Need a rack

KirbyTech · January 18, 2018

I am looking to change out my current server configuration. I plan to put in 24U + of servers over the next year and a bit. I was looking around the data center at a local place from outside the glass doors (sadly) and I see they have some nice APC units. They are steel mesh on the front then have turning lock handles that pop in and out. I don't know the model but was thinking something like that unless for some reason they are 1.5k CAD or more in which case, would a simple 42U 4 post work fine? I want to mount rails for servers and some switches on racks ears.

I have never had a proper rack, just had everything sit in a homemade wooden one that is a pain to look at and work with since each change can take up to a day per server/appliance due to the weird way I built it needing mods each time.

Suggestions on affordable solutions for me? I want decent enough to not curse it but doesn't need to be top of the line. Suggestions on PDU's would be welcome too.

scottyseng · January 19, 2018

16 hours ago, KirbyTech said:

-snip-

Yeah, if you just want a place to mount your stuff, a simple open 4 post rack is more than enough. I would recommend 42U as well. I have 45U and it's taller than my door. lol

Make sure you buy a set of cage nuts / server rack screws for your stuff to mount them (Server usually use quick mount rails though)

I would look into craigslist or ebay for a used server four post rack. I got mine for $350 with two heavy duty fixed shelves. However, on craigslist there were several 42U dell cabinets with PDUs for $200. I wanted one but I really don't have the room for a full cabinet.

Also note, the long bar PDUs are typically for server cabinets as they usually mount to a rail that's outside of the usual four posts for the server equipment. I have a 1U cord PDU by tripp lite and it works well.

If new though, Tripp Lite makes a reasonably affordable open four post system (Be careful you're getting a server rack and not a network rack. network racks have threaded holes, server racks have square holes)