How to Choose Server Rack Cabinet Size

Table of Contents

What Is a Server Rack Cabinet?

They are closed structures that are used to store servers, networking equipment and other important hardware in data centers and IT settings. These cabinets can help you protect your equipment from physical damage and also organize them to manage them easily. These rack cabinets can also be locked and prevent unauthorized access to important devices.

Standard Sizes of Server Rack Cabinets

Rack Units (U)

Server rack cabinets are measured in rack units and termed “U.” The height of one rack unit is 1.75 inches. If a cabinet rack 42U can store equipment that has a total height of 73.5 inches.

Common Sizes

Server rack cabinets are available in sizes like 42U, 24U and 12U.

42U: It is used in enterprises or large data centers and can support massive hardware installations.

24U: This size is common in smaller IT setups or branch offices that have less equipment.

12U: These Cabinets are used for small setups or places where space is limited.

Dimensions

The width and depth of these cabinets can be different across different cabinets, the common width of these rack cabinets is 19 inches. The depths of these cabinets can range from 24 to 48 inches.

How to Choose the Correct Server Rack Cabinet Size

Space Requirements

Measure the space that is allocated / available for the cabinet while keeping restrictions in mind such as ceiling height, door width and floor load limits. You should also think of potential future expansions so you can expand them whenever you want without the need to remove everything.

Weight Capacity

You should make sure that the rack cabinet can handle the total weight of the installed equipment. Each cabinet has a maximum weight capacity which is measured in pounds or kilograms. Even weight distribution across shelves can help you make them stable.

Cooling and Ventilation

Proper airflow is very important to keep the equipment temperatures normal. Many cabinets are made with ventilation holes, while some models also come with pre-installed fans to further help you with airflow. You should get cabinets that are compatible with active cooling systems if your location has heat dissipation concerns.

Security Features

You should go for cabinets that come with secured doors and panels to limit access to your equipment. Security options like biometric authentication or keycard access systems can also help to increase the server cabinet’s security.

Cable Management

It can help you maintain them easily and reduce the network downtime. Features like cable input points, cable ties or vertical and horizontal cable managers can also make connectivity within the cabinet simple.

Custom Server Rack Cabinet Solutions by KDM

For custom server rack cabinet solutions for your specific needs, KDM can help you with their expertise in designing and making cabinets. Whether you want to get custom dimensions, ventilation or security features, KDM can help you with every solution that will fulfil your needs. Contact us now at KDM Steel.

FAQs

Where Can Durable Server Rack Cabinets Be Purchased?

You can buy durable server rack cabinets from IT equipment suppliers, manufacturers or online platforms like KDM Steel that can fulfil all your infrastructure needs. You should go for a manufacturer that can be trusted for their reliability.

How Can Rack Size Be Calculated?

You can calculate the Server rack size by determining the total height of hardware (in inches) and dividing it by 1.75 inches. The result will tell you the rack units (U) that are needed for a setup.

How Many Servers Fit in a 42U Rack?

The number of servers in a 42U rack depends on the height of each server. If you have a 1U server you can use up to 42 units, whereas a 2U server can accommodate about 21 units considering the space for cooling or ancillary components.