Features of Good Server Rack and Computer Server Racks

1. Features of Good Server Rack and Computer Server Racks It is common for management in a smaller company to OK new servers and somehow forgets they need to go somewhere. We get frantic calls daily from customers saying they need a server rack or cabinet for their new hardware. This is where things can get a bit dicey. Many of today's servers are blade servers, and they can be from 29-42 inches deep. They also run hot and are very noisy. One Network Manager said he thought he was sitting on the wing of a propeller-driven plane it was so loud! Since blade servers pull air from the front and blow it out the back, a quality server rack cabinet will require special venting for airflow. If you need a secure cabinet, the front and rear doors should be mesh or perforated. This allows you to lock the doors and still be able to see your hardware. Depending on your room, you may also want to install a fan for extra air movement. Many servers use mounting brackets with a flange that fits in a square hole on the rack rails of a cabinet or rack. The cabinet you choose must have this type of rack rail. There are other types of server racks referred to as 4-post server racks. In most cases, they are a frame that has 2-sets of vertical square holed rack rails that adjust in depth. Some of the better 4- post racks can adjust from 26-42 inches deep. This is a very functional low-cost way to put your hardware on. Some key things to consider when choosing a server rack are: Depth of hardware including depth of cables attached Do you need an open rack or enclosed locking cabinet Is noise a concern for the location Will you need a fan Do you need blank panels to help direct airflow Will you have special cabling applications What type powerstrip, PDU, do you need What is the ambient temperature for location Do you need any temperature or humidity sensors Will you be using a keyboard, monitor or KVM As you can see, there are many considerations to choosing the best server rack for your applications. A quality rack or cabinet can accommodate the above considerations. That being said, one of the biggest mistakes is buying a server rack cabinet that is not deep enough.