Rack In Networking

 

Types of Network Racks and Their Specifications

1.     Open Frame Racks

o    What it is: A simple, open structure with no doors or sides.

o    Best For: Easy access to equipment and cables.

o    Specifications:

§  Height: 2-post or 4-post (in U units like 42U).

§  Width: Standard 19 inches.

§  No cooling or security features.

2.     Wall-Mount Racks

o    What it is: Small racks mounted on walls.

o    Best For: Compact spaces or small offices.

o    Specifications:

§  Height: 6U–15U.

§  Depth: 12–18 inches.

§  Lightweight, with basic ventilation.

3.     Server Racks (Enclosed Cabinets)

o    What it is: Fully enclosed with doors and side panels.

o    Best For: High-security and large data centers.

o    Specifications:

§  Height: 42U or more.

§  Depth: 36–48 inches.

§  Features: Cooling systems, locking doors, cable management.

4.     Portable Racks

o    What it is: Movable racks with wheels.

o    Best For: Temporary setups or flexible spaces.

o    Specifications:

§  Height: 12U–24U.

§  Includes: Handles, wheels, and sometimes covers.

§  Lightweight and easy to move.

5.     Custom Racks

o    What it is: Tailored for specific needs.

o    Best For: Special projects requiring unique dimensions.

o    Specifications:

§  Depends on requirements (height, width, cooling, etc.).

§  Usually more expensive.

                                    ___________________

o    The height of a rack in inches depends on the number of U units it has. Each U (rack unit) equals 1.75 inches.

Example:

§  6U rack: 6×1.75=10.56×1.75=10.5 inches.

§  12U rack: 12×1.75=2112×1.75=21 inches.

§  42U rack: 42×1.75=73.542×1.75=73.5 inches.

So, for any rack height, multiply the U number by 1.75 to get the height in inches!

                               ________________

Common Rack Sizes:

• 6U Rack:
• 6 devices (1U each), or 3 devices (2U each).
• 12U Rack:
• 12 devices (1U each), or 6 devices (2U each).
• 42U Rack:
• 42 devices (1U each), or 21 devices (2U each).