Understanding Server Rack Needs Based on Units

Server rack is an element of the host area that provides steady fastening of modems, stations, and routers. The use of these systems allows you to save space, create proper heat exchange in the room, and have easy access to equipment.

Newcomers to the world of IT technologies and mechanisms, namely in the universe of component parts, have to learn many important details. Finding a server rack is one of those important points. To choose the right one, you need to navigate many things.

First, you should get familiar with the common jargon in this area. You can often hear people refer to the forms of U. The «U» stands for the vertical dimension of server racks. The most common sizes are 12U, 18U, 22U, 42U.

How server racks work

Server rack — a structure that is mounted in a host area and is used to store instrumentality and technical means. The variety of server rack’s types is significant due to the numerous devices used in them and external requirements. For example, the size and location of the internal fittings in which they are incorporated. When it comes to dimensions, it is worth remembering the following points.

Firstly, the external dimensions of the server cabinets are usually not interchangeable, but the 19-inch width between the profiles is common. Secondly, external dimensions are selected depending on specific needs, and neither understatement nor oversize is recommended. Thirdly, the most popular case on the market is a steel one. It can be made from metal, sheet steel, or plastic. But metal ones are the most demanded in the field.

What does a standard server rack consist of?

A typical 19-inch closed enclosing is equipped with a plinth, a structural form to which mounting profiles and side panels are attached, rear panel, door, and top cover. Server cabinets come in different designs, although, interestingly, they are usually in two colors — light and dark. The main features:

• easy installation;
• ensures correct air circulation, heat exchange;
• you can additionally install doors, side, and rear walls, cooling systems, etc.;
• do not rust over time.

The common rack is 1.75 inches. Units are generally considered the standard measurement of free space in every mechanism. In general, they measure the free space between the shelves. This is where the equipment for the client’s server needs can be located.

Standard Racks

The bigger the height of the structure, the correspondingly more pieces of equipment it can accommodate. For example, a model marked 33U will house 33 objects of technical equipment with a size of 1 unit. Thus, in each of them, you can place absolutely any device that corresponds to the available height and dimensions. A prime example of this size is the 44U rack. Plenty of space is accessible here, namely 77 inches of usable space.

If you need to find out the need for the number of required racks, you need to pay attention to the planned demands for data storage. The main advice is to calculate the required amount of space inside.