Standard Server Rack Dimensions Explained – Scooptimes

When planning a data center with its space allocation, server furniture comes as an indispensable element of a room layout. Yet, the variety of furniture sizes ranges greatly. How to select a proper model, and how does the size influence network system performance? You’ll find explanations of these questions below.

A server rack size is a space available inside a metal body to accommodate IT hardware. Although it may seem easy to pick an appropriate model, in practice, there are main pitfalls that can affect equipment operation.

Why is it Important to Choose the Proper Size?

The importance of selecting suitable network rack dimensions is determined by the next factors:

1. Overheating prevention. If the size is chosen properly, heat is removed effectively. No heat exchange between system components is observed.
2. Ergonomic space allocation. A compact layout helps organize optimal equipment allocation and improve space ergonomics.
3. Easy maintenance. If hardware is placed correctly, and enough space is left, the staff will spend less effort and time maintaining devices or replacing units.
4. Cost-effectiveness regarding the future. By calculating the required size correctly, it is possible to avoid the need to re-buy a new model in the future when the system gains new components.

After all, the choice of a proper cabinet size allows for achieving the best performance, minimizing the risk of damage or malfunction, and ensuring smooth long-term operation.

Dimensions of Server Racks

Actually, when choosing an appropriate furniture piece, the following server cabinet dimensions are essential:

1. Height. This dimension is the most complicated since it is measured in “U” and requires calculation. 1U takes 1,75 inches. Thus, each time you need to know the height of your server rack, you have to multiply the number by 1.75. The variety of models according to their heights is huge. Furniture pieces can be from 1U to 48U tall. The most common models are from 12U to 32U.
2. Width. This dimension is standardized. 19-inch wide cabinets are a common option since they allow for fitting and fastening servers and most types of hardware. Alternatively, 24-inch exterior wide products are found. They provide more space and are used for non-standard equipment accommodation. Sometimes, manufacturers combine both models, creating cabinets with an exterior width of 24 inches and an interior mounting width of 19 inches. Thus, the difference between widths is left for convenient and space-effective cord wiring.
3. Depth. In most cases, this dimension is variable, since the rear panel of server furniture is usually movable. Thus, technicians can adjust the rear side to make the cabinet as deep as needed. The maximum depth can reach 48 inches. Note that if you deal with open-frame racks, the issue of depth is a tricky one. 4-upright models have an adjustable rear side and allow for using mounting rails, while 2-post models have only 2 vertical supports, meaning that no depth adjustment can be actually made.

An 18U rack is one of the most common furniture pieces used, since racks or cabinets of this size do not take much space and at the same time offer enough space for hardware allocation, which makes it ideal either for home use or for a medium size business. Sysracks offers a wide assortment of models of different server rack cabinet dimensions, including 18u size. Experienced managers help clients pick a suitable product.

How to Select a Suitable Rack Size?

As you see, the variety of server cabinet sizes is great. So, here’s a detailed guide on how to pick the best product for your network system. Consider the next criteria:

1. The number of devices. Make a list of all the equipment pieces to be stored in the cabinet. Assess them.
2. Make visualization. It is recommended to design a 3D layout to minimize the risk of miscalculations or improper fastening when allocating equipment. This step helps ensure the best ergonomics inside the cabinet. By placing devices on a 3D layout, you’ll see what equipment requires more or less space.
3. Consider cooling strategies. Think about what way for hardware cooling will be used. Leave space for fans or other ventilation tools to remove extra heat.
4. Design wire routes. Consider where and how cables will be laid. Make sure to leave enough space for wires, since bundles of IT cords can total several hundred and take much place.
5. Once you’re done with these points, calculate the needed size. Yet, it is not the end!

Take into account several remarks when setting up a server room. Firstly, hardware is placed loosely to avoid heat exchange and guarantee free air circulation through functioning devices. A too-tight layout will lead to quick overeating and money loss due to equipment damage.

Another important case is to foresee future system expansion. Over time, network systems tend to grow. New units and components are added to satisfy increased computing demands and improve the system’s capacity to process datum and store info. Thus, if you buy a bigger cabinet at once, this step will free you from the need to rebuy a new one in the future. Moreover, you’ll kill two birds with one stone since you’ll also resolve the ventilation issue.

Voilà, now you are aware of all subtleties of server rack sizes explained. Keeping this information in mind, you’ll be able to choose the cabinet you need and enjoy a smoothly functioning, well-organized system.