Server Rack

[DrunkenLizard]

I was wondering if a two post equipment rack is sturdy enough to mount heavy server chasis to? Or would I need to go with a four post?

This is the rack I was considering, 7 foot network rack

I just picked up a 5U case 5U Rackmount Server and it's a bit heavier and larger than I anticipated, I plan on mounting several servers, patch panels, and other odd and end equipment.

 

[pkoslow]

Two post racks are geared towards patch panels and small switching and routing gear. In my opinion you really should use a good four post rack to properly support rack mount server and larger networking gear. If you choose to go with the two post rack, the deeper gear like your server should really be placed with the rack in the center to balance it. Depending on your server it may or may or may not have the flexibility to mount it this way, but you can purchase shelfs that extend out both sides.

Here's a photo of some gear at one of my customers that's centered on a two post rack. It's nice and open for ventilation and service, but hardly a show-piece:

Below is a photo from another customer where I've got things racked up the way I prefer. If you look closely in the background on the right of the photo, you'll also see a two post rack with some big heavy Cisco routing and switching gear. This rack is bolted into the concrete floor and also attached to cable ladder which is securely attached with unistrut for support. Even if you support a two post rack like this securely, you have to be certain that the gear you are mounting is designed to only be supported from the front like the Cisco gear pictured. I've seen servers that are supposed to be supported from both ends installed in two post racks and the chassis have actually bent down over time due to the unsupported weight.

Cheers,
Paul

 

[DrunkenLizard]

Thanks Paul,
I think I'll pick up that two post, I'm sure I'll end up filling it up with networking. Gives me an excuse to pick up a four post when I can find a used one around here in the future for expandability.

I guess I should have looked a little further down the page and read beelzerob's very similar post.

 

[AutomatedOutlet]

We are currently in the process of adding to the site the Fat Cat racks - http://fatcattech.com/a-public/products/ra...alth-series.asp

They are in stock and will be on the site this week.

 

[electron]

Looks like the deepest they offer is 24" ... might be too shallow for large servers.