I got numerous comments about my 3D printed NAS. An issue encountered by multiple people is that it is now virtually impossible to come around a similar USB hub. Indeed, I used a store brand one and the product has been discontinued for some time...

Let's build an enhanced version solving that issue!

The first version of the case was designed with OpenSCAD and 3D-printed. I modified it to accomodate a new wider 4-port USB hub and a more efficient 40mm fan at the rear instead of the small one on the lid. You can download the new SCAD source files and STL files here (licensed under GPLv3).

In addition, we'll use the following elements:

The first step is disassembling the USB hub. The cover is just clipped and can be removed easily. Then, the USB hub is installed at the bottom of the case, and screwed on it. The screw holes on the updated case match this particular model.

Due to the longer width of the hub, it's expected that the side with connectors stands out of the case. The USB connectors themselves should still be centered.

Now the front panel can be glued to the case. The grid just below the Raspberry Pi helps for the airflow.

The main difference with the previous version of the NAS is the location of the fan. In this version, the fan has been upgraded to a bigger 40mm one on the rear of the case. It creates a way better airflow alongside the Raspberry Pi and disks.

I'm using a Raspberry Pi 2 here just because I had one available. You should definitely use a Pi 3 B+ to increase transfer speeds, or better, a Pi 4, so the disks are connected over USB 3!

The last touch consists in gluing the USB hub cover on the side. On this version, the USB hub being wider, it sticks out on the side, therefore I added a cover so the front still looks nicely integrated.

We can now clip the cover. Of course the cover doesn't feature a fan anymore, it would be redundant. And it's finished!

In my case, the power adapter must be connected to the USB hub on the side. With a more recent Raspberry Pi model, powering everything through the Raspberry Pi might work. Pay attention to use a genuine power adapter that will be able to deliver enough power to the Raspberry Pi and the disks for an extended period of time. I chose one rated 3A to have a bit of room in terms of power supply.

The new NAS is now ready to run!