Ready for DSM 4.0 and equipped with a hardware upgrade, a new 2-bay NAS for 2013 hits the small business sector. Will Synology’s DiskStation impress yet again?
Product on Review: Synology DS213
Manufacturer and Sponsor: Synology
Street Price: £250 (At time of review)
Yesterday Synology announced the DS213, their new 2-bay NAS for 2013. We have been impressed by Synology’s products in the past here at Vortez and today we are expecting to see another outstanding product.
The DS213 is of course the successor to the DS212 – If you aren’t familiar with Synology’s naming system. It’s very intuitive – Diskstation (DS) Number of bays (2) Year of production (12). The variable at the end of each of the product range such as + or j symbolise – Performance (+) Entry Level, storage focussed (j) or no symbol for a mixture of the both – performance and storage. So the unit that we are focussing on today is right in the middle of the entry level and performance models and can be deemed as a mainstream NAS solution specifically for workgroups and offices.
Synology on the DS213:
Synology DiskStation DS213 is a feature-rich 2-bay NAS server for workgroups and offices, specifically designed for users who need to share and protect data cost-effectively, while increasing productivity with comprehensive office applications.
Technical Specifications
• Optimal Price/Performance Ratio
• Features SuperSpeed USB 3.0
• Hardware Encryption Engine
• Cool and Quiet Design
• Effective Backup Solutions
• Rich Office Applications
• Hassle Free Installation
• Running on Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM)
Hardware Specifications
• CPU Frequency: 2GHz
• Hardware Encrypted Engine
• Memory: DDR3 512MB
• Internal HDD/SSD: 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA(II) X2 (Hard drive not included)
• Max Internal Capacity: 8TB (2X 4TB HDD) (Capacity may vary by RAID types) (See All Supported HDD)
• Hot Swappable HDD
• External HDD Interface: USB 3.0 Port X 2, USB 2.0 Port X 1, SD Card Port X 1
• Size (HxWxD) : 165 X 108 X 233.2 mm
• Weight: 1.25Kg
• LAN: Gigabit X1
• Wake on LAN/WAN
• System Fan: 92x92mm x1
• Wireless Support
• Noise Level : 19.9 dB(A)
• Power Recovery
• AC Input Power Voltage: 100V to 240V AC
• Power Frequency: 50 / 60Hz, Single Phase
• Power Consumption: 18.48W (Access) ; 8.28W (HDD Hibernation)
• Operating Temperature: 5°C to 95°F (5 to 35°C)
• Storage Temperature: -10°C to 155°F (-10 to 70°C)
• Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% RH
• Maximum Operating Altitude: 10,000 feet
• Certification: FCC Class B, CE Class B, BSMI Class B
• Warranty: 2 Years
• CPU Frequency: 2GHz
• Hardware Encrypted Engine
• Memory: DDR3 512MB
• Internal HDD/SSD: 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA(II) X2 (Hard drive not included)
• Max Internal Capacity: 8TB (2X 4TB HDD) (Capacity may vary by RAID types) (See All Supported HDD)
• Hot Swappable HDD
• External HDD Interface: USB 3.0 Port X 2, USB 2.0 Port X 1, SD Card Port X 1
• Size (HxWxD) : 165 X 108 X 233.2 mm
• Weight: 1.25Kg
• LAN: Gigabit X1
• Wake on LAN/WAN
• System Fan: 92x92mm x1
• Wireless Support
• Noise Level : 19.9 dB(A)
• Power Recovery
• AC Input Power Voltage: 100V to 240V AC
• Power Frequency: 50 / 60Hz, Single Phase
• Power Consumption: 18.48W (Access) ; 8.28W (HDD Hibernation)
• Operating Temperature: 5°C to 95°F (5 to 35°C)
• Storage Temperature: -10°C to 155°F (-10 to 70°C)
• Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% RH
• Maximum Operating Altitude: 10,000 feet
• Certification: FCC Class B, CE Class B, BSMI Class B
• Warranty: 2 Years
Packaging & Bundle
Packaging has changed with the new 2013 range of Synology products. The DS213 has been given a fresh lick of colour – a vibrant green and white box catches the eye. The front identifies some key features of DS213 whilst the sides and back go into even more detail. As we’ve experienced with other Synology models, packaging is finely presented and plenty of care has been put into this aspect of its production.
DS213 packaging is lively and vibrant
Inside, all of the items within the bundle are sectioned off into compartments via cardboard and the NAS itself with protected within a padded cover. The bundle consists of:
• Documentation – Quick start
• AC power pack/cables
• Screws for attaching drives to HDD trays
• Installation CD – Guide, setup utility, data replicator 3
Included items within the bundle
On the next page we will take a closer look at the DS213 NAS itself.
Closer Look
Continuing with their notorious styling, Synology have reserved the use of the white plastic fascia for the budget model of NAS units. Last year’s DS212 featured exactly the same physical appearance as the new DS213. Synology have chosen to leave this aspect of the NAS untouched, personally I think this isn’t something to be criticised, if it looks great there is no need to redesign. The outer shell has a rough, matt finish – a stencil of the Synology logo is carved out on either side of the unit, underneath lies a combo of grey and black horizontal stripes. All of this results in a rather professional looking unit.
Matt steel outer construction – sleek, stylish and professional
Synology logo on either side
Moving to the front of the unit the DS213 has a glossy plastic front fascia which is removable. Running along the right edge of the unit are various LED indicators, ports and buttons. From top to bottom there are the following:
• Status LED
• LAN LED
• Disk 1 LED
• Disk 2 LED
• SD card port
• USB 2.0 port
• Reset button
• Power button
Glossy plastic front with LEDs, ports and buttons
Spinning the DS213 round to the back we see the unit still has a 90mm exhaust fan for extracting heat from the PCB and HDDs. Beneath this fan are 2x USB 3.0 ports and a RJ45 Gigabit LAN port. Also on the back panel is the AC connector and a label with the mac address and serial number should you need these details for technical requirements.
The back of DS213 with dual USB 3.0 ports
HDD Installation – Inside DS213
The eagle eyed amongst you will notice there are no visible screws on DS213, nor are is there any way to separate the covers to gain access to the inside. So in order to get inside the front fascia has to be removed. This fascia simply lifts off and underneath are two HDD trays. To remove a tray the tab at the top must be pressed down and then the handle pulled in a backwards motion.
Removable HDD trays at front
To attach a drive to one of these trays, screws must be attached to the side of the drive for 3.5” HDD or the underside for 2.5” HDDs. With the drive attached, the tray is then slid back into the unit and the SATA connection ports meet the back of the unit and activate connectivity.
HDD trays accomodate 2.5” and 3.5” HDD installation
We would usually take a look at the internal design and components within the NAS but since there is no clear way of getting inside the unit we must refer to the technical specifications instead. These are as follows
• CPU Frequency: 2GHz
• Memory: DDR3 512MB
• Internal HDD/SSD: 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA(II) X2
• Max Internal Capacity: 8TB (2X 4TB HDD)
• Memory: DDR3 512MB
• Internal HDD/SSD: 3.5″ or 2.5″ SATA(II) X2
• Max Internal Capacity: 8TB (2X 4TB HDD)
DS213 has been given quite a number of upgrades compared to its predecessor DS212; the CPU has been bumped up from 1.6GHz to 2GHz, the memory now has 512MB instead of 256MB and the maximum capacity has been increased to 8TB over 6TB. Whilst these improvements may not be hugely significant they are certainly welcomed.
With these upgrades in place, it does mean the power consumption is slightly higher but an extra watt is hardly anything to complain about.
Synology DSM 4.0 (With video overview)
Back at the beginning of the year Synology unveiled DSM 4.0 BETA. As we have reported in the past DSM is vast in its usability, pleasing the eye and is a firm favourite. DSM 4.0 integrates Cloud features, Apps-on-demand and of course multi-tasking is a key element too. To gain access to the NAS and begin using the DS213 the Synology Assistant must be installed and the latest version of DSM via a .pat file.
Synology Assistant gives access to available NAS’ on the network
Installing latest DSM via .pat file from Synology website
The next stage of installation is to set the credentials – setting the password and naming the server. Once you are happy with the details submitted – click the next button.
Setting up credentials
During the installation of DSM, networking settings are applied and configuration files are transferred. This process involves applying network protocols, formatting the drives and adding partitions ready to be used for storage. This process doesn’t take very long at all – it will of course depend on how large the drives are though. Once complete, the installation wizard reboots the NAS.
DSM during various installation stages
Upon completing the installation of DSM 4.0 we can now log into the system. Login details are “admin” and the password that was specified during setup.
Login screen after installing DSM 4.0
Inside the GUI there are lots of features to look at and use. Compared to previous versions, DSM 4.0 is even better. The interface is fluid, interactive and very extensive. Rather than show its functionality via screenshots, here is a brief overview of what you can find inside.
VIDEO – DSM 4.0 Control Panel Overview
Audio streaming – Mobile phone
VIDEO OVERVIEW – DS Audio in action!
Amongst many of the class leading features within DSM 4.0 we have the ability to store files on the NAS and stream them to mobile devices such as Android ready devices. For the purpose of this review I thought it would be a worthwhile inclusion to show the functionality between the NAS and mobile device for audio files with DS Audio by Synology. About Synology DS Audio.
Synology DiskStations not only offer a great storage solution for media files, but now you can access your music collection directly from your iPhone or iPod Touch. Synology’s DS audio application allows users to access their music collections stored on the Synology DiskStation and stream that music through the iPhone or iPod Touch across an internet connection.
NOTE: Sound station will need to be enabled from the Control Panel of DSM 4.0
The first thing to do is download the App from Android Market. Performing a search for Synology returns lots of different Apps and the best thing is, they are all free! DS Audio is the one we want.
Android market has many Synology Apps – all are free!
After installing the app, we are met with a login screen (just put in the IP, username and password) and then you come to a home screen which gives you different options. I select “Folder” and can then navigate to where I have put an MP3 on the DS213.
The DS Audio loading up
MP3s listed on the NAS
I can then play the file directly from the DS213 from anywhere within range of the wireless connection the NAS is being hosted on. So if you have a docking station with speakers you can ideally have the music playing off the NAS within another room. Perfect if you are entertaining guests and want some ambience!
From start to finish – installing software onto the NAS is very easy. Once DSM is installed we then have a plethora of features to take advantage of that allows seamless operation for almost any task a user could want.
Power & Transfer Rate Performance
We have looked at some of the features that DSM 4.0 brings with DS213 but how does this affect performance? What are typical transfer rates like over a Gigabit network? Is power consumption reasonable? These are all questions that you might be asking and we are here to answer them.
Test System Specifications
CPU Intel Core i5 2500K
Motherboard ASRock Z68 Extreme4 Gen3
Memory 8GB Kingston HyperX 1600MHz DDR3
Graphics NVIDIA GTX 580
PSU Thermaltake Toughpower Grand 750W
Motherboard ASRock Z68 Extreme4 Gen3
Memory 8GB Kingston HyperX 1600MHz DDR3
Graphics NVIDIA GTX 580
PSU Thermaltake Toughpower Grand 750W
Devices
– Belkin N1 Gigabit Router
– Synology DS411
– Synology DS411j
– Synology DS211
– Synology DS410
– Toshiba STORE Steel USB
– Synology DS411
– Synology DS411j
– Synology DS211
– Synology DS410
– Toshiba STORE Steel USB
First of all, for the purpose of real world testing I bundled together 6 files which were in 2 folders amounting to 3.2GB. I wanted to discover the incoming and outgoing transfer times between the DS212 and the computer – against other devices on a Gigabit network. Here are the results.
Whilst performing these tests load power consumption was monitored. The power consumption was also monitored whilst being in an idle state. There are actually two states, idle after usage and hibernation which the unit falls into after 10 minutes of non-usage. Hibernation figures were recorded.
Conclusion
As I said from the outset, Synology have always impressed us with their products and so this new range for 2013 fills us with much anticipation.
Between DS211 and DS212 there were no hardware upgraded between the models but with DS213 we have an upgrade. CPU frequency is higher; memory capacity is bigger, as is the HDD storage capacity. This is music to our ears; it may not be a huge improvement but it is an upgrade nonetheless and it is to be welcomed. DSM favours these improvements and responsiveness is undoubtedly better. Due to these upgrades the power consumption has improved but a mere 1W is nothing to complain about. Externally, the unit remains the same as DS212. Both in its physical dimensions and styling. This is an area which doesn’t actually need any redesign, the unit looks sleek and professional; build quality is very good.
As we have found in the past, Synology’s DSM Operating System is just fantastic. Its feature-set puts the user in total control and offers numerous useful features such as Media Server, Audio Station, Photo Station, Download facilities, Mail Server, Surveillance Station via IP cameras and much more.
In this review I demonstrated how easy the Audio Station is to use both via pictures and video. Some may not want to use this feature but even so, it is testament to Synology’s wealth of expertise and the passion they have in providing a feature-rich experience.
The only aspect that could be improved with this unit is the SATA 3 functionality; as I mentioned with the previous generation. This storage interface still isn’t supported and yet the price of such drives are dropping significantly. Synology should implement compatibility for SATA 3.
Priced at £250inc VAT (GBP) the DS213 sits reasonably priced. As NAS units go, DS213 is affordable and gives home users countless useful tools.
Synology’s new DS213 gives small businesses and even home users total control at their finger-tips. Performance was already strong with DS212 and now with a hardware upgrade, even more so. Combine a DS213 with DSM 4.0 and the recipe for an excellent network solution is guaranteed. Another impressive device from Synology, another Gold award from Vortez.
Pros
+ Excellent build quality and aesthetics
+ Improved hardware specification
+ Excellent performance
+ Low fan noise
+ Feature rich DSM 4.0
+ Support for 2.5” SSD
Cons
– Still no SATA 3 support
+ Excellent build quality and aesthetics
+ Improved hardware specification
+ Excellent performance
+ Low fan noise
+ Feature rich DSM 4.0
+ Support for 2.5” SSD
Cons
– Still no SATA 3 support
Click here for an explanation of our awards at Vortez.net.
