Effective management of the IT infrastructure starts with well-organized server and network racks. When IT equipment is installed haphazardly, administrators waste valuable time tracing problems and accessing resources. Poor cable management restricts airflow and further complicates troubleshooting and maintenance.
How to Organize Your Network Rack
Proper network rack organization begins with selecting the right racks and cabinets. Although most data centers and server rooms use 19-inch-wide racks, a wide range of heights and depths is available. Network racks should be tall enough to maximize data center space, with consideration for the amount of power and cooling available. High-performance servers and blade chassis will require racks deep enough to accommodate the equipment and ensure access and airflow.
The next step is to plan the layout of the rack or cabinet and install the equipment and cabling, with consideration for future moves, adds, and changes. Here are four best practices to follow.
Determine Which Components Will Be Located in the Network Rack
In today’s high-density environments, it’s crucial to determine which components will be housed in a particular rack. Often, racks are organized by workload, but that’s not always a one-to-one relationship. One rack may be able to accommodate multiple small workloads, while multiple racks may be required to support larger workloads.
Map Out Where Each Component Will Be Installed
Equipment should be mounted in a way that maximizes available space and allows easy access. Generally, heavier equipment is installed at the bottom of the rack. It’s also important to plan for “nonstandard” components such as PCs, laptops, and A/V equipment that may require shelving. Developing a detailed plan for where each component will be mounted helps avoid the hassle of moving the equipment later.
Plan for Proper Cable Management
Horizontal and vertical cable managers and cable ties ensure that cords stay neat and tidy and prevent damage due to bending and twisting. Power cords and network cables should be separated to reduce the risk of electromagnetic interference. Patch panels are valuable tools that allow for higher port utilization and the use of larger switches. Fiber enclosures save space and create modular connections for fiber-optic cables.
Ensure Adequate Cooling
Proper cooling is one of the most critical considerations when organizing server racks and network cabinets. Today’s equipment consumes a lot of power and thus generates a lot of heat. Blanking panels should be used to cover empty spaces, and the space between the rails and sides sealed to reduce the mixing of chilled intake air with hot exhaust air. Perforated doors allow chilled air to enter enclosed cabinets. Better yet, in-rack cooling systems create the perfect environment for equipment.
Enconnex is Here to Help
Enconnex has the products and expertise needed to help organize your racks and cabinets. Browse our portfolio of data center and IT infrastructure products and get in touch with our team of specialists to learn how we can help.