Fiber Patch Cable Cleaning Recommendations

Fiber optics have expanded the capabilities and possibilities of networks beyond our expectation. Fiber patch cable serves as a common yet indispensable part which determines connection quality between fiber optic equipment, therefore it has no tolerance to any contaminant like dust and dirt. So keeping the end face of patch cables clean to ensure performance and reliability of the network is vital. This article offers general tips on patch cable cleaning, while introduces some professional tools that help simplify the process.

Why Is Patch Cable Cleaning Critical?

It is claimed that over 85% of fiber related problems in data centers, campus, and other enterprise or telecom environments are caused by contaminated connectors or end-faces. Which can often lead to degraded performance, or even worse, failure of the whole network system. So, cleaning consideration is always put in a paramount place in optical network transmission.

To ensure proper performance and reliability, care must be taken with the installation and maintenance of patch cable end face, as well as the removable fiber connectors. Because data are transmitted through the small core of the fiber patch cable, a very small amount of dirt or residue may significantly increase the connector’s attenuation and weaken the signal. Lack of applying proper patch cable cleaning procedures can directly impact the quality of the system’s performance.

General Tips for Patch Cable Cleaning

fiber patch cable cleaning is one of the most rudimentary and essential procedures to ensure network availability and reliability. The following lists some general suggestions when performing patch cable cleaning.

Point 1: Try to work in a clean area. Avoid working around heating outlets.

Point 2: Always keep dust caps on connectors and bulkhead adapters for as long as possible. Only remove the dust caps to clean the components prior to making a connection.

Point 3: Never touch the ferrule end face of a fiber optic connector. No matter what you do, you will leave contamination behind.

Point 4: Always clean connectors before inserting into an adapter. Use specialized cleaning tools or lint free pads and isopropyl alcohol to clean.

Point 5: Ferrules on the connectors/cables used for testing will get dirty by transference of contaminants from alignment sleeves in the bulkhead adapters, so test cables and adapters should be cleaned or replaced regularly when testing a large system.

Recommendations of Efficient Patch Cable Cleaning Tools

It is important to have proper tools to facilitate fiber patch cable cleaning job, which will greatly minimize the cleaning time and difficulty, making the cleaning process easier and more efficient. The commonly used patch cable cleaning tools are illustrated as follow.

a. Push-type cleaners (one-clike cleaners): this pen-shaped push-type cleaners feature an easy one-push action, which quickly and effectively cleans the end face of connectors on patch cables or through adapters without any alcohol or harsh chemicals. Always select the cleaner model for the connector type to be cleaned, 2.5mm for SC, FC and ST, and 1.25mm for LC and MU.

b. One-clike MTP/MPO cleaner: this cleaner is specifically designed to clean MTP/MPO connector end face on patch cables or in adapters. The unique design enables effective cleaning of either male (with pins) or female (without pins) connector, in fiber breakout modules and even networking gear like switches and routers.

c. Reel-type cleaners (cassette cleaners): they typically contain a lint free reel of cloth that is moved after each cleaning, always presenting a clean surface. Reel-type cleaners are safe patch cable cleaning options without the need for alcohol. Besides, they have refillable cleaning tapes, making them ideal for lab, assembly lines and field use.

d. Wipes and cleaning cards: there are a wide variety of patch cable cleaning wipes and cleaning cards for both field and manufacturing applications. They can be used either dry or with cleaning fluid to remove common contaminants for effective patch cable cleaning.

e. Cleaning swabs & sticks: Precisely designed, the mini foam clean swabs are made to serve various different patch cable cleaning and maintenance needs. Foam swabs are ideal for more precision cleaning where linting needs should be avoided. Swabs assist in cleaning small or hard to reach items.

Conclusion

For best optical performance, it is imperative that all fiber patch cable connections are clean and free of contaminants. An easy to use patch cable cleaning tool becomes a necessity for fiber technicians and installers. Even without specific training, field technicians and fiber installers can use a simple insertion and push motion to remove residue, debris and dust that can negatively impact network performance. So why not grab a patch cable cleaning tool to make your job easier?

Source: http://www.china-cable-suppliers.com/patch-cable-cleaning-tips-tools.html

How to Integrate PoE to Your Network?

You may come across the situation when it is needed to install IP telephones, wireless access points or IP cameras to somewhere AC power outlets are not available. What would you do then? As extra power supply and wiring installation can be labor-intensified and time-consuming. The most feasible solution is to deploy PoE (Power over Ethernet)—a system standardized by IEEE802.3 that supplies low voltage power to Ethernet-enabled devices via the communication line. Here we illustrate how to upgrade your existing network to PoE.

PoE Network Explained

As its name suggests, PoE (power over Ethernet) is the technology to supply power directly via data cable, eliminating the need for additional electrical wiring. It makes network planning flexible and independent of switch sockets and cabinets, requiring no extra costs for excess wiring. Thus devices can be installed wherever structured Ethernet wiring is located, without the need for AC power outlets nearby.

Generally speaking, this technology enables network cables carry electrical power. Let’s take surveillance camera for example: it typically requires two connections when it is installed: a network connection to communicate with video recording and display equipment, and a power connection to deliver the electrical power to operate the camera. However, if this surveillance camera is PoE compatible, all we need is the network connection, as it can receive the needed electrical power from the cable as well.

Advantages of PoE Network

We know that powered devices such as surveillance cameras and wireless access points are often located in places where traditional power outlets are difficult to install or even not available. Under such circumstances, PoE functions to facilitate the use of wireless access devices, IP phones, surveillance cameras, the benefits of which is thus obvious.

The advantages of power of Ethernet features that Ethernet is always ubiquitous, hence it greatly increases mobility for end devices. And as no AC power involved, PoE is safer to use. Moreover, it simplifies installation and operation without the need for extra AC power wiring, keeping the cabling secure while not interfering with the network operation. This makes power over Ethernet a much securer, more reliable and cost-saving solution.

How to Integrate PoE to Your Network?

Before upgrading your existing network to PoE-enabled one. You’d better firstly make clear that there are two types of devices involved in this system: power sourcing equipment (PSE) and powered devices (PD). PD refers to a power over Ethernet compatible network end device equipped to accept power transmitted over structured Ethernet cabling. PSE provides DC power to PD. A PSE may be an endspan device or a midspan device. An endspan device typically is a network switch enabled to provide PoE power on each port. A midspan device is connected in-line to each end device and adds power to the line.

There generally exist three routes to achieve power over Ethernet to your network.

1. By PoE switch: a PoE switch is a network switch that with built-in power over Ethernet injection. Simply by connecting other network devices to the switch as normal, the switch will detect whether they are compatible to power over Ethernet and then enable power automatically. This kind of switches are available to suit all applications, from low-cost unmanaged edge switches with a few ports, up to complex multi-port rack-mounted units with sophisticated management.

2. Using midspan: a midspan enables PoE capability to regular network switches. With midspan, one can upgrade existing LAN installations to PoE. Midspan also provides a versatile solution where fewer ports are required. Upgrading each network connection to power over Ethernet is as simple as patching it through the midspan.

3. Via a PoE splitter: it is also feasible to upgrade powered devices (PDs) to power over Ethernet enabled ones by splitter. This splitter is patched into the camera’s network connection, and taps off the PoE power, which it converts into a lower voltage suitable for the camera.

Conclusion

The simplicity of combining signal and power in one Ethernet cable connection makes PoE technology an ideal solution for enterprise network. In this case, PSE can provide power to a wide variety of PD in areas with no access to AC power. Deploying this technology in your network will lead to a safe, reliable, and economical way to deliver consistent and dependable power to common networking devices.

Source: http://www.fiber-optic-solutions.com/integrate-poe-network.html

Advice on Server Rack Cable Management

The proliferation of the cloud network and virtualization has brought higher network demands, which means data centers and network closets need to house and support an abundance of power and data cables. It is obvious that fail to deliver proficient cable management within a server rack can be devastated, either for network efficiency and performance, or for the overall look of the data center. The biggest challenge therefore is server rack cable management. This article intends to guide you through the process of achieving effective server rack cable management.

Benefits of Server Rack Cable Management

Here comes a frequently asked question: what exactly can data center operators benefit from valid rack cable management? The aspects listed below may explain.

Improved system performance: rack cable management incline to separate power and data cables within the racks, which greatly decrease the chance for crosstalk and interference between power and data cables.

Enhanced availability: mess of cable sometimes may confuse data center operators, resulting in human error that leads to an assortment of problems to the overall system. Effective rack cable management allows easier cable and IT device management, yet to reduce human error.

Improved maintenance and serviceability: effective rack cable management also ensures easier and safer access to individual components.

Increased cooling efficiency: by allowing hot exhaust air to escape out the back of the rack, cable management keeps cables organized and out of critical airflow paths.

Improved scalability: rack cable management simplifies moves, adds, and changes, making it easier to integrate additional racks and components for future growth.

Steps for Achieving Server Rack Cable Management

Then, we have made clear the importance and advantage of rack cable management. But how to achieve a well-organized and aesthetic appealing data center? We offer this seven-step guide for successful rack cable management.

Step One: Plan appropriately. Planning serves as the very primary stage for power and data cable management in server racks. An appropriate planning contributes to deliver smooth rack cable management process. Consulting a professional cabling contractor can be beneficial to complete the entire project.

Step Two: Determine the routes for power cables and data cables. First to consider if the power and data cabling will enter from the top or bottom of the rack. Then, determine the routes to separate power and data cables, and copper data cables and fiber. This helps to prevent erratic or interference from degrading the performance of the system.

Step Three: Identify cables. Good cable identification and administration are investments in infrastructure. Implement best practices like using colored cables as well as labeling cables to ensure easier cable identification, which contributes a lot to rack cable management.

Step Four: Route and retain cables. Cables must be protected at points where they might rub or contact with sharp edges or heated areas. Rack cable management accessories like flexible cable tie and cable management arms can be used to route and retain cables.

Step Five: Secure cables and connectors. Cables and connectors should be secured to prevent excessive movement and to provide strain relief of critical points.

Step Six: Avoid thermal issues. Ensure the airflow path is rather important, since restrained airflow can cause temperatures rise. Sustained higher temperatures can shorten devices’ expected lifespan and lead to unexpected failures, resulting in unscheduled system downtime.

Step Seven: Document and maintain organization. Documenting the complete infrastructure including diagrams, cable types, patching information, and cable counts is important for future cable management. IT managers should commit to constructing standard procedures and verifying that they are carried out.

Conclusion

Effective rack cable management helps to improve physical appearance, cable traceability, airflow, cooling efficiency and troubleshooting time while eliminates the chance for human error. Meanwhile, power and data cable management within server racks also ensures the health and longevity of your cables. Hope what we discussed in the article is informative enough.

Source: http://www.fiber-optic-solutions.com/advice-server-rack-cable-management.html

Pre-Terminated Cabling System Pros and Cons

The past few years have seen the steady rise in the use of pre-terminated cabling system. This cabling solution is considered as the norm for some key areas, such as data centers and commercial office fit-outs. Then, what is pre-terminated cabling system in essence? And what we can expect from this cabling alternative? This article intends to clear the confusion about pre-terminated cabling system, by analyzing its definition as well as explaining the benefits and drawbacks of it.

What Is Pre-terminated Cabling System?

Pre-terminated systems are factory manufactured cables and modular components with connectors already attached, which usually have been tested, qualified and ready to plug and play in the network. They are available in both fiber and copper cabling. Pre-terminated systems offer unsurpassed advantages over conventional field installed system, which partially explains why the use of factory pre-terminated assemblies continues to grow, especially for data centers. Pre-terminated assemblies come in various forms, from trunk cables, connectorized fan-outs, attached or discreet cassette modules to cable bundles with protective pulling grips installed over the connectors at one end.

Where to Use Pre-terminated Cabling System?

At the beginning of the article, we’ve mentioned that pre-terminated cabling system commonly found its position in two fields: data centers and open offices. In response to the accelerated network capacity and application processing demands, data centers are expanding dramatically both in number and size. Which propel the advancement of alternative to improve the connectivity installation times and simplify the deployment for reliable and rugged cabling systems. The open office also benefits from the pre-terminated cabling system which can be quickly reconfigured to match the moves, adds and changes. Pre-terminated cabling system is expected to spread its influence in these types of scenarios.

Pros and Cons of Pre-terminated Cabling System

We all know that one size does not fit all, so there are some serious pros and cons one must take heed of when dealing with pre-terminated cabling system.

Benefits of Pre-terminated Cabling System

Once used properly, pre-terminated solutions can bring a raft of benefits to cable installers and end-users.

Cost Saving: Although pre-terminated assemblies may have a higher initial cost since they include the factory termination time, the savings it provides go beyond the expense.

Time Saving: Pre-terminated system helps to save time in various ways. Since the assemblies are factory terminated, they require minimal engineering or assembly work on site. Meanwhile, pre-terminated assemblies also save testing and troubleshooting time. Also, pre-terminated assemblies are factory terminated which reduce many of the problems that may occur with field terminations.

Labor Saving: With pre-terminated assemblies, you don’t need as many on-site engineers pulling cables in and terminating them. As the pre-terminated links have been pre-tested, this vastly mitigates the need for troubleshooting and retesting.

Space Saving: For any data centers, the available space is always precious. Data center managers will embrace anything that contributes to promoting space utilization. With massive optical fibers being adopted in the data center to speed data transmission, pre-terminated assemblies offer much higher density and flexibility for data center upgrades.

Cooling Advantages: Heating and cooling issues matter significantly especially in high density network environment. Pre-terminated cabling system allows much more flexibility in configuration for installers working in compact space. Optimized airflow can be achieved by using pre-terminated assemblies such as trunk cables and plug and play cassettes, in conjunction with high density frames.

Security Benefits: Security is always put in a paramount place in data centers. And pre-terminated cabling system does offer numerous security benefits. With pre-terminated solution, less manpower is required for the installation, making it simpler to manage “contract personnel”. While less specialist skills required to install pre-terminated assemblies, enterprises can even use their own team to do the job.

Drawbacks of Pre-terminated Cabling System

For all its advantages, pre-terminated cabling system is something of a double-edged sword, which means it certainly has some downsides. One drawback concerning pre-terminated cabling solution is the accuracy measurement required. Three is no turning up with cable assemblies that are too short or excessively long, and there is no containment space to store the excess cables. So accurate site surveys are rather essential.

Conclusion

With the benefits absolutely outweigh the drawbacks, pre-terminated cabling system provides an increasingly popular way of delivering a project in a more timely and cost effective manner. However, one should always carry out a comprehensive planning and site survey before installation to assure you can exactly benefit from pre-terminated cabling solution.

Source: http://www.china-cable-suppliers.com/pre-terminated-cabling-pros-cons.html

How to Use WDM for Fiber Capacity Expansion?

Imagine turning a cottage into a majestic skyscraper without having to deliver any innovation or construction. This is what wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) allows with your existing fiber optic network. The hunger for bandwidth propels service providers to make a substantial investment in upgrading fiber cabling infrastructure. This can be a challenge both economically and practically. However, the WDM technology offers an alternative to increase capacity on the fiber links that are already in place. Without deploying additional optical fiber, WDM greatly reduces the cost of network expansion.

WDM Technology Explanation

Let’s begin with the most fundamental question: What is WDM technology? Short for wavelength division multiplexing, WDM is a way of transmitting multiple simultaneous data streams over the same fiber. Since this happens simultaneously, WDM does not impact transmission speed, latency or bandwidth. WDM functions as multiplexing multiple optical signals on a single fiber by using different wavelengths, or colors, of laser light to carry different signals. Network managers can thus realize a multiplication effect in their available fiber’s capacity with WDM.

To implement WDM to the infrastructure is rather simple, WDM setup generally consists of the following:

• WDM transmit devices, each operating at a different wavelength
• Multiplexer, a passive device that combines the different light sources into a blended one
• Fiber infrastructure
• De- Multiplexer, a passive device that splits the blended light source into separate ones
• WDM receive devices

What Capacity Increase Can We Expect?

There are two variants of WDM: CWDM (coarse wave-division multiplexing) and DWDM (dense wave-division multiplexing). The only difference between them is the band in which they operate, and the spacing of the wavelengths and thus the number of wavelength or channels that can be used.

When using WDM on existing fiber cabling, you should also consider the fiber type (single-mode or multimode) and loss level. For CWDM, 8 to 18 devices may be possible, whereas for DWDM, up to 40 channels are the most common case, but it is possible to reach up to 160 channels.

Choose the Right Type of WDM

We’ve known that both CWDM and DWDM are available to optimize network capacity. Then, here comes another question: should I choose CWDM or DWDM technology? Let’s make a comparison of them.

Coarse Wave Division Multiplexing (CWDM)

CWDM increases fiber capacity in either 4, 8, or 18 channel increments. By increasing the channel spacing between wavelengths on the fiber, CWDM allows for a simple and affordable method of carrying up to 18 channels on a single fiber. CWDM channels each consume 20 nm of space and together use up most of the single-mode operating range.

Benefits of CWDM:

• Passive equipment that uses no electrical power
• No configuration is necessary, much lower cost per channel than DWDM
• Scalability to grow the fiber capacity as needed
• With little or no increased cost
• Protocol transparent and ease of use

Drawbacks of CWDM:

• 18 channels may not be enough, and fiber amplifier cannot be used with them
• Passive equipment that has no management capabilities
• Not the ideal choice for long-haul networks

Dense Wave Division Multiplexing (DWDM)

DWDM allows many more wavelengths to be combined onto one fiber. DWDM comes in two different versions: an active solution and a passive solution. An active solution requires wavelength management and is well-suited for applications involving more than 32 links over the same fiber. In most cases, passive DWDM is regarded as a more realistic alternative to active DWDM.

Benefits of DWDM:

• Ideal for use in long-haul and areas of greater customer density
• Up to 32 channels can be done passively
• Up to 160 channels with an active solution
• Active solutions involve EDFA optical amplifiers to achieve longer distances

Drawbacks of DWDM:

• DWDM solutions are quite expensive
• Active DWDM solutions require a lot of set-up and maintenance expense
• Very little scalability for deployments under 32 channels, much unnecessary cost is incurred per channel

To sum it up, CWDM can be typically used for applications that do not require the signal to travel great distances and in locations where not many channels are required. While for applications that demand for a high number of channels or for long-haul applications, DWDM is the ideal solution.

Considerations for Deploying WDM

Making sure that the CWDM and DWDM will perform properly is critical, so one should account for the following aspects for when deploying.

1.Before buying a mux or demux for use in an unconditioned cabinet or splice case, verify that the operating temperature will fit the application. And ensure that the CWDM or DWDM will be able to operate within the temperatures in which they will be placed.

2.Take the insertion loss of WDM network into account. Using the maximum insertion loss value in the link budget is a good idea. Calculate the loss for both the mux and demux components.

Conclusion

WDM technology provides an ideal solution for fiber exhaust problem that many communication providers are experiencing. It eliminates the need for investing on new fiber construction projects while greatly increases fiber capacity of the existing infrastructure. Hope what presented in the article could help you to choose the right WDM solution.

Source: http://www.fiber-optic-solutions.com/use-wdm-fiber-capacity-expansion.html

Fiber Optic Cable: Storage & Handling Tips

The prevalence of fiber optic cable has become a trend which is embraced globally, since optical fiber offers unsurpassed advantages. Fiber optic cables are sensitive to excessive pulling, bending, twisting, crushing and other impact forces, for any such damage may alter the fiber property and may pose threats to its performance. So, optical cable should be stored and handled in an appropriate way. This article offers recommendations for proper storage and handling of fiber optic cable.

Fiber Optic Cable Storage

Fiber optic cable can be basically categorized into indoor fiber optic cable and outdoor fiber optic cable. Indoor cables are used exclusively within buildings whereas outdoor cables are employed in outside plant applications. Here are some factors to consider for indoor and outdoor storage.

Indoor Fiber Optic Cable Storage Recommendations

• Always keep the reel tag that comes with the cable. There is vital information on the tag which indicates the cable description, attenuation, bandwidth and cable length. All these are valid identification of the fiber optic cable for future traceability.
• Store fiber optic cable reels standing on both flanges, or held through center. Never store a cable reel sitting on one flange surface, which will result in possible future cable damage when unwinding.

• Once rewind the fiber optic cable to another reel, the diameter of the new reel shall be compatible with the minimum bending radius of the cable. And the original cable label details should be copied to the new reel.
• In no circumstances shall any indoor cable boxes or reels be stored outside or in a harsh environment. Instead, indoor cables should be stored in a dry and UV protected location, such as a room or container.
• Choose a site for storage with no risk of excessive humidity, falling objects, chemical spills (oil, grease,etc.) open flames or excessive heat. Elements like moisture and other contamination should also be considered when picking storage location.

Outdoor Fiber Optic Cable Storage Recommendations

Requirements listed below are applicable to both outdoor and indoor/outdoor fiber optic cables. Ends of the cables shall be sealed during storage.

• All fiber optic cable reels including part used should be stored upright. Always store the reel in areas with flat firm surfaces. And use appropriate devices to secure reels to prevent reel movement during storage.
• Avoid storage areas that are susceptible to flooding, or that could damage the cable, such as sharp, uneven terrain.
• When the cable reel is too heavy to lift manually, it must be moved upright by lifting the cable with a forklift or reel mover. Never drop a cable reel from any height during transportation or use.
• When unloading from a vehicle, use either the tail-lift / elevator (if fitted) or a suitable mechanical aid such as a forklift truck. Never let reels drop from the vehicle to the ground.

• Before de-reeling cable, the reel should be visually inspected for possible damage caused during storage.

Considerations for Handling Fiber Optic Cable

Fiber optic cable is prone to damages due to improper handling and such damages can degrade the cable performance. Therefore the following suggestions may be useful to handle fiber optic cable properly.

1. Store the cable drums in an upright position, resting it vertically on cable flange edge not in the horizontal position. The flanges of reels shall not be interleaved, and reels must not be lifted by their flanges.

2. The rolling of the drum in the direction of the arrow decreases the chance for the cable to loosen its wind on the drum. However, you should notice that when pulling the fiber optic cable off the drum to install the cable, the arrow will point in the opposite direction to the rotation of the drum. (see the picture below).

3. When moving or handling the drum by a forklift, one should operate it in a proper manner to avoid any damage to fiber optic cable. The fork should not have any direct contact with the cable jacket.

4. While removing fiber optic cable from the drum. It is essential to avoid any reverse bending or twisting that may ultimately deteriorate fiber performance.

5. Always grounding optical fiber in figure 8 configuration, which allows for pulling of cable in both directions from a central location. It is necessary to protect the figure 8 coil form passers by. The figure 8 coil should be at least 10M by 5M. So what if the longer cable is required to be unreeled? The overwhelming weight of the coil may damage the cable at the bottom. In this case, try to spread the cable out in several figure 8 coils.

Conclusion

Proper storage and handling of fiber optic cable help to decreas chances for accidental damages, yet increases longevity of fiber optic cable. This article simply offers a recommended guideline for optical fiber storage and handling, while it is always wise to consult a professional for your unique application.

Source: http://www.china-cable-suppliers.com/fiber-optic-cable-storage-handling.html

Server Rack Choice: How to Make the Right Decision?

Server rack functions to organize IT equipment (servers and network switches) into assembly order to make the most use of space and resources. Therefore, it can affect the availability, serviceability, flexibility and manageability of the data center to a large extent. In other words, your daily operation and maintenance rely heavily on your rack choice. Well, since not all the server racks are created equal, it is thus essential to choose the right one that matches your current needs as well as future network growth. Then, let’s see how to choose the right server rack.

What Is a Server Rack and Why We Need it?

A  server rack basically consists of two or four vertical mounting rails and the supporting framework required to keep the rails in place. Typically made of steel or aluminum, rails and framework are capable of holding hundreds or even thousands of pounds of equipment. For now, the vast majority of IT applications use 19-inch racks and equipment. As the width of which is always the same, the height and depth can be various.

Be it a data center, server room or even cabinet closet, racks are always needed to accommodate IT production equipment, such as servers, storage, network switches, routers, telecommunication hardware and other devices. Server rack is designed to hold all standard 19-inch rack-mountable equipment, as long as it isn’t too deep for the cabinet or too high to fit in the available rack spaces. Moreover, server rack also holds IT infrastructures and rack accessories that support the operation of the production equipment, including UPS systems, PDUs, cable managers, KVM switches, patch panels and shelves.

Common Server Rack Types Analysis

Generally, there are three types of server rack: open frame racks, rack enclosures and wall-mount racks.

Open frame racks are just open frames—with mounting rails but no sides or doors. This kind of rack is typically used for applications that do not need the rack to perform airflow control or provide physical security. Open frame racks are optimal for network wiring closet and distribution frame applications that have high-density cabling, due to they offer flexible access and lots of open space that facilitate cable management.

Rack enclosures are also referred to as rack cabinets, they have removable front and rear doors, removable side panels and four adjustable vertical mounting rails. The front and rear design of rack enclosures achieves ample airflow for any installed equipment. Rack enclosures provide an ideal alternative for applications which require heavier or hotter equipment. And they often include additional rails to mount accessories like vertical cable managers and PDUs. Nowadays, rack enclosures have gained in much popularity in data centers and server rooms.

Wall-mount racks just do what the name indicates—they can be attached to the wall. In this case, wall-mount racks can save floor space and fit in areas where other racks cannot. They can be open frame racks or enclosed cabinets. Wall-mount racks fail to support as much weight as their counterparts since they are basically smaller than those floor-standing ones. However, by adding rolling casters, they can also accommodate floor-standing applications.

What Should I Look for a Server Rack?

There exist a dazzling array of server rack options, in terms of different heights, sizes and styles. When selecting the server rack for your installation, here are some factors to consider:

AV vs. IT-based installations: the choice should better depend on the equipment being installed. IT racks are designed for use with traditional IT equipment in which the I/O and cabling is on the front of the rack. This makes easier troubleshooting and network monitoring. AV racks, however, are typically shallower in depth, enabling a cleaner installation by using equipment with rear facing I/O so that cabling is hidden in the back.

Airflow and cooling: these two factors are critical to the performance and longevity of the equipment installed in the server rack. Depending on the airflow condition of the place where the server rack will be located, you may need to increase the rack’s cooling capability. Fortunately, multiple cooling options are available now, but remember to consider the noise level tolerated.

Equipment width: with 19-inches being the traditional standard for rack mounted network hardware, some vendors make custom sizes for other types of equipment. Make sure to check what size of server rack your equipment requires.

Security options: while there might be a great amount of expensive equipment installed on the server rack, you have always to bear security in mind. A server rack that meets the security goal is thus essential. Locking cabinet and tinted door glass can help protecting your network from prying eyes and hands.

Conclusion

Although selecting the server rack may not sound like a big decision to make, your choice can actually affect the overall performance and operation of the network. The right type of server rack that meets your installation demand helps you improve power protection, cooling, cable management, and physical security. Taking the above factors into consideration and thinking thoroughly before making the choice.

Source: http://www.fiber-optic-solutions.com/server-rack-choice-right-decision.html