When considering a Data Center Migration, it's important to consider all of the components being migrated.
Here, we take a in-depth look at Server Racks.
19-Inch Rack Solutions
Overview
A 19-inch rack is a standardized frame for mounting multiple equipment modules. The front panel of each module is 19 inches (480 mm) wide, including protruding edges or ears for fastening the module to the rack with screws. These racks are essential for organizing and optimizing space in telecommunications, computing, audio, and entertainment industries.
History and Applications
Originating from railroad signaling systems, 19-inch racks have become a cornerstone in various fields due to their versatility and efficiency. They accommodate devices in standardized units (U), typically in 42U racks, allowing for a combination of different device sizes.
Mounting and Fastening Options
- Tapped-Hole Racks: Used in stable environments like government and military installations. These racks have threaded holes for bolts but can be prone to damage with frequent changes.
- Clearance-Hole Racks: Utilize cage nuts, where bolts pass through larger holes and are secured by replaceable nuts. This reduces the risk of damaging the rack itself.
- Square-Hole Racks: Offer boltless mounting, where equipment hooks into the lip of the square holes. This allows for quick installation and removal without tools.
Structural Support
Front-mounted equipment is supported by secondary mounting strips at the back, typically spaced 31.5 inches (800 mm) apart, with some designs accommodating up to 39.4 inches (1,000 mm) for enhanced cable management. The mounting strips are usually made of steel (minimum 1.9 mm thick) or slightly thicker aluminum for added strength.
Seismic Compliance
In seismic zones, racks must be secured to prevent toppling. Seismic racks meet Telcordia GR-63-CORE standards, with Zone 4 being the most stringent, ensuring the framework can withstand significant motion and stress.
Rails and Slides
Heavy or frequently serviced equipment is often mounted on rails, allowing it to slide in and out of the rack easily. This setup supports full extension for maintenance without disconnecting the equipment. Rails can lock in various positions and often come with cable management features to keep connections intact and organized during servicing.
Computer Mounting Features
- Locking Rails: Secure the server in various extended positions to prevent movement during service.
- Quick Release Pins: Simplify installation and removal, allowing the server to drop into slots without the need for screws.
- Cable Management Trays: Organize cables neatly, extending with the server to maintain connections during maintenance.
- Dual-Side Indicators: Help identify equipment needing attention from both the front and back of the rack.
- Handles: Facilitate easy handling and positioning of servers within the rack.
Four-Post vs. Two-Post Racks
- Four-Post Racks: Provide robust support with the option for enclosed designs, allowing mounting slides to support equipment at both the front and rear.
- Two-Post Racks: Ideal for telecom installations, supporting equipment either by the front panel holes or closer to the center of gravity to minimize load on the front panel.
Specifications
- Width: Standard 19 inches (483 mm), with front panel holes for mounting.
- Vertical Hole Spacing: 1U equals 1.75 inches (44.45 mm), with three-hole sets repeating every 1.75 inches. Holes are centered at 0.25 inches (6.4 mm), 0.875 inches (22.2 mm), and 1.5 inches (38.1 mm) from the top or bottom of the U.
- Horizontal Spacing: 18.312 inches (465.1 mm) between vertical rows of holes, allowing for precise equipment fitting.
- Rack Unit (U): Equipment height is measured in Us, with 1U being 1.75 inches (44.45 mm). Equipment typically comes in 1U, 2U, or larger sizes, allowing flexible configurations within a rack.
Related Standards
Compliance with industry standards like EIA-310-D and IEC 60297 ensures compatibility and reliability in rack design and usage:
- EIA-310-D: Standardizes rack unit dimensions, vertical and horizontal hole spacing, rack opening, and front panel width.
- IEC 60297: Provides mechanical structure dimensions and design aspects for the 19-inch series, ensuring international compatibility.
