Server racks and cabinets serve as the central point where all networking cables and devices converge. An open frame server rack features a framework of shelves upon which equipment rests, offering easy access. An enclosed server cabinet has shelves with front and rear doors and side panels, creating a structure that helps isolate sensitive telecom equipment from dust, heat and tampering. Server racks and cabinets help you get the most out of your server room storage by offering a variety of mounting options and sizes to fit network gear accurately.
Server racks and cabinets are available in different sizes, so you can ensure that you have ample space to accommodate current and future expansion plans. Rack size is a measure in Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) standard Rack Units (Rack U), and a single U is equivalent to 1.75in. in height. A wide server rack or cabinet provides extra room for patching or cabling, while enabling easy cable management. Cabinets range from 600mm to 1200mm in depth and should be deeper than your deepest rackmount server to allow for internal working space. A two-post server rack is suitable for lightweight equipment, while 4-post server racks and cabinets come in a variety of sizes and shapes to hold a vast array of server components and devices.
Lockable panels and doors keep your network devices secure while still making it easy for personnel to perform maintenance, inspections and equipment replacement. Cable access openings in the top and bottom offer convenient routing from and to the rack. Mesh and louvered doors allow airflow in the front and out the back to assist with rack ventilation. Some models have built-in cooling fans that offer additional air circulation. Removable solid side panels make it easy to join multiple rack enclosures together in large data centers. If you have limited space, an enclosed wall-mount server cabinet keeps your device safe and off the floor.
Open frame racks are usually unassembled, which helps reduce shipping costsy. Markings for depth and rack units make it easy to mount KVM switches. Move free-standing server racks and cabinets anywhere you need them. Some frames have click-and-lock system shelves that are simple for one person to assemble, while a durable steel frame is tough enough to handle a bulky server chassis. Cage nuts, whether included or sold separately, are important for installing equipment that requires round-threaded holes such as routers and switches.
Mid- to top-heavy loaded server racks and cabinets have retractable anti-tip feet to ensure the unit does not fall over. Swivel casters provide simple portability around the data center, while adjustable feet offer stability. A sliding keyboard server rack shelf accommodates rack-optimized keyboards in a server room setting. Co-location cabinets have two separate compartments that allow access to the correct users. Fully-reversible doors allow switching the side on which the door hinges to suit the preferred entrance side.
“ Affordable for starter homelabs or mid-sized network racks. ”
StarTech.com Heavy Duty 2-Post Rack - Open-Frame Server Rack - 12U“ Got this for my home lab. Initially I wanted an enclosed unit but decided that this is going in my home and I don't really have a major security concern so open racking is just fine. ”
StarTech RK12WALLOA Wall Mount Server Rack - 12U Rack - 12 - 20 in Adjustable Depth - Open Frame - Network Rack - Computer Rack - Equipment Rack“ I would definitely recommend this rack to others who are just getting into the homelab space. ”
NavePoint 18U 4-Post Open Frame Server Rack, 19-Inch Adjustable Depth 22" to 40", Network Rack, Includes Cable Management and Casters, (12-24 Threaded),Black“ 100% recommended product, good quality, strong and easy to setup. ”
StarTech RK12WALLOA Wall Mount Server Rack - 12U Rack - 12 - 20 in Adjustable Depth - Open Frame - Network Rack - Computer Rack - Equipment Rack“ Great product, and great customer service. ”
Server Rack – 12U - Wall Mount Rack - Locking Cabinet for Network - Electronics - Security - Audio - Video - AV Equipment - Data Rack - Legs / Power Strip / Shelf / Fan - 18-Inch Deep“ Quality is good. Cabinet is sturdy and so far fits my needs. ”
Navepoint 9U Basic Wall Mount Networking Cabinet with Locks - Assembled“ Sturdy Rack ”
18U 4 Post Open Frame 19" Network Server Rack Cabinet Adjustable Depth 24"-37" FITS MOST SERVER EQUIPMENT“ Happy with purchase will buy again if the need ever arises. ”
Tripp Lite 6U Wall Mount Rack Enclosure Server Cabinet, 20.5 in. Deep, Switch-Depth (SRW6UDP)