Types of Server Cabinets
Choosing the right cabinet server isn’t be an easy task as there are numerous options to choose from. There are two main categories of server cabinets: the closed frame and the open frame. Before you choose one for your business, make sure you’re aware of each category’s pros and cons.
- Open Frame Cabinet
Open-frame racks are more accessible because they’re open, as their name suggests.
- Pros
The cost of open-frame cabinets is significantly less than that of closed-frame cabinets, making them a more appealing choice for small businesses working on a tight budget. You can get one for about a third of the cost of a closed-frame option.
Because they’re more accessible, it’s easier to access internal components. It’s also more convenient to do repairs, maintenance, and upgrades.
Open-frame cabinets also allow for proper air circulation to keep the servers cool. A cool environment for the equipment helps ensure optimum performance, while also preventing heat damage and fires.
- Cons
The open-frame setup also makes it difficult to keep things organized. Plus, it’s quite easy for people inside the server room to tug on the cables accidentally.
Because of the nature of open-frame cabinets, the cables and other equipment mounted on them are exposed – which means they can be accessed by anyone who can enter the room or space the cabinets are in. This means that the equipment is susceptible to theft, accidental damage, and other security threats.
An open frame cabinet also makes your server more susceptible to dust and other debris. Dust can cause serious damage to the internal workings of sensitive, high-functioning and high-heat equipment.
- Closed Frame Cabinets
Closed frame cabinets are more secure as they can be locked.
- Pros
Closed-frame cabinets keep cables and other equipment safe and organized. They’re also more secure as they can be locked to secure your server from deliberate damage, accidents, and theft.
You can also add fans and other cooling accessories to a closed frame cabinet, so it’s easier to control where the air flows. These accessories also allow for more precise temperature control.
- Cons of Closed-Frame Cabinets
Closed-frame cabinets are more expensive and heavier than their open-frame counterparts due to the additional materials used to build the product. Installing, maintaining and repairing equipment in a closed-frame cabinet may also be challenging due to the limited space.
- The size of your equipment will help you determine the cabinet size you need. The capacity of a server cabinet depends on its size, classified in units called ‘U’ space. One U represents the size of 1.75”. Thus, if a server cabinet is 58”, it is 101.5” tall.
- The enclosure dimensions are also an important consideration if you want to ensure that your equipment can fit on the racks or shelves properly.
- Check whether the server cabinet will fit in the room where it’s going to be installed.
- Determine whether the cabinet can fit through all the doors leading to the designated room.
Bottom Line
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about choosing the right server cabinets for your business among the many options available, then it would be best to consult the experts. Cable Pro is a company dedicated to providing you with all your server needs, from cables, conduits, and plugs, to cabinets and junction boxes.
We offer high-quality products that ensure optimum functionality for your business. Call us or visit our website for more information on server cabinets and other products.
