Hi all,

I have a homelab with 1 server (Dell R620) and 1 switch (TP-Link 8 port 1 Gbps) at the moment. I’m looking to add 2 more servers (Dell R630) and 1 more switch (TP-Link 8 port 10Gbps). Switches won’t fit the standard racks for servers, so not worried about them.

I have no knowledge of racks.

What all do I need to know about racks before deciding what to buy.

I have the below link which I think might be fine.

https://ie.rs-online.com/web/p/rackmount-cases/8104368

Thank You

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  • marc45ca@alien.topBEnglish
    2·
    10 months ago

    Width is standardized at 19” you just need to make sure it’s deep enough.

    Most of the dells are around 27” deep and racks tend to be 25 or 35” if they’re enclosed so you’d need a 35” one.

    Open frame racks can be adjusted for depth,

    The decide on the height 12- 15ru should be fine for your usage.

    They’re harder to find second hand so new may be the best option.

    42ru cable found quite cheap (even free) but are a pain to move about hence the low price. Given they become available en mass if a data centre or similar close it’s sell to cheap to dispose of or send for scrap.

    You’ll need some rails but they can be expensive or a shelf ( I use a Startech one with my 4ru server).

    • TryllZ@alien.topOPBEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      Thanks,

      Just wondering, when you say 12-15ru, do you mean U as in 1U, 2U etc ?!

  • schmoldy1725@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    You need a 19u (basically a quarter cab) with 35" depth. That will allow you to get dell ready rails and easy mount

      • schmoldy1725@alien.topBEnglish
        1·
        10 months ago

        Take a look at sysracks. They have a story of different racks all at different price points. Additionally the way they provide the rack, you can choose whether you want the doors on or off. In my case I put the doors on because it’s in a closet with a separate AC Unit