Compared to the previous DS211 – the DS212 has a different method of getting inside the unit and installing HDDs. In order to get inside the DS212, the front fascia has to be removed. To remove a tray the tap at the top must be pressed down and then the handle pulled back.
Front fascia removed to install HDDs
Once removed, there are 2x HDD trays. 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 DS212 and the SATA connection ports meet the back of the unit and activate connectivity.
HDD trays allow 2.5” and 3.5” HDD installation
Unfortunately there is no obvious way to get at the PCB and take a look at the components. But I can confirm the DS212
• CPU Frequency: 1.6GHz
• Hardware Encrypted Engine
• Memory: DDR3 256MB
• Internal HDD/SSD: 3.5" or 2.5" SATA(II) X2
• Max Internal Capacity: 6TB (2X 3TB HDD)
There are no noticeable changes underneath the hood. The DS211 has exactly the same specifications in terms of hardware componentry. The only hardware changes are the addition of USB 3.0 ports.
