Common mistakes to avoid while installing your server racks

Installing a server rack is an intricate process and requires care because it is what is holding the most important equipment of your data center within it – the servers. Racks help to organize equipment into standardized assemblies that help optimize power protection, cooling, cable management, device management, physical security, mobility, and ease of installation. So choosing the right racks and installing them correctly ensures that your IT equipment will operate efficiently and reliably.

Here are some pointers to consider when installing a rack in your data center.

Find a location that is accessible, available, and will meet the requirements for the rack and server. The room chosen should also be secure as these server racks contain valuable hardware with essential company data on them. Usually, a room in the center of a building is chosen as there are no windows here and that can ensure security, easy accessibility, and maintenance.

Location

Computer hardware needs to be kept cool. Perforated racks facilitate airflow management, essential to optimize data center temperature control. Achieving effective airflow at the rack level eliminates thermal short circuits and hot. Racks come with perforated doors which aid in dissipating the heat load. When installing racks, always overestimate the space you need in case your business grows. Empty space can always be filled with blanking panels to maintain proper airflow.

Airflow

Enclosed or open, wall or floor-mounted? There are several designs for racks and your choice will depend on the specific reasons for which the rack is being used. Also, when purchasing the server rack and other equipment, you will need to ensure they are compatible. For instance, the rails used on your computer equipment will need to be compatible with the rack. Ensure you consult with the right server rack specialists for this.

Rack Type

When installing a rack, cables are often overlooked. Color-coding and labeling cables on each end are critical for troubleshooting and maintenance. Cable organizers will be useful in this regard. Not planning out cable management ahead of time will result in unnecessary amounts of downtime if an issue arises.

Cables

Weight

Server racks are designed to support various weight capacities. The P and G series server racks from Hardy Racks for instance can carry between 500 and 1000 kilograms of weight, depending on the model. So, one needs to know just what kind of rack one needs. Also, when placing equipment inside the rack, go bottom-heavy – place the heavy stuff at the bottom.

Before installing racks or rails, understand the dimensions of your networking equipment. Your rack will have to be able to handle the width, depth, and height of your current and future equipment needs. If a rack is filled head to toe with equipment, troubleshooting is going to be difficult.

At Hardy Racks, we have a range of customizable racks that suit the different needs of data centers. Contact our rack specialists who can help you choose the right racks for your data center.