What to Do When Your NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 RAID Array Fails: Recovery Steps When It Breaks

Has your NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 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?

What to Do When Your NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 RAID Array Fails: Recovery Steps When It Breaks

QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 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 TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2. We’ll walk through the most common causes of failure and demonstrate proven methods to restore files from a lost or degraded RAID array.

What to Do When Your NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 RAID Array Fails: Recovery Steps When It Breaks

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.

What is a NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 (Network Attached Storage) device?

The QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 is a high-end Network Attached Storage (NAS) device designed for businesses and enterprises. It provides a centralized storage solution for storing, managing, and sharing data across a network.

Key features of the QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 include:

  1. High Performance: It is equipped with a powerful Intel Xeon E3 quad-core processor, up to 64GB DDR4 RAM, and supports SAS drives. This ensures fast data processing and high-speed file transfers.
  2. Scalability: The device offers a high storage capacity with 16 drive bays, allowing for flexible expansion as the storage needs of the business grow. It also supports RAID configurations for data redundancy and protection.
  3. Connectivity and Data Transfer: It provides multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for network connectivity and supports various network protocols. It also has USB 3.0 and SAS ports for connecting external devices and achieving high-speed data transfer.
  4. Advanced Data Protection: The TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 offers advanced data protection features such as snapshot technology, which allows users to quickly recover files or revert to a previous state in case of accidental deletion or data corruption.
  5. Virtualization Support: It is compatible with virtualization platforms such as VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft Hyper-V, enabling businesses to deploy virtual machines and utilize the NAS as a storage repository for virtual environments.
  6. High Availability and Redundancy: The device supports dual power supplies and redundant fans, ensuring high availability and minimizing the risk of system downtime.
  7. Comprehensive Software Features: QNAP provides a range of software applications and features for data management, backup and recovery, remote access, surveillance, and more. These applications can be easily installed and managed through the QTS operating system.

Overall, the QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 is a robust and feature-rich NAS device designed to meet the demanding storage requirements of businesses and enterprises.

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

Although the NAS TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 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 TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2. 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

TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 has 16 HDD slots, and it supports the following array types:

  • RAID 50;
  • RAID 60;
  • RAID 6;
  • RAID 5;
  • 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 TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 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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We will be happy to answer your questions!

Comments (3)

  • 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 TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2, feel free to leave a comment!
  • Roland Bluck
    Roland Bluck 15.09.2023 05:51 #
    Is it possible to recover data from a NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 device that has been affected by a file system corruption or partition error?
    • Hetman Software
      Hetman Software 15.09.2023 06:00 #

      Yes, it is possible to recover data from a NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 device that has been affected by file system corruption or partition error. However, the success of data recovery depends on the extent of the damage and the actions taken after the corruption or error occurred.

      Here are a few steps you can take to attempt data recovery:

      1. Contact QNAP Support: QNAP provides technical support for their devices and can guide you through the recovery process. They may suggest specific tools or methods to recover the data.
      2. Check for available backups: If you have a backup of the data stored on the NAS, you can restore it to a new device or repair the existing device using the backup files.
      3. Use QNAP recovery tools: QNAP provides various recovery tools, such as QNAP External RAID Recovery, QNAP RAID Recovery, or QNAP NAS Data Recovery. These tools can help recover data from a corrupted file system or partition.
      4. Seek professional data recovery services: If the above methods do not work or if the data is critical, you can contact professional data recovery services. These services specialize in recovering data from damaged storage devices and may have advanced techniques and equipment to handle complex cases.

      It is important to note that attempting any data recovery process carries some risks, and it is recommended to consult with experts or follow the instructions provided by QNAP support to minimize the chances of further data loss.

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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

  • What are the various file access security features offered by the NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2?

    The NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 offers several file access security features, including:

    1. Access Control List (ACL): Allows you to set permissions for individual users or groups, granting or denying access to specific files and folders.
    2. Windows Active Directory (AD) Integration: Enables the NAS to integrate with an existing Windows AD domain, allowing you to manage access permissions using AD user and group accounts.
    3. LDAP Server: Allows you to create an LDAP server on the NAS, providing centralized user account management and authentication.
    4. Shared Folder Encryption: Provides the ability to encrypt shared folders, ensuring that data stored within them is protected even if the hard drives are physically removed.
    5. IP Access Control: Allows you to restrict access to the NAS based on IP addresses, ensuring that only authorized devices can connect to it.
    6. HTTPS and SSL/TLS Encryption: Supports secure connections to the NAS using HTTPS, ensuring that data transmitted between the NAS and client devices is encrypted.
    7. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Provides an additional layer of security by requiring users to enter a second form of authentication, such as a verification code or fingerprint, when accessing the NAS.
    8. Antivirus Protection: Includes built-in antivirus software that can scan files and folders for malware, helping to prevent the spread of viruses and other malicious software.
    9. Network Access Protection: Offers various network access protection mechanisms, such as brute-force attack protection, IP blocking, and account protection, to enhance the security of the NAS.

    These features help to ensure that only authorized users can access the files and data stored on the NAS, protecting against unauthorized access and potential data breaches.

  • How does the NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 ensure secure file access for multiple users or groups?

    The NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 ensures secure file access for multiple users or groups through various mechanisms:

    1. User and Group Management: The NAS provides a comprehensive user and group management system, allowing administrators to create and manage multiple user accounts and groups. Each user can be assigned specific access permissions to shared folders, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access certain files.
    2. Access Control Lists (ACL): The NAS supports ACLs, which enable fine-grained control over file and folder permissions. Administrators can define access rights for individual users or groups, specifying whether they can read, write, or execute certain files or folders.
    3. Shared Folder Permissions: Each shared folder on the NAS can have its own set of permissions, allowing administrators to control access at a granular level. Permissions can be set to read-only or read-write, and specific users or groups can be granted or denied access.
    4. HTTPS and SSL/TLS Encryption: The NAS supports HTTPS for secure web access and SSL/TLS encryption for data transmission, ensuring that files are securely transferred between the NAS and users' devices.
    5. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The NAS supports 2FA, adding an extra layer of security to user logins. Users are required to provide a second verification method, such as a unique code generated by a mobile app, in addition to their password.
    6. IP Access Control: Administrators can restrict access to the NAS by specifying IP addresses or ranges that are allowed or denied access. This helps prevent unauthorized access from external networks.
    7. Antivirus and Malware Protection: The NAS comes with built-in antivirus and malware scanning capabilities, which can be scheduled to automatically scan files and folders for any potential threats. This helps protect the system and files from malicious activities.

    Overall, the NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 provides a range of security features to ensure secure file access for multiple users or groups, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access and potential threats.

  • Can you explain the role of encryption and authentication in maintaining file access security on the NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2?

    Encryption and authentication play crucial roles in maintaining file access security on the NAS QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2.

    1. Encryption: Encryption is the process of converting data into a form that is unreadable by unauthorized individuals. The QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 supports various encryption methods, such as AES-256, to secure files stored on the NAS. When encryption is enabled, all data stored on the NAS is encrypted, ensuring that even if the physical drives are stolen or accessed without authorization, the data remains unreadable. Encryption provides an additional layer of security for sensitive files and protects against unauthorized access.
    2. Authentication: Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of users or devices attempting to access the NAS. The QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 offers multiple authentication methods, including username/password, LDAP, Active Directory, and two-factor authentication (2FA). These authentication mechanisms ensure that only authorized users can access the files stored on the NAS. By requiring users to authenticate themselves before accessing files, the NAS prevents unauthorized individuals from gaining access to sensitive information.

    Additionally, the QNAP TVS-EC1680U-SAS-RP R2 provides advanced security features such as IP blocking, which allows administrators to block specific IP addresses or ranges from accessing the NAS, further enhancing file access security.