Computer standards aren't so standard anymore. With new technology startups bringing amazing services to the table, there may be a few devices that don't fit the mold of the standard server room. To get some of these devices inside sturdy, secure racks, you'll either need to buy a bunch of proprietary racks or somehow force the fit. Instead of risking your devices and wasting valuable space, consider a few ways that sheet metal fabricators could help you design a more custom fit.
Why Not Throw Everything Into A Rack?
Standard server and network storage systems, such as the 19-inch server rack, are known for their modular and convenient setup. For most devices, it's simple enough to place a device next to stabilizing screws and bolts or on a shelf with the same security screws ready to keep the device in place.
A secure fit means having at least two opposing sides of the device connected to the server rack. If the device doesn't fit the server rack standards, one or more sides of the device may hang lower due to gravity, and may break the casing. The device may split open and fall to the floor after a while, or dust and debris may have an easier chance getting inside the device. Cooling is also less controlled due to the sealed nature of a computer system being ruined as the seams split.
If the server rack has shelves, the device will be stable most of the time. Unfortunately, if someone walks too closely to the device or the cables, they may pull the whole thing to the ground. You could add some mounting screws to the sides of the device and the shelf, but it makes replacing and moving the device harder.
One option is to get a new rack for every new shape and standard of device, but you may end up with multiple racks that aren't fully utilized. Floor space becomes scarce as more sparsely populated racks and equipment storage units fill the server room.
Sheet Metal Fabrication Can Help
To combat the issue of too many racks or poor fitting, a sheet metal fabrication team can design server racks, equipment storage cabinets and shelving to fit the storage needs of most if not all of your devices. Where standard racks fail, a custom system can step in my adjusting to the device's needs.
One technique would be to build cages for the device. A rear slot for cables can be put in place for easy access, while the front can allow easy manipulation of any buttons or screens. If you need to replace, remove or work on the device, it's as simple as opening up the cage.
If getting fingers into cages are a bit difficult, adjustable walls can be used to close around the sides of the devices like a clamp. You'll be able to work with the device without a cage in the way, but there might be a slight risk that a big enough pull could snatch the device from the vice-like grip of the shelving.
Contact a sheet metal fabrication team, such as J&E Metal Fabricators, to discuss different designs and solutions for computer equipment storage.
Share28 November 2015
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