Server racks, also known as server rack cabinets or server enclosures, are specialised and indispensable structures in IT infrastructure. These enclosures are designed to house, secure, and organise multiple servers and other networking equipment. They are typically made of metal, steel, and steel sheets, providing a secure, standardised environment for mounting and managing various IT equipment in data centers or server rooms. Server racks comprise a framework or chassis with vertical mounting rails and multiple horizontal shelves or slots, called rack units (U).
The rack units are standardised to ensure compatibility with different servers and networking equipment. For instance, a 19-in server rack is a standard-size enclosure for various rack-mountable equipment. Rackmount or rack-mounted equipment are the devices placed on the rack and include components in data centers, such as UPS, PDUs, routers, etc. In addition, server racks and cabinets come in different types and designs for specific purposes and environments.
What are the Benefits of Server Racks?
Server racks offer several benefits in terms of:
- Improved organisation, simplified maintenance, and enhanced security.
- Vast space, easier equipment management, and contribution to IT infrastructure's overall efficiency and reliability.
- Convenient access for cable management or module maintenance.
- Open or closed systems with varied mounting packages, such as wall-mounted or freestanding.
- Easy installation and cost-effectiveness.
- Cooling and Ventilation.
- Scalability and Reduced Downtime.
Two Types of Server Racks
Server racks are categorised into open frame and locked server racks. These racks and cabinets by type are suitable for different situations.
- Open Frame Server Racks – Open frame racks have an open design, typically made of metal frames without doors or sides. They provide easy access to equipment from all sides, making installation, maintenance, and cable management more convenient. Airflow is generally better in open frame racks, allowing for efficient equipment cooling. Open frame racks are often less expensive compared to locked server cabinets. They are commonly used in setups where security is not a significant concern.
- Locked Server Racks – Locked server racks, also known as enclosed or cabinet racks, feature doors and side panels to secure the inside equipment. These enclosed cabinets integrate lock mechanisms, offering better physical security by restricting unauthorised access to the equipment. The lock design also protects against dust, debris, and accidental damage, ensuring equipment safety.
- Other server rack types include self-contained server racks, portable server racks, wall-mount server racks, and dust/water-resistant server racks.
Two-Post, 4-Post, and Swing Server Rack Frames Available at Enrgtech
Enrgtech houses frames of server racks and cabinets of different materials, sizes, units, and weights. A two-post server rack, a relay rack, or a telco rack is a simple and cost-effective option comprising two vertical posts. These posts are typically made of steel with evenly spaced mounting holes. This rack type is ideal for lightweight and shallow-depth equipment, such as patch panels, network switches, and telecom equipment.
Moreover, A four-post server cabinet or enclosure is a more robust and versatile option with vertical posts. These posts are connected by horizontal rails, forming a rigid frame. The rails have adjustable mounting holes, allowing flexible positioning and installation of equipment.
Swing server racks, or pivoting or rotating server racks, are a type of equipment rack that house and organise servers, networking devices, and other IT equipment. These racks swing open or rotate out from the wall or mounting surface, providing easy access to the rear of the equipment for maintenance, installation, and cable management.
Best Server Racks at Enrgtech: Why Choose Us?
Enrgtech provides branded server racks and cabinets at the best possible prices. Our products are highly rated and tested by experts for users' convenience. Enrgtech is a wise option as we deliver products that meet users' demands and guarantee long-lasting performance.
