BlogData centres
Choosing racks: width, depth and load
By Vicky Ogola, Senior ICT Consultant 1 min read
Rack size, depth, load rating and accessories affect what you can install and how well it cools.
Racks are the framework of a server room. Choosing the wrong ones causes problems for years.
Height
Measured in rack units (U). Allow for current equipment, cable managers, UPS and growth.
Depth
Modern servers are deep. Check the deepest equipment plus space for cables and power distribution at the back.
Width
Standard 19-inch equipment fits standard racks; wider racks give more room for cabling in network-dense installations.
Load rating
Check static and dynamic load ratings, especially for UPS batteries and storage.
Doors and airflow
Perforated front and rear doors support front-to-back airflow. Add blanking panels and brush strips.
Security
Lockable doors and side panels protect equipment in shared spaces.
See our data centre setup services.
About the author
Vicky Ogola
Senior ICT Consultant
Vicky Ogola writes about network design, connectivity, data centres and the infrastructure that business systems depend on.