nanog mailing list archives

Re: OT: Server Cabinet


From: Randy Carpenter <rcarpen () network1 net>
Date: Thu, 05 May 2011 14:19:00 -0400 (EDT)

----- Original Message -----
If you have a need for a 4-post rack, do not accomplish that by
using 2 2-po=
st racks. You will likely find that rack rails that are designed
for a 4-pos=
t rack will not fit.

Why?  With *any* rack, there are always scenarios where the rack
rails for
some random item don't end up fitting right.  That's certainly not a
problem
inherent to two 2-post racks.  You can find 2-post racks in any
number of
interesting and unusual post/flange configurations.  It's certainly
true
that picking any old random 2-post rack has certain hazards
associated with
it - the solution is don't pick "any old random" one, not "don't pick
a
2-post rack."  But the look-before-buying rule applies to any rack
you buy,
doesn't it?

The major issue is that 2-post rack rails are generally U-shaped, and have tapped holes.

Server rack rails are L-shaped and generally have square holes.

The vast majority of mounting rails I have seen in server equipment, in the last few years especially, will not fit 
because of the extra inside rails. Been there, done that, had to buy a real 4-post rack.

Is it really a big deal to spend $500 for the proper rack?

I do agree that some 4-post racks tend to be flimsier than the 2-post racks, but when properly assembled, any decent 
brand should work fine. Just make sure to double check the weight capacities.

-Randy


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