The size of the server racks determines how many pieces of hardware will be stored inside. Depending on the number of components in your computer system, you will need a smaller or larger server cabinet. The second thing is that the correctly chosen rack size influences the smoothness and durability of the equipment performance. If there is not enough space and the devices are too tightly packed, this will lead to problems with airflow and cooling. That is why it is important to choose the right rack size. The modern IT market offers a wide variety of server furniture models, ranging from small wall-mounted cabinets to large, spacious floor-standing cabinets.
Main dimensions of server racks
Every piece of furniture has three dimensions, namely width, depth and height. Let’s take a closer look.
Server cabinet width
The width measurement of computer cabinets,This parameter is standardized to allow the installation of active equipment. The most common mounting width is 19 inches. This is because most servers and computers have a mounting width of 19 inches. Thus, manufacturing cabinets with this width means that the equipment will fit perfectly into the furniture pieces.
However, some models have an extended width of 24 inches, which provides more space for wiring and ventilation.
Server rack depth
This parameter is variable and adjustable. System administrators can adjust the necessary depth from 0 to 50 inches. Adjustability is achieved through the use of brackets that allow the uprights to be stretched. However, in most cases, two common indicators for depth are used: 24 and 48 inches. This depth is not chosen randomly. Indeed, this indicator allows for the accommodation of active and passive network equipment, patch panels, and other accessories. If a cabinet is deeper, this will provide more space for cable routing and air circulation.
Height of computer racks
While the two server rack cabinet dimensions mentioned above are standardized and simple to understand, the height requires more attention.
To begin, it is important to note that server rack heights are measured in units, where 1 unit (U) is 1.75 inches. So, designations such as 2U, 6U, or 24U mean that you need to multiply the number of units by 1.75 to get the actual height of the cabinet. Each unit (1U) has three standard holes for mounting server equipment. The range of models varies considerably, from compact 2U to 12U wall-mount cabinets to 36U to 48U floor-standing models for large network systems.
Tips to Consider When Calculating Required Rack Size
To find the best rack sizes for data centers, keep the following in mind:
- Create a plan of the devices to be installed. Make sure the equipment is distributed loosely. A tight fit will cause the equipment to overheat and malfunction.
- Always leave extra space. System administrators leave space for sufficient air circulation and unhindered airflow, which allows for adequate cooling and prevents overheating.
- Cable management. When creating a plan, remember that cable routing requires space, so make sure to leave enough room for cables and connection units.
- Installing fans. If natural airflow is not sufficient to cool the equipment, fans are required. Add the size of the fans when calculating.
- Expansion of the network system. It is likely that your network system will grow and expand over time. To avoid buying a more spacious cabinet in the future, buy a larger one from the start. Leaving space will ensure perfect air circulation, and you will not need to buy other furniture when rearranging the system later.
Keeping all these criteria in mind, system administrators usually add at least a third or even half of the required space to calculate the actual size of the required rack model. This rule helps ensure perfect space allocation and smooth system operation. In addition, personnel will have easy access to the necessary hardware, which simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime.
Computer equipment is designed for data storage and complex tasks. Network systems include several hundred components that must be mounted on multi-level racks. Determining the required rack size is a critical task for installing them correctly and ensuring their proper operation. Now, thanks to our guide explaining the sizes of server racks, you can choose a suitable model taking into account all the necessary parameters.
