Tips When Choosing a Wall Mount Rack Cabinet
Nowadays, every office has PCs or other computing devices. To enable their uninterruptible and smooth functioning more complex systems are used. Solid metal boxes are used to store these systems and protect hardware from damage.
Different types of designs are distinguished. According to the method of installation, floor-standing and wall-mount models are available. Below, we’re going to consider the second group of furniture intended for fastening to vertical surfaces.
What is Wall-Mount Server Furniture?
Server furniture is specialized metal constrictions used for storing computing equipment. The size and construction features of such models are designed for mounting to walls, i.e. special tech holes are made and high-load dowels are used to reliably fasten a wall mount server rack.
Type of Hardware Accommodated in such Furniture
Although cabinets are not very spacious if compared to floor-standing models, they house all the classic network equipment, namely:
- servers;
- switches;
- patch cords;
- accessories (cords, handles, clamps, plugs).
The only thing is that a fewer number of devices can be accommodated.
Types of Well-Mounted Cabinets
- 6U is the smallest model that has the following dimensions: 14.5-inch high, 17.5-inch long, and 23.5-inch wide. This is the most compact product for offices. It is suitable for desktop installation.
- 9U is a bigger model. Its height is 19 inches and its depth is 20.5 inches. Its maximum load capacity is 200 lbs.
- 12U and 15U are the most optimal models with a more spacious inner design and perfect dimensions. They allow accommodating several servers, and patch panels, and ensure convenient wiring.
- 18U is the biggest wall-mount server cabinet. Its height is 35.6 inches. The model is capable of carrying up to 250 lbs of total hardware.
Models have enclosed designs with perforated doors and side panels. All products are equipped with mounting rails and brackets to support hardware.
How to pick the Right Model?
The process of choosing an appropriate model is responsible and requires attention. Now, let’s make a detailed instruction on how to select the most suitable model:
- To begin with, consider dimensions. As mentioned above, models have different sizes. When width is uniformed to be able to accommodate most types of network equipment, height and depth are adjustable. So, make sure to choose the model with proper dimensions.
Here, it is important to correctly calculate the height. Add the height of all the devices. Remember that height is measured in units (U), where 1U is 1.75 inches. Thus, make proper calculations.
- Weight. Since models are fastened to vertical surfaces, their carrying capacities are limited. Do not exceed the maximum allowed weight. To calculate the weight correctly, find out the weight of all your equipment, accessories, and wires to be housed inside.
- Power. Depending on the stored hardware, each type of cabinet requires particular power. When developing server furniture, producers foresee what kind of equipment can be stored and specify an approximate power supply needed to run the system.
- Cabinet type. It is advisable to make a 3D layout of a future system to realize what type of furniture you need and understand how devices will be accommodated.
- Space allocation. Remember that devices are always placed loosely inside the vertical network cabinet to ensure the airflow between parts and avoid overheating. Thus, foresee leaving extra space. If you make a layout, you can see whether there is enough space left for all devices and be able to adjust the layout to ensure better system performance.
- Airflow. Computing hardware tends to heat well during operation. When dealing with enclosed models, make sure that sufficient air circulation is achieved. In most cases, the natural airflow is not enough to cool devices. Thus, there is a need to apply forced ventilation systems and install fans. In this case, you should also foresee a place inside the furniture for fan mounting.
- Place of installation. Before you make a purchase, decide on where you will hand the model. Find a suitable location for it.
The Process of Wall-Mount Cabinet Installation
Such models are equipped with special high-load dowels designed to attach cabinets reliably to vertical surfaces. Furniture can be fastened to the wall or any other vertical surface. The main requirement is that the surfaces must be flat.
Consider the material from which walls are made. If they are not durable and cannot withstand such a load, cabinets can fall with the wall.
Recheck weight limits once again. The carrying capacity is indicated since both dowels and a wall-mount network enclosure are designed to carry a certain weight.
Benefits of Wall Cabinets
The features of its installation determine the following benefits:
- save floor space to achieve better room ergonomics and free space for other purposes.
- flexible mounting possibilities. Enclosures can be attached to any vertical surface.
- hardware security. Due to a solid construction made from high-quality durable metal, devices are protected from shocks and damage. Also, locks are used to prevent unauthorized access.
- prevent overeating. Front doors and side panels are perforated to allow the airflow to pass through the walls and devices. Although open-frame racks provide better air circulation, perforation stands as an alternative to closed walls.
- constructions are equipped with all the needed technological holes for cable routing and fan installation.
A wall-mount cabinet will be an excellent solution for small premises (such as offices or apartments). It is possible to choose a suitable option for any sphere of application and need. But, before you buy server furniture, make sure to foresee all the above-mentioned points and undergo a thorough preparation process.
