Question 1

Can i use it as a standalone RAID expansion unit for my windows PC?

Accepted Answer

No this Expansion unit can only be attached to a Synology Controler like the DS1515 plus or so.

Question 2

How much ram in DX517 unit?

Accepted Answer

As far as I know there is no ram in the Expansion unit.  It is just an extension of the main unit that has ram options.  FYI, expanding a current volume can take quite sime time depending on the size of the disks.  Not a negative thing, but more of an expectation set

Question 3

Is the Synology DX517 R easy to set up?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Synology 5 Bay Expansion Unit DX517 is regarded as easy to set up.

Question 4

Does the Synology DX517 R offer a single management interface?

Accepted Answer

The DX517 is just an expansion unit.  It does not do anything on its own.  You have to use it in conjunction with another unit, which is the main NAS.  It provides the management interface to establish the drives in the expansion box as part of the whole.  You should also be aware that Synology has a new support policy in place.  If the drives you are using are NOT on their compatibility list, they will not function properly in this or any other 2025 or newer Synology device.  I had to return this exact unit just a week ago, because it would not fully support the disks that I had in an older Synology device.  Most of the supported disks are Synology branded and quite expensive.  Just FYI.

Question 5

What is the difference between the dx513 and the dx517?

Accepted Answer

DX517 is only compatible with DiskStation models since the 17-series as are listed above. DX517 and DX513 cannot be used interchangeably.

DX517 used with DS918+, DS718+, NVR1218, DS1817+, DS1517+, DS1817, DS1517 (Independent volumes only: DS218+)

DX513 used with DS1815+, DS1813+, DS1812+, DS1515+, DS1515, DS1513+, DS1512+, DS1511+, DS1010+, DS916+, DS716+, DS716+II, DS715, DS713+, DS712+, DS710+, NVR216 (Independent volumes only: DS415+, DS413, DS412+, DS216+, DS216+II, DS215+, DS214+, DS214play, DS213+, DS212+, DS115, DS114, DS112+, DS112)

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