Benefits of Open-Frame Server Racks

Technicians tend to use specialized products for data centers to accommodate system components. Open-frame server racks are the most popular type of product for closed rooms. Below, we’re going to find out why.

This furniture has only 2 or 4 vertical uprights without doors or side panels. Models with open frameworks are made from durable thick metal sheets due to which bodies can support heavy equipment securely for a long time. Constructions have the required slots for hardware mounting. Models are the best choice for data centers with limited access.

Advantages of Open Models

Such constructions have the below-mentioned advantages, which determine their popularity:

Cost

In comparison with enclosed cabinets, open frameworks cost less. A more affordable price is due to the use of less metal for furniture fabrication.

Airflow

The absence of side metal panels is one of the peculiarities of an open-frame network rack. This feature simplifies cooling and allows the air to pass through devices freely. This construction does not hinder the airflow, which contributes to the effective exchange of hot and cold air and the maintenance of the required temperature. Technicians easily create the optimal environment for hardware performance and organize a cooling system effectively without the need to install fans. Thus, operating equipment does not overheat.

Ergonomics

This is one of the most important advantages. Such models have multi-layer structures, which means that it is possible to place hardware compactly. Equipment allocation on different levels allows for saving space and achieving better ergonomics. Users can allocate hundreds of components in a relatively small area.

Accessibility

Open frameworks significantly simplify maintenance since technicians can reach devices from all sides. Thus, when it comes to hardware replacement, maintenance, or installation, technicians can access each component without the need to disassemble an entire telecommunication system.

But, this pro serves as a con as well. The low level of protection from unauthorized access makes models unsuitable for mounting in public spaces.

Cord organization

Solid bodies have special slots for cable routing, which means that technicians can wire cables through them. So, they have to adjust systems to ensure convenient routing. When dealing with an open-frame data rack, system administrators can wire cables as they want and choose routes themselves to ensure convenience.

Installation

One of two technicians can easily assemble and install models in half an hour. The staff does not need narrowly focused knowledge to install racks. The process is easier and quicker than enclosed cabinet assembly.

Ease of organizing

It is easy to mount equipment, fasten devices to uprights, and allocate components to arrange an accessible structure of IT apparatus. Access to furniture from all sides simplifies the assembly process.

An open-frame rack cabinet is an excellent solution for closed data centers and server rooms. However, users should pay due attention to the selection step to find a suitable model.

How to Select the Best Open Framework?

Size

To begin with, technicians should determine an appropriate size for future furniture. Make a layout to calculate the needed height and width to accommodate all devices. Remember to leave space for cord wiring. Place devices loosely to prevent them from overheating due to heat exchange.

Ergonomics design

Check whether models meet your ergonomics conditions. Will they fit your premises and accommodate all devices?

Convenience of assembly

Look through the assembly guide to find out how many employees are needed to mount the rack, how much time it takes, etc.

Transportation

Think about the way you’ll get server furniture to your site. Is it transportable? What cautions are waiting there? Foresee possible problems on the road.

Optional equipment

You’ll probably expand your network system in the future. Treat this point at the stage of buying open-frame rack mount furniture and choose more spacious models. In this case, you’ll avoid the necessity to buy another cabinet further. Just rearrange components and continue using the same rack.

Working conditions

Check other important criteria, including a PDU, an internal climate, temperature control solutions, etc. Here, you should ensure all the conditions for smooth performance.

Open frameworks are popular furniture for large data centers. System administrators prefer them due to their perfect cooling abilities, ergonomics, and easy access. The only shortcoming is its unsuitability for installation in open spaces.

When selecting proper models, make sure to determine their sizes correctly. This parameter is the most important. Further, check ergonomics, cable-wiring solutions, ease of assembly, and other criteria.