The Ideal Way To Select A Server Rack

Server cabinets and racks are used to store different IT equipment including monitors and servers. They allow vertical storage of a hardware, thus enabling greater storage space. Also, a server cabinet allows easier system management, offers increased protections and security and enables a more aesthetic hardware setup. Server cabinets and racks come in a wide range of shapes, styles and sizes and also, there are many other related components and accessories to choose from. Selecting a server cabinet is the most important part of the designing process. In order to choose the right server rack for your equipment, here are several elements you should keep in mind.

How Will You Use The Server Cabinet? – Before you begin your search for the right server cabinet, know exactly how you will use the server cabinet and set a budget. Ask yourself, what equipment will the server cabinet hold, how will all devices be connected and what are the cooling and power requirements needed for your equipment? Answers to these questions will help you choose the righr server cabinet. Also, think in terms of possible upgrade. Invest in a server cabinet that has spare capacity, which means as your business grows, you will not have to replace it with a new server cabinet.

Server Rack Size And Weight – Big or small server rack? If you are not sure how to choose the right server rack size, consider the following three factors:

• The size of the room the server cabinet will be stored in
• Type of equipment
• The amount of space the installed devices will need

Server cabinets and racks heights are measured in “U” which is a standard measurement unit for rackmount equipment. Also, aside from the server rack size, do not overlook the weight element. You need to know the weights of all devices to ensure the server rack size you’ve selected will be able handle the load.

Server Cabinet Ventilation – Servers and other electronic equipment usually heat. Just how hot your IT devices can be, depends on type and the number of installed devices. The temperature of the room is also important because if the room is too hot, then the cooling fans have to work more. Therefore, when looking for a server cabinet, choose the one that provides good ventilation. It should have vents or grills to allow airflow through the structure.

Security – Whether a large or small server rack, it comes with a metal chassis for better holding. If you need better protection for your equipment, panels or lockable doors can restrict access to unauthorized personnel. Server rack cabinets with tempered glass doors or screened panels offer a great balance between easy viewing and security.

Accessories – There are various server rack accessories which can help you customize the cabinet to meet your specific requirements:

• Panels – provide a protection from the above or either sides.
• Doors – available for both the rear and the front of the server cabinet.
• Shelves – used to hold any IT equipment that can not be mounted on server cabinets.
• Cable management – these accessories are designed to route cables around the cabinet.
• Power distribution units – they comes in two types, intelligent and standard.
• Fans – there are two types of fans available, rack mounted and roof mounted.
• Cabinet feet, casters and levellers – these accessories greatly improve the stability and mobility of your server cabinet.

Hopefully we simplified the process of selecting a server cabinet for your IT equipment. Stick to this simple guide to ensure you choose the server rack that best suits your IT requirements.