Network Cabinets

FAQs

What is a server rack?

A server rack is a type of structure designed to house and organize computer servers and other computing equipment in data centers. Server racks typically consist of a metal frame with mounting rails that allow equipment to be mounted securely within the rack.

Do network cabinets come with front and rear doors?

In general, most network cabinets do come with both front and rear doors. The front door usually has a transparent or perforated design to allow for easy access and monitoring of the equipment, while the rear door is often solid to prevent unauthorized access.

Do network cabinets come with side panels?

Many network cabinets do come with side panels as a standard feature. Side panels serve an important role in a network cabinet as they help to protect the equipment from external factors such as dust, debris, and unauthorized access. They also help to improve the overall thermal management of the cabinet by reducing the amount of airflow around the equipment.

What are rack units?

Rack units, also known as "U" or "RU", are a standard measurement for the height of a server rack or rack enclosure. One rack unit is equal to 1.75 inches (44.45 mm) of vertical rack space. The standard height of a server rack is typically measured in multiples of rack units, with the most common sizes being 42U and 48U.

What are cage nuts?

Cage nuts are a type of hardware used in equipment racks and network cabinets to secure and mount equipment. They are called "cage nuts" because they have a unique design that involves a cage-like structure around a threaded hole.

What are some mounting options when there is limited space in a data center?

When there is limited space in a data center, it can be challenging to find suitable mounting options for equipment. However, there are a few mounting options that can help optimize space usage in these scenarios: wall mount racks, vertical racks and overhead mounts.

What can be surface mount in a server rack?

A server rack is designed to accommodate a variety of equipment used in data centers or server rooms. Some examples of equipment that can be surface-mounted in a server rack include: servers, network switches, patch panels, UPS and storage arrays.

Enclosure Selection Basics

Electrical enclosures are cabinets that are designed to house electrical components. Their main function is to protect the components, as well as to protect the operators from electrical hazards. Enclosures are typically made of solid plastics, fiberglass and metal materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum.

One of the most important things to consider when selecting an electrical enclosure is the NEMA rating. NEMA stands for National Electrical Manufacturer Association. They have developed a rating system which determines the types of environments an electrical enclosure can be used in. 

NEMA 1 and a NEMA 12 enclosures

Both of these enclosures are intended for indoor use only. They are both dust resistant. The NEMA 12 enclosure is rated for damp environments. The NEMA 1 is rated only for dry environments.  

NEMA 4 and NEMA 4X enclosures

Both of these enclosures can be used indoors as well as outdoors. They are both dust resistant. They are also water resistant and corrosion resistant. NEMA 4X has an extra layer of corrosion resistance.

NEMA 7 enclosures

This is a more specific type of enclosure that is rated for use in hazardous environments. It is rated to contain an explosion within the enclosure and not cause any sort of external hazard. 

Size

When selecting the size of an enclosure, it is important to consider the following: how much space will the electrical components occupy, how much space is needed around each component, is there enough room to run all of the wires and how much space is needed outside of the enclosure?

Temperature

When selecting an enclosure, it is important to consider both the ambient temperature and the temperature that is generated inside of the enclosure. When an enclosure is located outside in direct sunlight, that heat can be transferred inside the enclosure. Also, each component inside of the enclosure generates a certain amount of heat.