The Benefits of Open Frame Server Racks
When it comes to organizing and setting up equipment in a computer room or data center, maximizing space is essential. Open frame server racks offer an ideal solution for staying organized in a cost-effective way while providing the following benefits:
- Versatility: Open frame racks suit various applications, from supporting active equipment to serving as a cable patching platform.
- Easy Access: Without walls or side panels, equipment and cabling are accessible from all angles, simplifying maintenance and upgrades.
- Enhanced Airflow: Open designs allow unrestricted airflow to equipment, which is ideal for setups with lower cooling demands.
- Reduced Maintenance Costs: The straightforward accessibility of open frame racks minimizes downtime and lowers maintenance expenses.
- Strong Support: Two-post racks support loads up to 1500 lb (680.4 kg), while four-post racks can handle up to 2200 lb (1000 kg).
In essence, open frame racks are cost effective, easily accessible and durable, which makes them a smart option for telecom equipment, servers or networking with a relative low power load where cooling requirements are not a key cause for concern.
With those benefits in mind, once you’ve determined if a rack system makes the most sense for your application, it’s time to make the right selection. Strength, stability and durability are all key factors, as is the ability to keep equipment safe and secure.
Choosing Between Two-Post and Four-Post Racks
Two-post racks are typically used with open, floor-mount racks for patch panels and fiber enclosures with rack-mount equipment that is less than 20”D (510 mm), while four-post racks are a smarter choice for larger and heavier equipment, like network switches, because they surround equipment and provide front and rear support. Making the right selection usually depends on your current and future equipment needs.
Key Factors to Consider When Planning Your Rack Setup
Regardless of whether you choose a two-post or four-post rack, consider these factors:
Rack Dimensions:
- Width: Ensure the rack width matches your equipment requirements.
- Depth: Four-post racks should accommodate the depth of larger equipment.
- Height: Choose a height that allows sufficient overhead space for cable runway or trays.
Aisle Space:
- Leave a minimum of 3’ (0.9 m) at the front and rear of the rack for accessibility.
Overhead Clearance for Cable Runway:
Leave 3” to 6” (80 mm to 150 mm) between the top of racks and cable runway.
- Maintain 12” (300 mm) between each tier of cable runway.
- Keep 18” (460 mm) of clearance between the ceiling and the top tier of cable runway.
Rack-Mount Units (U):
- Racks with marked and numbered U spaces make it easier to determine available capacity for future moves, adds, or changes.
Free Quick Reference Guide for Rack Systems
To simplify your rack system selection, see Chatsworth Products’ (CPI) for an easy-to-scroll chart with all the details you need.
