System administrators perfectly know that it is impossible to design a data center without multi-layer cabinets and racks. These are two basic kinds of server furniture that allow accommodating dozens of network devices.
Nowadays, server cabinets are found in every office, public place, or even at home. The popularity is determined by the capability of housing a large number of devices designed for important datum storage. Here are the main reasons to use them.
Benefits of Server Racks
1. Convenient multi-layer designs allow housing a great number of hardware pieces.
2. Perfect ergonomics and space-saving are achieved since multi-layer constructions allow storing hundreds of devices in a relatively small area.
3. Improved equipment security. Server furniture is produced from durable metal sheets. Hardware is fastened to rack posts or installed on mounting rails with high-load dowels to avoid movement and damage. Solid constructions, side panels, and lockable doors are designed to prevent unauthorized access and protect devices from external impacts.
4. A wide range of models. There are products of any size, design, and way of installation.
5. Perfect air conditioning. Open-frame racks provide sufficient natural airflow circulation between functioning units cooling them. Free standing data racks with removable panels use perforated doors and walls to allow the air to penetrate through solid panels.
6. Easy maintenance. The staff can access any device easily from any side without disassembling an entire system.
7. An adjustable depth due to which it is possible to make the back longer or shorter and place more or less equipment.
8. Convenient cable routing. Server furniture has all the needed tech holes. Thus, wires go through special holes in the body.
Although shells are solid, system administrators require additional tools to ensure hardware security or simplify the process of assembly or operation. Thus, various server rack accessories are applied. Here are the most common ones.
TOP Accessories for Open-frame Furniture
- Side panel kits. These include removable sidewalls and doors that can be additionally installed on vertical posts to protect operating equipment from debris and dust. Metal panels prevent all sorts of debris flying in the air from entering the cage and accumulating on fans and other parts of a functioning system.
- Air dams. This is a supplementary device of the ventilation system that allows controlling the volume of air coming from the ventilation system and prevents the airflow from moving through the air duct in the opposite direction after the system is turned off. This detail is not the main one in the system, but it also plays an important role. The essence of the operation is to close the valves attached to the axis on which they rotate after the system is turned off.
- Rack top kits. When side panels and doors are applied, there is also a need to use a top panel to protect devices from all sides. This accessory also has a protective function. It has two main purposes. Firstly, it keeps hardware secure. Secondly, it does not allow debris to pass through the enclosure.
- Vertical cable management bars. Dozens or even hundreds of robs and wires enter a server rack. Keeping them untidy and mismanaged will lead to tangling and significantly hardening maintenance works. Special bars allow keeping cables organized and improve the airflow.
- Caster kits. Most floor-standing models are equipped with durable wheels that are able to withstand high loads and make racks movable and portable.
- Button mount adapter. Buttons are used to control the system and its processes. However, there are no holes designed for button mounting on racks. This accessory helps mount buttons to rack posts.
Server racks are a convenient and effective solution for any office or enterprise. They support computing hardware and allow storing devices ergonomically. Lots of accessories are designed to simplify the operating process and improve the comfort of use.