Synology DiskStation DS218 Hardware Installation Guide

Chapter 1: Before You Start

Synology DiskStation at a Glance

This section provides an overview of the Synology DiskStation DS218 hardware components.

Package Contents

Verify the following items are included:

• Main unit x 1 (Synology DiskStation DS218)
• AC power cord x 1
• AC power adapter x 1
• RJ-45 LAN cable x 1
• Screws for 2.5" drives x 10

Note: Images are for illustrative purposes and may differ from the actual product.

Safety Instructions

• Keep away from direct sunlight, chemicals, and extreme temperature/humidity changes.
• Place the product upright at all times.
• Do not place near liquids.
• Unplug the power cord before cleaning. Wipe with damp paper towels; do not use chemical or aerosol cleaners.
• To prevent falling, do not place on unstable surfaces.
• Ensure the power cord plugs into the correct and stable supply voltage.
• Disconnect all power cords to remove electrical current.
• Dispose of batteries appropriately; risk of explosion if replaced with an incorrect type.

Chapter 2: Hardware Setup

Tools and Parts for Drive Installation

• A screwdriver (for 2.5" drives).
• At least one 3.5" or 2.5" SATA drive. Visit www.synology.com for compatible drive models.

Warning: Installing a drive with existing data will format the drive and erase all data. Back up important data before installation.

Install Drives

1. Remove the drive bay cover from the front panel.
2. Push the latch upward and pull the handle to remove the drive tray.
3. Load drives into the drive trays:
   • For 3.5" drives: Remove fastening panels from the sides of the drive tray, place the drive, and reinsert the panels to secure it.
   • For 2.5" drives: Remove fastening panels, place the drive in the designated blue area of the tray, turn the tray upside down, and tighten the provided screws to secure the drive.
4. Insert the loaded drive tray into the empty drive bay, ensuring the side marked "UP" faces upwards. You should hear a click when it locks into place.
5. Repeat steps for the other drive if applicable.
6. Drives are numbered as shown in the diagram.
7. Replace the hard drive bay cover to complete the installation.

Note: For RAID volume creation, it is recommended to use drives of the same size for optimal capacity utilization.

Start Up Your DiskStation

1. Connect the DiskStation to your switch, router, or hub using the LAN cable.
2. Connect the AC adapter to the DiskStation's power port. Connect one end of the AC power cord to the AC power adapter and the other end to a power outlet.
3. Press the power button to turn on your DiskStation.

Your DiskStation is now online and detectable from a network computer.

Chapter 3: Install DSM on DiskStation

After hardware setup, install DiskStation Manager (DSM), Synology's browser-based operating system.

Install DSM with Web Assistant

Your DiskStation includes Web Assistant to download and install the latest DSM version.

1. Power on the DiskStation.
2. Open a web browser on a computer connected to the same network.
3. Enter one of the following in the address bar:
   • find.synology.com
   • diskstation:5000
4. Web Assistant will launch, search for, and find the DiskStation (status should be "Not installed").
5. Click "Connect" and follow the on-screen instructions.
6. If the installation is interrupted, log in as 'admin' with a blank password.

Notes:

• An Internet connection is required for Web Assistant.
• Recommended browsers: Chrome, Firefox.
• The DiskStation and computer must be on the same local network.

Learn More

For more information, visit www.synology.com.

Appendix A: Specifications

Note: Model specifications are subject to change without notice. Refer to www.synology.com for the latest information.

¹ The support for exFAT can be enabled after purchasing and downloading exFAT Access in Package Center.

Appendix B: LED Indicator Table

Note: This table is applicable to Synology NAS running DSM 6.2.3 and earlier. For DSM 6.2.4 and above, refer to the article for the latest information.

¹ Please try to restart your DiskStation or re-insert the drive(s), and then run the HDD/SSD manufacturer's diagnostic tool to check the health status of the drive(s). If you can log into DSM, please run the built-in S.M.A.R.T. test. If the problem remains unresolved, contact Synology Technical Support.

² For models with Copy Button, the USB Copy package is installed on your DSM by default.

End User License Agreement (EULA) and Limited Product Warranty

This document outlines the End User License Agreement (EULA) and Limited Product Warranty for Synology products. It details the terms of use for the Synology Software, including license limitations, proprietary rights, disclaimers of warranties, and limitations of liability. Customers are advised to read these terms carefully before using the product. The warranty period varies by product category, and specific remedies are provided for defects. The agreement also covers dispute resolution, applicable law, and export restrictions. For full details, please refer to the original document.

FCC Declaration of Conformity

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.