
- Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID
- Key Information About the NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5200D0602
- How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC
Why Regular Data Recovery Tools Can’t Restore Files from RAID
Conventional hard drives store user data by writing it sequentially across the disk surface, which means an entire file is typically located on a single drive. In contrast, when data is written to a RAID array, each file is split into multiple fragments. These fragments are then distributed and written in sequence across all the drives in the array. Depending on the configuration, fragment sizes can range from 2 KB to 2 MB, so every file is physically stored across several disks at once.
This approach significantly increases read and write performance — after all, writing two halves of a 1 GB file to two drives simultaneously is much faster than writing the full 1 GB to a single disk. However, this same mechanism makes file recovery far more complex.
Different RAID levels use different methods to distribute and protect data. On top of that, manufacturers like Buffalo often add their own proprietary structures and variations. As a result, data can be written to disks in many different formats, and each requires a specific approach during recovery.
Are there any specific factors to consider when choosing a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5200D0602 device to minimize data loss risks?
Yes, there are several factors to consider when choosing a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5200D0602 device to minimize data loss risks. Here are some key considerations:
- Redundancy: Look for a NAS device that supports RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations. RAID can provide data redundancy by distributing data across multiple drives, reducing the risk of data loss if one drive fails. The TS5200D0602 supports RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 6, 10, and JBOD.
- Backup options: Ensure that the NAS device offers backup options to safeguard your data. Look for features like scheduled backups, remote replication, and support for external USB drives for additional backup storage.
- Power protection: Consider a NAS device that comes with a built-in uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or supports connection to an external UPS. Power outages or surges can lead to data corruption or loss, so having power protection can minimize these risks.
- Data encryption: If data security is a concern, choose a NAS device that supports data encryption. The TS5200D0602 has AES 256-bit encryption capabilities, which can help protect your data from unauthorized access.
- Scalability: Consider your future storage needs and choose a NAS device that allows for easy expansion. The TS5200D0602 supports up to 12 drives, allowing you to increase storage capacity as your needs grow.
- User access controls: Look for a NAS device that offers robust user access controls, allowing you to define user permissions and restrict access to sensitive data. This can help prevent accidental deletion or unauthorized modifications.
- Fault tolerance: Consider a NAS device with features like hot-swappable drives and hot spare functionality. These features allow for easy drive replacement in case of failure without downtime, reducing the risk of data loss.
- Data recovery options: In the event of data loss, having options for data recovery is crucial. Check if the NAS device offers any data recovery tools or supports third-party data recovery services.
By considering these factors, you can minimize the risks of data loss when choosing a NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5200D0602 device.
How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC
Although the NAS TeraStation TS5200D0602 can be accessed over the network, you still need to remove its hard disks and connect them directly to a Windows PC. Only then can the recovery software properly scan and analyze the drives. Follow these steps:
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Power off the NAS and disconnect it from the power source.
WARNING! Before removing any drives, carefully read the device manual. Improper actions may damage both the NAS enclosure and the hard disks in the RAID array.
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Remove the hard disks one by one, gently sliding each drive out of its slot. Remember that hard disks are highly sensitive: any impact or drop can cause serious physical damage.
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Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.
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Connect the drives to your computer. In this video, we explain which ports you can use to connect hard disks and what to do if your PC does not have enough free connectors.
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Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with Buffalo TeraStation TS5200D0602. Each hard disk in the array contains technical metadata describing how files were written. When launched, Hetman RAID Recovery analyzes this metadata, automatically reconstructs the damaged array, and provides access to its contents. After that, you can browse the recovered disk and save your files. The program can also restore files that were accidentally deleted from the network drive.
How to recover data from a Buffalo
TeraStation TS5200D0602 has 1 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:
- RAID 0;
- RAID 1;
- JBOD;
NAS supports:
- exFAT, VFAT, FAT 12 / 16 / 32;
- NTFS / ReFS;
- APFS / HFS+;
- Ext2 / 3 / 4 / ReiserFS / XFS / UFS / ZFS / Btrfs;
- VMFS / HikvisionFS;
How to Safely Recover Data from Disk Images
This utility allows you to create a complete copy of a disk and work with the disk image instead of the physical drive. This approach helps protect your data from:
- Overwriting during the recovery process;
- Additional data loss caused by bad sectors;
- User errors.
To create a disk image, follow these steps:
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Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.
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In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.
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When the Image Creation Wizard opens, select whether you want to save the entire disk or only a specific region. Adjust the settings and click Next.

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Choose the directory where the image will be saved. You may select any available disk connected to your PC or upload the image via FTP.

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?
The Buffalo TeraStation TS5200D0602 network-attached storage keeps OS Linux operating system files on a separate RAID 1 (mirrored) array. Usually, all NAS systems create several volumes on every hard disk, and the first of them takes up to 2 Gb of space. This is where operating system files are stored. Other volumes are united into a RAID array where user’s data is written.
RAID Recovery Software: Detailed Comparison
| Product | Operating system | RAID controller support | Supported file systems | Virtual RAID controller support | Data recovery from damaged RAID | File preview |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hetman RAID Recovery | Windows, Linux, MacOS | Yes, over 100 controllers | FAT, exFAT, NTFS, ReFS, APFS, HFS+, Ext4, Ext3, Ext2, ReiserFS, Btrfs, VMFS, Hikvision, XFS, UFS, ZFS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| DiskInternals RAID Recovery | Windows | Yes, over 10 controllers | FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ | No | Yes | Yes |
| R-Studio | Windows, Mac, Linux | Yes, over 20 controllers | FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| UFS Explorer RAID Recovery | Windows, Mac, Linux | Yes, over 100 controllers | FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| EaseUS Data Recovery | Windows | Yes, over 20 controllers | FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ | No | Yes | Yes |
| ReclaiMe Free RAID Recovery | Windows | Yes, over 100 controllers | FAT, NTFS, Ext2/3/4, HFS+ | Yes | Yes | Yes |


Yes, there are specific techniques used in data recovery from NAS Buffalo TeraStation TS5200D0602 devices with RAID configurations. Here are a few common techniques:
It's important to note that data recovery from RAID configurations can be a complex and delicate process. It is recommended to consult with a professional data recovery specialist or contact Buffalo's technical support for specific guidance and assistance.