AOOSTAR WTR Pro NAS Mini PC User Manual

1. Introduction

The AOOSTAR WTR Pro is a powerful and versatile NAS Mini PC designed for both household and professional use. Featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, up to 64GB DDR4 RAM, and extensive storage options including 4*3.5" SATA HDD bays and M.2 NVMe slots, it provides robust performance for data storage, backup, and various applications. With triple 4K display support and dual 2.5G LAN, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, it offers a comprehensive solution for your computing and networking needs.

2. Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

• 1 x AOOSTAR WTR Pro Mini PC
• 1 x HDMI Cable
• 1 x Power Supply (19V/6.32A, 120W DC)
• 1 x User Manual (this document)

3. Specifications

Figure 3.1: Product dimensions (22.8cm x 15cm x 18.5cm).

4. Setup Guide

4.1. Physical Connections

1. Connect Display: Use an HDMI, DisplayPort (DP), or Type-C cable to connect your monitor(s) to the corresponding ports on the back of the Mini PC. The WTR Pro supports up to three 4K displays simultaneously.
2. Connect Peripherals: Plug in your keyboard, mouse, and other USB devices into the available USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 ports.
3. Connect Network: For wired network access, connect an Ethernet cable from your router or switch to one of the two 2.5G LAN ports. For wireless connectivity, ensure the WiFi 6 antenna (if external) is connected or that the internal WiFi module is enabled.
4. Connect Power: Connect the provided power adapter to the DC input port on the Mini PC, then plug the adapter into a power outlet.

Figure 4.1: Rear panel with various ports including Audio, USB 2.0x2, USB 3.0x2, Display Port, HDMI, Type-C, 2.5G LANx2, TF card slot, and DC power.

4.2. Storage Installation (HDDs/SSDs)

The AOOSTAR WTR Pro is designed for extensive storage, supporting up to four 3.5" SATA HDDs and M.2 NVMe SSDs.

1. Access Drive Bays: The front panel of the WTR Pro features a magnetic cover. Gently remove this cover to access the 3.5" SATA HDD bays.
2. Install 3.5" HDDs: Slide each 3.5" SATA HDD into an available bay until it clicks into place. Ensure the drive is properly seated for connection.
3. Install M.2 NVMe SSDs: The device includes M.2 2280-NVME slots. Refer to the internal diagram for precise location. Carefully insert the M.2 SSD into the slot and secure it with the provided screw.
4. Secure Cover: Once all storage devices are installed, reattach the magnetic front cover.

Figure 4.2: Illustrates the insertion of a 3.5" SATA HDD into one of the drive bays.

Figure 4.3: Internal view highlighting the multiple drive bays and M.2 NVMe slot for storage expansion.

4.3. Initial Power On

Press the power button located on the front or top of the Mini PC. The system will boot up, and you should see the operating system load on your connected display.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Operating System

The AOOSTAR WTR Pro typically comes pre-installed with Windows 11. It also supports other operating systems such as Linux and iStoreOS, making it highly customizable for various NAS and computing needs. You can install your preferred OS based on your requirements.

5.2. Display Configuration

The Mini PC supports triple 4K display output via HDMI, DisplayPort, and Type-C. To configure multiple displays:

• Connect up to three 4K monitors to the available video output ports.
• Access your operating system's display settings to arrange and extend or duplicate your displays as needed.

Figure 5.1: Example setup demonstrating triple 4K display support.

5.3. Network Configuration

The WTR Pro offers flexible networking options:

• Wired Network: Utilize the dual 2.5G LAN ports for high-speed wired network connections, ideal for NAS operations requiring high bandwidth.
• Wireless Network: Connect to WiFi 6 networks for fast and reliable wireless connectivity. Ensure your router supports WiFi 6 for optimal performance.
• Bluetooth: Use Bluetooth 5.2 to connect wireless peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and audio devices.

5.4. Storage Management (NAS Functionality)

Leverage the WTR Pro's extensive storage capabilities for Network Attached Storage (NAS):

• Install a NAS-specific operating system like iStoreOS or FreeNAS/TrueNAS for advanced NAS features.
• Configure RAID arrays (if supported by your chosen OS) across the 3.5" SATA HDDs for data redundancy and performance.
• Utilize the M.2 NVMe SSDs for fast caching or as primary storage for frequently accessed data.
• Access your stored data over the network from other devices.

Figure 5.2: The WTR Pro functioning as a versatile NAS for daily office needs and media management.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Cleaning

• Regularly clean the exterior of the Mini PC with a soft, dry cloth.
• Use compressed air to clear dust from the air vents and fan areas to ensure optimal airflow and cooling.
• Ensure the large area air vents are not obstructed.

Figure 6.1: Diagram showing the large silent 12cm cooling fan and pass-through construction for efficient heat dissipation.

Figure 6.2: Close-up of the 3mm aluminum housing, SATA hard disk bracket, and large area air vents, emphasizing quality and cooling design.

6.2. Software Updates

Keep your operating system, drivers, and NAS software up-to-date to ensure system stability, security, and optimal performance.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1. No Power

• Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the Mini PC and a working power outlet.
• Verify the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
• Check the power adapter for any visible damage.

7.2. No Display Output

• Confirm that the display cable (HDMI, DP, or Type-C) is securely connected to both the Mini PC and the monitor.
• Ensure the monitor is powered on and set to the correct input source.
• Try a different display cable or monitor if possible.
• If using multiple displays, try connecting only one display at a time to isolate the issue.

7.3. Network Connectivity Issues

• Wired: Check if the Ethernet cable is properly connected to both the Mini PC and the router/switch. Verify that the network lights on the LAN port are active.
• Wireless: Ensure WiFi is enabled in the operating system. Check if the correct WiFi network is selected and the password is entered correctly. Restart your router/modem.

7.4. Storage Not Detected

• For HDDs, ensure they are fully seated in their bays.
• For M.2 SSDs, verify they are correctly inserted and secured.
• Check the operating system's Disk Management (Windows) or equivalent utility to see if the drives are recognized but uninitialized or unformatted.
• Ensure the magnetic cover is properly closed, as some models might have sensors.

8. User Tips

• Optimize for NAS: For dedicated NAS use, consider installing a lightweight, purpose-built NAS operating system (e.g., TrueNAS, OpenMediaVault, or iStoreOS) to maximize storage efficiency and features.
• Data Backup Strategy: With large storage capacity, implement a robust backup strategy (e.g., RAID, off-site backups) to protect your valuable data.
• Quiet Operation: The WTR Pro features a large silent fan. Place it in a well-ventilated area to maintain optimal cooling and quiet operation.
• Power Supply: Always use the provided 120W power supply to ensure stable operation, especially when multiple HDDs are installed.
• DIY Enthusiast: This Mini PC is ideal for DIY NAS enthusiasts. Experiment with different software configurations and hardware upgrades (RAM, M.2 SSDs) to tailor it to your specific needs.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official AOOSTAR website or contact your retailer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.