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ITFrequently Asked Questions · Racks
What are rack cabinets (racks)?
Racks are where passive equipment (patch panels, cables) and active equipment (servers, UPS units, routers) are mounted and stored. They provide easy access, protection from damage and smooth operation, and are suitable for both professional and home settings.
A rack organises network and power equipment in a standardised layout. The most widespread standard is 19 inches: the equipment width is common, while height is measured in units (U), where 1U equals 44.45 mm. This way servers, switches, patch panels and rack-mount UPS units fit one below the other without wasting space.
There are mainly wall-mounted cabinets, shallow and low, for a few switches and patch panels at home or in a small office, and floor-standing cabinets for servers and larger equipment. There are also open frames for rooms with controlled access.
Three things matter when choosing: the height in U, with room for future expansion; the depth, so that servers and UPS units fit together with the cables at the back; and the load the shelves and rails can carry.
A common mistake is ignoring ventilation. Active equipment produces heat, so you need perforated doors or roof fans, blanking panels in the gaps and tidy cabling. Heavy UPS units and batteries go at the bottom for stability.