Server Racks

Server racks are essential to any data management system. They allow for storing of multiple components in one central location. This serves two main purposes. The first is to create a sensible, practical system design that places routers, storage units, and other data devices together in a way that fits the needs of the user. The second purpose of server racks is to cut down on wasted space within the data center environment.

Server racks are typically built using a 19-inch format that will accept most data devices in use today. The best server racks are those that include a flexible mounting design that will allow the user to remove and replace data devices as the need arises. This is can be seen as critical for the business needs of today, as new technology continually brings improvements in data device designs. The components that a business has used in the past will necessarily become obsolete, and the server racks that are in place must have an element of flexibility built in to accommodate these improvement.

Another important aspect in server racks is their connectivity capability. The best server racks will be built with the necessary room to allow for ease of access to patch bays and the data devices themselves. This can be a challenge when designing server racks, due to the numerous cabling configurations that are possible. This aspect can be addressed successfully by designing side access panels and rear panels that will allow the user to gain access for patching the data devices together without having to take the system apart. This avoids any down time that would be required, especially in cases where a component needs to be removed for a repair or replacement, or when installing a new data device and reworking the cabling configuration.

One reason that server racks were invented in the first place is the saving of power. Cutting down on cables drastically reduces the electrical needs of a data management system, which can account for a large part of a business’ overall electricity usage. Server racks allow for the centralization of a data center, so that shorter cables can be used, saving a business a substantial cost in the long run.

The amount of power needed to run the data devices contained within server racks also requires the user to address the interior and exterior temperature around the racks. Components that overheat will eventually break down, so it is very important to maintain the right temperature in this environment. The best server racks will be designed with the proper amount of venting needed to draw in cool air and exhaust heated air from the racks. Racks should also be designed so that cooling fans can be installed where they are needed, most often in the top of the rack.

The amount of electrical power that runs the components within server racks will depend on power routing to function efficiently. The best server racks will allow for installation of power strips that can be placed as needed for power cable configurations.


REC Distribution Ltd is an online distribution company that offer next day delivery on network infrastructure products like Data Cabinets, Server Racks, comms cabinet, cisco switches, network switches, cat5e and cat6 patch leads, modules and patch panels. For details visithttp://www.recdistribution.co.uk