It has been repeatedly written here since Dec 2011 that the SMP is experiencing problems with external HDDs USB3.0, connected to the rear port. Some customers stated that they have it working correctly, some, as opposed, reported about the problems.
Let me briefly remind you about the problem. Attempting to play back the HD files 720p and 1080p from the external HDD USB3.0, connected to the rear port, results in video freezing and after 20-30 seconds a message like “The disc was removed …” appears on the display. Then a player reboot is required including disconnection and further reconnection of the drive. All available firmwares from 1.4 to 1.7. have been tried by me.
On the contrary, when the external hard drive was connected to the front port, no effects, described above, have been observed.
This problem has been described in details here
http://community.wdc.com/t5/ideas/v1/ideapage/blog-id/streaming_issues/article-id/1751/
I purchased my player in Europe. The model of my player is P/N: WDBGXT0000NBK-01. A friend of mine ordered a player from the American Amazon. Model of his player is P/N: WDBHG70000NBK-01. Both of these units do experience the described above problems with the rear port.
What is in common in these two units is that they both have their model number ending with “01”.
From the forum community communication I found out, that the model P/N: WDBHG70000NBK-00, i.e. ending with “00”, does not have any such problem with the rear USB port.
I do suspect that there may be a difference in the schematic design between models ending with “01” and “00”(revision “01” and “00”).
That’s why I would like to finally find out: are my assumptions correct or not. Kindly awaiting your assistance. If you could please indicate the model number (regarding the revisions: “00” or “01”) in your responds. I will certainly appreciate it.
Number of the model and revision is located at the bottom of the device.
Click the Kudos star of mine issue reporting. This may help to accelerate it solution.
Kind regards