Many manufacturers of server racks allow us to choose from different options, based on our basic or advanced requirements, especially unique environments. There are a number of areas that we need to consider, such as shelving. Rack manufacturers are offering different server rack shelf options, which include fixed or adjustable server shelves, especially those with four-point mounting. There should also be sliding keyboard shelves that have 2-point mounting for specific usages. Other alternatives are media shelves, cantilever shelves and heavy-duty models. We should make sure that the server rack has proper dept, so it could accommodate servers with enough dimensions. For examples, if our servers have 24-inch width, then our racks should be at least 30-inch in depth, to make that there is enough room for cabling and air circulation. It is also important to make sure that our racks are equipped with good enough side and top panels. These panels should be adequate for protecting ur servers from foreign materials. There are also perforated slots that we could use for added ventilation.
Grommet holes on server racks are typically acceptable for supplementary cable pathways, so we could avoid excessively crowded cabling on the back. Many servers include mountings for intake and exhaust fans to further enhance cooling. In general, side panels can provide security and there are a number of options that we need to consider such as solid with vents, solid removable and solid fixed. It is also a good idea if our server racks have mounting rails. Many racks are equipped with a couple of mounting rails and additional sets of rails can help us facilitate rack loading and accommodate different depths. Many manufacturers allow us to choose from EIA standard rails or universal mounting rails. In this case, universal rails can support almost all kinds of server equipments and networking units. It is also a good idea to check whether these rails have tapped or square holes. All mounting rails should comply with industry standards to make sure that it is much easier to operate them. However, racks with cage nuts and square holes should be adequate for most purposes.
Server racks also have feet, such as retractable anti-tip feet that can easily stabilize any top-heavy rack. Racks can also be more movable or manoeuvrable if we attach proper casters. If we want to make sure that racks remain level, we should make sure that they have good enough levellers. This is particularly for racks that need to be moved regularly due to specific reasons, such as maintenance and layout optimizations. Racks should be ideal for any additional accessories, such as environmental monitoring devices that can have a sensor on whether temperature and humidity has reaches unacceptable level. Some racks even allow us to install small cameras so it is possible to identify who has worked with the servers. In general, racks should help us to identify improper situations to make sure that the overall situation can be maintained.