Synology DiskStation DS1512+ Review

1. Introduction2. Synology DiskStation DS1512+3. Synology DiskStation DS1512+ (Super High Res Gallery)4. The DiskManager Operating System5. Testing Methodology and Raid 0 Performance (single link)6. ieee 802.3ad dynamic link aggregation performance7. Acoustics, Power Consumption and Temperatures8. Closing Thoughts9. View All Pages

We take the issue of noise very seriously at KitGuru and this is why we have built a special home brew system as a reference point when we test noise levels of various components.

Why do this? Well this means we can eliminate secondary noise pollution in the test room and concentrate on components we are testing. It also brings us slightly closer to industry standards, such as DIN 45635.

As this can be a little confusing for people, here are various dBa ratings in with real world situations to help describe the various levels.

KitGuru noise guide
10dBA – Normal Breathing/Rustling Leaves
20-25dBA – Whisper
30dBA – High Quality Computer fan
40dBA – A Bubbling Brook, or a Refridgerator
50dBA – Normal Conversation
60dBA – Laughter
70dBA – Vacuum Cleaner or Hairdryer
80dBA – City Traffic or a Garbage Disposal
90dBA – Motorcycle or Lawnmower
100dBA – MP3 player at maximum output
110dBA – Orchestra
120dBA – Front row rock concert/Jet Engine
130dBA – Threshold of Pain
140dBA – Military Jet takeoff/Gunshot (close range)
160dBA – Instant Perforation of eardrum

Noise was measured from a meter away.

Under general use the Synology DS1512+ is almost inaudible, averaging between 30 dBa and 31 dBa. When loaded, the fans spin up slightly, generating a little more noise.

Even under extensive activity from 5 hard drives, the fans never have to spin too high. This is because the DS1512+ air flow system is close to perfect. Both fans cover the full width of the five bays, exhausting warm air out the rear of the chassis without restriction.

With five drives installed, the DS1512+ can consume just over 50 watts of power at the socket. This drops to around 23 watts when in hibernation. Its a relatively efficient design from Synology. This may vary a little depending on the number and model of hard drives you incorporate.

These results do highlight the impressive capabilities of the cooling system, with all drives recording temperatures between 28c and 30c.

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