NAS boxes generally too bulky for you? Then how about Buffalo's new LinkStation Mini? Announced yesterday, the compact server packs in 1TB of storage capacity using a pair of RAID-configured 2.5in hard drives.

Buffalo LinkStation Mini: NAS, in miniature

The 13.3 x 8.1 x 3.9cm device has a Gigabit Ethernet port on the back for network connectivity, and a USB port to allow users to hook up extra storage or a shared printer.

The $699 unit supports the usual SMB and FTP protocols for making files available to all or a select few, and HTTP and HTTPS for serving data in a web-wise way.

USB and Gig Ethernet - no room for anything else

It also supports AppleTalk for older Mac set-ups, and Buffalo has built in TwonkyVision's DLNA server to stream media to connected Macs, PCs, set-top boxes and Nokia N95 phones.

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Using 5400rpm laptop drives means the Mini might not be the fastest NAS box out there, but it'll certainly be among the most quiet of the category. And its size means it'll be easy to stick next to the router and forgotten about while you leave it to get on with its job.

The LinkStation Mini is due to go on sale in the US in May. A local company representative confirmed that the Mini will be coming the UK and Europe, but was unable to provide pricing details.

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