Basics of Data Racks

Data Racks (or enclosures) are the main physical point of access to isolate, fix and modify the workings of a data network. They also provide protection and security to the equipment inside. Think of a data rack basically like a meterbox at home. The meterbox is the one point of access that controls the entire electrical circuit of a house. You can isolate, modify and control it all from that point. A data rack is no different, except it encompasses data and communications.

Data racks come in all shapes and sizes, the one you choose depends it's desired use. To understand the "ins and outs" of data racks really isn't that difficult. After all it's just a box. Understanding a few key terms will ensure you select the correct rack for the job at hand. A couple of key questions you need to ask yourself are:

1. Height: How many RU is it? 2. Depth: How deep is it? 3. Type: Is it wall mount or stand alone? 4. Width: Is it 19inch or 26inch wide? 5. Is it complete (with doors, side panels etc.) or just a frame?

1. How many RU is it?

Firstly, an RU (rack unit) is a standardised measurement that all rack-mount products use. It is used to describe the physical height of 4.445cm that allows an installer or end user to understand the size of a product without requiring it's specific dimensions. For example, a standard patch panel is 1RU (one rack unit). A rack mountable switch may be 2RU. If these are the only two items you are installing then technically the minimum rack size you can use is a 3RU.

2. How deep is it?

Depths range from 350mm to 1200mm depending on the depth of the product inside. The standard in wall mount cabinets is 450mm or 600mm. In stand alone cabinets the standards are 600mm or 1000mm deep.

3. Wallmount or Standalone?

Wallmount units a tidier and can be hidden away a lot more easily. The maximum size of wall mount cabinets is usually around 18RU, though wallmount cabinets are available upto 27RU. The advantage of standalone units is the ability to have larger (upto) 47RU cabinets that are accessible from all sides at any time.

4. How wide is it?

All wallmount units are 19inch wide. Most stand alone data racks come in two widths, 19inch and 26inch. The 19inch width is the standardised size of a rack and most products will fit in it. The 26inch width is usually required for racks carrying large servers or cumbersome equipment. The mounting rails will usually still only be 19inch apart but the wider cabinet allows for better airflow and less clutter.

5. Is it complete (with doors, side panels etc.) or just a frame?

Open cabinet frames allow for easy access and great ventilation. Side panels and doors give a cleaner look and provide security to the equipment. Most of the time the customer will know exactly what they want.