External HDD for 2011 iMac to use for iTunes library

i have 2011 1tb imac have pretty maxed out.
looking external hdd can use host itunes media folder.

have couple of questions...
1. if have external hdd (single hdd) how affected imac being put sleep time? regularly put imac sleep.
2. i'm aware of raid discs, i'm not looking backup - therefore there similar can add disc, once gets full can add more in same way can have 4 disc raid array?
3. able media folder across several hdds or need buy large 2tb+ single disc?
4. has had before?
5. i'll streaming movies etc atv2 - matter if external drive connected imac usb, thunderbolt etc?
6. have suggestions drives should at?

ideally i'd have liked have macmini media server, in uk expensive , have @ 1tb drive.


thanks!

 

themoffster said: ↑

i have 2011 1tb imac have pretty maxed out.
looking external hdd can use host itunes media folder.

have couple of questions...
1. if have external hdd (single hdd) how affected imac being put sleep time? regularly put imac sleep.
2. i'm aware of raid discs, i'm not looking backup - therefore there similar can add disc, once gets full can add more in same way can have 4 disc raid array?
3. able media folder across several hdds or need buy large 2tb+ single disc?
4. has had before?
5. i'll streaming movies etc atv2 - matter if external drive connected imac usb, thunderbolt etc?
6. have suggestions drives should at?

ideally i'd have liked have macmini media server, in uk expensive , have @ 1tb drive.


thanks!

click expand...

1. no affect ever.

2. ignore raid putting library on ehd. honest simple task , making far more complex necessary. purchase quality hd.

3. can't split itunes library onto multiple ehd's, must on 1 drive. if library in 2gb range minimum of 2tb or 3tb better plan growth.

4. na

5. recommend @ least fw800 or thunderbolt drive. while usb work , cheaper not allow daisy chaining additional ehd's , it's not quick.

6. drives i'd recommend are:

http://g-technology.com/products/g-drive.cfm

http://www.lacie.com/us/products/product.htm?id=10330

http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/firewire/1394/usb/eliteal/esata_fw800_fw400_usb

equal in features , quality. use 4 of lacie's , have been happy them on 4 years i'd have no problem putting g-tech or owc drive on desk too.

 

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