Choosing the right IT equipment is vital when assembling a high-power network for your business. Being fragile and complicated set-ups, the right enclosures are required to optimally house your data-critical devices and organize them in a structured manner to make troubleshooting easier. The specific design of server storage containers must securely hold items while ensuring ample airflow to keep connections and power strong.
Whether you’re a seasoned IT professional or someone looking to establish a new network, understanding the factors involved will certainly help you make an appropriate purchase decision. We have put together valid criteria to help buyers select the right server racks in line with individual needs.
The size of your servers and allied devices fundamentally determines the size of the racks you purchase. You need to know the precise dimensions of your servers prior to purchase. Selecting racks that are wider than your servers is recommended for allowing better cable management and access. Spacious racks also provide users the leeway to configure and add more IT devices in a way that best suffice their future business needs.
A hub of data, servers are the most indispensable asset of an IT enterprise. Data security is integral to the smooth functioning of your organization, and you need to choose between open-frame or closed racks.
Open frame racks offer more space and flexibility. Though they are cheaper, they are more vulnerable to security issues being more easily accessible. Usually more expensive, closed racks are a better option in terms of security and restricted accessibility. For maximum security, consider server racks that have the option for access control and monitoring devices that alert you on temperature changes, smoke detection or security breaches.
Servers work round the clock and generate a lot of heat while running. If the heat is not dissipated properly, it can accumulate and ruin your equipment. Without a proper cooling system, the chances of short circuits are high.
Hence, ventilation is key to smooth functioning of servers. If your server room relies on ambient air cooling, such as fans, air blowers, you need fully perforated racks to achieve maximum airflow. On the other hand, a server room that uses a liquid cooling unit needs to be fully sealed to prevent potential leaks. Higher-end rack enclosures are equipped with exhaust fans or liquid cooling.
IT racks require various accessories to run effectively. Assess if the racks you are buying will accommodate all the accessories such as cables, Power Distribution Units (PDUs), additional mounting rails, lighting units and exhaust fans. Every accessory does affect the purchase criteria so make sure you have listed them down prior to deciding the viability of the rack.
Sufficient space is essential when looking for a server rack to fit servers, cables, Power Distribution Units (PDUs) and Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). Most data centre managers commit the mistake of only thinking about the equipment they currently have. This could pose problems in the future when more devices are to be affixed.
Before choosing a server rack, assess your organization’s priorities and reflect carefully about your network’s future expansion needs. Opt for racks that are scalable to meet future growth plans by accommodating additional equipment.
Now that you are aware of the prime factors, understanding your options will help you make an informed purchase decision. After all, a prudent purchase today is an investment for tomorrow.
For more information about server racks and cabinets, contact our customer support team on [email protected] or dial +971 4 344 4417
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