Rack Buying Guide

What is a Rack Enclosure and Open-Frame Rack and how are they different?

Rack Enclosures and Open-Frame Racks are standardized frame structures designed for mounting servers, routers, UPS systems, switches, audio/video and other rack equipment.

Enclosures/cabinets and open frame configurations provide rack equipment organization and cable management while facilitating optimal cooling. With optional side/rear panels and a locking front door, cabinet/enclosure models provide enhanced security while protecting rack-mount equipment from vibration, impact and other environmental hazards. Open-frame racks provide economical equipment organization and cable management for areas that do not require a secure enclosure.

What are the primary applications of Rack Enclosures and Open-Frame Racks?

Rack Enclosures and Open-Frame Racks are primarily used in server rooms/closets, data centers, audio/video installations and classrooms for organizing, securing and cooling high-density rack equipment. A variety of rack storage accessories allow you to adapt to new equipment, keeping your environment current and eliminating the need to upgrade to new rack storage units.

When selecting Rack Storage, there are three main questions that need to be answered.

Type

What type of rack do you require?

If security is important to you, we recommend a cabinet/enclosure model. If you're simply looking for an economical way to organize rack equipment while conserving space, we suggest an open -rame rack.


Size

What size of rack do you need?

How much rack-mount equipment do you currently have, and how much do you expect to add as your needs grow? One unit (1U) of rack space is 1 ½" high. Racks range in size from 6U to 48U. Rack-mount equipment ranges in size from 1U to 9U and beyond, so be sure to make an accurate assessment of the amount of rack space you currently need and for future growth.


Style

What style of rack do you prefer?

Rack solutions can accommodate virtually any spatial requirements: options include floor-standing and wall-mount racks, as well as expansion, extra-deep and extra-wide racks.


Other Considerations:

Application Considerations Recommended Model
Limited transport/delivery space            Knockdown
Limited floor space Wall-Mount
Re-shipment required Shock Pallet
Limited budget Open-Frame
Multiple users for one Rack Enclosure Co-location
Multiple racks require connection into rows Expansion
Storage for extra-deep equipment Deep
Additional cabling space Wide
Extra depth and width required Deep and Wide
Equipment is vulnerable to damage Extra Heavy-Duty
Additional heat removal required Thermal Duct
GSA schedule purchase TAA-Compliant

Find the perfect Rack solution for your specific application.

The best way to choose the right Rack Enclosure or Open-Frame Rack is to visit our convenient online Rack Selector Guide. It will walk you step-by-step through the selection process.

Launch Rack Selector Guide