Network racks and server racks are structures used in data centers for storing IT equipment. The concept is similar to the one applied by cold aisle containment manufacturers. Here, the network racks are designed to maintain the temperatures in cold aisle containment units. The market features several types of network racks. Regardless of the kind of design, the products feature similar network rack configurations.
The basic network rack configurations
Before you start shopping for network racks, it would help if you knew of the following network rack configurations:
1. Doors
Free-standing or floor-standing network racks usually have doors at the front and rear. The doors are also customarily ventilated to allow for front-to-rear airflow. However, some network racks can also get configured without doors.
Additionally, in some cases, the rear doors may get split. This helps to reduce the level of clearance required for opening the doors completely. The same can be done to the front doors. However, this is not common.
In some instances, the front doors of network racks are usually made up of a glass window. The window allows you visual access to the contents of the network rack. However, this type of configuration is not quite popular because it reduces the airflow through the network cabinet.
2. Side panels
Typical network racks can be designed with or without side panels. Traditionally, modular side panels are usually split into two pieces. Each of the pieces is placed on each side of the network rack. The two pieces allow for easy network rack servicing.
More often than not, the side panels come with vents. Their role is to improve the cooling efficiency. The vents also help prevent hot air from recirculating through the rack sides. Additionally, ventilated side panels help maintain direct airflow through the network rack.
3. Roof panel
The best network racks come with a removable roof panel. The roof panel may come with several openings. Their role is to allow for easy cable access. In some cases, the roof may also come with attachment options for tasks like external cable management. Examples of these attachments are cable ladders and troughs.
4. Casters and levelers
A caster is a wheel, usually connected at the bottom of the network cabinet. Casters are used to allow easy movement of the network racks over short distances. On the other hand, levelers are sturdy feet used for supporting the network cabinet’s weight. The levelers also allow you to adjust the height of the cabinets when they are placed on uneven floors. Network racks with these configurations are typically easier to operate.
5. Locks
These are mechanisms used to lock the doors and side panels. They are responsible for providing physical security of the contents of the cabinets. The locking mechanisms are required to meet specific security standards.
Conclusions
Other basic network rack configurations are the wall brackets and mounting holes. When choosing the best network rack, you must consider each of the configurations mentioned above, in addition to elements like the price, design, size, and type.
