We have been testing configurations using standard internal disks and various systems from different vendors using directly attached Thunderbolt and eSATA-based RAID controllers, network-attached storage, and SAN systems.
Usually, these storage systems work flawlessly together with our playout products as soon as they have been recognized by the macOS operating system. The Just Play Lite application features an internal buffer to accommodate issues with the data throughput of the playout storage for a short period of time.
For best results, we recommend a storage system capable of sustaining a minimum data rate at least four times greater than the combined data rate of video files, graphic elements, and the maximum expected load from copying new files.
While the playout is on air, we strongly recommend avoiding any unnecessary load on the storage system, such as heavy file access from other machines or processes.
Since Apple no longer maintains and supports the AFP protocol, we recommend using only the SMB protocol to connect to network-attached storage.
The storage system used for playout has to be able to deliver the data rate required for continuous playback under all circumstances.
Some macOS features, such as color tags, may not work as expected when combined with a SAN/NAS system.
For guidance or assistance with a storage platform, please contact your local ToolsOnAir partner or reach out to us directly.