It is really frustrating to organise and manage the tangled web of cables, servers and networks. But there’s nothing to worry about because ever-evolving technology has provided us with a solution to deal with the situation. Yes! The network cabinets. These enclosures are the backbone of IT infrastructure that claims to protect your systems.
So, if you are also looking for network cabinets, then this up-write is definitely written for you. It will cover what network cabinets are, their benefits, major types, how to choose and many more. So, keep learning!
Figure no 1 Network enclosure
1) What is a network cabinet?
“A network cabinet is a metal shelter used for apprehending networking devices like routers, switches, patch panels and servers.”
Such enclosures assist you in systematizing as well as securing the crucial elements of a network infrastructure in a safe, secure, and efficient way. Different forms and sizes are usually referred to as ‘rack units’ (U) where 1U = 1.75 inches of vertical space.
It is worth noting that network cabinets are multifunctional and perform more than one important function and purpose. First, such cabinets also aim at preventing the equipment from being subject to any external violence or other external elements. And, even the people who are not authorized to do so.
Figure no 2 Network cabinet
You know, most cabinets are provided with a lock that allows authorized personnel only to the hardware enclosed. Cases also assist people in maintenance by containing cables, equipment and accessories which would otherwise be littered all over the place.
The range of operating conditions for both passive and active systems includes internal ventilation systems and active CEC power units, for effective containment cooling across the rack cabinet system.
It is also notable that network cabinets include structures that could easily manage the load of heavy items. They provide strong rail systems that are adjustable in order to hold the appliances firmly. So, network cabinets are a practical and necessary part of IT infrastructure whether for large organizations or small businesses.
2) What are the benefits of a network cabinet?
There are a few downfalls of a network cabinet that are quite justified given the nature of the task at hand.
+ Organization: The first and most important benefit is given with respect to organization. It gives that one area to keep all routers and switches, servers and cables and minimizes the mess. This order not only increases productivity but helps in the problem resolution order.
+ Protection: Protection is yet another advantage of importance. Network cabinets shield the internal components from impact, dirt, and any other environmental factors. These cabinets prevent unauthorized access to networking. This is mostly the case within the business sector where safeguarding IT equipment is paramount.
+ Cooling: Another major advantage of network cabinets is effective cooling. The equipment inside generates heat and to cater for ventilation, splash cabinets contain some form of portholes/bursts/vents to remove any heat. This makes sure that the equipment has a reliable functioning and is extended over a long time.
+ Space economy: Also, network cabinets promote space economy. Such mountings enable the best use of the floor space. It is usually at a premium in data centres or server rooms filled with rack-mounted equipment. This compact arrangement provides for nesting a large quantity of equipment in a small area.
+ Cable management: Another advantage that is offered by network cabinets is cable management. There are also provisions for managing cables preferably with inbuilt routing paths or loops in order to avoid cross-connection of cables. Such provisions are not only for aesthetic purposes but also for preventing wear and tear of the cables. Moreover, it allows fluid connections between devices.
+ Flexibility: Once again, network cabinets handle expansion as well. There is no underlying factor to limit the capacity of adding more equipment as the network expands. The layout inside the cabinet is structured in such a way that it is easy to grow without interfering with what has already been done.
So, the network cabinets not only provide organization, protection, and cooling, are space efficient, and allow more efficient scaling up and expansion, but are necessary features for today’s IT infrastructure.
3) What are the major types of network cabinets?
There are several types of network cabinets available in the market. In this section we will discuss the most highlighting ones;
i) IT enclosure SP-603 network cabinet: These cabinets are usually 19 inches ( have 1U and 2U trays) in width and provide easy IT product installation. They can adjust the depth of almost 23 to 40 inches. These cabinets usually have black electrostatic powder coating, making them durable, corrosion and rust-resistant.
Figure no 3 SP-603
ii) IT enclosure SP-602: These cabinets feature easy mounting installation. The front door of these cabinets can rotate up to 180 degrees. It has a knock-down structure ( saves volume up to 70%) that reduces the cost of storage and shipping.
Figure no 4 SP-602
iii) IT enclosure SP-601: These enclosures have removable side panels, but side locks are optional. These enclosures have adjustable feet, a welded frame, and a reliable structure. These are made of steel having a thickness of almost 1.0mm, 1.2mnm and more.
Figure no 5 SP-601
iv) SP 801-network cabinet wall-mount: These cabinets are usually available in black colour. These cabinets are best suited for indoor installation. The plus point is that they have movable side panels, therefore easy to maintain. These enclosures are usually made of SPCC cold rolled steel having a thickness of almost 2.0mm.
Figure no 6 SP 801
v) SP-802 Movable IT Glass Door Computer Rack Cabinet: These enclosures are made of SPCC cold rolled steel having a thickness of almost 2.0mm. These enclosures are best for indoor installation. Moreover, they can be used for heavy-duty tasks.
Figure no 7 SP 802
vi) SP-803 Large Size IT Equipment Network Enclosure: These cabinets have a high-ventilated single mesh front door and double mesh rear door. These enclosures have removal side panels, hence promoting maintenance. Moreover, they have adjustable feet and heavy duty castors.
Figure no 8 SP-803
vii) SP-601 Floor Standing Rack Network Cabinet: These cabinets are available as 18U and 24U. They have a welded frame and reliable structure. Moreover, the front door of these enclosures can rotrate upto 180- degrees. Like other cabinets, these are also made of cold rolled steel having a thickness of almost 1.0, 1.2mm and more.
Figure no 9 Floor standing cabinet
viii) SP-603 Wall Mount 4U 6U 9U Server Rack Network Cabinet: This enclosure can be attached to a wall and gives you the option to enter the cable from the top cover and bottom panel. These are available in black colour, welded frame and strong sturdy structure. Like the above-described cabinets, their front door can also rotate upto 180 degrees.
Figure no 10 Wall-mounted cabinet
4) Selecting the right network cabinet for you
In order to find the most suitable network cabinet for yourself, it is essential to weigh many aspects very carefully.
? Appropriate size: First of all, it is necessary to determine the appropriate size of the cabinet according to the quantity of typically used devices that need to be accommodated including routers, switches, and servers. This is measured in rack units (U), therefore select the cabinet capacity that has some room for more equipment as well as accommodate the current one.
? Type of cabinet: Then, consider what kind of cabinet you are interested in. For cramped spaces, a wall-mountable cabinet will be ideal. While larger places will have to use free standing cabinets with greater storage. Be sure to find measurements of the cabinet’s depth so as to confirm whether your equipment will fit into the cabinet.
? Require ventilation: So is the case with ventilation and cooling systems. Consider that network appliances are always hot so stepping up cabinets with perforated doors, vents on the side or incorporating fans are advantageous. It would help here beat the overworking of ventilation which in turn would reduce overheating or burning of your appliance.
? Security: Another important aspect is security. For instance, die-cast cabinets are not easily penetrated and if fitted with doors that can be locked, will prevent the devices from tampering. For that matter, look for sturdy locks on the front and rear exhibits of the cabinet.
? Cable routing: Cable routing and bundling are equally very important to avoid making the setup look unfriendly and inefficient. In such instances, cabinets with provided channels for cable, trays or rings, may help minimize the cables and therefore, enhance servicing.
? Focus if movement is required: If the configuration of your design should be changed or moved often, use a cabinet contained on caster wheels for easy relocation. On the other hand, make sure that all your equipment will be held safely and that the cabinet’s weight’s capacity will allow it.
To conclude, while choosing the correct network carpet there are a number of factors to consider in terms of size, ventilation, security and cable management. And, you can avail of all these attributes from the Saipwell network cabinet. Apart from this, all of the network cabinet types that we have discussed in the above section are available at Saipwell. You can get more information by visiting our website ( Saipwell).
