Have a Linkstation Duo that I setup and will soon be setting up a Quad. I was surprised to read in the docs that I had to install the Nasviewer software on any machine that would be using the setup. I did so on my main laptop (hooked via wireless with an Airport Express Basestation) running OS X 10.8.1 (Mountain Lion). I have another laptop wirelessly connected as well. When I was done configuring the Linkstation and my initial use of it on my primary laptop, I went tothe second laptop in order to install the software, etc. However, I found that laptop already saw the Linkstation, was connecting to it just fine and able to Read and Write to the folders I had setup on the Linkstation.
I did have to put in my Linkstation admin password to start the Time Machine backup on the Mac but that was it. So my question is, IS the software actually needed on the Mac or is it needed only to support the "auto off" feature that lets the Linkstation power off when no laptops are using it. I also wondered how that feature would work with my Apple TV or PS3 if I was trying to stream movies or music off of the device while one of my laptops wasn't on. Can someone explain this to me? Couldn't find anything in the documentation other than it saying you NEED the software on any computer, in order to access the linkstation.
1. DO I actually need the software installed on all my Mac's that will use the linkstations? Because right now, I don't seem to need it at all. Is the software only needed for the "auto off" feature to work?
2. In regards to the "auto off" feature: If I use it, will the Linkstations automatically power up if I try to access them with my PS3 or Apple TV while my Mac's are all powered off?
Thanks in advance!
1. No
2. No