The new DiskStation DS1010+ 5-bay Networked Attached Storage device is only the first in a series of new storage devices and upgrades expected from Synology in the first half of 2010.Synology DS1010+

Designed to replace PC file servers or other storage devices on small business or branch-office networks, the DiskStation DS1010+ is distinguished by write speeds 2.5x times faster than the DS509+ it replaces. The separate DX510 Expansion Enclosure allows up to 10 bays with a total storage capacity of 20 TB. Powered by an Intel Atom Dual-Core Processor D510, the unit has 2 Gigabit LAN ports, 4 USB ports, and 1 GB RAM, expandable to 3 GB.

Earlier this year, Synology debuted the entry-level single bay DS110J. In February, Synology plans to add the 2-bay DS710+, which can also use the DX510 expanion module. Rack mounted NAS devices are also on tap for later this year.

And on January 25, the company will release the beta of the latest version of its disk management software. The Web-based DiskStation Manger (DSM) 2.3 will offer hybrid RAID to manage different-size disks in the same box, a new router assistant wizard, shared folder encryption, wizard-based cloud backup (including Amazon S3), and wake-on LAN capability to save energy. In addition, DSM 2.3 makes interface improvements to many Synology apps, including File Station 3, Surveillance Station 4, Photo Station 4, Audio Station 2, and Download Station. There's even an iPhone app to view video from Surveillance Station 4 on the go. The software will be available for free download to all DiskStation users.

According to Heather Morford, Synology's director of marketing and PR, the new products demonstrate the maturity of the NAS category. NAS makes it easier for small business to manage and configure servers and storage because it's "all in one box."

Synology sells its products through a network of distributors, and direct from Amazon and New Egg. Prices for the DS1010+ start at $999 with no disks, and run up to $1799 complete with 5 1-TB disks.

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