Background

I originally bought my NAS for storage but Synology makes very flexible NAS equipment with a powerful GUI and Linux OS. This make a perfect low power linux server with possibilities to host docker containers etc. The CPU of this NAS DS415+ is quite powerful but the built in memory is a limitation. After hosting a couple of Docker container the memory utilization reached 70%.

Memory utilization before memory upgrade

After some investigation on the net I found out what memory type the NAS uses: DDR3L SODIMM 204pin modules. The guides I found opened the case by bending the two halves and by doing so risking to break the locking mechanism. After studying the case I found how it is locked together. Below is a step by step guide on howto open the case and replace the memory.

What do you need?

One DDR3L SODIMM 8GB memory module. I used a Crucial 8GB DDR3L 1600 (PC3L-12800) SODIMM 204 Pin Memory with partnumber: CT102464BF160B
Screw dirver phillips head
ESD matt – Optional but good for protection
ESD wristband

Disassembly of case – step by step

Disclaimer: Replacing memory module will probably void warranty. If some steps are not done carefully you can cause damage to the unit. Take measures to protect the electronics from ESD.
Finally don’t blame me if you brake it!

Remove cover plate in front of disks
Mark each disk with corresponding number in array to ensure that they are note switched
Mark each disk in array with corresponding number to avoid mixing
Remove all disks and cover plates
Turn the case around
Remove the screws holding the case and USB board assemby
Remove the two screws locking the case marked in orange and the screw holding the USB assembly marked in red.
Turn the case around and locate the locking hinges on the left side wall when looking inside the drive bay.
After locating the hinges. Push the hinges while pulling the aluminum bar. Once the hinges are free from the bar it is possible to slide the left part of the cover backwards
Once the bar is lifted above the plastic locks its possible to slide the left part of the case backwards
Slide the left side of the case backwards then the locking is released
Carefully remove the cover from the drive bay
Remove the four screws holding the drive bay
Remove the four screw holding the drive bay (two on each side)
Remove the screw interconnecting the USB assembly to the drive bay
Remove the screw holding the USB assembly to the drive bay
Remove the drive bay
Drive bay removed
Carefully remove the USB assembly by lifting it strait up. Make sure no cables are detached. Hang the board over the edge of the case.
USB assembly removed and hung over the edge of the case
Now its time to remove the four remaining screws holing the CPU board to the case
Remove the screws holding the CPU board in place
Very gently remove the CPU board by holding the metal frame – Avoid touching the board. NOTE: be carefull if there is a tape between the network connector and the back of the case.
Locate the memory chip and remove it by pushing the metal levers holding it inside the socket.
Replace the memory module by releasing the metal locking on each side and gently lift the module
Reverse the steps above to reassemble the case