The server rack is a computer accessory that houses your CPU, raising it from the floor or carpet and providing proper ventilation so that the unit can breathe and the fans don’t overwork. Whether you just got a new office computer or you bought a desktop model for the family, if you’ve never shopped for server racks before, you may be overwhelmed by the various types. These are five of the most common server rack options that are dependable and versatile. Once you understand these basic types, you can make an informed buying decision.
5. Rack Enclosures
For some purposes, it’s best to make sure that your CPU is totally hidden, housed with four walls. Rack enclosures are the best choice for such needs then, since these fully conceal any traces of your server. However, when choosing a rack enclosure for your computer, it’s best to make sure that it has proper ventilation in the form of fans or air conditioning. Without good airflow, the computer will overheat.
4. Open Frame Rack
You won’t have that problem with open frame racks though. As rack resource Server Racks shows, these are far more spacious and roomy. Often made of sturdy metal, the walls are open so that you don’t need to install any special ventilation options with this type of rack. All you’ll have to do is dust the CPU off. You can opt to buy or build an open frame rack on the floor or you can even affix it to a wall if you want.
3. 42u Server Rack Cabinet
“The industry standard rack cabinet is 42U tall,” Wikipedia explains.”The height of the rack can vary from a few inches, such as the broadcast console, to a floor mounted rack whose interior is 45 rack units (78.75 inches or 200 centimetres) high, with 42U being a common configuration.” While many brands produce these racks, measurement numbers don’t really differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.
2. 19-Inch Rack
Similar in design and function to most open frame racks is the 19-inch rack, which is “a standardized frame or enclosure for mounting multiple equipment modules. Each module has a front panel that is 19 inches (482.6 mm) wide, including edges or ears that protrude on each side which allow the module to be fastened to the rack frame with screws,” Wikipedia elaborates. These are compatible with other accessories like a rack mount chassis or a rack mounted system.
1. 2 Post Server Racks
Called relay racks as well, 2-post server racks are also compatible with 19-inch racks. Just like those 19-inch racks and open frame racks, these have a less restrictive design with exposed walls. This reduces the amount of effort that you need to put into ventilation, but air should still be able to move freely with your server setup. 2-post racks are compatible with wire shelving units and computer cabinets and are often lauded for their might and durable qualities.You can also convert them to 4-post rail kits, Server Racks notes.
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