Unlike an equipment rack, a cabinet is a fully enclosed
unit with options for a top, bottom, right and left sides and front
and rear doors. Optional caster bases add portability to your cabinet.
There are three measurements to consider when determining which
cabinet is required: width, height and depth.
Cabinet Specifications:
WIDTH
Width is shown in inches and
is measured from one mounting hole to the corresponding hole
on the other rail. The most common width is 19 inches with
the hole-to-hole centers measuring 18.3 inches.
HEIGHT
Height of the cabinet is shown as Rack Spaces
(RS) or Rack Units (RU). This measurement shows the amount
of vertical space on the rails. A single rack space or unit
is 1.75” high. You determine the height of the cabinet
you require by adding up the total rack spaces of your equipment.
For example, a 44 rack space would give you 77” of usable
height and hold 22 2-rack space panels.
Since rack widths are standard, the amount of vertical space
will determine how much equipment your rack will hold. Also,
keep in mind that because this measurement is usable space,
the overall (or total) height of the rack will be greater.
DEPTH
Depth of the cabinet is a measurement from
the front to the back. Because a cabinet is enclosed, you
need to make sure the usable depth will accommodate your equipment.
Cabinets can range from 18” up to 42” deep to
support the newer, deeper servers.
FANS
Another important consideration when planning
your cabinet is the potential for heat to build up. There
are many options for venting and cooling: Fan tops, vented
doors and side panels, as well as special fan panels to keep
the air moving. In dusty or dirty environments, filter panels
help keep the air clean.
CABLE MANAGEMENT
There are many options for cable management
in a cabinet. Horizontal and vertical cable managers, cable
hangers, raceways and more are available. Incorporating these
options into your design from the beginning will help prevent
problems later on and give you a neat, functional installation.
Solution:
With all the different options to consider when setting up a cabinet,
always remember your MilesTek representative is happy to help. With
over 23 years of experience, MilesTek can provide the answers to
your questions and help you put together the right cabinet for your
application.
