Best way to add storage to mini pc

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Revivable

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Hi, I am using an HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini as my media server. Currently, I have a 4TB 3.5-inch HDD connected via an external USB enclosure.

What is the best method to add more storage to my setup?

I’m not concerned about losing the media stored on the HDDs, as I perform bi-weekly backups of movies to another HDD (not connected to the mini PC). TV series can be re-downloaded if a drive fails.

I’m running Debian 12 as the base OS, with the rest of the services running in Docker containers. Thank you
 
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You can add more storage by using a USB hard drive dock or a multi-bay USB enclosure in JBOD mode. It’s simple, works well with your current setup, and easy to expand later.
 
I am currently using an enclosure from PiBox India. It has been working fine for my use case, but I have a few concerns:

1. The hard drive spins up as soon as power is supplied, without waiting for a USB signal — which ideally should not happen.
2. The hard drive heats up to 55°C unless I use an 80mm fan to keep it cool.

Now, instead of using multiple single-bay enclosures, I’m planning to switch to a 4-bay direct-attached enclosure. However, I haven’t been able to find a suitable one available here.

I hope a proper enclosure would solve my above two concerns.
 
If you are okay with having a JBOD(Just a Bunch of Drive Box) case sitting nearby then LSI 9200-8E can be used, Only Issue is powering the HDD, depending on the number of hdd's you might be able to getaway with a MOLEX connector based power delivery to HDD(1 Molex to multiple SATA). The LSI card can support upto 8 drives and with low bracket it might fit the HP mini.

@aasimenator might have a card similar.
 
@b.life The HP 800 G5 Mini does not have any PCIe slot, so where do you think you'd add the HBA :)

The only option with that system is to use USB enclosures, if you are creative enough you can get a m.2 to SATA adapter, add 1U power supply from a SFF or something and get that setup, even then you'd have to figure out how to turn on/off the psu with the system
 
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@aasimenator I didn't know that's why I tagged you. Glad I did that. Will something along these work for m.2 to sata? For power does the onboard psu has no extra outlets?

Edit 1: I just saw the box, It is super thin I don't think any addon card of m.2 to sata will fit inside

Edit 2: This one from ORICO seems to be good. Orico docking bays seems to have good reliability also. Bit costlier but I don't know of any local alternative in the 5 bay segment.
Edit 3: This is on Amazon.in works on our 220v lines so no need for step down converters also. From Sabrent Brand, also only 4bay though.
 
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