I need to build a server rack.

[thespeakerbox]

I need to build a server rack that will be located in small storage room, near a bedroom. I dont have much room to work with because the room is only about 7 x14, but luckily it has a window for venthilation.

I originally planned to go with a small rack (12-22U), but since i have a dell, the server will most likely stick out of the back and the rack will have to be heavy metal - something my gf wont really like. So to please her and me , I thought it would be best to build something out of plywood, stain it to match the room, so the room can used for another purpose too( little gym, etc). The problem i face comes in the design of the rack. I want room to expand, but not too much .

I've come up with 2 ideas. The first is a small stand about 55" H and around 13" W.
In this setup, I have the rack servers standing on their sides , more in line with the non rackmount equipment. The design provides a better use of space for expansion, but puts the rackmount servers in a difficult configuration. However, I dont plan on taking them out for anything other than a hardware problem. I'm not sure if standing the rackmounts on their sides will casue any problem. I personally dont see why it would, but you never know.

Heres a quick sketch of idea 1:

Idea 1

In idea 2, I have the whole thing basically setup like a little rack, with space for limited upgrades and other stuff. I'm not too happy with it , because of the space it will take up , but its just a back up if i cant use idea 1.

Heres a quick sketch of idea 2

Idea 2

Here's the equipment I have now:

APC Smart Ups 1400 non rackmount
Dell 2550 (for critial backup/file server)

Here is what i plan to have in the coming year

APC Smart Ups 1400 non rackmount
Dell 2550 (for critial backup/file server)
Another 2550 or 2 1650's (test /fun server )
Backend Media Server in atx case. (I plan to do a simple sata raid, and wont need an enterprise style solution)

I wont need a spot for a monitor as i will do remote desktop from an office across the apt, and i dont want to keep the servers in the office because i really cant stand the noise .

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[Brazen]

what about network equipment? Don't you have a router and switch? You might as well plan on a spot for those. And how about space for a keyboard, monitor, and mouse - what if rdp isn't working, or you need to troubleshoot a startup issue?

 

[thespeakerbox]

Originally posted by: Brazen
what about network equipment? Don't you have a router and switch? You might as well plan on a spot for those. And how about space for a keyboard, monitor, and mouse - what if rdp isn't working, or you need to troubleshoot a startup issue?

The very top of the unit would be kept empty. Id like to keep the router and switch in the office if possible. The line for internet comes it at one end of the house, while the servers would be on the complete other. I haven't figured out how to run wiring yet, but i'll definately post a sketch of the apt later so that someone can help me out.

As far as a monitor , keyboard, etc. for trouble shooting, i would bring it in and set it up on a snack table or something. I want to keep as much out of site as possible.

Thanks for the help

 

[Garion]

There's two different things you can use to hold servers. You can use a traditional two-post rack or a you can use a cabinet.

Most servers nowadays are really not designed to be mounted in a two post rack. Those are really best used for network gear or things that work well on shelves. Most companies use server cabinets. If it was me, I'd just go out and buy a half-height, 21U cabinet for my servers. Some of them are quite nice looking and would fit nicely in a lot of rooms.

If you do go ahead and roll your own, there are three important things to keep mind about building an enclosure for computer equipment: Cooling, cooling and cooling. Most equipment pulls in fresh air through the front and exhausts it out the back. What you build needs to keep this in mind and have PLENTY of airflow in front and back. Your UPS will generate a bit of heat, as well, so keep that in mind. One other consideration - If you build something, make sure it will fit another kind of server rather than just the ones you're considering - Who knows if you're going to find a screaming deal on a HP Server out there somewhere that might be 1/3" too wide for the spot you made for the Dell. Don't go overboard, but don't try to shoehorn the thing in there, either.

- G

 

[nweaver]

front to back may be what some do, but other also (most of ours) go from bottom to top (exhast hot air out the top)

Garion has the right idea though, go standardized!

 

[Garion]

Hopefully those aren't rack mountable, Mweaver! Stack 10 of them together and the top one would be on fire in hours!

- G

 

[nweaver]

they have lots of clearance on bottom and fans on top, solid sides/doors. You get plenty of hot air out the top (4 large fans) and the top equipment isn't very hot at all. Hotter then the bottom stuff, yes, but over all, not too bad. We set these right under the return ducts too

 

[blckgrffn]

Woot for the venerable 2550

Nat

 

[thespeakerbox]

Because of the press for cash , time and resources, i've still decided to build my own rack, but on a cheaper level.

I couldnt find a 22-24 dell rack that i could afford the shipping costs on. I did find a cheap full size cabinet about 300 miles away, but it weighs about 400lbs. I'm no human forklift.

I settled on building a flexy rack. I'm plan on using 3/4" MDF, but wonder if it can hold the weight of a 2550 per shelf. Any ideas?

Anyways, thanks for the help and i'll post some pics of the final setup.

 

[bluestrobe]

Always check local auctions and sales at large companies. For awhile they were dumping cabinets around here like crazy. I wouldn't advise using any two post rack for anything like a server. I bought a rack and got it home and installed and found it was a Telcom rack, so the search continues.