Rack-mounting computers

Apr 1, 2009 12:00 PM, By John Landry, CSRE

Mount up

A Rack Solutions computer mounting kit.

Who hasn’t had trouble mounting computers in racks? Many servers supplied by broadcast automation providers as well as corporate IT vendors do come with some rack-mounting hardware, but many are designed for computer-type racks (the ones with large square holes that accept threaded inserts) or they are too deep or not wide enough to fit into the broadcast rack.

Many times a one- or two-unit rack shelf can be used to hold a server in place. If there are rear rack rails, another shelf mounted in the rear can add extra support for the deeper servers. A more permanent and professional solution can be found at www.racksolutions.com (903-453-0801). This company specializes in rack mount kits, and they have a complete index online for most IBM, Dell and HP hardware. The company can also design and build custom rails or sliders for just about anything that will fit inside a rack. Most rack kits also include a cable management system, which will look good and keep cabling under control while maintenance is performed.

Landry is an audio maintenance engineer at CBS Radio/Westwood One, New York.

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