Guidelines for Server Rack Layouts and Designs

Knowing how to properly set up your server racks is essential for several reasons, including maintaining high functionality and ensuring safety. You want to organize your cables to maximize airflow and efficiently use the available space. You also want to properly label cables so that you know where to reconnect them in the future.

This guide can help you devise an effective server rack design that supports your business’s needs.

How to Design Your Server Rack

When you use a server rack to store the equipment in your data center, there are several guidelines you should follow. These include:

• Plan your layout in advance: Save time and frustration by plotting out your server rack design before starting the installation process. Assess the hardware you need to install and the available space, then design a blueprint you can follow. The time you spend planning will ultimately help you install the server racks faster.
• Place the heaviest equipment at the bottom: Install the heaviest equipment — such as a power distribution unit (PDU) or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) — at the bottom of your server rack. This method will keep the rack steady, and the equipment will be easier to install at lower levels.
• Use organizational products: Certain products are available that help you organize and identify cords. Velcro cable ties, for instance, allow you to bundle groups of similar cords together. These are better options than zip ties, as they are reusable and prevent cord damage. Horizontal and verticle cable managers also assist by providing discreet storage space and helpful organization elements.
• Consider airflow: Airflow is essential to promote efficiency and prevent safety risks such as fires in data centers. Ensure your server rack design includes enough space around each rack for engineer access and cooling purposes. In general, more free space ensures greater airflow. Air conditioning, fans and various other equipment also help cool hardware.
• Create a server rack layout sheet: As you install hardware, make a sheet with information such as the model SKU and serial number to help you identify your systems. Use this sheet to track your hardware installation and service dates, updating the document as needed to ensure you keep up with maintenance. In addition, mark cables at both ends for identification to ensure proper reattachment in the case of future repairs or replacements.

Contact DataSpan Today

A proper server rack design is essential for organized and high-functioning hardware. At DataSpan, our trained experts have the tools and experience necessary to do everything from designing your rack to powering up the equipment. We also document the setup so that we can easily offer future assistance. Contact us now for more information about how we can help you.