What Is a Server Rack?
A server rack is a rack-type storage device used to house computer systems and network equipment.
It typically consists of multiple shelves attached to a steel frame. The server rack shelves house equipment, such as power supply units, servers, storage devices, routers, and switches.
Server racks are devices used to enable efficient equipment management in terms of network security and system operation and management. Equipment in server racks is cooled by cooling fans and air conditioning units. There is also space inside the rack for wiring and cables to be organized.
Uses of Server Rack
Server racks are used to house computers and networking equipment. This allows for centralized management of equipment and optimized physical arrangement.
1. Ease of Maintenance
By housing equipment in racks, wiring and cables can be easily organized, facilitating maintenance and troubleshooting. It also simplifies management of the equipment in the rack, leading to reduced management costs.
2. Improved Security
Server racks can also help improve security. Equipment stored in racks can be physically protected by using racks with locks, protecting them from unauthorized access and theft.
3. Waste Heat Control
Equipment in racks is cooled by appropriate cooling systems, reducing the risk of breakdowns and downtime.
4. Scalability
Server racks also contribute to scalability. Racks can be expanded to accommodate additional equipment as needed, allowing the system to scale as your business grows.
Principles of Server Racks
Server racks come in several standards. A rack is a storage cabinet that holds equipment, and equipment that is shaped to fit into that box is called a rack-mounted server.
The standard width of racks in common use today is 19 inches (482.6 mm), as defined by the U.S. Electronic Industries Association. The height (thickness) of rack-mounted equipment is also specified by the EIA and is a standard multiple of 1.75 inches (44.45 mm).
This “1.75” height (thickness) is referred to as 1U, which is why some rack mount servers are called 2U servers, 3U servers, and so on.
How to Select a Server Rack
Server racks are standardized in size according to the standards defined by the EIA (Electronic Industries Association of America), but there are various types of server racks available for different applications, so it is important to select the most suitable one.
1. Type of Server to Be Installed
The appropriate rack should be selected based on the type of server to be installed in the server rack. If rack-mount servers are to be installed, choose a 19-inch rack; if they are shaped like desktop computers, choose a stationary type.
2. Rack Type
Rack types include tower type and rack type. The appropriate rack type should be selected according to the installation location and space.
3. Number of Servers to Be Stored (Number of Units)
The height of the rack is expressed in units: 1U is 1.75 inches high, and the height of the rack is determined by the number of 1U units. The appropriate number of units should be selected based on the number of servers to be stored.
4. Depth Size
The depth of the rack should be selected to match the depth of the equipment to be installed. The depth of rack-mount servers, the equipment to be installed, is generally around 540 mm deep for each company, but this is not specified in the standard. Care should be taken when selecting a Server Rack.
5. Features
Racks have features such as cooling systems, space for wiring, and removable side panels. It is important to check and select the features of a rack according to your needs.
Additional Information on Server Racks
Server Rack Options
Server racks can be equipped with a variety of options. The most basic options include stabilizers, anchoring anchors, and other seismic protection to increase the earthquake resistance of the server rack. Servers are vulnerable to earthquakes, and vibration can cause HDD failure, so earthquake protection is a must.
In addition, we recommend installing a UPS as a countermeasure against momentary power loss due to lightning, etc. The UPS is an uninterruptible power supply that can continue to supply power to the server, if only temporarily, in the event of a power loss.
Other options include workbenches to facilitate work, casters to make racks easier to move, and fans to improve heat exhaust.