Network systems are the “brain” and “heart” of each modern business. Sets of IT devices serve to process large amounts of data and perform complicated tasks. However, it is necessary to place system units somewhere. Server racks are designed for equipment housing and can accommodate up to several thousand components.
Server racks are metal constructions that have all the functional slots and supplementing tools for reliable fastening and durable storage. The use of specialized enclosures for hardware accommodation has the following advantages:
- high ergonomics and effective space allocation since hundreds of components are placed on multi-tier racks;
- protection from damage and environmental factors due to sensors, solid enclosures, and protective cages;
- bodies are equipped with all the required slots for cables, cooling devices, and supplementary tools;
- air circulation and effective hardware cooling;
- ease of maintenance due to unhindered access from all sides and the possibility to use sliding rails and shelves.
Each model has a minimum set of server rack components required for smooth operation. Below, let’s list them and define their purposes.
Structure of the Server Rack
Although multiple models are offered on the modern market, the constructions of most products are similar and have common features. Here they are:
- All furniture pieces have square or rectangular bodies with rigid vertical posts.
- A mainframe and mounting rails are indispensable elements of rack bodies.
- Depending on the construction type, cabinets can have front doors and side panels. Doors are usually perforated in enclosed models.
- Supplementary parts of server furniture include top panels, rear doors, and bases. These elements are customizable to business needs.
The modern market offers a wide range of models to satisfy customers’ demands. Products differ in size, mounting capabilities, and purposes. However, most models have much in common, namely, rack components.
Obligatory Components of Server Racks
There are mandatory and optional devices in racks. Now, let’s list home server rack components and outline their function. The below-mentioned parts are found in all cabinets.
Patch Panels
This is an indispensable element of IT system arrangement. The accessory allows for optimizing hardware functioning and enabling communication between units. These are sets of connectors that simplify cabling and connecting a power distribution unit for server rack. One accessory has several dozen slots with connectors; the number of connectors determines the panel size. They distinguish between:
- twisted pair sets;
- fiber accessories.
Depending on the connected equipment and power capacity, appropriate types of cords are chosen.
Blanking Panels
This category of server accessories is one of the most popular in system administration. When arranging IT systems, technicians do not use all the tech holes provided by rack constructions. Thus, debris and unwanted air can penetrate the rack body. Blanking panels are used to plug in such slots. They help create an optimal atmosphere inside server cabinets and control climatic indicators.
Routers
These devices are responsible for the distribution of the Internet from a provider to several devices in a wired and wireless way. Routers enable communication between the end user and the system by creating wired or wireless communication within a network system, between system units, and a control PC. Thus, technicians can control system performance remotely.
Switches
This server rack parts name stands for special devices that connect several segments of a computer network. In fact, this device is a multiport bridge between all PCs within a local network. Thanks to switches, technicians can reduce the load on the system and increase the level of security.
The operation of the device is to transmit data packets to a specific recipient. This task is achievable due to the ability of switches to remember unique MAC addresses and write them into special tables. Further, switches know to which hardware to transfer this or that information.
Cords and Cables
It is impossible to connect system components between each other and the system to the PDU without wires. Cords are used to set communication between multiple units and power the system from a PDU. Thus, the number of cables totals several hundred or even thousand.
Due to a great variety of cords, the interaction of different types of equipment is achieved. There are thicker and thinner wires that have different capacities and are able of transmitting more or less power, information, etc.
Rails
These are basic accessories responsible for hardware fastening. Mounting rails are installed between rack posts to provide reliable storage. Rails are fastened to vertical uprights at the required height by using cage nuts and screws. They allow for smooth sliding and secure fastening.
Shelves can be attached to rails for more convenient equipment accommodation. It is possible to place more devices on shelves and slide them in and out of the rack for easier access to devices.
Cable Management Bars
These accessories are widely used for cable management. When the number of cords reaches several hundred, technicians face difficulties with examining system performance and identifying non-working wires. Such bars and organizers simplify the search process. Moreover, management bars allow for preventing tangling. Different models of accessories are distinguished. Technicians can use vertical or horizontal organizers, adjustable arms, ties, etc.
A great diversity of server furniture is offered on the modern market. Manufacturers produce durable constructions and equip models with all the needed holes and fasteners. Thus, system administrators can pick a suitable model for any demand. Although it is possible to adjust the content and fasten additional accessories, most system layouts have common components. The above-mentioned parts will come in handy when arranging any IT system, regardless of its purpose, the sphere of use, and the number of devices. Thus, if you plan to set up a home server cabinet, keep in mind this list and make sure to use components that are responsible for smooth and durable hardware performance.