WHAT IS A NETWORK RACK?
Network Racks are essentially frame structures used for housing standard 19″ rack-mount equipment-servers as well as other devices such as routers, UPS’ and audio/video gear. This allows for better organization as well as provides additional security and cable management all the while enabling better airflow to the mounted network devices.
WHERE ARE NETWORK RACKS COMMONLY USED?
Without question the majority are mainly found throughout company data centers and server rooms across the world. Additionally they can be found in audio/video installations, anywhere where there is a need to house telecoms equipment and in industrial environments such as factory floors.
WHAT SIZE DO I NEED?
The height of network racks is measured in what is known as “Rack Units” (1.75 inches, or 44.45mm). This means that typically when you are shopping for network rack you will see the Rack Unit amount displayed, as opposed to the actual height measurement. An example is shown below:
18U Network Server Rack Cabinet – 600mm X 600mm
In the example above the network rack is 18 Rack Units in height, this means it is approximately 31.5″ or 800mm tall. Always be sure to properly access amount of space you will require currently and in the future so as to avoid having to make additional purchases as your system expands.
WHICH TYPE OF NETWORK RACK DO I NEED?
This is entirely dependent on the type of environment and networking situation you find yourself in. That said, here is a simple break-down of the types and the various applications they are best suited too.
FLOOR STANDING CABINETS
These are great for organizing and secure networking, storage and telecom equipment within future or existing data centers, server rooms and network closets.
They are generally neater in appearance than Open Frames due to them being enclosed, devices are generally accessible via locked doors and panels around the enclosure.
WALL MOUNT CABINETS
A particular type of rack enclosure which is specifically designed to be mounted on wall as opposed the floors standing rack enclosures. This is great if you are looking to save on floor space as these usually considerably smaller.
They are primarily found in places with limited space, a good example of which would be classrooms or smaller offices.
