What Is A 19-Inch Rack?

It’s no secret that every modern enterprise cannot function without computers and servers for Internet access, storage, and processing of information and datum. Companies use a lot of network devices, which must be placed somewhere and provide certain conditions for its operation. For the optimal performance of electronic equipment, it is necessary to accommodate hardware somewhere. Due to its ergonomic and technical features, the regarded type of server closet has been recognized as the best solution for closed server premises.

What is 19″?

19″ is the distance between the pairs of guides (mounting rails or extruders) to which the active and passive hardware is attached. The standard was introduced by EIA, the organization that is responsible for the objective collection of energy data, analysis, and economic predictions in the energy industry. According to the requirements set by the organization, the distance between the holes of the two fasteners should be 465 mm.

Benefits of 19-inch Cabinets for Housing Server Equipment

1. Accommodate a lot of apparatus in a relatively small area due to vertical mounting inside the server furniture. For example, a standard 19″ 42u 600x600mm wiring closet occupies only 0.36 m², and more than 30 standard 1U devices can be installed in this small area.

2. Sufficiently high reliability and durability. Some models can withstand loads of up to 800 kg. For example, TWT cabinets of the business series allow mounting and securely fixing devices that have a standard 19″ mount.

3. Simplify the process of installing computing devices. One person can cope with the task in a matter of minutes, and, if necessary, disassemble the equipment. Besides, no special tools are required.

4. Make it possible to both limit and delimit access to certain equipment and systems, due to being equipped with doors with latches.

5. Allow protecting the stored devices from moisture and electromagnetic radiation, as well as from dust, dirt, and other debris. Protection against electromagnetic radiation is ensured by the installation of a metal door and a protective earthing device. 6. Excellent designs and ergonomics. There are floor-standing, wall-mounted, portable models that can be installed even on office premises if required.

19U Cabinet Dimensions

When designing and choosing 19-inch cabinets, it is important to consider 19U rack dimensions: height, width, and depth.

A 19-inch rack width can vary from 600mm to 800mm. The wider the cabinet is, the more space between the side wall and the rail is left. The free space between the rail and the cabinet wall can be used for laying and mounting cables. The wider the cabinet is, the wider the vertical cable managers can be mounted on the side and the better the patch cords will be organized. Vertical cable managers are applied to route and organize patch and equipment cords.

The term “unit” is used to define the height of cabinets and the hardware mounted in them. One unit is equal to 4.445 cm or 1.75 inches. If the cabinet is 42u, this means that the enclosure can house a maximum of 42 1U pieces of equipment or 21 2u hardware items.

Another important parameter used to indicate overall dimensions is the depth of the cabinet. A 19-inch rack depth is indicated in millimeters and varies from 450 to 1200 mm.

Tips for Selecting the Most Suitable Model

1. It will be very problematic to mount and maintain equipment that is installed at a height of more than 2 meters, and the height of ceilings in server rooms does not always allow the installation of cabinets over 42u. Thus, make sure that the location is favorable for the chosen cabinet model.

2. When designing a data center, it is important to take into account the possibility of additional installation of active equipment in the future. The problem is related to airflow circulation. In a functioning data center, it will be quite difficult to upgrade server cabinets and racks due to problems arising from changes in hot and cold aisles and the possible violation of the thermal regime of the air conditioning system.

3. Another reason for space limitation is that before buying server furniture with standard 19 rack dimensions, you should foresee future system enlarging. It is recommended to leave at least 20%, or even preferably 30%, of free space for mounting additional equipment in the future. After all, it is impossible to foresee what will be required at the facility within 5-10 years.

Nowadays, any business requires a server room. However, the process of its organization is a complicated one and should be entrusted to experienced system administrators and engineers who are well-versed in the issue. When addressing skilled staff, they will help you design the best layout depending on your needs so that avoid hardware failure.