Want to find an affordable economical alternative server rack, but not sure are all the server racks the same? Of course not, even though it looks nearly the same function, but also so many places are different.
Trust me, the brand is not the only thing you should think about, the top considerations when buying a server rack are the capacity, raw materials, loading capacity, security, cooling solution, and power distribution.
The Capacity of Rack Units You need
First, you should understand the size of a 19'' cabinet, the "U" stands for the height of a rack cabinet, and 1U is Equal to 44.45mm OR 1.75 inches. It ranges from 9U to 52U, with a choice of Width of 600mm and 800mm, and depths of 600mm, 800mm, and 1000mm.
So when you choose a 19'' cabinet, the basic thing you should consider is the space of your network device, such as switches, servers, routers, etc.
What is a server rack made of?
Most of the server racks are made of SPCC cold rolled steel, The surface of the cold-rolled sheet is clean and bright, easy to coat. You only need to check the thickness of the mounting profile also called mounting rails, floor standing cabinet should be no less than 2.0mm.
How much weight can a server rack hold?
Different customers have different needs regarding the loading capacity of their racks. For example, our customers require 800KG, 1000KG, 1200KG, 1500KG, 1800KG, and even up to 2000KG. It depends on the weight of the networking devices you plan to put
How do I choose Security accessories?
Safety Lock
Do you know that many of the keys are not unique for CamLock? That means one key may open several network cabinets. It's really unsafe. Except for CamLock, is there any other safety lock to suggest? Yes, you can choose a handle lock, fingerprint lock, password lock, and smart lock for your server cabinet.
Mount Bracket
It is necessary to choose a safe and strong mounting Bracket if you want to mount your network on the wall.
Grounding wire system
Grounding wire system OR grounding bar is also a security factor can't ignore. It will protect personal safety and prevent personal electric shock after cabinet leakage.
Protection Level.
Indoor server cabinets and outdoor cabinets have different requirements, generally, IP 20 is enough for an indoor server cabinet.
Movable heavy-duty wheels and adjustable support feet.
The network cabinet with a Heavy duty wheel is very convenient to move from one place to another. Adjustable support feet can fix it on the ground.
Cage Nuts and Screws
Enough Qty of High-quality cage nuts and screws. Don't scoff at these gadgets, Imagine that while you are tapping the screws, they don't have enough, happened to break, OR can't be fixed well, your whole project will not keep going on.
Cooling strategy
There are many cooling strategies. You can choose an exhaust duct Kit, Fan Unit, OR Air Conditioner, and replace the glass door with Vented Door.
Power distribution
PDU is also called Power Distributor Unit, It is the terminal power distribution equipment that distributes the output current from the UPS to each IT equipment, and is the key equipment for connecting the power supply and other infrastructure with the IT system and the normal operation of all equipment in the associated computer room. There are many different types of PDU for your choice. The PDU with Surge protector and Circuit Breaker is more safety.
Hidden requirements
Easy to set up sometimes may ignore while you buy a server rack, till you take it home, and headache with the hard reading operation menus, how will you do next? So an easy-install server rack also needs to consider, it will save much time.
If you can't see Messy wiring, it is necessary for you to buy a Cable manager and patch panel to manage your cables. You will feel worth it while you need to repair.
Where will you put your device in an empty server rack? Purchasing some shelves is a wise choice. There're fixed shelves, sliding trays, and cantilever shelves that can be chosen.
So now you are clear to know the top considerations when Buying a Server Rack, are not about a famous brand. a wide range capacity, normal thickness steel plates, bigger loading capacity, security hardware and accessories, an affordable cooling strategy, and safety power distribution are all very important you should think about.
Want more skills to negotiate prices? Please check my previous content below:
