server racks

You probably won't find or want a U32 server.
1U= a measure of Height of the object, as:

Each U is relative to 1.75 inches in height, for example: 2U would be 3.5 inches high.

When you are looking for a rack you may want a 4-post rack as some servers are very deep and putting them on a 2-post rack is iffy. You should first decide what kind of Server, Patch Panel, Swith/Hub, and UPS you want to mount on said rack.

As far as finding a rack, the Interent is flooded with them, just use google and search for:
server rack sizes u1, u2.

1. You first measure what you need to put into the rack, make sure you account for there factors:
- Do you need space for a Monitor and keyboard? There are "spacesaver" units or you can just make sure you get proper shelving for a normal CRT/TFT.
- Do you need a patch panel for the top of your rack?
- Are you going to have UPS's in the rack? Are they rack mountable or do you need a shelf for them?
- How many servers do you want to put into the rack x how much space (in "U's") are they going to take?
- Are you also mounting any switches or firewalls? As well are these rack mountable or do they need shelving?
- Are you going to leave a "U" space between servers?

All these things will affect how much space you need - or even if you need one rack or multiple racks.

As well:
- Are you going to bolt this to the floor? Make sure it has the proper bolt holes for your needs.
- Is this going to be in a cooled room, or do you need to get an enclosed unit with fans or A/C?
- Is the rack going to be in a secured room or does it have to be locked - or even alarmed - to prevent unauthorized access?
- Do you want it to have nice side rails for running your cables neatly through? Some racks have lots of nice features, some have none.

2. A "U," or rack unit, is a 1.75-inch measurement. Pretty much every server that is rack mountable has a "U" height measurement.

3. My best advise is - shop around! Racks are VERY heavy so consider that with possible shipping costs! There are lots (and LOTS) of rack manufacturers, but using Google and local server reseller shops may be a good place to start. I know we use Startech racks but don't let that influence what is best for you!

Remember that low cost can also mean low quality. Buyer beware, you don't want a rack that is falling apart holding $50k worth of servers!!!

Oh, if you assemble the rack yourself, make sure you get a drill and the proper bits to screw it together!

Zaf

u4 means takes up 4 vertical spaces on rack, see? my rack mount server is long, heavy but only takes up one space on my rack. is too heavy to design in lots more room than you think you will need. do not consider rack mount power distribution optional. get it. how will you ground the equipment that needs it? (just provide for good ground connection nearby) remember noise and cooling also. get wheels on it. you will need rails to mount the server or whatever. buy with the equipment at time of purchase imho. you are asking the right questions. just go by dimensions like you know to do is my 2 cents.

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