Where to start when choosing a server rack?
The market offers various models of server furniture. So, before you head out to buy a rack, bear in mind that you’ll need to do some preparation first. Below, you’ll find a guide to buying a server rack.
It involves several steps:
- Make a list of the devices, that will be installed in the racks. The enclosure size and model will depend on the amount of hardware you need to fit and the scale of your business.
- Think about how you’ll install it. Will you place it on the floor or mount it on the wall? Will you need to move it around?
Note that most modern models are mobile and come with casters.
Server rack specifications
A server rack is a sturdy metal structure with 2 or 4 vertical posts and no side panels. The posts have mounting holes for attaching equipment.
Advantages of server furniture
The open-frame design lets air circulate freely, improving cooling and maintaining optimal conditions both inside and outside the rack. Air flows through the operating devices, exchanges heat, and keeps the equipment from overheating, ensuring uninterrupted operation.
Equipment is easy to install, replace, and maintain. With no side panels in the way, service personnel can access devices from any side. That means you can replace or repair individual components without taking the whole system apart.
Easy to disassemble and transport. Compact equipment layout and ergonomics. Thanks to the multi-tier design, dozens or even hundreds of components can fit into a relatively small area. Cable management is convenient, and cords are easy to route. Note that there are different types of racks on the market.
Let’s take a closer look.
Types of server furniture
There are several groups, classified according to different criteria. In terms of the number of posts, open-frame racks can be divided into two-post and four-post models. Products with 2 posts are more compact and smaller. They’re designed to hold fewer devices. 4-post products are larger and can accommodate huge systems comprising dozens of servers, switches, and so on. Some racks have removable side panels, allowing system administrators to protect devices from dust and install these models in public areas. Another classification divides racks into floor-standing and wall-mounted models. Depending on the installation type, open-frame models can be attached to a wall with special anchors or placed on the floor. The latter are mobile and come with wheels.
Server rack dimensions
To choose the best network rack, you need to get the enclosure size right.
You need to consider three dimensions:
- width,
- depth,
- height.
Note that the height of server furniture is measured in units (U). One unit is 1,75 inches. So when you see a designation like «24U» in a server rack’s name, it indicates its height (24*1,75). To work out the height you need, measure your devices and add up the height of all the equipment. Width and depth are usually standardized.
Several types of products are available. The depth of server furniture ranges from 400 to 1200 mm. As for width, most cabinets come in two common sizes: 600 and 800 mm. To calculate the dimensions you need, measure your hardware too and add up the figures.
Here’s one important thing to keep in mind.
When deciding on the right model, don’t forget to leave some extra space. System administrators know one important rule: never cram equipment right up against the rack/cabinet. Equipment should be placed with room to spare, leaving space for air circulation and future system expansion. So, once you’ve taken all the measurements and have your final figures, add a few centimeters to each dimension. To make this process easier and get accurate measurements, it’s a good idea to create a 3D layout of the equipment. This will help identify any issues, adjust device placement, and achieve ideal ergonomics.
Server rack accessories
Equipment is attached to the special mounting holes on the posts. However, you can use additional tools to organize the system more conveniently and efficiently.
These include:
- lockable drawers; shelves;
- power strips;
- cable management tools;
- patch panels.
General tips for choosing a server rack
Let’s briefly recap the information above. Here’s a list of things to consider when choosing the best server rack.
- Make a list of the devices you need to fit. It’s a good idea to make a layout.
- Measure the equipment and choose the right size by calculating the dimensions.
- Choose the right model. Depending on where you plan to install it, choose an open-frame model or a rack with side panels.
Consider your cooling strategy.
Think about fans or other types of ventilation systems.
Cooling is an essential part of any network system. If you don’t maintain optimal environmental conditions, the system will fail quickly. Choose accessories if needed.
While large data centers are found at major enterprises, even a home infrastructure needs a small rack. So, choosing the right server rack is something everyone can benefit from. It calls for special attention and careful planning. If your calculations are off, the rack won’t be any use. So measure twice and plan ahead.
