Exterior

The AS5102T has a metallic cover, something that makes it stand apart from other offerings in the category since those usually use cheap-looking plastic covers. The metallic cover also allows the NAS to operate at lower temperatures since it dissipates heat more efficiently than a plastic cover would. At the face of the NAS are a USB 3.0 port, five LED indicators, and two buttons, one for turning the NAS on/off and the other for the NAS server's "copy" button function.


Here is Asustor's description of the server's front LED indicators and buttons.


Only one of two sides features ventilation holes.


At the bottom are four small plastic feet and a label with the model number and both Ethernet ports' MAC addresses.


Almost all I/O ports, including both Ethernet ports, two USB 3.0, two USB 2.0, and two eSATA ports, are at the back. The reset switch has also been placed on this side, recessed into the chassis, along with the unit's HDMI and S/PDIF ports.


We removed both trays to take a photo of the server's internals.


The trays are of good quality since they are made of metal instead of plastic. Mounting HDDs onto these is a piece of cake; however, the whole process isn't tool-less. You can lock the trays by turning the small screw at their front, but you will need a screwdriver to do so.