siabs

Hi, I am an old time Synology user. My first DS207+ unit died shortly after it was no longer supported in newer versions of DSM. Now I am looking to make that unit operational again using a new SBC, new disks and XPEnology. The plan is to get most of the existing external controls and connectors operational again. The biggest challenge is to find an STB with suitable dimensions, power characteristics and IO capabilities. The UP-squared board is a great candidate as is the GA-SBCAP3350. The simplest integration looks to be the SBCAP3350 as it has two internal SATA connectors and dual SATA power. The board is fairly power efficient and uses a single DC power input, so it can be powered from the external power unit. The SBC supports 4 USB ports and has two PCIe internal connectors for possible other IO boards. The SRC also supports a case fan, and various front panel lights and switches, similar to the one on the DS207+. I have been doing hardware projects from time to time both professionally and privately. My first hardware project was more than 30 years ago. I have designed PCB's, written various unix device drivers and designed a few VLSI chips. The main goal of the project is to see if it is possible to make an old unit operational again, retaining the old school looks but with updated internals.