Unlock Superior Video Editing: Step-by-Step Guide to Optimizing High-Performance RAID 0 on Synology DS1621+

January 7, 2025

Unlocking Superior Video Editing: A Step-by-Step Guide to Optimizing High-Performance RAID 0 on Synology DS1621+

Understanding the Synology DS1621+ and Its Capabilities

When it comes to video editing, having a robust and high-performance storage solution is crucial. The Synology DS1621+ is a powerful NAS (Network-Attached Storage) device that can significantly enhance your video editing workflow. Here’s a deep dive into how you can optimize this device, particularly focusing on setting up and utilizing RAID 0 for maximum performance.

What is RAID 0?

RAID 0, or Redundant Array of Independent Disks 0, is a striping configuration that combines multiple hard drives into a single logical unit. This setup is ideal for applications that require high read and write speeds, such as video editing, because it distributes data across all drives, thereby increasing overall performance.

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Preparing Your Synology DS1621+ for High-Performance RAID 0

Before you dive into setting up RAID 0, it’s essential to ensure your Synology DS1621+ is properly configured and optimized.

Choosing the Right Drives

For optimal performance, you need to select compatible and high-performance drives. The DS1621+ supports a variety of drive types, including SATA HDDs and SSDs. For video editing, using SSDs can provide a significant boost in performance due to their faster read and write speeds.

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- Synology HAT3300 Series 3.5" SATA HDD: Ideal for large storage needs but may not offer the best performance for video editing.
- Synology SAT5200 Series 2.5" SATA SSD: Offers high performance and is recommended for applications requiring fast data access.
- Synology SNV3400 Series M.2 2280 NVMe SSD: Provides the highest performance and is perfect for RAID 0 configurations[2].

Installing and Configuring Drives

Physical Installation:

Ensure the drives are properly installed in the drive bays of your DS1621+. The DS1621+ has six hot-swappable drive bays, making it easy to add or replace drives.
Use the screws provided to secure the drives firmly.

Initial Setup:

Connect your DS1621+ to your network and power it on.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install the DiskStation Manager (DSM) software.
Once DSM is installed, you can access your NAS through a web browser.

Creating a RAID 0 Volume:

Log in to DSM and navigate to the “Storage Manager.”
Select “Create” and choose “RAID Group.”
Select the drives you want to include in your RAID 0 configuration and follow the prompts to complete the setup.
Note that RAID 0 does not provide any redundancy, so data loss is a risk if any drive fails. Always ensure you have a backup strategy in place.

Optimizing Network and Storage Performance

Upgrading Networking

To fully utilize the high-performance capabilities of your RAID 0 setup, you need a robust network infrastructure.

10GbE Networking:
The DS1621+ supports 10GbE networking, which can significantly improve data transfer speeds. You can install a 10GbE network interface card (NIC) such as the Synology E10G21-F2 or E10G30-T2 to take advantage of this feature[2].
Example Configuration:
If you are using a DS1621+ with four SSDs in a RAID 0 configuration, you can achieve speeds that saturate a 10GbE connection, especially when using SSDs as they offer much faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard drives[1].

Utilizing SSD Cache

In addition to RAID 0, using SSD cache can further enhance performance.

SSD Cache Modes:
There are two main modes for SSD cache: read-only and read-write. Read-only cache is safer and can be used with RAID configurations like RAID 1 or RAID 0, while read-write cache adds complexity but can provide even higher performance[1].
Example Setup:
You can configure NVMe SSDs as a cache for your storage pool. This setup allows you to leverage the high speed of NVMe drives to accelerate data access and improve overall system performance.

Managing Memory and CPU Resources

Memory Optimization

Memory (RAM) plays a crucial role in the performance of your NAS, especially when running multiple applications simultaneously.

Memory Upgrade:
The DS1621+ supports up to 32GB of DDR4 memory. Upgrading the memory can significantly improve performance, especially if your NAS is running at high memory usage levels (e.g., above 80%)[1].
Practical Advice:
Think of memory like a gas tank. If you’re running low, adding more memory will help, but if you’re already within a comfortable range (e.g., 50-60% usage), the benefits may be less noticeable.

Environmental and Power Considerations

Temperature and Humidity

Ensuring your NAS operates within optimal temperature and humidity ranges is crucial for its longevity and performance.

Optimal Conditions:
The DS1621+ operates best in temperatures between 5°C and 35°C (40°F to 95°F) and humidity levels between 5% and 95% (non-condensing)[2].
Cooling System:
The DS1621+ comes with two fans that help maintain optimal temperatures. Ensure good airflow around the device to prevent overheating.

Power Consumption

Power consumption is another important factor, especially if you are running your NAS 24/7.

Power Adapter:
The DS1621+ uses a 250W power adapter. Ensure you have a reliable power source and consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to protect against power outages[2].

Additional Tips for Video Editors

Backup Strategies

Given the lack of redundancy in RAID 0, having a solid backup strategy is essential.

Synology Active Protect Backup Appliance:
Consider using Synology’s Active Protect Backup Appliance, which offers cross-platform compatibility, tamperproof backups, and air gaps to protect against ransomware and unauthorized access[3].

Quick Installation and Setup

To get started quickly, here are some steps to follow:

- Connect your DS1621+ to your network.
- Install DSM and configure your RAID 0 volume.
- Install any necessary network upgrades (e.g., 10GbE NIC).
- Ensure proper cooling and power supply.
- Set up your backup strategy.

Comparative Analysis: Synology DS1621+ vs Other NAS Devices

Here is a comparative table highlighting key features of the Synology DS1621+ against another popular NAS device, the Netgear ReadyNAS:

Feature	Synology DS1621+	Netgear ReadyNAS RN628X
Drive Bays	6 x 3.5″ / 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD	8 x 3.5″ / 2.5″ SATA HDD/SSD
Memory	Up to 32GB DDR4	Up to 16GB DDR4
CPU	AMD Ryzen V1500B 4-core 2.2GHz	Intel Xeon E3-1225 v5 3.3GHz
RAID Support	RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, Synology Hybrid RAID	RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, 10
Network	2 x 1GbE, optional 10GbE	2 x 1GbE, optional 10GbE
Power Consumption	65W (HDD hibernation), 250W (max)	60W (HDD hibernation), 200W (max)
Form Factor	166mm x 230mm x 233mm	163mm x 280mm x 247mm
Warranty	5 years	5 years
Free Shipping	Varies by region	Varies by region
Storage RAID	Supports up to 108TB single volume	Supports up to 80TB single volume
Input Power	100-240V AC, 50/60Hz	100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
Temperature Humidity	5-35°C, 5-95% (non-condensing)	5-35°C, 5-95% (non-condensing)

Optimizing your Synology DS1621+ for high-performance video editing involves several key steps, from selecting the right drives and configuring RAID 0, to upgrading your network and managing memory resources. Here are some final practical insights:

Backup Regularly: Always have a backup strategy in place, especially when using RAID 0.
Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on your NAS’s performance metrics to ensure it’s running optimally.
Upgrade Wisely: Only upgrade components (like memory or networking) if it will significantly impact your workflow.
Ensure Proper Cooling: Maintain good airflow around your NAS to prevent overheating.

By following these steps and tips, you can unlock the full potential of your Synology DS1621+ and enjoy a seamless video editing experience.

Quotes and Expert Opinions

“Using SSDs in a RAID 0 configuration can provide a significant boost in performance, especially for video editing applications.” – WunderTech Consulting[1].
“The Synology DS1621+ is a powerful NAS device that, when properly configured, can handle demanding tasks like video editing with ease.” – Synology Knowledge Center[4].

Final Thoughts

In the world of video editing, having the right tools and configurations can make all the difference. The Synology DS1621+, when optimized with RAID 0 and other performance-enhancing features, stands out as a top choice for those seeking high-performance storage solutions. Whether you’re a professional editor or an enthusiast, this guide should help you unlock the superior video editing capabilities of your NAS.