Synology RackStation RS812 Review

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.

The little 40mm fans in the RS812 are audible most of the time, however a rackmount NAS system is likely to be kept inside a dedicated I.T. room with air conditioning. Noise emissions in this environment really aren't as critical and unavoidable due to the chassis dimensions.

The RS812 isn't a power hungry NAS system, demanding only 15 watts when idling. When all four hard drives are active the system takes around 40 watts at the socket.

The cooling performance of RS812 is excellent, with a high volume of air being pushed through the chassis.

Become a Patron!