Enclosed Rack vs. Open Server Rack: What should you buy?
The growing importance of data centers is a deciding factor for the future of IT industries. In this, the efficiency of the data center is essential for long-term sustenance and success. The effectiveness of the data center depends upon the server racks it hosts and its efficient thermal management. Hence, rack selection is crucial and should be done based on the loading varying capacity, density, and applications that the rack needs to host.
Open or closed rack: Are you confused?
It can be a daunting task to choose a suitable rack enclosure. There are two types of server racks that one can choose from. First, let’s understand that there is no right or wrong rack since each has its benefits. So, a rack must be selected based on the number of servers, equipment, cables, and applications such as; co-networking, data center, or hub-room.
The open rack is a standard rack solution that is cost-efficient and scalable. This rack solution allows users to mount equipment and cables without worrying about overheating equipment. It can host several servers without obstructing the airflow and can be accessed from all sides. A perfect solution for data centers hosting several cables and mission-critical equipment.
On the other hand, the closed rack is covered from all sides with doors and locks to limit access to the servers for outsiders. In addition, it protects against dust particles, water, or any potential damage to the hardware. Usually, the closed rack enclosures are equipped with a roof fan ventilation system to ensure efficient airflow that secures the servers and equipment from getting overheated.
Choose what you need
Depending upon the size of the data center, several cables, and the equipment, the rack enclosures must be selected carefully to ensure efficiency and minimize equipment downtime. Netrack racks come with rack accessories for easy deployment. Enclosed rack servers will not be able to cater to the requirement of several cables and equipment with complex features since, in such scenarios, the equipment and servers will generate extreme heat. Hub-room or co-networking applications are such situations where open racks are ideal. It will ensure continuous airflow from all sides to maintain thermal efficiency.
Again, for setups where security is a concern, enclosed racks serve the purpose efficiently. The enclosed racks are designed and manufactured with high-quality perforated metal back doors and glass front doors with lock and key features. Such enclosed racks ensure that only limited personnel can access the server storage devices.
Available rack solutions
As an expert in rack solutions, Netrack designed and manufactured various rack enclosures based on the load-varying capacity and density of application so that an organization can choose the right rack per their requirement.
- NRS 1: These steel racks are durable and have small densities and loads varying capacities of 750 kgs. They can host servers, networking, AV, telecom, and lab applications.
- NRS: These rack enclosures offer security with perforated metal door and lock features. They have a vented top cover and provision for mounting fans to ensure ventilation. These standard medium-density rack configurations have 1250kgs of load varying capacity and 650, 800, 1000, and 1200 depth configurations and 600 width configurations.
- NRSe: These ultra-rigid rack enclosures are appropriate for high-density applications and can cater to load-varying capacities of 1500kgs. They have a rigid frame with exhaust blowers and adjustable ducts to ensure an easy outlet for hot air. Its front convex perforated steel door with locking features makes them perfect for data centers.
- NAOR – 2 and 4 Post Series: These ultra-rigid racks are for high-density applications for networking, labs, or data centers. They have adjustable depth configurations ranging from 650 to 850 mm.
- NRFS – 4 Post Series: These racks are available with 800 and 1000-depth and 600-width configurations.
Choose your rack wisely
Thus, server racks must be selected after careful consideration of the servers, equipment, and cables one needs to host because cable management is an essential part of the effective functioning of a data center. This will enhance cost efficiency, minimize equipment downtime, and ensure a return on investment.
