Do you sell grey imports, and are your products covered by manufacturer warranty?

All products we offer are sourced exclusively from Authorised Australian Distributors, ensuring they are specifically designated for the Australian market. We firmly stand against the sale of grey imports. As such, every item you purchase from us is fully covered by the manufacturer’s warranty applicable within Australia, guaranteeing authenticity and local support for your peace of mind. This policy ensures that our customers receive only genuine products that adhere to the specifications set for the Australian market, backed by manufacturer support.

How much weight can a data cabinet support, and how do I calculate what I need?

The weight capacity of a data cabinet can range significantly, from around 50kg for a small 4RU cabinet to over 1000kg for a robust 45RU model. To calculate what you need, sum up the weight of all equipment, including any shelves or drawers you plan to add. It’s critical to choose a cabinet that not only supports the total weight of your current equipment but also has extra capacity for any future additions.

What are the standard depths for data cabinets, and how do I choose?
What does RU mean, and how do I determine the right RU size for my needs?

RU stands for Rack Unit, a standard measurement used to denote the height of equipment in rack-mounted systems. One RU is equivalent to 44.45mm. The right RU size for your needs depends on the total height of the equipment you plan to install in the cabinet. Sum up the height of each piece of equipment, ensuring you include extra space for ventilation, future expansion, and ease of access. For example, if your equipment totals 20RU, you might consider a 24RU or 27RU cabinet to allow for these additional factors.

How do I choose the correct size data cabinet for my requirements?

Selecting the correct size data cabinet is a critical decision that affects the organization, efficiency, and scalability of your network infrastructure. Data cabinets, also known as server racks or network cabinets, come in various sizes to accommodate different amounts of IT equipment. The size of a data cabinet is typically defined by its height in Rack Units (RU or U), where 1U equals 44.45mm, and its depth in millimeters (mm). Heights can range from a compact 4U to a full-size 45U or more, with depths extending up to 1200mm to accommodate various types of equipment. Here’s how to choose the correct size data cabinet for your requirements:

1. Assess Your Equipment Size and Quantity

Begin by listing all the equipment you need to house within your data cabinet, including servers, switches, patch panels, UPS systems, and any other network devices. Start by listing all the equipment you need to house in the cabinet or rack. Include servers, network switches, UPS systems, cooling units, and any other relevant hardware. Note down the dimensions (height, width, and depth) and rack unit (U) size of each piece of equipment. The rack unit, or “U”, is a standard measurement for server height;

2. Plan for Future Expansion

Anticipate future growth to avoid the cost and hassle of replacing your cabinet when new equipment is added. It’s advisable to have at least 20-30% additional space for future needs. This extra space can accommodate additional devices, upgrades to existing equipment, or increased cable management solutions.

3. Height Consideration

Data cabinets are available in various heights, most commonly ranging from 4U to 45U. Here’s a rough guide:

4. Depth Requirements

Depth is equally important, especially as some modern servers and network equipment can be quite deep. Standard depths include:

5. Width Standards

While the standard width for equipment mounting is 19 inches (482.6mm), the overall width of the cabinet might be wider due to side panels and additional space for cable management. Ensure the chosen cabinet’s width will fit in the allocated space, including clearance for doors to open and adequate airflow.

6. Consider Ventilation and Cooling

Assess the ventilation and cooling needs of your equipment. If your gear generates a lot of heat, consider a cabinet with built-in cooling solutions, perforated doors, or space for adding external cooling systems. Ensure there is enough space around the installed equipment for air to circulate.

7. Mobility and Stability

Decide if you need a cabinet that can be easily moved (e.g., models with casters) or if a stationary cabinet meets your needs. Make sure the cabinet can support the weight of your current and anticipated equipment. Larger cabinets should have stabilization features to prevent tipping when doors are open or when partially loaded.

8. Access and Security

Think about the need for access (side panels, rear doors) and security (locks, restricted access panels). These features are crucial for maintaining and securing your equipment.

Conclusion

Choosing the right data cabinet involves understanding your current and future equipment needs, space availability, and environmental requirements. By carefully considering the size, expansion capabilities, ventilation needs, and mobility, you can select a cabinet that not only suits your immediate requirements but also accommodates future growth and changes in your IT infrastructure.

Click below to view data racks by size.

All Data Cabinets + Server Racks by Size

 

 

We hope you find these Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) helpful.   Whilst we take care to keep them updated, invariably new technology can supersede some of the tips given here.  For the very latest product, technical  specifications, and support information you should reference the manufacturer’s website, or alternatively, pick up the phone and give is a call.   You should note that the information contained in these FAQ’s is of a general nature only and does not take into account your environment, nor your specific needs.    If you want to discuss your requirements, we are always happy to assist you with any questions you may have.   Call us…..  We’re here to help.