In Singapore, Server racks are designed and built to house servers (like HP, Dell, Lenovo and IBM) , computers, monitors, network equipment (like network switches, router, firewall , UPS, NAS, KVM switches, patch panels)

In Singapore, the most common server rack is the 42U 19 inch Server Rack Cabinet.

It is important to know the server rack’s specification or dimension as a server like IBM can only mount in a server rack with a depth of 1000mm. Besides that, you also need to know how many shelves to buy to house the unmountable network equipment.

Most Server racks do not come with any installation guide. But, as a good practice, it is good to remove all front and back door and the 2 side panels before you start mounting servers in the server rack. Some rack mount equipment may not come standard with railing kit. You may have to purchase it separately.

Some people like to buy new and some people are happy to settle with a used or 2nd hand server rack.

• Fans are no longer working and need to be replaced (estimated cost – $200-$300)

• Cost of Relocation of the Bulky Server Rack (estimated cost – $100-$150)

• Potential slight damage to the server rack that could produce loud vibrations due to the high speed rotational fan.

Criteria to consider when choosing a suitable server rack

• Height of Server Rack (For better scalability, it is better to buy at least 42U)

• Depth of Server Rack (All Lenovo/IBM Rack Mount Servers need 1000mm)

• Security Front Door – Glass, Perforated

• Type of Security Lock

• Temperature – Air Flow

• Server Rack Design

• Easy Access to replace fans (need to replace 2-5 years depends on environment)

• Easy Access to rack mount equipment for troubleshooting

Server racks are an extremely important component of any network. Quite often server racks are overlooked as categorized under office furniture or just ‘another piece of hardware’ or shelving. Server racks are used in a variety of industries such as computers/technology, manufacturing, finance/banking, medical and almost any corporate setting that could benefit from vertical storage of equipment and also save valuable floor space and add a professional appearance to your facility. Finding the right server racks can increase the security, protection, and ease of management of any network.

Server racks can typically be adapted with adjustable shelves and other components to hold and protect your specific equipment and also be custom ordered and built to your exact specifications. Server racks come in a wide variety of preconfigured design, shapes, and sizes. Some options might include features such as power / surge strips, casters, glass doors, and fans.

The first place to start when finding the right server racks for your company is to determine what your needs are first, and then find the server rack or racks that will fulfill those needs.

Consider how many pieces of equipment will be housed in the server rack(s) , consider the equipment that you need to install, consider the power requirements for those components, consider the manner that the equipment will be connected to each other and the network, consider the aesthetics requirements, consider your security needs and concerns, consider your budget and last but not least consider any additional needs or requirements that you might have in the future.