optimise your workspace: Rack solutions for enhanced productivity
The growth of technologies like cloud computing, edge computing, and AI/ML-based operations has pushed the demand for advanced computing infrastructures with enhanced performance, scalability, and security.
Simultaneously, the need for advanced test and measurement (T&M) facilities is increasing as industries prioritise accuracy, compliance, and predictive maintenance.Industrial control panels also play an important role in modern industries by controlling and monitoring complex processes in real-time data to improve operational efficiency and safety. When combined, these elements form the backbone of a resilient technological ecosystem that boosts productivity, reduces downtime, and enhances overall system reliability.
Given this scenario, businesses seek a reliable, flexible, secure, and operationally economical IT/T&M infrastructure. Racks play a crucial role in IT infrastructure by providing housing for servers and networking equipment. They maximise space utilisation, improve airflow for cooling, and facilitate easier maintenance and upgrades. In T&M facilities and industrial control panels, rack solutions help streamline equipment organisation, ensuring that testing tools and control systems are easily accessible and efficiently managed.
Selecting the right rack integration solution involves understanding parameters like rack standard, types, and features. This article, in collaboration with Farnell, will help you find the right rack integration solution for your specific needs.
Basics of racks solutions
What is a rack?
Racks are frameworks designed to house or organize multiple equipment used in data centers or other IT environments, test and measurement (T&M) facilities, multimedia houses, and industrial control panels. They can house equipment such as test and measurement instruments, servers, industrial controllers,switches, and more in a limited space and in a systematic manner. Racks also safeguard equipment from extreme environmental conditions. These racks are also equipped with cable management systems to organize and protect cables and wires. You can also integrate multiple pieces of equipment into a single rack and optimize space utilisation, further improving the overall efficiency of your operations.
Figure 1: Heavy-Duty aluminum rack
Rack integration
Rack integration is the comprehensive process of designing, assembling, testing, and IT/AV/T&M/Industrial automation equipment within racks for deployment in IT or industrial environments. This includes integrating servers, networking switches, power management systems, test and measurement equipment, storage systems, cabling, and cooling solutions, depending upon the type of application (e.g., data center, industrial automation, etc.), into an integrated unit that works together seamlessly. Although this process may seem simple, it is complex. It generally involves several stages: assessing requirements, selecting appropriate technologies, assembling the hardware, configuring systems, and commissioning before deployment.
Rack standards
Various standards govern rack solutions for IT equipment, industrial automation, audio/video systems, and test and measurement applications. These standards ensure compatibility between standard rack equipment and standard racks. The following are the key standards associated with these application areas:
a) IT equipment
- EIA-310: This standard specifies the dimensions for 19-inch racks popularly used for telecommunication and data center equipment and ensures interoperability among equipment from different manufacturers.
- IEC 60297: Similar to EIA-310, this standard outlines dimensions and technical requirements for mechanical structures used for electronic equipment, including racks.
- TIA-942: This covers the telecommunications infrastructure, power infrastructure, mechanical infrastructure, site location, architecture, fire protection, security, and electrical and mechanical systems.
b) Industrial automation
- DIN 41494: Ensures the compatibility and interchangeability of electronic equipment within racks, focusing on the dimensions of racks and panels used for mounting electronic components.
- EN 61587: Specifies environmental requirements, test set-ups, and safety aspects for racks and associated plug-in units used indoors and during transportation.
c) Audio/video
While specific standards for audio/video racks may not be as widely as those in IT and industrial automation, many audio/video equipment manufacturers adhere to the EIA-310 standard for rack dimensions. This ensures that audio/video equipment can be housed efficiently within standardised racks.
d) Test and measurement
- IEEE 1101: This standard defines the mechanical and electrical requirements for modular instrumentation racks used in test and measurement applications.
- VITA 48: It is a standard for the mechanical design of modular systems in test and measurement, mainly focused on high-performance applications and airflow management.
Rack types
Racks come in different configurations, engineered to meet various operational requirements and business needs. There are primarily three types of racks, each with a unique structure and design. These racks are designed for housing servers, T&M, and other equipment without the enclosed walls of traditional racks.
- Open-frame racks: These typically consist of vertical posts and horizontal rails without side panels or doors that allow easy installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of equipment. This design provides better airflow, making them suitable for the equipment requiring critical heat dissipation. They also facilitate easier cable management, making it simpler to organize and route cables.
- Closed frame racks: These racks are equipment racks specially designed for AV and industrial automation equipment. They are enclosed structures with front and rear doors and side panels for protection from dust, physical damage, and unauthorised access. Closed frame racks have standard dimensions to accommodate a wide range of equipment and have additional rails for mounting accessories. These racks come with built-in cooling solutions, like fans or perforated doors for maintaining optimal airflow and temperature. They often include integrated cable management systems to help organize and route cables neatly.
- Wall-mount racks: These are plastic or metal structures designed to be securely mounted on walls where space is a constraint. These racks can be open-frame racks or enclosed cabinets. Wall-mount racks help in saving floor space, making them ideal for small offices, IT closets, and control rooms. They also have ventilation features, such as perforated doors or side panels, to promote airflow and prevent equipment from overheating.
Factors to consider when choosing a rack
The following specifications are generally considered when selecting a rack solution for IT and industrial applications:
- Size and capacity: The height, width, and depth of the rack should be selected to accommodate both current and future equipment. Standard rack heights are often 42U, with widths typically 19 inches and depths varying from 29 inches for open-frame racks to over 50 inches for larger equipment. Similarly, the standard width of the rack enclosures is 24 inches. Extra-wide rack enclosures of 30 inches are also available. Depth is another crucial factor. In general, the depth of the rack varies from 27 to 42 inches. During planning, it is recommended that an additional space be considered for cabling and ventilation.
- Weight capacity: This parameter indicates the total weight of all the equipment the rack must support, considering both static load (stationary equipment) and dynamic load (equipment on casters). For example, 2-post racks are suitable for lightweight IT-like switches, while 4-post racks can handle heavier loads, up to 70U. Industrial settings may require racks with higher weight capacities due to robust equipment like PLCs,VFDs, etc.
- Cooling and ventilation: Racks with built-in cooling features like fans, fillers, or blanking panels ensure proper airflow. They enhance cooling efficiency and prevent rack equipment from overheating, which generates significant heat. For industrial environments, racks may need designs that facilitate ventilation in dusty or high-temperature conditions, with options like perforated fan cooling or sealed racks for liquid cooling.
- Cable management: An effective cable management practice keeps the racks , reducing clutter and the risk of cable damage or disconnection. It also helps prevent interference.
- Power distribution: Equipment housed in racks typically requires multiple power outlets. A power distribution unit (PDU) is essential for efficient power delivery and safety. PDUs come in various form factors, including vertical and horizontal units, to accommodate different rack configurations and space constraints. They may also feature multiple outlet types to support diverse power requirements. Modern PDUs often include built-in monitoring capabilities to track power consumption, voltage, and load, providing valuable data for energy management. Some models offer surge protection to safeguard equipment from voltage spikes and electrical surges.
- Security: Rack equipment should have locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive or high-voltage components. Stability is also a critical factor, especially in earthquake-prone areas. To enhance stability, weight should be evenly distributed across the rack, with heavier equipment positioned lower to lower the center of gravity. Rack enclosures should be anchored to the floor or wall to prevent tipping, particularly for taller racks.
rack solution for different applications
Farnell Global offers a comprehensive range of products required to assemble rack solutions that satisfy your requirements for an IT/data center, industrial control panel, audio-visual, or even setting up a T&M facility. These products conform to the highest standards of performance, safety, and durability for your network cabinets. Our extensive selection of racking components is engineered for seamless integration, offering flexibility and scalability to accommodate your evolving needs. From cables and assemblies, T&M equipment, Industrial automation components, servers, and switches to shelves and panels, we supply everything you need to build and maintain a custom racking system that your storage capacity and operational flow. Explore our full range of racking solutions today and discover how we can help you build more tailored racking systems for your unique application needs.
Conclusion
Now, you have learned that rack solutions are necessary to meet the evolving demands of AI/ML, cloud computing, IIoT, smart factories, and more. Farnell provides a complete portfolio of components that suit majority requirements for setting up a rack solution for various purposes. Selecting the right components can help your organisation make informed decisions, enhance business performance, and streamline operations.
