NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU RAID Arrays: Identifying and Recovering from Mechanical and Logical Failures

Has your NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU suddenly lost its network drive and you’re unsure what to do next? Did the RAID array collapse, making your files inaccessible? Is the device throwing errors during startup? Perhaps you accidentally rebuilt the RAID array or several hard drives failed at the same time?

NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU RAID Arrays: Identifying and Recovering from Mechanical and Logical Failures
Data Recovery Tool

QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS Data Recovery in 2025

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to rebuild your RAID and recover data from an Turbo Station TS-1253BU. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU RAID Arrays: Identifying and Recovering from Mechanical and Logical Failures

RAID Recovery™ 2.8
Recover data from damaged RAID arrays inaccessible from a computer.
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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 QNAP 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.

Can the use of redundant power supplies reduce the chances of data loss on NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU devices?

Yes, using redundant power supplies can help reduce the chances of data loss on NAS QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU devices. Redundant power supplies provide backup power in case one of the power supplies fails, ensuring uninterrupted operation of the device. This reduces the risk of sudden power loss, which can lead to data corruption or loss. By having redundant power supplies, the NAS device can continue functioning even if one power supply fails, minimizing the chances of data loss.

How to Remove Hard Disks from Your NAS and Connect Them to a PC

Although the NAS Turbo Station TS-1253BU 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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Label each hard disk according to its position inside the NAS. The order of the drives is crucial for correct RAID reconstruction.

  4. 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.

    Go to view
    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

    How to Order Remote Data Recovery

Step-by-Step Data Recovery with Hetman RAID Recovery

Hetman Raid Recovery

This program restores data from damaged RAID arrays and is fully compatible with QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU. 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.

Go to view
How to recover data from a QNAP

How to recover data from a QNAP

Turbo Station TS-1253BU has 12 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 50;
  • RAID 60;
  • RAID 5;
  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 10;
  • RAID 0;
  • RAID 1;
  • JBOD;

NAS supports:

  • ZFS;
  • EXT4;
  • EXT3;
  • exFAT;
  • FAT32 (External Disk Only);
  • NTFS (External Disk Only);
  • HFS+ (External Disk Read Only);

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:

  1. Ensure you have enough free space to store the image. Its size will typically match the size of the original disk.

  2. In the main window, select the target disk and choose Tools - Save Disk. You can also select multiple disks if needed.

  3. 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.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Image Creation Wizard

  4. 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.

    Hetman RAID Recovery: Choose a disk or save the image via FTP

Where Are the User’s Files Actually Stored?

The QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU network-attached storage keeps QTS (QuTS hero) 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

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 9.08.2022 12:31 #
    If you want to ask a question about data recovery, from NAS Turbo Station TS-1253BU, feel free to leave a comment!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • How can I check for and install software updates on my QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS?

    To check for and install software updates on your QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS, you can follow these steps:

    1. Log in to the QTS (QNAP Turbo Station) web interface by entering the IP address of your NAS in a web browser. For example, http://NAS_IP_ADDRESS/.
    2. Enter your login credentials (username and password) to access the QTS management interface.
    3. Once logged in, click on the "App Center" icon on the desktop or navigate to "App Center" from the main menu.
    4. In the "App Center," you will find various categories of applications and utilities. Look for the "Updates" section, which may be located on the left-hand side or in the top menu bar.
    5. Click on the "Updates" section to view the available updates for your installed applications and firmware.
    6. If there are any updates available, you will see a list of applications and firmware versions that can be updated. Check the boxes next to the items you want to update or click on the "Select All" button to update everything.
    7. Click on the "Update" button to start the update process. The system will download and install the updates automatically.
    8. Once the updates are installed, you may be prompted to restart your NAS. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update process.
    9. After restarting, log back in to the QTS web interface and verify that the updates have been successfully installed.

    Note: It is recommended to backup your data before performing any updates to ensure the safety of your files and configurations.

  • What are the benefits of regularly updating the software on my QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS?

    There are several benefits to regularly updating the software on your QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS:

    1. Security patches: Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities and protect your NAS from potential threats. By regularly updating the software, you ensure that your NAS is equipped with the latest security measures.
    2. Bug fixes: Updates also address any bugs or issues that may have been discovered in the previous software version. These fixes can improve the stability and performance of your NAS, ensuring smooth operation and minimizing potential problems.
    3. New features and enhancements: Software updates often bring new features, functionalities, and improvements to your NAS. These additions can enhance the overall user experience, provide additional capabilities, and introduce new compatibility with third-party applications.
    4. Compatibility with new devices and technologies: As technology evolves, software updates ensure that your NAS remains compatible with the latest devices, protocols, and technologies. This allows you to seamlessly integrate new hardware or software into your NAS ecosystem.
    5. Extended product lifespan: By keeping your NAS software up to date, you extend the overall lifespan of your device. Regular updates ensure that your NAS remains relevant and supported by the manufacturer, reducing the risk of obsolescence.
    6. Access to technical support: When seeking technical support for your NAS, manufacturers often require that you are running the latest software version. By keeping your software updated, you ensure that you can easily access technical support and assistance when needed.

    Overall, regularly updating the software on your QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS is crucial for maintaining security, stability, performance, and compatibility, while also benefiting from new features and improvements.

  • Are there any precautions or considerations I should keep in mind before performing a software update on my QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS?

    Before performing a software update on your QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS, there are a few precautions and considerations you should keep in mind:

    1. Backup your data: It is always recommended to back up your important data before performing any software update. Although rare, there is a possibility of data loss during the update process.
    2. Check compatibility: Ensure that the software update you are planning to install is compatible with your specific model of QNAP NAS. Check the QNAP website or contact their support team for confirmation.
    3. Read release notes: Carefully read the release notes and changelog for the software update. This will provide information about the changes, bug fixes, and any known issues associated with the update.
    4. Stable network connection: Make sure your NAS has a stable network connection during the update process. Interruptions or network failures during the update can lead to incomplete or corrupted updates.
    5. Sufficient power supply: Ensure that your NAS has a stable power supply during the update. A sudden power outage or insufficient power can cause problems during the update process.
    6. Allow ample time: Software updates can take some time to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the update. Plan accordingly and avoid interrupting the update process once it has started.
    7. Check for firmware compatibility: If your NAS is running a custom firmware or has been modified in any way, ensure that the software update is compatible with it. Modifying the firmware can sometimes cause compatibility issues with official updates.
    8. Check for app compatibility: If you have installed third-party applications or services on your NAS, verify their compatibility with the new software update. Some apps may require updates or modifications to work correctly with the new firmware.
    9. Seek professional assistance if required: If you are unsure about any aspect of the software update process, it is recommended to seek assistance from QNAP support or a qualified professional to avoid any potential issues or complications.

    By considering these precautions and taking necessary steps, you can minimize the risk and ensure a smooth software update for your QNAP Turbo Station TS-1253BU NAS.
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