand, how much cost etc. Right now I have a 500G hitachi drive in a USB enclosure connected to NSLU2. Besides being slow, one other reason I don't like NSLU2 is that it can not spindown the hard drive in a USB enclosure (the hdparm command does not work with the SCSI driver in USB to IDE in the enclosure). Will the unraid server allow spindown of the HD.

Thanks.

jhaveri

Thomas J. Coyle

12-05-05, 09:35 AM

jhaveri,

Information about the unRaid server can be found at www.lime-technology.com.

They sell everything from the software OS to complete servers w/o drives.

Unless you feel comfortable rolling your own, I suggest that you try something like the Buffalo Terastation or the like.

If you do want to roll your own, I suggest that you read over the unRaid thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=573986) on the HTPC forum as it is quite informative.

You can start your unRaid server with just a few drives and expand it as your storage needs increase.

Hope this helps.

No need to be formal here, you can call me Tom.

Regards,
TCIII

buick

12-05-05, 10:43 AM

http://www.trustfm.net/divx/SoftwareFolder2Iso.html For those of you that have your video.ts folders and want to convert to .iso the above program works great for all the dvds I had on the internal drive of MG-35. Software is freeware.

KAS

12-05-05, 10:58 AM

skymatrix

12-05-05, 11:31 AM

Just thought you guys/gals might be interested in an update of my latest experiment involving running both my MG-35's at the same time.

Firstly, I ripped the main movie from my Special Edition PAL version of Terminator 1 to my Maxtor NAS. This movie (well actually the VOB file chosen for the test) appears to be encoded at a relatively high bitrate (averaging just over 6000kbps, peaking at 8500).

>>> Example Image (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/Terminator.gif)

I then selected VTS_01_3.VOB on both of my MG-35's and let them play... this VOB file has a lot of action sequences, car chases etc, which push the bitrates relatively high enough to test. There appeared to be no skipping of video or audio, so I then began playing the same VOB file on my pc using VLC media player (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/) (I used this media player because it plays iso files, and because I was getting access errors with Media Player Classic and the old Windows Media Player (mplayer2.exe).

Still no skips! So I then fired up my other pc in the other room and played the same VOB... still no skips... and remember, this is now with 4x streams of exactly the same VOB file being played at the same time! Well... I'll be darned... I was certainly impressed, 'cos I certainly didn't think the Maxtor NAS was this fast! :eek:

My pc and MG-35 are connected to the Maxtor NAS via 1x (old) D-Link 10/100 switch, whereas in the other room the other pc and MG-35 are both connected via the D-Link switch plus an old Micra Digital 10/100 Switch.

This test mainly shows off the potential of the Maxtor NAS for Media streaming and the ability of the MG-35 to cope under these "trying" circumstances as well.

So... I think if any of you are having problems playing videos smoothly over the Ethernet connection, with the MediaGate MG-35, look at changing your Network Switches (avoid the Linksys ones!), and try a different NAS box. I'll give my Buffalo LinkStation a workout tomorrow, and post the results here also. :)

UPDATE:
ok... Just tried this test with my LinkStation NAS... about the same good results, except it seems slower to navigate through the various folders, when compared to the Maxtor NAS.

I'll also repeat the test with the same VOB files encapsulated within an iso file.
-----
:( Hmmm... I just tried this with the iso playing on the MG-35, and on my pc at the same time... not good... it was jerky on both... (but fine when just one is playing). Therefore I'll have to try to find out why there is a difference in accessing iso files as opposed to individual VOB files... Maybe I'll repeat the test with a concatenated VOB file (ie. with all the VOB files joined into 1). After all, the file is 5.2GB, whereas the VOBs are all < 1GB. You can hear the HDD in the Maxtor working a lot harder with the iso file when both are accessing it.

UPDATE:
I just downgraded to v1.4.0 firmware, and guess what... now I can play the same iso file without stuttering on both MG-35's at the same time from my Maxtor Shared Storage NAS. (This also worked equally well playing from my Buffalo LinkStation NAS). So for some reason v1.4.2 is not so efficient at reading the iso structure. It only starts stuttering when I also play the iso file with VLC Media player on my pc at the same time (ie. 3x equivalent streams running simultaneously).

jhaveri

12-05-05, 12:47 PM

jhaveri,

If you do want to roll your own, I suggest that you read over the unRaid thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=573986) on the HTPC forum as it is quite informative.

Regards,
TCIII

Thanks Tom. I am taking a few days off for Christmas, so I will begin my unRaid project then.

Best Regards, and Happy Holidays;

jhaveri

davei1

12-05-05, 07:24 PM

Hi...Newbie just joined and wanted to say hello...Got my MG35 today and put 320GB drive formatted and upgraded to 1.42 firmware without a hitch. Transferred MP3z and DIVX files and all files tested so far play...Hope they have the NDAS English firmware available soon...
One question if I may... How come if I have my MG35 hooked to my one PC with the USB cable and the folders on the MG35 are shared and I can see those folders on my other PC on the Network...Shouldn't I be able to access or send files to the MG35 through the PC connected to it with a USB cable...I tried and can't...Says I may not have persmissions...I understand I can't do it solely as a network drive without the NDAS upgrade but shouldn't I be able to access it via the network through the PC connected to the MG35 with a USB cable? So far I really like this MG35 but it really needs that NDAS upgrade...Wonder how much longer?

jhaveri

12-05-05, 07:35 PM

One question if I may... How come if I have my MG35 hooked to my one PC with the USB cable and the folders on the MG35 are shared and I can see those folders on my other PC on the Network...Shouldn't I be able to access or send files to the MG35 through the PC connected to it with a USB cable...I tried and can't...Says I may not have persmissions...I understand I can't do it solely as a network drive without the NDAS upgrade but shouldn't I be able to access it via the network through the PC connected to the MG35 with a USB cable? So far I really like this MG35 but it really needs that NDAS upgrade...Wonder how much longer?

On the PC that the USB cable is connected to MG35, did you check the priviledges of the shared folder? Depending on which version of Windows you have, it works differently. In XP, if you right click and go to sharing, it allows you to give either a read only or Full Control. For write ability, you want Full control.

This is not MG35 issue. Once you connect USB to PC, it is just part of your Windows setup.

jhaveri

Thomas J. Coyle

12-05-05, 11:53 PM

davei1

12-06-05, 05:59 AM

On the PC that the USB cable is connected to MG35, did you check the priviledges of the shared folder? Depending on which version of Windows you have, it works differently. In XP, if you right click and go to sharing, it allows you to give either a read only or Full Control. For write ability, you want Full control.

This is not MG35 issue. Once you connect USB to PC, it is just part of your Windows setup.

jhaveri

OK...So what you're saying is that I should be able to transfer files from my PC upstairs on the Network to the MG-35 which is connected to my laptop downstairs via a USB cable "over the network"? Is that correct?
Yes...I gave full control of both folders...

Thanks.

emedwhat

12-06-05, 12:30 PM

Hey folks,

I want to connect my MG35 to my PC wirelessly. My aim by doing that is just to copy my files into the MG35 internal HD. What should I do and have?

jhaveri

12-06-05, 01:01 PM

OK...So what you're saying is that I should be able to transfer files from my PC upstairs on the Network to the MG-35 which is connected to my laptop downstairs via a USB cable "over the network"? Is that correct?
Yes...I gave full control of both folders...

Thanks.

Yes that is correct. My situation is similar. My MG-35 downstair is connected by USB to a NAS device (NSLU2), and copy files from my PC upstairs. Since NAS is unix, I had to give similar permisionns to the MG35 folder when mounted on NAS,

i.e. chmod a+rw /MG35.

For your laptop it is Full Control.

Were you successful?

sdsdv10

12-06-05, 01:32 PM

KAS,

The Infrant ReadyNAS X6 appears to be similar to the unRaid in its ability to be expanded and to provide the ability to tolerate the loss of and recreation of one drive if two or more drives are present.

The ReadyNAS X6 appears to be able to be expanded to only 2TB while the unRaid system can be expanded to 5.5TB when using 500GB drives. Also, the unRaid uses a readily available processor, memory and motherboard. The unRaid OS is the only proprietary part of the server unlike the ReadyNAS X6.

Also, the unRaid server can be setup in any size case that you want to use depending of course on the number of drives that you might want to run. I am using the CM Stacker which has plenty of room for twelve drives and lots of cooling options. Since heat is the worst enemy of hard drives, you want plenty of cooling for longevity. The ReadyNAS X6 appears to be pretty compact which may limit it cooling capabilities.

Hope this helps.

Regards,
TCIII

Thomas, let me ask KAS's question another way. Do you think for $700 (for base system with no harddrives, but includes case, OS, MB, RAM, CPU, etc) the ReadyNAS X6 is a reasonable solution for those of use looking for a "turnkey" NAS system. I believe many of use are looking for an out of the box solution without a lot of tinkering. As far as functionality, I would think the only user visible difference would be the 2TB vs 5.5TB capacity levels. If the difference in cooling capacity doesn't lead to early failure of the harddrives, then this would make them even more similar (obviously this is an assumption based on no data). As you mentioned to jhaveri, some of us are uncomfortable or unable (due time contraints) to "roll our own". :D

Don

Thomas J. Coyle

12-06-05, 02:36 PM

Don,

Yes, I think that the ReadyNAS X6 is a viable solution for those who prefer not to roll their own. It does have a maximum size limitation compared to the unRaid, but is about $500-$600 cheaper than the unRaid w/o drives.

Regards,
TCIII

jhaveri

12-06-05, 04:34 PM

Hey folks,

I want to connect my MG35 to my PC wirelessly. My aim by doing that is just to copy my files into the MG35 internal HD. What should I do and have?

Unless you get NDAS capability with firmware 1.4.3 (too bad it is in Korean only for now), you have only one choice, connect USB cable of MG35 to another PC close by, or get NSLU2. I have posted my configuration in this thread earlier. Basically, MG35, NSLU2, and a wireless bridge's ethernet connection in a 10/100 swich. Npw any PC with a wireless access can write to MG35 plugged into NSLU2

jhaveri

davei1

12-06-05, 04:57 PM

Yes that is correct. My situation is similar. My MG-35 downstair is connected by USB to a NAS device (NSLU2), and copy files from my PC upstairs. Since NAS is unix, I had to give similar permisionns to the MG35 folder when mounted on NAS,

i.e. chmod a+rw /MG35.

For your laptop it is Full Control.

Were you successful?

I found the problem...
Below where it was saying I may not have the correct permissions...Was the key
clue to why it wasn't working...(And why I had had previous problem with accessing a newly created share)...

The key clue was it also said...
NOT ENOUGH SERVER STORAGE TO PROCESS THIS COMMAND...

After checking this and seeing that Norton Antivirus and similar change a setting in the registry IRPStackSize...I set both in the registry to the max XP size of 50 on both of my machines...And now I can access the MG-35 from my PC upstairs just fine across the network and via my laptop connected to the MG-35 by USB cable...
As well as access the other share folder I previously had a problem with...
Great...Only thing now is my laptop is a P3 with USB 1.1 so either I buy a USB2 PCMCIA card for it (I have a firewire PCMCIA for my iPod) OR I get the NDAS upgrade when and if it is released in English...THANKS.

davei1

12-07-05, 07:12 AM

Asked them about the NDAS Software for the MG-35...From the answer there's no guarantee it's going to be released (in English) anytime soon...
----------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Mr. Dave I,

NDAS firmware is already availlable but we have to way until the sales way is settled.
AL Tech is venture cooperation in Korea.
Sales is totally depend upon is distributors.

We just release NDAS product firmware in Korea.
Some of our distributors want to see feedback in Korean and Japan Market.
Moreover, we didn't decide how to sell in overseas market.

Best Regards
Saerom Kim

hooked4life

12-07-05, 08:59 AM

I seriously hope they release the NDAS software in the US. This would really improve my usage of the MG-35. Eventually I am setting up an UnRaid, but for now this would be extremely helpfull.

KAS

12-07-05, 09:41 AM

I finally heard back from AL Tech and they said they are ok with me sharing the English 1.4.3 firmware.

You can get it here: http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/MG-35_1.4.3_Firmware.zip

As I indicated in a prior post, it does not change much (as far as I can tell) other than showing the MAC address of the MG-35 in the setup screen. It alone will not allow the NDAS feature to work. You also need

(1) the ximeta software which is located here: http://web.newsguy.com/confused/NDAS-3.10.1230.ZIP

(2) a corresponding ID # & Key which they are NOT distributing yet in the US

Please do not start emailing AL Tech or Ximeta for these as they are still working on distribution details. I will let you know as soon as I hear when they plan to release these.

They were able to confirm that my transfer rates using this feature were not unusual. They said that 6~10mbps is common.

Also, they indicated that 1.4.4 firmware will support M3U play List. No other mention of features they are working on yet.

davei1

12-07-05, 11:47 AM

That's great!!

sdsdv10

12-07-05, 01:09 PM

Bytre

12-07-05, 01:19 PM

[QUOTE=davei1]After checking this and seeing that Norton Antivirus and similar change a setting in the registry IRPStackSize...I set both in the registry to the max XP size of 50 on both of my machines...QUOTE]

I actually remember adding this to a component of NAV about 4 or 5 years ago. The IRPStackSize should be increased by 1 for every filter driver installed on the system. 50 is really overkill, you should probably just increase it by 1 or 2. It was a difficult problem to figure out because in most circumstances you wouldn't run into a problem. The vendor who put together the drivers should probably increment it by one in their installer.

Bytre

12-07-05, 01:25 PM

To measure network speed on a device in a cursory (and simple) manner, look for a program called Anyspeed (google for it). It can do some basic throughput tests on any mountable volume, like a network drive, a local drive, a flash disk, etc.

For more sophisticated network throughput testing between two systems, look for a multiplatform program called iperf. You probably can't run it on the MG35, but if you have two computers (of the same or varying OSes) with a network between them, you can use iperf to measure raw throughput over TCP or UDP. It can be helpful for helping you tune your network configuration on your systems, or measure the impact of different network hardware.

Linksys was never considered a high performance brand (Cisco owns them and sells the high performance equipment as Cisco branded), but is generally reasonably good for the price. There are exceptions!

davei1

12-07-05, 01:33 PM

I actually remember adding this to a component of NAV about 4 or 5 years ago. The IRPStackSize should be increased by 1 for every filter driver installed on the system. 50 is really overkill, you should probably just increase it by 1 or 2. It was a difficult problem to figure out because in most circumstances you wouldn't run into a problem. The vendor who put together the drivers should probably increment it by one in their installer.

I tried 15 which was the recommended...That didn't do anything to resolve it...So I put the max in 50 and bang it worked...By using this setting am I wasting memory or is there some other reason?...I suppose I could experiment but don't see the reason to now that it's working unless there's some reason?

davei1

12-07-05, 01:55 PM

I tried both those URLS...Neither one worked...Maybe server down?

I finally heard back from AL Tech and they said they are ok with me sharing the English 1.4.3 firmware.

You can get it here: http://www.savefile.com/files2.php?fid=8487435

As I indicated in a prior post, it does not change much (as far as I can tell) other than showing the MAC address of the MG-35 in the setup screen. It alone will not allow the NDAS feature to work. You also need

(1) the ximeta software which is located here: http://www.savefile.com/files2.php?fid=9599110 and

KAS

12-07-05, 02:04 PM

I tried both those URLS...Neither one worked...Maybe server down?

The links should work now thanks to the others on the forum.

skymatrix

12-07-05, 03:05 PM

I tried 15 which was the recommended...That didn't do anything to resolve it...So I put the max in 50 and bang it worked...By using this setting am I wasting memory or is there some other reason?...I suppose I could experiment but don't see the reason to now that it's working unless there's some reason?

davei1... You just reminded me... I had exactly the same symptoms over a year ago. Seemed really strange that my shares were visible on my computers, but I couldn't access them, with similar error messages to what you received. I found the solution, by googling the received error message. In my case I had to increase IRPStackSize to 21 decimal. I wonder how many people really do experience this problem, cos there's nothing unusual about my home network setup.

skymatrix

12-07-05, 03:16 PM

If it helps, as it seems some are having problems accessing the new English firmware, here's some links on my Service Provider's webspace... (Thanks to KAS for the info)

Firmware v1.4.3 (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/MG-35_1.4.3_Firmware.zip) [2.78 MB] <<<

ps. I've zipped it up to retain file integrity.

For the time being, I've gone back to using v1.4.0, because for some reason, I find it has better (ie. faster) handling of iso files.

davei1

12-07-05, 05:04 PM

http://web.newsguy.com/confused/

Never hurts to have more than one source...And I wasn't using
this space for anything...

j2hdwd

12-07-05, 11:17 PM

davei1

12-08-05, 12:07 AM

One thing I noticed since going to 1.43 from 1.42...
I was getting "Drive Busy" messsages under 1.42 when trying to disconnect the drive through WinXPHome and was simply having to unplug the USB cable...
After going to 1.43 I can disconnect through WinXPHome Properly first (Not getting the Drive busy message)....

WinXPHome SP2 - P3 Notebook with USB 1.1 connected to MG-35

Bytre

12-08-05, 02:53 AM

I tried 15 which was the recommended...That didn't do anything to resolve it...So I put the max in 50 and bang it worked...By using this setting am I wasting memory or is there some other reason?...I suppose I could experiment but don't see the reason to now that it's working unless there's some reason?

You're using precious kernel stack memory, although not a whole lot of it. This memory is very limited no matter how much RAM you have in your system, so you may end up bluescreening your box if some other driver can't quite get enough memory.

You might try a few in between 15 and 50.

jtovar

12-08-05, 03:59 AM

Soulbro

12-08-05, 05:34 AM

I use a DLINK DWL-2000AP+ access point in the client mode and this works fine.

I was reading the specs on the ASUS WL-HDD2.5 wireless hard disk drive box and I am wondering if this would work fine as a NAS for the MG-35 to see. Not only can you put a 2.5'' internal drive into the unit, but I think you can put an external USB hard drive box into its USB ports.
Does anyone know much this device?

skymatrix

12-08-05, 08:03 AM

Hi Skymatrix,

I'm using 1.4.2 at the moment, do you think it's worth upgrading it to 1.4.3.

I have some lipsync issues with some avi and dixv...not sure if it's since i upgraded to 1.4.2.

I'm also wondering if there is any talk about the ability of playing Realplayer file, WMV, MKV??

Cheers

Hi j2hdwd... I personally haven't seen any major differences between v1.4.2 and 1.4.3 apart from the potential NDAS stuff. Although I have been back and forth many times between firmware versions, you have to realise that there is always the risk of losing power during a firmware update. This would potentially "kill" your MG-35, as it would make it unbootable, without the full valid firmware loaded.

I had no a/v lip sync problems with firmware versions prior to 1.4.0, but I now find that on all DivX avi files that I create with Dr DivX, I have to Re-Interleave the files to fix the problem. You might want to view my previous post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=576107&p=6409074) about a fix for this. Note that AutoGK doesn't cause this problem because it uses an interleave setting which the MG-35 likes.

I don't think AL Tech have any intention of supporting Realplayer files, WMV nor MKV... I could be wrong, but I highly doubt it. They have other products in the developmental pipeline that will more than likely be promoted to do some of these formats. You also have to realise that it would increase the cost of the unit if AL Tech had to pay Royalty fees to include these format codecs. How would they be able to get that money back from users who already own the units. The Licensing situation at the moment with the Ximeta NDAS technology, is a case in point.

Thomas J. Coyle

12-08-05, 09:36 AM

davei1

12-08-05, 12:16 PM

davei1,

I found that I had to close the "My Computer" window to get the "Drive Busy" message to clear when using version 1.42. If I left the "My Computer" window open, I would continuously get the unsafe to disconnect message when attempting to remove the MG-35.

Just a thought.

Regards,
TCIII

That's interesting...I'll do that test when I go home with the 1.43 and see if it does it with the My Computer window open...

jhaveri

12-08-05, 12:39 PM

Hi j2hdwd... The Licensing situation at the moment with the Ximeta NDAS technology, is a case in point.

Does anyone know why Al Tech has to get Ximeta involved with the proprietery NDAS technolodgy, when they could use free Samba to share the internal HD using their embedded Linux operating system. Look at other NAS devices like NSLU2. Also looking at the transfer numbers with NDAS, it is poorer than my NSLU2 Samba which is about 3.5 MB or 28 Mb /s. Is anyone close enough with Al Tech tech guys to ask these questions? How about you KAS?

jhaveri

midi-guy

12-08-05, 01:05 PM

They probably went with the Ximeta's solution because it was the easiest and fastest one for them to implement.
Basically, with NDAS there's only a small amount of coding required. Most of the heavy lifting is done by a process being run on a different host.

Thomas J. Coyle

12-08-05, 01:10 PM

Hi all,

I agree with jhaveri. Why not use the SMB protocol and not have to have a dedicated s/w interface on a host computer?

Regards,
TCIII

davei1

12-08-05, 02:50 PM

That's interesting...I'll do that test when I go home with the 1.43 and see if it does it with the My Computer window open...

I did the test..And what I found on my laptop is that it's irrelevant whether
I have MyComputer open or if I've accessed the MG35 with Explorer or through
NetworkNeighborhood...When it decides that it's busy it's busy and you cannot
unmount it from XP correctly...Then other times you can...Like it's finally releasing a driver or something....No set amount of time that I can see...So scratch what
I said about 1.43 possibly solving it...That was last night...Tonight it's back to the same thing....

Oh...On the IRPStackSize....I did try a different setting...Instead of 50 I tried 25...
I changed the PC upstairs first and rebooted and everything still worked and I was able to access the MG35 connected to the laptop...I then changed the settiing downstairs on the laptop itself to 25...And lo and behold it DID NOT work once again (Could not access MG35 connected to laptop downstairs via USB 1.1 cable from Networked PC upstairs)....Changed the setting back to 50 on the laptop downstairs and everything worked again fine...Don't think I need to find the magic minimum number as I'm tired of climbing up and down the stairs :)

Bytre

12-08-05, 08:59 PM

Oh...On the IRPStackSize....I did try a different setting...Instead of 50 I tried 25...
I changed the PC upstairs first and rebooted and everything still worked and I was able to access the MG35 connected to the laptop...I then changed the settiing downstairs on the laptop itself to 25...And lo and behold it DID NOT work once again (Could not access MG35 connected to laptop downstairs via USB 1.1 cable from Networked PC upstairs)....Changed the setting back to 50 on the laptop downstairs and everything worked again fine...Don't think I need to find the magic minimum number as I'm tired of climbing up and down the stairs :)

Use what works for you. :)

atreis

12-10-05, 08:02 AM

I use VirtualDub or Gordian Knot with xvid 2 pass. You can download it from www.doom9.org . Go to the download section. On the top you will see...

Gordian Knot rippack 0.35.0 pack2 - contains basic software to do SBC, DivX5 and XviD encoding as described in my guides - contains vStrip 0.8f CSS, DGIndex 1.2.1, BeSweet 1.5b30, azidts 0.1, vsfilter, Decomb 5.2.1, fluxsmooth, Convolution3D, Deen, TomsMoComp, AviSynth 2.55, VobSub 2.23, VirtualDubMod 1.5.10.1/2540, Nandub RC2 lumafix ecffix, chapterXtractor 0.962 and Robot4Rip 0.5.

jhaveri

Thanks! I downloaded this software and it worked perfectly (once I figured out how to use the interface, which is not exactly intuitive). This is a highly functional and effective package of software.

atreis

atreis

12-10-05, 08:07 AM

Finally received my mg-35 and upgraded to the new 1.4.3 :D . Now I just have to figure out how to get my Device ID from the manufacturer.

Anyways, does anyone have any recommendations for a wireless bridge to plug into the mg-35 so I don't have any ethernet cables running across the floor? I'm just looking for a low cost solution. Any brands/models that are known to work to would be appreciated.

Thanks...

I bought this one:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833162168

It works very well with my MG-35.

atreis

davei1

12-10-05, 11:57 AM

I'm thinking I might buy a Netgear Storage Central and remove the HD out of the MG-35 and put it in Netgear so I'll have a true Network Drive...I've read mixed reviews on the Netgear Storage Central...NewEgg and Buy.com both have it for $99 with free shipping...
Opinions wanted especially if you have one...Thanks.

BTW...This is the first day I really had to play with the MG-35 alot...I took out the internal drive and let it stream a file from a PC...When I took the drive out of the MG-35 after it had been on for about 6 hours...Holy cow...Was it ever HOT!!! (WD320GB HD)...

Thomas J. Coyle

12-10-05, 02:04 PM

davei1,

I have a 200GB Maxtor drive in my MG-35 and it only gets moderately warm during extended use. I suggest not using any drive bigger than 200GB in the MG-35 if you want the drive to last a long time due to the fact that there is no fan in the Mediagate.

Also, I have found from recent experience with my unRaid server that WD drives run the hottest while most recent Maxtor and Segate drives run the coolest.

davei1

12-10-05, 05:21 PM

davei1,

I suggest not using any drive bigger than 200GB in the MG-35 if you want the drive to last a long time due to the fact that there is no fan in the Mediagate.

Thomas,

It has one now...

http://web.newsguy.com/confused/images/fan1.JPG

http://web.newsguy.com/confused/images/fan2.JPG

This is just a first trial...Had this very small 486 fan off a CPU cooler...
There's lot's of other possibilities but I think I'm gonna go with a Network Drive
Enclosure anyway...Too late on the WD drive but I'll keep it cool one way or another...(Heatsink, bigger fan, case cutouts if necessary)...

Thomas J. Coyle

12-10-05, 06:33 PM

davei1,

Nice fan installation. Where inside the case did you pick up the power for the fan?

Regards,
TCIII

Myrica

12-10-05, 06:55 PM

Hm, i'm using a samsung spinpoint 250gb (IDE). mg-35 does only get a little warm after some hours of use, nothing serious ;O.
Imo samsung delivers the best products on the home harddrive market, as their drives are extremly silent and cool. ;)

davei1

12-10-05, 06:55 PM

The fan had the same power connector with a pass-thru connector...
MG-35 power connector into the fan connector then the other fan connector to the HD...There's "just" enough space to tuck the connectors and wiring in the small slot between the end of the drive and the case...

Bytre

12-10-05, 08:18 PM

It isn't the size of the drive that makes it hot.

You should probably look for 5400 rpm drives instead of 7200. They put out noticably less heat, and both are speedy enough for this application.

If you want extra credit, get a little 2.5" laptop drive for the mg-35.

Thomas J. Coyle

12-10-05, 08:55 PM

skymatrix

12-11-05, 03:41 AM

Bytre,

...
Don't the 2.5" drives have a different size IDE connector than the 3.5" drives?

Just a thought.

Regards,
TCIII

Laptop Hard Drives are an excellent idea where heat is a problem. I use them myself (with a 2.5" to 3.5" IDE adapter (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/2.5_to_3.5_ide_adapter.jpg)) in some of my NAS devices. As long as you don't need more than about 120 GB, which I think is about the largest size available at present.

davei1

12-11-05, 04:49 AM

Imo samsung delivers the best products on the home harddrive market, as their drives are extremly silent and cool. ;)

I really like Samsung products...I have a Samsung 32 inch World Multisystems TV, -also two Samsung SV-3000W Worldwide Video VCRs (will digitally convert output to almost any video standard you want...except Secam L...The SV-5000W does that)...Also my Video camera is Samsung and will output to NTSC or PAL...Grabbed that when Kmart was having bankruptcy sales...Got it for $130...

This morning I got up and decided to do more modding on the fan install...
I took a hot sharp knife and opened up a hole underneath the fan in the plastic case lid so the airflow would be unimpeded...I also took the opportunity to lube the fan so it was nice and quiet...You can't hear it now once you move more than about 2 feet away from the MG-35...I can now feel air flowing out of the MG-35 from it's airvents on the side and on the back...Gonna test it playing MP3z for pretty much the day then opening it and check the drive to see how it's performing cooling-wise...

davei1

12-11-05, 11:39 AM

And just the followup to the fan mod...After more than 8 hours of Playing MP3z or DIVX files non-stop...I opened the case and found a hard drive that was barely even warm on the top of the drive facing the fan and just slighty warmer on the sides of the drive....The fan mod worked even better than I thought :) ...

nintwala

12-11-05, 01:27 PM

Finally received my mg-35 and upgraded to the new 1.4.3 :D . Now I just have to figure out how to get my Device ID from the manufacturer.

Anyways, does anyone have any recommendations for a wireless bridge to plug into the mg-35 so I don't have any ethernet cables running across the floor? I'm just looking for a low cost solution. Any brands/models that are known to work to would be appreciated.

Thanks...

Hey, have you had any luck with the mg-35? How did you get the 1.4.3 upgrade? Its not on the website is it? Is there anyway you can send it to me? or send me a URL for it?
How about the device ID? where can you find that?

Thanks in advance for your help...

:)

davei1

12-11-05, 03:55 PM

Hey, have you had any luck with the mg-35? How did you get the 1.4.3 upgrade? Its not on the website is it? Is there anyway you can send it to me? or send me a URL for it?
How about the device ID? where can you find that?

Thanks in advance for your help...

:)

Go here... http://web.newsguy.com/confused/

The 1.4.3 firmware in English...Along with the NDAS software...
You'll still need the DEVICE Unlock Codes from the manufacturer...

nintwala

12-11-05, 04:15 PM

Go here...

The 1.4.3 firmware in English...Along with the NDAS software...
You'll still need the DEVICE Unlock Codes from the manufacturer...

Thank you so much...

Will they just give me the Device Unlock Codes? Or do I have to convinence them to give it to me? In other words, this is not something that I am not suppose to do, is it?

Thanks again...

davei1

12-11-05, 04:30 PM

Thank you so much...

Will they just give me the Device Unlock Codes? Or do I have to convinence them to give it to me? In other words, this is not something that I am not suppose to do, is it?

Thanks again...

Not sure if they'll give them to you or not...I suspect they
won't right now...You'll need to provide them your MAC address of the MG-35 which is visible on the SETUP page once you install 1.43...I believe they are going to charge for the Device Codes when they do offer them...

nintwala

12-11-05, 06:21 PM

Not sure if they'll give them to you or not...I suspect they
won't right now...You'll need to provide them your MAC address of the MG-35 which is visible on the SETUP page once you install 1.43...I believe they are going to charge for the Device Codes when they do offer them...

OK thanks again. I have emailed the support for the mediagate device. They are pretty good about responding back quickly. Lets see what they say. I am guessing its still Sunday night over there, so they might not have opened for Monday yet.

Hopefully they dont ask me for money. Atleast not a lot of money anyways. Last time I talked to a tech, they said it was around $10 USD.

I wish someone made a software or something to scan for the Device ID and read/write key.

I dont know if there is an open port on the MG-35 maybe I can scan for it and find a web interface or something. That would be sweet... :)

Thanks...

slinkytoy

12-12-05, 12:21 AM

Hey Everyone
Greet info on the MEDIAGATE MG-35. Can someone answer this question for me. With the mediagate can read VOB files and can i see cover art of the movies that i have. It looks like it has the componet and digital audio out that i need. So the big question what would i have to have running in the mediagate to allow me to talk to my movie server that i have running all of my dvd VOB files and be able to see my cover art and select a movie with full menus and title selection on that dvd. any help would be gerat. Thanks

Thomas J. Coyle

12-12-05, 12:41 AM

slinkytoy,

The Mediagate MG-35 is able to find and communicate with servers that use SMB protocol and any Windows PC that has shared files.

I use my MG-35 with my unRaid server that conforms to the SMB protocol and with a Windows based server that has shared files.

The MG-35's firmware will allow you to see the shared files and be able to play MP3 music files and IFO/VOB files. It works great as long as you are willing to work with its clunky presentation of network shared files.

Regards,
TCIII

Myrica

12-12-05, 12:26 PM

So yeah, does anyone have new information about NDAS availability in the US / EU ?

<<my>>

james_bond_xx7

12-12-05, 02:18 PM

Hi

I have a Freecom Network MediaPlayer 3.5" Kit (see the homepage of freecom, unfortunately I am not yet allowed to add an link) which is a rebranded Mediagate MG-35.

Does anybody know if I can apply the Firmware Updates from the Mediagate MG-35?

Thank you.

Regards

James

max_33

12-12-05, 05:25 PM

simply yes!

Freecom sells the MG35 in Europe.

slinkytoy

12-12-05, 11:10 PM

Thanks for the reply thomas. I still have one more question about the Mediagate MG-35. I have about 200 DVD movies on my computer all video_ts and audio_ts folders in there own movie title folder like normal. Will the mediagate hold my DVD cover art and or see the cover art on the server display it on my tv. So once i select the dvd by its cover art it will start to play. Sorry for the questions over and over but i'm a audio/video installer and owner of a audio comapney and the stuff that i sell is like video request a real super highend DVD media player that can connect right to a sony 400 DVD dish changer and show the dvd info and then play them. There is no way that im paying 2500.00 bucks for that player:) thats just crazy. I also have a modded xbox that will play across my network no problem it's just right now there is no go interface for the xbox that will show the cover art and then let me select it. See my problem :). Again thanks for all of the info.

jwtseng

12-12-05, 11:37 PM

slinky,

The MG-35 will play your VIDEO_TS folders just fine with full DVD menu navigation just as the original DVD disc. Up until now, there weren't too many boxes that offered this over a LAN. However, the MG-35 WILL NOT show your DVD cover art. It presents your shared "movie" folder as a pretty standard file hierarchy. You just navigate up and down the file hierarchy until you find the VIDEO_TS.IFO file you want to play. Pretty simple and no frills. There is no option to show cover art and it's not quite so simple as browsing cover art and clicking to play. It works really well, though.

slinkytoy

12-13-05, 12:11 AM

Bytre

12-13-05, 01:34 AM

Bytre,

I don't agree with you. The bigger the drive the more the platters which makes the spindle motor work harder to spin them therefore dissipating more heat. Also, the head actuator has a bigger load with more heads to move and therefore dissipates more heat while moving the heads around.

I do agree that a 5400 rpm drive will run cooler than a 7200 rpm drive.

Don't the 2.5" drives have a different size IDE connector than the 3.5" drives?

Just a thought.

Regards,
TCIII

Yes - more platters does create more heat, but larger drives do not necessarily have more platters. Data density increases as manufacturers innovate, so where you may have only fit 80 or 100gb on a platter a year or so ago, you may fit 133GB or even 160GB on modern drives.

You can find reviews for a lot of drives at a site called storagereview.com, many of them contain measurements of the heat output of the drives which can be helpful .

2.5" drives do have a different connector with a greater pin density, but you can get an adapter for a couple bucks.

PabloReiter

12-13-05, 07:07 AM

Thanks jwtseng. My modded xbox gives me that same file hierarchy. Sound like to me if someone makes a addon that shows
dvd cover art on the MG-35 we would be set :) Damm if i had just a few more brain cells i could figure one out but thats not going to happen.

XBMC for the Xbox will do this, this is my understanding. It will display cover art.
go to www.xboxmediacenter.com and download the project. Beatiful interface...

davei1

12-13-05, 08:43 AM

james_bond_xx7

12-15-05, 02:41 AM

Thank you for your reply max_33.

I have successfully installed firmware 1.4.2 and afterwards 1.4.3 on my FREECOM Network MediaPlayer 3.5" Kit. Of course, the Freecom logo does not appear on the screen anymore, but guess what, I don't care.

With this firmware I can now play all my DVD Iso's. Before (1.3.2) some were playable, some not.

I am wondering, if I can also get an NDAS code for my "backbranded" device. At least, the MAC is displayed in the Network menu.

Regards

James

tavale

12-15-05, 06:45 AM

G'day All
Just got my MG35 today....how do you tell what version firmware is the unit and how do update the firmware?
Your help is much appreciated

skymatrix

12-15-05, 05:26 PM

G'day All
Just got my MG35 today....how do you tell what version firmware is the unit and how do update the firmware?
Your help is much appreciated

Read the User Manual (http://www.airlinktek.com/english/atboard_view.php?param=e_manual&page=1&kind=&uid=51&keyfield=&key=) (Page referenced here... (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/Firmware_p51.gif))

Press the black SETUP button on your remote control (top right) to find out your current Firmware version.

Here's Firmware Version 1.4.2 (http://www.airlinktek.com/english/atboard_view.php?param=e_sw&page=1&kind=&uid=54&keyfield=&key=)

and Firmware v1.4.3 (http://members.iinet.net.au/~skygraph/images/MG-35_1.4.3_Firmware.zip) [2.78 MB]

You'll find a lot of info about the firmwares in this thread, and other threads in this forum here, so have a good look.

cheers.

nintwala

12-16-05, 11:15 AM

I am copying an email that was sent to me by one of the techs at airlinktek.

" Dear Mr. -------,

Distributor in USA decide to release MG-35 NDAS in January.
They ordered just before.
We think they will release NDAS ID and Key also.
Release time would be middle or end of January.

Best Regards "

So all you guys and girls who are waiting for the NDAS feature on your MG-35. The time is coming close.

Oh yeah, he also mentioned in his email before that it will cost around $10 USD to get the NDAS feature for any exsisting units. Lets see what happens....

I am getting way to excited about this.... LOL. I need a life... :)

KAS

12-16-05, 11:40 AM

I am getting way to excited about this.... LOL. I need a life... :)

I was excited about this feature also, but after using it for the past several weeks it does have one down side - it is very slow. While the convenance of not having to move the MG-35 to my computer every time I want to transfer data is great, the transfer rate is limited -- especially for larger files. It starts out at around 6MB/s, but for lager files it quickly drops to around 1.5MB/s. It takes around 45 mins to transfer a movie. It is great for smaller files (like music, pictures or short video clips), but I usually schedule transfers of lager files overnight since it takes so long.

jhaveri

12-16-05, 02:21 PM

I was excited about this feature also, but after using it for the past several weeks it does have one down side - it is very slow. While the convenance of not having to move the MG-35 to my computer every time I want to transfer data is great, the transfer rate is limited -- especially for larger files. It starts out at around 6mb/s, but for lager files it quickly drops to around 1.5mb/s. It takes around 45 mins to transfer a movie. It is great for smaller files (like music, pictures or short video clips), but I usually schedule transfer or lager files overnight since it takes so long.

KAS:

Is that with 802.11g or 100 Mb/s LAN?

Thanks

jhaveri

nintwala

12-16-05, 02:40 PM

KAS:

Is that with 802.11g or 100 Mb/s LAN?

Thanks

jhaveri

Good question. I was wondering about that too. KAS?

I dont see why it would be so slow. Maybe a future upgrade would fix the slowness.

I still have to get the NDAS feature to see it myself.

KAS

12-16-05, 05:22 PM

KAS:

Is that with 802.11g or 100 Mb/s LAN?

Thanks

jhaveri

1000 MB/s Gigabit LAN. I have tested the same line to another computer (instead of the MG35) and I get over 50 MB/s. Not sure why it is so slow with large files.

jhaveri

12-17-05, 01:54 AM

1000 mb/s Gigabit LAN. I have tested the same line to another computer (instead of the MG35) and I get over 50 mb/s. Not sure why it is so slow with large files.

Thanks Kas.

BTW in the above post when you refer to 1.5 Mb/s slow, you mean 1.5 MByte/s or 12 Mbits/s on a 1000 Mbits/s LAN. That is reaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaly slooooooooooow.

I am using 802.11g wireless bridge to connect MG-35 through NSLU2 to my PC upstairs and I get 1.7 MB/s or 14 Mbits/s. So for me NDAS is still worth it if I can get 1.5 MByte/s , slighly less than my current 1.7 MB/s. On the other hand, if it drops even more with 802.11g, I will not worry about NDAS.

KAS, do you have a 802.11g bridge to test that? My feeling is that the speed will not drop, since it does not appear to be limited by LAN speed. It seems that NDAS has some other overhead, lot more than Samba.

I don't understand what Al Tech has gained by going with such licensed technolodgy by Ximeta over free Samba , when they are actually sacrifising speed at extra cost. It is like someone is giving Al Tech a free airline tickit to fly, and they say, no thanks, but then pay to go Greyhound.

jhaveri

KAS

12-17-05, 02:12 AM

Thanks Kas.

BTW in the above post when you refer to 1.5 Mb/s slow, you mean 1.5 MByte/s or 12 Mbits/s on a 1000 Mbits/s LAN. That is reaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaly slooooooooooow.

I am using 802.11g wireless bridge to connect MG-35 through NSLU2 to my PC upstairs and I get 1.7 MB/s or 14 Mbits/s. So for me NDAS is still worth it if I can get 1.5 MByte/s , slighly less than my current 1.7 MB/s. On the other hand, if it drops even more with 802.11g, I will not worry about NDAS.

KAS, do you have a 802.11g bridge to test that? My feeling is that the speed will not drop, since it does not appear to be limited by LAN speed. It seems that NDAS has some other overhead, lot more than Samba.

I don't understand what Al Tech has gained by going with such licensed technolodgy by Ximeta over free Samba , when they are actually sacrifising speed at extra cost. It is like someone is giving Al Tech a free airline tickit to fly, and they say, no thanks, but then pay to go Greyhound.

jhaveri

Good call, I should be using CAPs - 1.5MB/s. I don't have a wireless bridge to test, but at these speeds, I would hope it doesn't get any slower. It is just a guess, but as someone mentioned somewhere on this forum before, I think Al Tech used NDAS due to its easier implementation (from a programing standpoint) into an already existing product.

tavale

12-17-05, 02:20 PM

thanks for your help Skymatrix

jtovar

12-18-05, 04:17 AM

Any word on when we can expect to have the Device codes available for NDAS?
Seems to me they could just offer it through their resellers selling the MG-35 to keep things simple for them...Order the codes and pay your money through the resellers...Give them your MAC address...They forward it to ALTek and the next day they email you your codes...

Well, I submitted my MAC address to the place I bought my MG-35 from and they were able to forward it to the mfg. Several days later, I received an email with my Device ID and 5 digit key. So far everything is working just fine. It took a little under 2 mins to transfer 215MB of mp3s to it over the network(wired).

Here's my 2 cents on the NDAS functionalty:

Cons:
-You have to install the Ximeta SW all on machines that want to access the MG-35. This sucks if you just want to go to another machine in the house and copy files to it. I haven't tried, but I don't think more than 1 PC can be connected to the MG-35 at one time.

-The Ximeta SW has to be running(located in your system tray) tp connect to the MG-35. To connect to the MG-35, you need to register the device using the device ID and 5 digit key. Once registered, you need to mount the file system(reminds me of unix). Once mounted, the drive sows up in "My computer" and the system trays shows that a device has been plugged in(kind of like when you plug in a USB thumbdrive).

-I don't know if anything bad will happen if you shut down the MG-35 without unmounting it, but I'm not going to try it out. You need to unmount the image before powering down the MG-35. This also removes the drive letter and the system tray device from the PC.

-Speed is not that great, but then again, just start the transfer and walk away, or do it at night before going to bed.

-It cost $10 to get the device key.

Pros:
-It's all about convience....No need to keep disconnecting the MG-35 to transfer movies to the internal hardrive. Now it can just sit next to the TV all the time:-)

-MG-35 shows up just like another drive letter. Just open it up and copy your files.

-Even though I mentioned it above as a con, the speed is livable if you just transfer the files over night when you go to bed(if you have a lot to transfer).

Over all, it's worth the $10 to me!!!

davei1

12-18-05, 07:21 AM

KAS

12-18-05, 08:37 AM

It took a little under 2 mins to transfer 215MB of mp3s to it over the network(wired).
When you get a chance to test it out, let me know your transfer speeds with a larger file (> 1GB). I have had good speeds with smaller files and even initially with large files, but then it slows down significantly after a few minutes.

-You have to install the Ximeta SW all on machines that want to access the MG-35. This sucks if you just want to go to another machine in the house and copy files to it. I haven't tried, but I don't think more than 1 PC can be connected to the MG-35 at one time.
There is another way to do this without installing the Ximeta software on each computer (assuming all the computers are hooked to the same network) if you leave the one computer with the Ximeta software on. Right click on the MG35 drive from that computer, go to properties and turn on sharing. Be sure to click "Allow network users to change my files." Then, from any other computer on the network, you should be able to access the MG35. You can even play files off of it.

-The Ximeta SW has to be running(located in your system tray) tp connect to the MG-35. To connect to the MG-35, you need to register the device using the device ID and 5 digit key. Once registered, you need to mount the file system(reminds me of unix). Once mounted, the drive sows up in "My computer" and the system trays shows that a device has been plugged in(kind of like when you plug in a USB thumbdrive).
I leave this running in the background, but it doesn't seem to have a big impact on overall computer performance.

-I don't know if anything bad will happen if you shut down the MG-35 without unmounting it, but I'm not going to try it out. You need to unmount the image before powering down the MG-35. This also removes the drive letter and the system tray device from the PC.
So far for me, it has not caused any problems, as I have never unmounted the MG35. I turn it on and off while it has been mounted without incident. The Ximeta software does indicate that it lost the connection. Occasionally, I will try to access the MG35 from my computer and it will give me a message that it is being used by another resource. I think this occurs when the MG35 is being used, although you can use the MG35 while it is mounted but it sometimes becomes unmounted while doing this.

-Speed is not that great, but then again, just start the transfer and walk away, or do it at night before going to bed.
I agree. That is what I do. Also, as I mentioned above, if you try to use the MG35 while a transfer is going on, it might maintain a connection for a little bit, but usually stops the transfer after a few minutes.

-It's all about convience....No need to keep disconnecting the MG-35 to transfer movies to the internal hardrive.
My computer is on a different floor than my MG35, so this is the main advantage for me as well.

liebra

12-18-05, 09:01 AM

Hello All,

I am a new user, with the help of this forum I was able to upgrade my MG-35 with the new 1.4.3 firmware.

Can someone post a link where to order the NDAS write-key and ID in the USA?

When I connect with USB on my laptop I get full access toto the MG-35, but when I connect it to my Asus WLHDD usbport I only get Read-access. Strange.

jtovar

12-18-05, 03:26 PM

When you get a chance to test it out, let me know your transfer speeds with a larger file (> 1GB). I have had good speeds with smaller files and even initially with large files, but then it slows down significantly after a few minutes.
Do you have a way of testing this, like throughput software, or do you just hang around and time it?

There is another way to do this without installing the Ximeta software on each computer (assuming all the computers are hooked to the same network) if you leave the one computer with the Ximeta software on. Right click on the MG35 drive from that computer, go to properties and turn on sharing. Be sure to click "Allow network users to change my files." Then, from any other computer on the network, you should be able to access the MG35. You can even play files off of it.
Good point. So do you just leave the MG-35 mounted to one machine all the time? I was thinking that if I wasn't using it, I would unmount it.

I leave this running in the background, but it doesn't seem to have a big impact on overall computer performance.
It didn't seam like it was taking that much resources, I'm just picky about having a bunch of stuff either sitting in my system tray or running in the background when I'm not actually using them.

So far for me, it has not caused any problems, as I have never unmounted the MG35. I turn it on and off while it has been mounted without incident. The Ximeta software does indicate that it lost the connection. Occasionally, I will try to access the MG35 from my computer and it will give me a message that it is being used by another resource. I think this occurs when the MG35 is being used, although you can use the MG35 while it is mounted but it sometimes becomes unmounted while doing this.

Good to know.

I agree. That is what I do. Also, as I mentioned above, if you try to use the MG35 while a transfer is going on, it might maintain a connection for a little bit, but usually stops the transfer after a few minutes.

I figure if I want to watch the DVD at that moment, I'll pop it in the DVD player, other than that, I'll let it transfer away.

My computer is on a different floor than my MG35, so this is the main advantage for me as well.
Yep, all about conveince. As technology improves, the lazier we get :)

jtovar

12-18-05, 03:33 PM

I'll give that a try...I bought mine though a Ebay reseller so don't know whether that's going to work for me...Thanks for the info...

Hi davei1.....did you buy it new on eBay from an ebay store reseller, or used from someone getting rid of it. I believe some of the ebay stores sellers are resellers for this product and may be able to help you with the Device ID.

davei1

12-18-05, 04:09 PM

Hi davei1.....did you buy it new on eBay from an ebay store reseller, or used from someone getting rid of it. I believe some of the ebay stores sellers are resellers for this product and may be able to help you with the Device ID.

I bought it new from a ebay store reseller...Ebay had sent me a Christmas Coupon worth $15 off anything over $100 which spurred me on to buying it...I got it delivered for $170 shipping included. I've sent a message to the ebay reseller but I'm not sure they are a reseller anymore as they are showing up as not registered...I'll wait and see.

jhaveri

12-18-05, 08:14 PM

Well, I submitted my MAC address to the place I bought my MG-35 from and they were able to forward it to the mfg. Several days later, I received an email with my Device ID and 5 digit key. So far everything is working just fine. It took a little under 2 mins to transfer 215MB of mp3s to it over the network(wired).

I bought my MG-35 from Global Computer. I sent an email to Bob (bszafranek@globalcomputer.com) on Dec 3rd, but have not received reply. Has anyone tried to get Device ID for NDAS funcion from Global Computer?

Thanks,

jhaveri

jtovar

12-19-05, 03:03 AM

jhaveri

12-19-05, 06:44 AM

FYI.....My mg-35 and Device ID were purchased from ewaggle in Southern California. I believe they also sell on eBay. The guy I spoke with was knowledgable about the product(I think his has one) and shipped it out promptly. When I received it, I upgraded the firmeware and emailed him the MAC address. Within a few days I received the Device info. I couldn't ask for better service.

Thanks jtovar. Would you check with him if he would do the same for other MG-35s. I still have not heard from Global Computer. I did receive email from Al Tech. They said they have no way to receive money in US$, and I will have to go through US distributor. If your contact has a procedure setup, it maybe easier to go through him.

Thx,

jhaveri

davei1

12-19-05, 10:46 AM

Yes please. The vendor I bought mine from online on Ebay evidently had some trouble with Ebay (I got a message from Ebay) so I'm not sure what the status of that vendor is. They have yet to answer me back as well...

Thanks jtovar. Would you check with him if he would do the same for other MG-35s. I still have not heard from Global Computer. I did receive email from Al Tech. They said they have no way to receive money in US$, and I will have to go through US distributor. If your contact has a procedure setup, it maybe easier to go through him.

Thx,

jhaveri

jtovar

12-19-05, 06:21 PM

Hi all,

Well, I spoke with a US reseller and they are willing to get the Device IDs/Keys for those wanting to upgrade to the NDAS version of the mg-35. They said the turn around time is about 2-3 days and it will cost $20.00. Here is the procedure to get it.

1)Go to the link and place the order
2)After filling out Billing/Shipping info., include your MAC
address and serial number in the NOTES section.

Remember, you must be running at least firmware version 1.4.3 to use this feature(and also to get the MAC address.) Even though, they show a CD on the order form, they are not physically sending anything, as far as when I was talking to them. They will just email you the Device ID and Key. I believe you are responsible for downloading the Ximeta software(which is free) and figuring out how to use everything, but don't quote me on that. If you have any questions or recommendations on the order procedure, please ask. I can contact the reseller and try to find out the answer for you and let them know your recommendations.

So, the moment has arrived for all the mg-35 supporters who wanted this function, here you go...

http://www.ewaggle.com/shop/IPS003.asp?ProCd=MG-35-NDAS

.....by the way, I have nothing to do with this company, besides buying my unit from them a few weeks ago and getting my Device ID. For me personally, they have offered great support.

Enjoy

jhaveri

12-20-05, 06:10 AM

Hi all,

Well, I spoke with a US reseller and they are willing to get the Device IDs/Keys for those wanting to upgrade to the NDAS version of the mg-35. They said the turn around time is about 2-3 days and it will cost $20.00. Here is the procedure to get it.

Enjoy

Thanks jtovar, I really appreciate your initiative. I will contact him as soon as I upgrade the firmware to get my MacID.

jhaveri

davei1

12-20-05, 07:53 AM

Just ordered mine...Good Job!!

nintwala

12-20-05, 01:14 PM

Just ordered my ID from the website. I think its over priced by 10 dollars, but hey.. someone has to make the money.

I will just eat less this week... HAHA

Thanks jtovar for the site....

PS: Just got an email.... "Your order was successfully accepted and we will email you your Device ID/Write Key in 48 hours (exclude weekend and holidays)."

Thanks again jtovar

jtovar

12-20-05, 05:26 PM

No problem......

I'm glad I could help. Thanks to all of you for helping me decide on the MG-35. I was so confused before I didn't know what to buy(Modix, Tivx, Tvico, Rapsody, MVix, etc....). Anyways, I'm enjoying my MG-35.

I was reading a post earlier regarding storage servers, such as the un-raid server. Can anyone point me to another suggestion. I basically want to take an older PC case that I have(It can hold about 6 HDs) and make it into a file server. I can easily put Win2K and file share everything, but does anyone have a good suggestion for data recovery. I like the Un-raid suggestion, where you can use any size drive, and it uses a parity drive to repair failed drives, but is there any freeware that can do raid stuff on Win2k?

Thanks....

Myrica

12-21-05, 11:53 AM

Any cheaper distributors yet for the NDAS key ?
Living in Europe i already shove some money on my paypal account and now am eagerly awaiting a cheap and fast opportunity to grab a key :O

Technohead

12-21-05, 10:55 PM

Has anybody had problems with the Mediagate and certain hard drives?
I just received my second Mediagate and it has the same problems as the first. The mediagate when used as a USB drive with any hard drive that I stick in it, works fine. When I use two IBM deskstars and use the Mediagate in its normal mode, it is able to play video off them. When I stick in a Seagate or a Western Digital and use it in Mediagate mode it appears to work fine but can't play back any video (it complains about unsupported audio/video format). This despite the fact that the same file can be played off from the IBM Deskstar drives and can be played off the drive when in USB mode through Windows Media Player.
I have tried a whole range of hard drives that I have at my disposal, and I have only had success with two IBM Deskstars, one 46.1Gb and one 123Gb.

|metalman|

12-22-05, 10:08 AM

Hi all ;-), i am new here, and i have bought a Freecom network media player alsoo here in Holland.
Greatest minor is indeed > no acces through network .... grrrr .
Wonder if i can get some info about ndas device ID and write key, but for the smart people ;-) i found out that there r two ports that the player show when it's connected with network-cable:
25 smtp Simple Mail Transfer

110 pop-3 PostOffice V.3

Netbios is inactive tho, maybe a smart guy can get the information needed to communicate with the ndas-function with this information...........

Grtz |metalman|

jtovar

12-22-05, 08:15 PM

Any cheaper distributors yet for the NDAS key ?
Living in Europe i already shove some money on my paypal account and now am eagerly awaiting a cheap and fast opportunity to grab a key :O

Hi all,

Just to let you know for those of you who haven't ordered a device key, I am talking with Ximeta's tech support about the device key. I basically asked them what would happen if the DeviceID sticker came off the Netdisk box(Ximetas consumer network storage box), and I needed to get the Device ID information again. He told me that I can go ahead and send him my MAC address and he would send me the Device ID. I then asked him a follow up question and am waiting for a response. I asked him if they had a database matching MACs with Device IDs or if they use some algorithm to get the Device ID. I also asked him if they had a webpage were we could enter the MAC and get an instant Device ID back.

So.....what I'm getting at is maybe we can go directly to Ximeta for the device ID. But before anybody starts emailing them, I'd like to see what their tech support guy says. I'll report back anything I hear.

nintwala

12-23-05, 01:56 AM

Any cheaper distributors yet for the NDAS key ?
Living in Europe i already shove some money on my paypal account and now am eagerly awaiting a cheap and fast opportunity to grab a key :O

I contacted my my orginal reseller PC Micro Store and they told me that they would sell it to me for $15 USD. I am not sure how fast they would get it for me, but maybe I will do that for my friend who also bought a MG-35 from a different store. He said that it doesnt matter where I bought the MG-35 from, all he needs is the MAC address and serial number.

Too bad I didnt wait for them to reply back. I ordered mine for $20 instead. I will feel like a sucker when it will become really cheap (or free). But oh well...

Hopefully I get my device ID by email tomorrow. :)

I will post my experience here, if someone wants to know....

Oh by the way, the website for the PC Micro Store is www.pcmicrostore.com

Thanks

nintwala

12-23-05, 02:18 AM

quick question about compression and format of divx/xvid files that can play on the MG-35.

I have noticed that some xvid files dont play smoothly on it. Its almost like the frame rate is slower than normal on that file or something. I know its not the harddrive and the file plays fine on my computer. I was wondering if anyone knew of a program or a setting (or if I can check the properties of a xvid file) to see if its going to play nicely on the MG-35?

One xvid movie didnt have their audio and video synced (the voice was ahead of the video), but again, on my computer, it worked fine.

I am sure there are lot more firmware upgrades to come to fix little things like this, but does anyone know of what to look for to know in advance if the file would play smoothly on it? Or is it just best to test it on the device itself (Basically, If it works, great. If not, sucks to be me :) )

Thanks...

Frenik

12-23-05, 02:53 AM

Would anyone whos already got their NDAS details consider posting them along with their MACs? Maybe some clever people can figure it out and create a script to generate them?

davei1

12-23-05, 06:45 AM

Frenik

12-23-05, 09:49 AM

For me, i'd like to just try it out. From what i've read its rather slow to transfer files.

I dont personally run a hdd in my MG-35 at the moment and dont have the need for it. However I'm always keen to test and try all the functions the unit can offer, NDAS being no different.

nintwala

12-23-05, 11:06 AM

Amazes me that people are willing to wait around for it to be FREE or if someone is somehow able to hack (steal) the codes access...I mean $15 or $20...People waste that much money on just a meal at a restaurant...If you can afford the
MG-35 in the first place then you can surely afford $15 or $20...

Thats exactly what I am trying to say :)

**hmm... its 48 hours, and still no key in my email**

**patience is a virtue, which I do not have.. maybe I should buy patience too :D**

adrusa

12-23-05, 11:48 AM

Amazes me that people are willing to wait around for it to be FREE or if someone is somehow able to hack (steal) the codes access...I mean $15 or $20...People waste that much money on just a meal at a restaurant...If you can afford the
MG-35 in the first place then you can surely afford $15 or $20...

You are right man. But there is a little problem. I got the MediaGate somehow. But I'm based in Nigeria and we dont have credit cards here. How do people like us get to pay for this NDAS?

MAYBE SOME GOOD GUY OUT THERE WILL BE WILLING TO HELP KOFI ANNAN BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE BY SHELLING OUT $20 FOR MY KEY! ANY GOOD SAMARITAN?

sdsdv10

12-23-05, 12:38 PM

No problem......
Can anyone point me to another suggestion. I basically want to take an older PC case that I have(It can hold about 6 HDs) and make it into a file server. I can easily put Win2K and file share everything, but does anyone have a good suggestion for data recovery. I like the Un-raid suggestion, where you can use any size drive, and it uses a parity drive to repair failed drives, but is there any freeware that can do raid stuff on Win2k?

Thanks....

jtovar,

Have you considered alternative hardware RAID options. You could purchase a PCI RAID controller board for <$100 (see link).

RAID Controller link (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16816115016)

Insert into a PCI slot in the server you mentioned, connect up to 4 drives and you are ready to go. Since you need to purchase the hard drives regardless of you method of generating a RAID array, this is a fairly inexpensive option. Although I am sure it won't be as sophisticated as an unRAID solution. Just one potential method, I am sure there are many others.

HTH,
Don

davei1

12-23-05, 01:28 PM

Frenik,

I'm not singling you out so don't take it like that but...

The TRY IT OUT thing is the same thing that Software Groups say when they post Software to the Internet...Try it out and if you like it then pay for it...Please...While a few may do that...The other 100,000,000 or so do not...
But far be it from me to defend the likes of SPA or RIAA...If those greedy sh1ts charged a more reasonable price there wouldn't be a problem...
However in this case a $15 or $20 fee is hardly exhorbitent...

And for my neighboring Nigerian friend who would like us to buy him the key....
I would guess that you more than likely have someone already that can do that for you as that may infact be how you got the MG-35 in the first place...
But hey that is just a guess from someone who has lived in WestAfrica for about 10 years and is about 2 hours away from you ;-)

For me, i'd like to just try it out. From what i've read its rather slow to transfer files.

I dont personally run a hdd in my MG-35 at the moment and dont have the need for it. However I'm always keen to test and try all the functions the unit can offer, NDAS being no different.

davei1

12-23-05, 01:49 PM

Same here... I'm guessing that the Christmas Holidays are slowing things
down either at Ewaggle or maybe in Korea (Do they celebrate Christmas there?)

Thats exactly what I am trying to say :)

**hmm... its 48 hours, and still no key in my email**

**patience is a virtue, which I do not have.. maybe I should buy patience too :D**

jtovar

12-23-05, 03:19 PM

Would anyone whos already got their NDAS details consider posting them along with their MACs? Maybe some clever people can figure it out and create a script to generate them?

I'm don't condone the pirating of software, but I see nothing wrong with this suggestion. If someone had told me to take my mac, divide it by 2, add 7, and subtract my birthday to get the Device ID, I would have done it. This is the reason I am contacting Ximeta. I want to find out if this is something that is Free if you already own a NDAS device or if this is something that a few companies are making a few bucks because they have connections with the MG-35 manufactures.

My personal opinion is that reverse engineering is not all that bad sometimes. I think backing up my DVDs is a great idea. I don't want to damage them and have to buy them again.....and for those of you ripping your DVDs to the hardrive....and you know who you are...is that legal?? We all know that the DVD Decrypter developer is no longer making the product right?

Anyways if Ximeta's business plan is to sell Device IDs and that is how they make their money, then we should by them. If their model is to sell the software or hardware solutions, then the Device ID should come with it right? So far the software is free. I did by the NDAS device, so why not give me the Device key so I can use it. I went ahead and bought my Device ID because i wanted to use the feature right away. When it does become available for free...oh well. It was only $10-$20.

jtovar

12-23-05, 03:24 PM

quick question about compression and format of divx/xvid files that can play on the MG-35.

I have noticed that some xvid files dont play smoothly on it. Its almost like the frame rate is slower than normal on that file or something. I know its not the harddrive and the file plays fine on my computer. I was wondering if anyone knew of a program or a setting (or if I can check the properties of a xvid file) to see if its going to play nicely on the MG-35?

Hi nintwala,

Are you playing the divx files locally or across the network? I have the same issue across the network, but putting the divx files locally on the mg-35's harddrive, they play fine. At first I thought it was a network issue, but my larger ISO/VOB files play smoother than the smaller Divx files....so I assumed it is not a network issue and has something to do with the Divx format.

jtovar

12-23-05, 04:12 PM

jtovar,

Have you considered alternative hardware RAID options. You could purchase a PCI RAID controller board for <$100 (see link).

RAID Controller link (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16816115016)

Hi Don,

Thanks for link..By the way. I was refreshing my mind regarding the different RAID levels, but am I mistaken or do the raid levels that using striping and parity disks all have to be the same size(not physically, but partitioned)? I think this was a big advantage to the un-raid suggestion of any drive type and size. I can use a 40GB with a 200Gb as long as the parity disk is the same or bigger than the biggest data drive.

Do you know of any other RAID levels that I can mix and match drive sizes?

Thanks....

adrusa

12-23-05, 04:28 PM

And for my neighboring Nigerian friend who would like us to buy him the key....
I would guess that you more than likely have someone already that can do that for you as that may infact be how you got the MG-35 in the first place...
But hey that is just a guess from someone who has lived in WestAfrica for about 10 years and is about 2 hours away from you ;-)

Nigeria has a bubbling computer market in Lagos and you can get virtually anything to buy, but online services are a different ball game.

So, where is 2hrs from Nigeria?

KAS

12-23-05, 04:31 PM

davei1

12-23-05, 07:21 PM

I have not really used my MG35 for anything but video distribution and I've been told by Al Tech that the next version of the firmware will support .m3u playlists, but I was wondering how people are setting them up now (if at all). I have my music library set up as Music ---> Artist ---> Album. Can I create a simple playlist of different songs without rearranging my music library? If not I may just wait for the next version of the firmware.

Thanks

KAS,

What worked for me with practically no work for the MG-35 was to use a program called SHAREPOD to transfer my Music back from my iPod to my MG-35. I don't use tags but rather created playlists of the Artists names on the iPod. So each group or artist has a Playlist , i.e. U2 , Smashing Pumpkins, etc.
That's how I have it organized on my iPod (I don't use Itunes but rather Xplay)...
Then using Sharepod to transfer back from the iPod I simply selected all of the Playlists and clicked transfer...What Sharepod does then is to transfer back all the mp3z to the computer (MG-35)...For each playlist it creates a folder and places the corresponding mp3z in that folder...So on my MG-35 I have a Music folder and under that folder are about 130+ subfolders all named with the Group/Artist name...So I can quickly go to the music folder and under that I see all the subfolders each with the Group/Artist name. Required no extra work ...Of course this was because I was transferring the mp3z from my iPod with SHAREPOD and already had playlists for each group/artist on the iPod... The only downside is that for now until the new firmware with m3u capability when I pick random play I can only randomly play the mp3z within the particular subfolder. Once the m3u capability is added then I can make an m3u playlist with all the 2500+ mp3 files and then be able to do random play on all the files.

Frenik

12-23-05, 09:03 PM

One thing I miss from using myHTPC in regards to music is the ability to start playing a song and then continue browsing and adding songs to the playlist as you go (jukebox style).

Frenik

12-23-05, 09:16 PM

Looking at the Ximeta site, it shows the device needs the NDAS ASIC chip for operation, but looking inside my MG-35 there isn't any ximeta chip. Those that have NDAS running, is yours the same, or would me buying a device id be pointless. I have PCB v1.31.
(There is a sticker inside with the MAC, I was hoping to find a device ID and write key in there too..)

On a side note, I've upgrade to firmware 1.4.3 and so far while playing dvd's and avi's i haven't had the occasional pauses while playing that I've had with all previous versions..
Once m3u support is added, I'm hoping it will work over the network.

davei1

12-23-05, 09:37 PM

Installation was a breeze. After authorization Windows finds new hardware and loads an NDAS SCSI contoller driver for the MG-35...Then you can access it through the network. Speed is not great as has been described before but not having to hook it up to the usb is a time saver and it is faster for transferring a file from my laptop than using the USB 1.1 connection.

You do have to mount the drive for each computer using the Ximeta software...In other words if one computer is mounted that does not suffice for others on the network... I found that you could have multiple mounted to the MG-35 in Read-Only mode and have one in Read-Write and others in Read-Only but if you did multiple in Read-Write mode then you would get hanging problems (unable to unmount)...Shouldn't be a problem for most...

Glad I got the code...Makes it easier to use for transferring files...

davei1

12-23-05, 10:17 PM

Originally Posted by nintwala
quick question about compression and format of divx/xvid files that can play on the MG-35.

I have noticed that some xvid files dont play smoothly on it. Its almost like the frame rate is slower than normal on that file or something. I know its not the harddrive and the file plays fine on my computer. I was wondering if anyone knew of a program or a setting (or if I can check the properties of a xvid file) to see if its going to play nicely on the MG-35?
--------------------------------------
If you're not playing them across the network as had been mentioned then
it's probably the encoder or codec that they used. (Assuming you d/l'ed it)...
Although some files also get slightly corrupted that can also cause this problem...

BTW...Does anybody know a good easy to use DIVX/XVID editor? I need to cut about 15 seconds out of a DIVX file that is bad and causes the MG-35 to lockup...It's only this one file and it has corrupted data at one location. If I stop it before and forward to about 15 seconds after the bad time section the rest plays fine. I tried using Nero Vision with my Divx codec but had problems.

nintwala

12-23-05, 11:24 PM

Hi nintwala,

Are you playing the divx files locally or across the network? I have the same issue across the network, but putting the divx files locally on the mg-35's harddrive, they play fine. At first I thought it was a network issue, but my larger ISO/VOB files play smoother than the smaller Divx files....so I assumed it is not a network issue and has something to do with the Divx format.

I was running it from the harddrive. But now that you mentioned it, I tried it over the network too and had the same issue. It looks like there is something wrong with the format. Maybe the divx/xvid codec on my computer can understand it better than the MG-35.

Anyways, I think I can live without one movie on my mediagate mg-35.

Oh by the way, I just got my device ID and key and have been testing it for about 2 hours. So here it goes...

-----------
Thoughts on NDAS

YES the speed is slowww!! I copied a 700MB xvid movie using a linksys 10/100 router and it took me about 9 minutes. so 700/9 ~= 77.78MB/min

77.78/60sec ~= 1.296mb/sec (lets just call it 1.3 megabytes/second)

But yes, like everyone else says, it beats unpluging and pluging the USB specially if its far away from your computer.

Someone mentioned that they couldnt have two computer connect to it at the same time with read/write access. But I have no problem. Both computers were connected to it and mounted at the same time. But I have to admit, I have not tried copying a large file at the same time. I copied two different ~11MB mp3 over to it at the same time and it copied them fine. I just had to refresh the folder window to see the other file that was copied from the second computer, but thats about it.

About the slowness... I am guessing that its something to do with the SCSI drivers that it loads on windows which might be too generic for the device. It reminded me of the NE2000 compatible NIC cards that we used to use at work, you could use the generic NE2000 compatible drivers built in windows with those cards and it worked just fine (slow, but serves its purpose)

I am not exactly knowledgable in all these SCSI device drivers, but it almost feels like if the SCSI drivers could understand the way the MG-35 works in a better way, it would boost up the speed. Maybe a newer version of the NDAS software would solve it by having some improved driver.

I am still happy with it :)

**Someone told me once, always be happy with what you have/get but never be satisfied.**

davei1

12-24-05, 02:41 AM

Nintwala...

I could have two computers connected to it in Read/Write mode also but that was not the issue...It was after that and accessing the MG-35....If I tried to UNMOUNT it said it was busy and to wait...But waiting did not help...I had to reboot and then UNMOUNT it after the reboot (Came up still MOUNTED after reboot)...
I did not have the problem when both were in READ ONLY or one was in READONLY and the other in READ-WRITE...Only when both were in READ/WRITE mode at the same time...

Someone mentioned that they couldnt have two computer connect to it at the same time with read/write access. But I have no problem. Both computers were connected to it and mounted at the same time. But I have to admit, I have not tried copying a large file at the same time. I copied two different ~11MB mp3 over to it at the same time and it copied them fine. I just had to refresh the folder window to see the other file that was copied from the second computer, but thats about it.

About the slowness... I am guessing that its something to do with the SCSI drivers that it loads on windows which might be too generic for the device. It reminded me of the NE2000 compatible NIC cards that we used to use at work, you could use the generic NE2000 compatible drivers built in windows with those cards and it worked just fine (slow, but serves its purpose)

I am not exactly knowledgable in all these SCSI device drivers, but it almost feels like if the SCSI drivers could understand the way the MG-35 works in a better way, it would boost up the speed. Maybe a newer version of the NDAS software would solve it by having some improved driver.

I am still happy with it :)

**Someone told me once, always be happy with what you have/get but never be satisfied.**

jtovar

12-24-05, 05:28 AM

Looking at the Ximeta site, it shows the device needs the NDAS ASIC chip for operation, but looking inside my MG-35 there isn't any ximeta chip. Those that have NDAS running, is yours the same, or would me buying a device id be pointless. I have PCB v1.31.
(There is a sticker inside with the MAC, I was hoping to find a device ID and write key in there too..)

Frenik,

I didn't take my MG-35 apart and look for the chip, but I'm assuming that everyones' MG-35s are the same. When I first received it it didn't have the NDAS functionality, but after a firmware upgrade it did. So maybe there is another way to use NDAS without the Ximeta ASIC. If you already switched to the 1.4.3 firmware, go to the network settings and see if it has the option to turn the NDAS feature on/off. If it does, then all you need is the Device ID.

Myrica

12-24-05, 07:03 AM

Hm, i have an interesting problem:
All
Xvid 23fps
divx 23fps // 25fps
dvd.iso 23fps // 25fps
high and low bitrates,ac3,DTS,mp3 alike play perfectly.

Now, playing 25fps Xvid resolves in frame leaking, annoying lagging. the frame rate does not matter, low and high bitrates, ac3 5.1, mp3, or even without sound, it laggs annoyingly.

Has anyone experienced this problem? (you can analyze your .avi with a tool called "GSpot". Reencoding will be quite a pain in the well..you know

jaysoffian

12-24-05, 07:04 PM

I have a MG-35 I just purchased. So far I'm not particularly thrilled with it. I have it playing DVD's from ISO files accessed from my Macintosh over a wired 100Mbps switch (I didn't put a drive in the MG-35). Output is to an Panasonic AE700U attached via component cables. The resolution appears to be no match for playing the same DVD in my Zenith DVB-318 also attached via component cables.

I'm going to rip my Avia and DVE disks so I can run the resolution charts just to verify I'm not making this up.

In addition, the MG-35 seems to have trouble playing a few of the ISO's I have smoothly. e.g, playing War of the Worlds, the audio skips every second or so. Other disks seem to play okay. I'm going to try playing straight from the VIDEO_TS folder to see if that helps compared to playing the ISO.

The MG-35 came with 1.3.2. I've upgraded to 1.4.2 but it fails to upgrade to 1.4.3.

Unless I can resolve the playing from ISO issue, the MG-35 is going back to eWaggle and I'll probably just play the ISO's from my laptop instead.

EDIT: playing directly from the VIDEO_TS folder resolved the skipping issue.

Has anyone else had trouble with the 1.4.3 upgrade?

EDIT: got the upgrade to work. It was my own boneheaded mistake.

Thanks,

j.

davei1

12-25-05, 04:25 AM

I have a MG-35 I just purchased. So far I'm not particularly thrilled with it. I have it playing DVD's from ISO files accessed from my Macintosh over a wired 100Mbps switch (I didn't put a drive in the MG-35). Output is to an Panasonic AE700U attached via component cables. The resolution appears to be no match for playing the same DVD in my Zenith DVB-318 also attached via component cables.
j.

jaysoffian,

Nobody has ever claimed that the MG-35 has a high resolution output. It is a convenience piece of equipment. The ability to store all your media content, video, music, photos, and also use it as a network hard drive for storage, backups, etc.
Your DVD player is an appliation specific piece of equipment. There are other pieces of gear that you can buy that have very high resolution and has similar capabilities as the MG-35 but be prepared to cough up more (alot) for them...For a piece of gear that sells for less than $200 it is a lot of bang for the buck. You can always compare a Ford to a Porsche and say the Ford sucks compared to the Porsche...But in the end...Both are four wheels and a motor and take you from point A to point B...I'll keep my MG-35 and my Ford...And my bank balance will stay nice and fat...

You might try re-ripping your trouble ISO and see if that fixes your problem...Or simply rip that one trouble movie to a DIVX file instead which should resolve your problem for that one...

jhaveri

12-25-05, 04:44 AM

I did get my NDAS Device ID & Write key yesterday. It worked fine when I connected MG-35 directly to my wired router. It was straighforward. As others have found it write speed is about 1 MByte/s or 3.5 GigaByte/hour. I can get 20 Gbyte/hour through direct USB connection.

However, my TV is downstairs, where I have a 100 mbits/s wireless 4 port switch, with a 802.11g wireless bridge, MG-25, and a couple of NAS devices. The Ximeta software on my PC cannot recognize my MG-35. So looks like the NDAS is no good if MG-35 is on wireless.

If someone has tried NDAS with MG-35 wireless, please let me know. Ximeta web site do mention problems with wireless. What made me laugh reading their website is that they were saying that NAS is 10 year old technology, while NDAS is new and more powerful. Look, I have no problem with my PC recognizing all NAS devices on my wireless bridge+switch. And the transfer rate is 6-7 times higher. So what is the improvement of NDAS over NAS they are talking about

Anyway, it was a waste of 20 bucks and hours fooling around.

davei1

12-25-05, 06:06 AM

Jhaveri,

Why not go with a wire connection between downstairs and upstairs...
Personally I don't really care for wireless...The only time I use my WAP is for sitting on the front porch with the laptop...Any other time I stay wired...My WAP I only turned on when needed...Wireless peformance is always less (considerably) than wired even if you do peak your signals...Drill a couple of holes to get the wire
outside and run down side of house, run the cable under the carpet...Not even noticeable a little bit of work and you'll have better performance to boot plus be able to use the MG-35 NDAS...Just a suggestion...

However, my TV is downstairs, where I have a 100 mbits/s wireless 4 port switch, with a 802.11g wireless bridge, MG-25, and a couple of NAS devices. The Ximeta software on my PC cannot recognize my MG-35. So looks like the NDAS is no good if MG-35 is on wireless.

Anyway, it was a waste of 20 bucks and hours fooling around.

imarkup

12-25-05, 01:12 PM

jaysoffian,

Nobody has ever claimed that the MG-35 has a high resolution output. It is a convenience piece of equipment.

It does upscale to 1080i for video. It seems to do an OK job. And the DVD player he is comparing it to is a $200 piece of equipment as well. My real complaint is that photos (8 MP) do not look like they are using the full 1080i resolution. They do not even look as good as DVD images. Has anyone else used this to display high res photos on an HDTV?

jaysoffian

12-25-05, 03:09 PM

jaysoffian,

Nobody has ever claimed that the MG-35 has a high resolution output. It is a convenience piece of equipment. The ability to store all your media content, video, music, photos, and also use it as a network hard drive for storage, backups, etc.
Your DVD player is an appliation specific piece of equipment. There are other pieces of gear that you can buy that have very high resolution and has similar capabilities as the MG-35 but be prepared to cough up more (alot) for them...For a piece of gear that sells for less than $200 it is a lot of bang for the buck. You can always compare a Ford to a Porsche and say the Ford sucks compared to the Porsche...But in the end...Both are four wheels and a motor and take you from point A to point B...I'll keep my MG-35 and my Ford...And my bank balance will stay nice and fat...

You might try re-ripping your trouble ISO and see if that fixes your problem...Or simply rip that one trouble movie to a DIVX file instead which should resolve your problem for that one...

- I don't believe price is necessarily an issue. There are a variety of network players that I believe would do a better job with upscaling. Any with the EM8620L chip such as the AVeL LP for example. I didn't choose those though because I wanted the ability to access DVD menus.

- There are also a number of upscaling DVD players $250 and under that do a terrific job with upscaling. The DVB318 I have is one example.

- A few folks have claimed that the MG-35 looks gorgeous upscaled, as good as from the original DVD, etc. That simply does not appear to be the case unfortunately.

- I don't think there is anything wrong with the ripped ISO's. They play fine accessed over the network on another Macintosh. They also play fine on the MG-35 if I mount the ISO on my Mac and share the VIDEO_TS folder to the MG-35.

- I was simply presenting the facts as I see them. There is no need to get defensive about electronic gear.

I do wish the MG-35 lived up to the claims I've read from some folks about its upscaling ability. And it's possible this is just my perception, hence I still need to rip Avia and DVE and do some resolution tests, but DVDs played from the MG-35 do appear softer to me than played on my DVB318. Interestingly outputing 480p or 1080i both look better than outputing 720p (the native resolution of my display).

j.

nintwala

12-25-05, 05:29 PM

Has anyone been able to play xvid/divx files with seperate subtitle files?

I have a movie with seperate subtitle file, when I go to subtitle selection from the subtitle setup menu it shows the subtitle file. I am able to pick it too, and the movie pauses for a second as if it was loading the subtitle file, but nothing show up. I dont think I have ever been able to play subtitles like this, even with a different movie. The file seems to be OK because I am able to play the same movie with the subtitle on the computer.

I am running the file off the harddrive, the movie and subtitle are in the same folder and I am running the latest firmware.

Anyone else had this problem? Any help would be greatly apreciated.

Thanks...

-- solution

turns out that the MG-35 does not like .sub extention subtitle files. I have to use .srt files.

Lucily they have a tool to covert .sub into other formats. I used it and now it works just fine :)

Here is the link for the subtitle converting tool.

http://www.videohelp.com/forum/archive/t219201.html

or just google "convert .sub to .srt" and you should find it.

Now I can watch all my non english movies... wooohooo :D

jtovar

12-28-05, 04:13 AM

For those of you who haven't purchased the Device ID, you can try contacting Ximeta directly. According to the email I received from their tech support, he just says to send them the MAC address and they will send the Device ID. I'm not exactly sure if it is that easy, since he mentioned he would look up the MAC in their database and the MAC probably wasn't registered with Ximeta. Anyways, it's worth a try...

Here is a partial clip from the email he sent "...Thanks for your reply, once you reply with your MAC address we can look up your Netdisk ID from our database..."

jhaveri

12-28-05, 06:43 AM

I did get my NDAS Device ID & Write key yesterday.

The Ximeta software on my PC cannot recognize my MG-35. So looks like the NDAS is no good if MG-35 is on wireless.

Well, I was finally able to get the NDAS Driver on my PC recognize MG-35 downstairs. It was Ximeta tech support who sent me in the right direction. Turns out the Wireless bridge's way of handling protocols is not consistent with the Netdisk. He asked me to try a wireless repeater. Here is his email:
*************
Dear Customer
Sorry for your inconvenience, wireless bridges do not work well with the Netdisk, cause of the way bridges handles protocols. You can however put your bridge in repeater mode and see if you can get a connection that way.
Thank you.
*************
My Belkin wireless bridge does not have a repeater mode. So I did some searching. Turns out that Linksys wireless routers WRT54G (except ver 4) or WRT54GS (all versions) can be flashed with hacked firmware that supports WDS (Wireless Distribution System). So I went and bought WRT54GS, flashed it with firmware DD-WRT (revision 23 final) and followed the instructions. BTW, my upstair wireless router is WRT54G. And the WDS worked great. The NDAS Driver now recognizes my MG-35.

About speed. The transfer is still 2.3 Gigabyte/hour same as on wired network. So that is still a lot less than 6.4 Gigabyte/hour I can get through NSLU2 mounting MG-35. However, even with slow transfer speed, there are a few features with NDAS that I really like and are worth mentioning here. In fact, these are the features which justified my spending 90 bucks today for a new router. The features are:

1) NDAS mounts the disk like a local windows disk. I can use Windows Disk check utilities, error checking, defragmenting, hard drive errors etc. wirelessly. Before, I had to unplug all those cables from MG35, and bring it upstairs to do disk check. Unfortunately NAS like NSLU2 and Linkstation do not have NTFS support.

2) Because MG-35 is mounted as a local disk, all the windows program read and write it using NTFS protocols, no Samba or NFS protocol translations and isocharset-utf8 type character conversions. So when I use programs like Syncback to synchronize my windows directory with MG-35, the comparison of file names is perfect, not confused by character translations. Before with Samba mounted NTFS, I had a lot of issues with latin characters, and sometimes Samba would quit during comparison, and NSLU2 would hang. No such problems with NDAS.

So I do commend Ximeta for this new features that the other NAS does not have.

And a final thought, if Al Tech had provided ext2/3 or reiserfs support on MG-35, none of these problems would occur in the first place.

I do have one question. Although no programs are currently assessing MG-35 on my PC, NDAS is not able to unmount MG-35. Any ideas? Is it OK to power down MG-35 while NDAS is refusing to unmount it?

Thanks.

davei1

12-28-05, 08:54 AM

I have that same problem if I'm accessing the MG-35 from two PCs with both in Read/Write mode. If only one is in read/write and the other in read then I don't have it...Although sometimes you have to wait a minute before unmounting...Sounds like a similar situation...Piece of your gear is still staying connected to the MG-35 and it doesn't want to unmount...I have rebooted mine when mounted and it just comes up as mounted after reboot and then you can unmount...I haven't had any bad side effects from that...But as long as I don't use READ/WRITE mode on two PCs at the same time I don't have the unmount problem.

I do have one question. Although no programs are currently assessing MG-35 on my PC, NDAS is not able to unmount MG-35. Any ideas? Is it OK to power down MG-35 while NDAS is refusing to unmount it?

Thanks.

thesaintfl

12-28-05, 12:31 PM

I apologize if this question has been asked previously, but I have looked and looked and cannot find a 'easy' solution to my problem.

I just got the MG-35 and want to use my Notebook to see the MG-35 (Notebook ----> MG-35) folders/files/hard drive? The MG-35 is connected to my Belkin Wireless G Router?

Well I have spent a few hours and cannot believe after spending all the cash (MG-35) that I cannot find a simple solution. I can see the Desktop PC and Notebook shared folders in the MG-35 (with everything networked thru wireless router), but cannot use my Notebook to see the MG-35 folders/files/hard drive? Is there a simple solution? W/O spending more cash?

My Setup

Belkin Wireless G Router
Desktop PC (ethernet cable - Router - Win XP)
Notebook (wireless card - Router - Win XP)
MG-35 (connected with ethernet to the Router)

Thank you for replies! :)

bhummel2001

12-28-05, 03:10 PM

The MG-35 came with 1.3.2. I've upgraded to 1.4.2 but it fails to upgrade to 1.4.3.

I just checked the MediaGate website. There is only a 1.4.2 upgrade, not a 1.4.3. Maybe you got a bogus copy somewhere.

jhaveri

12-28-05, 04:46 PM

Well, I was finally able to get the NDAS Driver on my PC recognize MG-35 downstairs.

About speed. The transfer is still 2.3 Gigabyte/hour same as on wired network. So that is still a lot less than 6.4 Gigabyte/hour I can get through NSLU2 mounting MG-35. Thanks.

I just got off the phone talking to a tech at Ximeta about transfer speed. He says that on wired ethernet in his lab, they get 28 GB/hour, and on 802.11g wireless, about 14 GB/hour. His numbers are a lot higher than we are getting. He did say they were in bytes/s not bits/s.

To improve the speed, he suggested I first mount MG35 using NDAS on wired or wireless ethernet (not USB), and then completely reformat it using windows. He thinks that should help improve speed.

I have 450 Gigabyte of data on my MG35 500 GB HD. So I am not sure if I want to reformat it. If he is wrong, it will take me 450/2.3 or 195 hours to transfer the data again, that is 8 days. The upside is that if it works, it will take 450/14 or 32 hours.

Anyway, if someone has not formatted their internal drive yet, or only has a few Gigabytes of data, they can try to reformat the drive as suggested by Ximeta, and see if the speed improves. Please do post if you try the test.

jhaveri

12-28-05, 04:50 PM

I just checked the MediaGate website. There is only a 1.4.2 upgrade, not a 1.4.3. Maybe you got a bogus copy somewhere.

Search this thread, you will find the firmware posted at a kind member's web space. The firmware is not bogus. I am using it successfully. To get a history of 1.4.3, read this thread. Al Tech has not released it in US yet. But some of us are already trying it out.

Well, I did the search, see the quote below.

Go here... http://web.newsguy.com/confused/

The 1.4.3 firmware in English...Along with the NDAS software...
You'll still need the DEVICE Unlock Codes from the manufacturer...

jhaveri

thesaintfl

12-29-05, 08:16 AM

Search this thread, you will find the firmware posted at a kind member's web space. The firmware is not bogus. I am using it successfully. To get a history of 1.4.3, read this thread. Al Tech has not released it in US yet. But some of us are already trying it out.

Well, I did the search, see the quote below.

jhaveri

I emailed sales@airlinktek(dot)com and asked for the unlock codes/write id and received the (not very usefule) response below. Can someone tell what email address I need to ask for the codes?? So I can use the NDAS software with my MG-35. This seems pretty unfair for them to do this after I spend over $250 dollars. Thanks!

Dear Guest,,

Thanks for buying our products.

Unfortunately, NDAS function for Korea domestic market so, right now we have no idea
to supply NDAS write key to you.

thanks for your understanding

DK

davei1

12-29-05, 09:20 AM

Go here...

http://www.ewaggle.com/shop/IPS003.asp?ProCd=MG-35-NDAS

Pay $20 by Credit Card...Wait 2 to 3 days...

Then go here for NDAS software and 1.43 firmware....

http://web.newsguy.com/confused/

And your problem will be solved.

THE END.

I emailed sales@airlinktek(dot)com and asked for the unlock codes/write id and received the (not very usefule) response below. Can someone tell what email address I need to ask for the codes?? So I can use the NDAS software with my MG-35. This seems pretty unfair for them to do this after I spend over $250 dollars. Thanks!

Dear Guest,,

Thanks for buying our products.

Unfortunately, NDAS function for Korea domestic market so, right now we have no idea
to supply NDAS write key to you.

thanks for your understanding

DK

macattackman

12-29-05, 05:00 PM

I'm liking this box more -- just installed anyDVD on my HTPC and shared my DVD drive and can now stream physical DVD media throughout the house.

ommm

12-29-05, 05:42 PM

Hello Everyone

I just emailed support at Ximeta (the email address is on their website) asking if they could assist me in getting my device ID and giving them my MAC address and within a couple of hrs they replied with the Netdisk ID and Netdisk key

Gotta be happy with that :D

davei1

12-30-05, 02:09 AM

So you are saying they provided these to you at no cost?

Hello Everyone

I just emailed support at Ximeta (the email address is on their website) asking if they could assist me in getting my device ID and giving them my MAC address and within a couple of hrs they replied with the Netdisk ID and Netdisk key

Gotta be happy with that :D

ommm

12-30-05, 02:55 AM

Hi

Yes no cost

here is what I received.. I've edited the number of course :)

Thanks for your inquiry,

Netdisk ID: XX

Netdisk Key: XX

Please keep these in a safe place.

Thank you,

Tech Support Engineer

XIMETA, Inc.

I didn't mention anything about Mediagate just sent

I'm trying to get my Device ID my MAC address is XX are you able to help me?

Thanks in advance

jhaveri

12-30-05, 06:30 AM

Hi

Yes no cost

Too late for me. I already paid $20. Well.

I have some good news though with transfer speed. After a few hours of experimentation, I found that Ximeta's v 2.4.2 driver improves speed over v 3.10. I did several tests and got the same results. Transfer speed (for me it is 54g, but I think 100 Mbps wired will be same) improved from 0.66 MB/s to 0.88 MB/s.

Only downside is that with v 2.4.2 driver, only one PC can have a write access (more than one can have read access though). With v 3.10 you can have multiple read/write access.

Can someone please try to confirm this, by changing the Ximeta Windows XP drivers from here http://www.ximeta.com/support/downloads/windows_xp/index.php .

I have one more request, if possible also compare transfer speed by connecting MG35 directly into PC network card, without going through the router, to see if the speed increases dramatically. Ximeta tech asked me to do that. If it does, we can try to improve speed by twaeking the QoS settings in the router. I can not test that right now since my MG-35 is tied up copying 420 gig of data. Oh, I should mention that here. I did reformat my MG35 HD after connecting through ethernet, and mounting it using NDAS. No improvement in speed. And I lost all my data. So I started over copying yesterday. It will be another 24 hours.

Thanks to anyone who is willing to do these tests to compare transfer speed:

1) Change driver from 3.10 to 2.4.2
2) Compare MG-35 plugged into router/switch vs direct PC ehernet (not USB)

jhaveri

davei1

12-30-05, 07:38 AM

Sounds to me like you got lucky and caught someone at Ximeta uninformed...
Why would a company that gives free software also provide you the free codes?
Doesn't make sense...But congratulations on getting your NDAS anyways...Mabye a few more can try and see if that works for them...I've got mine already...

Hi

Yes no cost

here is what I received.. I've edited the number of course :)

Thanks for your inquiry,

Netdisk ID: XX

Netdisk Key: XX

Please keep these in a safe place.

Thank you,

Tech Support Engineer

XIMETA, Inc.

I didn't mention anything about Mediagate just sent

I'm trying to get my Device ID my MAC address is XX are you able to help me?

Thanks in advance

rperre

12-30-05, 11:22 AM

I've put in my request to ximeta, we will see!

Does anybody know what these Device ID's are made up of.

Is it a combination of DevID and some serial number?

Also what is the other number that's on the print board in the MG35 box,It's different from the MAC number. It's like 14 letters and numbers?

Richard

Slug

12-30-05, 04:04 PM

firmtech

12-30-05, 04:55 PM

Here is the response I got after emailing Ximeta directly:

"Thanks for your inquiry, however in order to receive your ID and Key
please contact Mediagate, we do not manufacture the MG-35."

Too bad.
I used the tech support address off their website.

OMMM, what addy did you use?

OMMM said he did not mention the MG-35 when he asked for the keys. DON'T TELL THEM YOU HAVE AN MG-35 just ask for the key. I just sent a generic request too. Lets see what happens. ;)

rperre

12-30-05, 05:21 PM

Yeah I used a very generic format, like: I just formatted my system and somehow can't find my device ID, can you help me? ;) :D

We'll see, it will probably be next week before the answer comes, but that's alright.

In the mean time, I can't seem to find a whole lot of information on Device ID's and write keys. It always just refers to the manual or the "bottom of the box"
Does anybody have some tech info about Device ID's? :)

I must say I like this MG-35, I installed a small harddrive and it's playing really well, it also plays well over the network (wired). Just wish I could use it as NAS too :rolleyes:

Richard

sharris

12-31-05, 02:49 AM

the MG-35 is NOT a Ximeta Product

The ID and Write Key only come with the Ximeta NetDisk products but MG-35

seems like the MG-35 is just a cheap knock off of a real Ximeta NetDisk

davei1

12-31-05, 08:18 AM

Therein most likely lies the answer...
Since it's using a Ximeta chip...Their codes will work...So the person who gave out the code assumed it was a Ximeta Disk. As long as they do not require some proof that you have a genuine Ximeta Disk then you'll be OK but I suspect that they'll catch on if they haven't already done so when they start getting a lot of requests from people who "misplaced" the Device ID and Write Key...Personally it was worth the $20 to me to get the thing right away vs. waiting...

the MG-35 is NOT a Ximeta Product

The ID and Write Key only come with the Ximeta NetDisk products but MG-35

seems like the MG-35 is just a cheap knock off of a real Ximeta NetDisk

rperre

12-31-05, 10:37 AM

I'll probably just chip in the $20 which is not the problem, I just like to "tinker" myself.

I really thought that this was a standard feature, but... I misread!!!! :rolleyes:

Richard

jtovar

12-31-05, 03:14 PM

Yeah I used a very generic format, like: I just formatted my system and somehow can't find my device ID, can you help me? ;) :D

That is the sort of method I used. I already purchased my Device ID from ewaggle, but was curious if Ximeta would help. I basically said that the Device ID sticker fell off and I need to re-install the software ;) The tech support reply just said, send me the MAC address and they will send me the device ID. I didn't mentioned the product or anything specific.

I did send a second email to them asking them about the Device ID. Since I used to work for the Tivo manufacturing team, I know that when we manufacture different platforms, we keep all important information regarding s/n, tcd service numbers, birthdate, hd s/ns, etc in our database. I wanted to know if they look up the Device ID in their database or if the put the MAC address in a software tool and crank out a Device ID. He replied that they look it up in a database, but I'm curious how he did that since they have nothing to do with the MG-35s. I really believe that they plug in a MAC address and pop out a Device ID.

Also someone mentioned the MG-35 having a Ximeta chip in it. Does it? I have never taken mine apart to find out, but since the mg-35 has been out for a while, do you think that the plan has always been to go with Ximeta and NDAS? Or if this is something that they figured out later. Maybe all it took was a little firmware tweak to show up as a NDAS device and that is why the NDAS network performance is so bad. Instead of a hw chipset controlling the protocol, maybe it's the firmware.

sharris

12-31-05, 05:15 PM

Ximeta sent me an email saying that they are aware of the MG-35 and will not supply NetDisk IDs for the MG-35. The MAC address for the NetDisk and MG-35 are different. There is a way to differ between the 2. So if you did get a ID from Ximeta consider yourself lucky.

They also said that the MG-35 is a stripped down NDAS chip which explains why the performance of the MG-35 sucks so bad. I have a 250GB Ximeta NetDisk and the performance is fantastic compared to my Linksys NAS. But this MG-35 is worst than both.

This product wasnt worth the 40 bucks i payed for it.

jtovar

12-31-05, 05:40 PM

banzi

01-01-06, 03:50 AM

That is the sort of method I used. I already purchased my Device ID from ewaggle, but was curious if Ximeta would help. I basically said that the Device ID sticker fell off and I need to re-install the software ;) The tech support reply just said, send me the MAC address and they will send me the device ID. I didn't mentioned the product or anything specific.

I did send a second email to them asking them about the Device ID. Since I used to work for the Tivo manufacturing team, I know that when we manufacture different platforms, we keep all important information regarding s/n, tcd service numbers, birthdate, hd s/ns, etc in our database. I wanted to know if they look up the Device ID in their database or if the put the MAC address in a software tool and crank out a Device ID. He replied that they look it up in a database, but I'm curious how he did that since they have nothing to do with the MG-35s. I really believe that they plug in a MAC address and pop out a Device ID.
Are the codes you got from Ewaggle and Ximeta the same? How does it work with ewaggle? Do you have to submit your MAC address somewhere?

davei1

01-01-06, 04:50 AM

atreis

01-01-06, 09:10 AM

When you order it from Ewaggle you provide them your MAC address in the NOTES SECTION of the order...

http://www.ewaggle.com/shop/IPS003.asp?ProCd=MG-35-NDAS

...

I did this about two weeks ago, and still haven't received my IDs. How long should this take? How long has it taken for others?

Thanks.

davei1

01-01-06, 10:42 AM

Mine took 72 hours...If you've been waiting two weeks something has gone wrong with your order...You need to followup with them and cite your Order Number...

I did this about two weeks ago, and still haven't received my IDs. How long should this take? How long has it taken for others?

Thanks.

sharris

01-01-06, 07:20 PM

When you order it from Ewaggle you provide them your MAC address in the NOTES SECTION of the order...

Is it just me or are other's tiring of this discussion of the Device ID/Write Key...
It' very simple...Click on the link above...Pay 20 dollars by CC...Wait 2 to 3 days
for your codes. DONE.

How much more simple can it get...Going on and on about something that costs
20 dollars is boring...Either buy it or forget about NDAS.

exactly

its just 20 bucks. Its funny how so many people are try to lie to another company to save thier 20 bucks. When you bought the enclosure you should have known you would have to pay extra for the ID and Key.

Slug

01-02-06, 01:05 AM

When most of us bought the enclosure, NDAS wasn't even an option. Look at it like this. If a company added a new, useful feature to your favorite motherboard (such as voltage adjustment) with a BIOS update, and then charged you to use it, how would you feel?

And yes, they do have my extra $20.

atreis

01-07-06, 09:31 AM

I followed up and someone from eWaggle got back to me very quickly. They said that they haven't received the info from the manufacturer yet, probably because of the holidays. At this point, I'm still waiting.

Mine took 72 hours...If you've been waiting two weeks something has gone wrong with your order...You need to followup with them and cite your Order Number...

J0naz

01-07-06, 10:51 AM

I will buy the freecom network mediaplayer and i have heard it`s the same player as mediagate 35 (Freecom deliver it in Europe). I wounder if its enought with a wireless network card in the computer like for example:
NETGEAR WG311T - 108 Mbps Wireless PCI Adapter

to get the wlan between the computer and the player to work, or do I need a reuter too?

/Jonas

J0naz

01-07-06, 04:57 PM

seems like I have done a mistake...freecom/mediagate doesn`t wireless lan connection at all :/

Frenik

01-07-06, 09:29 PM

The MG-350HD is supposed to have inbuilt wireless when it's released.

From my experience, wireless is ok for divx and music, but high bandwidth stuff like DVD's are choppy at best. In my setup, I get about 24Mbps real speed. This should be ok for DVD which needs about 10Mbps max, but the MG-35 still doesn't like it. I think it must be the way it buffers the data though, because playing the same files on a PC is normally fine.

adrusa

01-08-06, 04:22 PM

Does anybody know if Mediagate and Tvix use the same remote control? I mean can one use TVix remote for Mediagate MG-35 and vice versa?

rperre

01-09-06, 06:18 PM

When you order it from Ewaggle you provide them your MAC address in the NOTES SECTION of the order...

http://www.ewaggle.com/shop/IPS003.asp?ProCd=MG-35-NDAS

Is it just me or are other's tiring of this discussion of the Device ID/Write Key...
It' very simple...Click on the link above...Pay 20 dollars by CC...Wait 2 to 3 days
for your codes. DONE.

How much more simple can it get...Going on and on about something that costs
20 dollars is boring...Either buy it or forget about NDAS.

Listen, I will buy the fr..... ID, but if I can find out how to "create" the code, at least others will save money, and it won't take 2-3 days (or a week) either :D

And it's like slug said................................ I rest my case!

I am however very interested in the Device ID and write key and how it works, I mean why don't they use the MAC address itself and a write key based on the MAC ID, for these kind of NDAS devices, where security is less interesting (at least to me it is).

Richard

Slug

01-10-06, 04:44 AM

Still waiting on my info from ewaggle. Going on 12 days now....

hooked4life

01-10-06, 11:34 PM

I received my NDAS key from ewaggle. I installed the NDAS software and registered the NDAS ID and write key. Im connected via wired ethernet but it shows the device as disconnected. Do I need the MG-35 in a special mode or just powered on?

hooked4life

01-11-06, 09:28 AM

Wadilabidi

01-11-06, 12:44 PM

Hello Everybody

I wanted to update the firmware of mediagate MG35 but during the update I had a cut of power.
Now the device does not start !

what do I have to make?

Thanks

Bytre

01-11-06, 07:48 PM

Regarding the display quality of the MG35: I use mine in 480p. I am not thrilled with the picture, but after calibrating the display with video essentials, it is acceptable. I always have my old panasonic DCDI player if I need better DVD.

Bytre

01-11-06, 07:50 PM

Bytre

01-11-06, 07:51 PM

atreis

01-14-06, 07:41 AM

I followed up and someone from eWaggle got back to me very quickly. They said that they haven't received the info from the manufacturer yet, probably because of the holidays. At this point, I'm still waiting.

Got my IDs. Haven't entered them in yet though. I'm a slacker.

atreis

01-14-06, 07:44 AM

NDAS function was turned off on the MG-35. I didnt notice that option. ;) It now connects via wired ethernet, but I can not connect to it via my wireless bridge.

I am guessing that the reason for this is because my Xyzel Wireless bridge has a MAC address the connected device uses the Xyzel MAC instead of the one on the MG-35. I have to figure out how to fix this.

I'm using mine on a wireless bridge as well (wired isn't really an option because of where it is), and am wondering if I'm going to have this same problem. I'm interested in the answer to this person's question.

IslandGuy

01-14-06, 10:02 AM

Has anyone done network file access with Windows 2003? I have, and it doesn't work properly, but I don't know if the situation is unique to me.

I can see my w2k3 server fine, see the shares, and connect to them. Parsing the directories and files, however, shows garbage in the MG35 UI.

Has anyone experienced this or had a successful experience with w2k3?

Bytre,

I am sharing files from my W2K3 server to my MG-35 without incident. Setup is a little unique because W2K3 out of the box is a bit more restrictive than W2K server and definitely much more restrictive than XP.

To open up W2K3 server to MG-35 takes three steps.
1. Turn on the Guest account (this is the part I don't like).
2. Go to the folder(s) that you want to access and share them out.
3. Go to each folder that you have choosen and set the access rights specifically for the Guest account from the security tab. In W2K3, there are no inherent Guest account right out of the box.

That's it!

jhaveri

01-14-06, 02:22 PM

I'm using mine on a wireless bridge as well (wired isn't really an option because of where it is), and am wondering if I'm going to have this same problem. I'm interested in the answer to this person's question.

See post #434 in this thread. Wireless bridge do not work, you need a repeater function.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6797733&&#post6797733

jhaveri

CASEYATBT

01-14-06, 02:45 PM

Still waiting on my info from ewaggle. Going on 12 days now....

I ordered mine on 1/5. Received a confirmation on 1/12 saying I made a purchase. I have no idea when I will receive my codes.

retrorex

01-14-06, 03:35 PM

Anyone know when the firmware supporting M3u playlists is due?

Slug

01-15-06, 12:50 PM

I've even called eWaggle... told me 24 hrs. That was 3 days ago. Still waiting.

Shanman2

01-17-06, 02:14 PM

Hey
I accidentlly set the video settings too high now I have a blank screen. Does anyone know how to reset the mg35?

Slug

01-17-06, 02:19 PM

Try hitting the VIDEO button on the remote. I believe it will cycle thru the video modes.

Bytre

01-17-06, 08:50 PM

To open up W2K3 server to MG-35 takes three steps.
1. Turn on the Guest account (this is the part I don't like).
2. Go to the folder(s) that you want to access and share them out.
3. Go to each folder that you have choosen and set the access rights specifically for the Guest account from the security tab. In W2K3, there are no inherent Guest account right out of the box.

Thanks for the tip! It was the third item that got me. I assumed that if it had been a file permissions problem, they would simply not have been listed, not returned as garbage. Explicitly setting the file permissions solved the problem.

davei1

01-20-06, 06:05 AM

It's already being tested per Saerom Kim at AirlinkTek in a new yet to be released firmware update...It will be interesting to see if that firmware update will also include the photo display capabilities being advertised in the upcoming Mediagate 350HD...And of course hopefully it will include the NDAS firmware that some of us are already running and using (those of us who have received our codes from Ewaggle)...

Anyone know when the firmware supporting M3u playlists is due?

sshnun

01-20-06, 09:16 AM

davei1

01-20-06, 09:54 AM

I would bet money that it will be better using an internal hard drive...We already know that the network interface for the MG-35 does not have that great of a throughput (Whether using NDAS or streaming from PC)...If you're playing ripped DVDs I'd definitely do it from an internal HD... If you've got an old spare HD around just try that...That way if it cures your problem you can invest in a new big drive. I only use my MG-35 for DIVX files so I haven't had any play problems whether from my internal drive or across the network from a PC. But my DIVX files are much smaller file size..I can even connect to the MG-35 from my laptop on a wireless connection using NDAS (I have my code) and double click on a file on the MediaGate drive and after about 20 seconds or so I am watching the movie on my laptop via a wireless 802.11b connection. It only stutters about 10 seconds then plays perfectly. But these are DIVX files...Other's have had problems playing ripped DVDs (especially on a wireless link)...

Does anyone know if the MG 35 handles buffering differently if it has an HDD in iit or not? I get alot of stuttering, but when I hit pause and then play again it stops for a couple of minutes. When I connect my MCE PC over the same line, I get zero stuttering.

I'd gladly stick an HDD in this thing if it would use it for buffering and remove my stuttering issue.

Any thoughts?

Sshnun

davei1

01-21-06, 03:42 AM

Just messing around with stuff and I tried playing DVDs off shared DVD drives on a computer on the network. Unfortunately for me it didn't work so well...It would play the intro files but then when it got to the movie I could hear sound but had no video (weird?)...Not a big deal as I can't imagine why I'd need to play DVDs off the computer through the network to the MG-35 (I've got a standalone DVD player for that)...But was just curious as someone else here said they could do it no problem...I tried it on two different drives in my PC upstairs (Pioneer DVDRW drive and LG DVD/CDRW drive)...Also tried it with two different DVDs...same thing...

LKupersmith

01-21-06, 03:46 PM

Does anyone know if the MG 35 handles buffering differently if it has an HDD in iit or not? I get alot of stuttering, but when I hit pause and then play again it stops for a couple of minutes. When I connect my MCE PC over the same line, I get zero stuttering.

Sorry, I don't think that the hard disk will be used for buffering network streams so unless you're talking about copying the movies to the internal hard disk it's not going to help. Please let me know if I'm wrong.

However, I fixed my stuttering problem by simply changing my anti-virus software. I'm currently running Avast 4 (free software for personal use from www.avast.com) but also recommend NOD32 (www.eset.com). These both seem to use much less system resources than others. If you can, stay away from McAfee, Symantec Norton, and Kaspersky.

Lee