Building a new extension

We loved our house from the first time we went through, but it really didn't have enough living space. We have worked on improving the layout of the home and increasing the living area of the home to create a modern and more pleasant layout to the home. We are really proud of how the job has turned out and we wanted to share some of the details of how the extension and layout changes where designed and constructed. This blog has some of the photos of our extension as well as tips that we have learnt along the journey,.

Comparing Open-Frame Vs Closed-Frame Server Racks

Construction & Contractors Blog

If you have a business and want to have a phone, data or computer network installed, you will need to seek data cabling services from a private contractor. And one of the main requirements for a data cabling system is server racks. Generally, there are open-frame server racks and closed-frame racks. Open-frame racks feature an open design without any walling panels, unlike closed-frame racks. In this article, find out how these two designs compare when it comes to your data and maintenance needs.

Cooling

Cooling is a big concern where servers and ​server racks are concerned. This is because you want your servers to stay cool at all times to avoid overheating. Overheating can come about where the servers are packed too tightly or where the cabling is covering the racks and thus inhibiting air flow. Open-frame racks provide better cooling for your servers because they allow air to flow in between the servers without restriction. Closed-frame servers limit air flow so they are not as ideal for high capacity storage unless an alternative cooling solution is provided in the room.

Security

In some applications, security is a concern as far as the servers are concerned. You may want to have the assurance that your servers will be safe 24/7 due to the nature of the information they manage or the delicate nature of your network/business. If security is critical for your servers, closed-frame server racks are better because they can be locked/fitted with locks. Open-frame racks, on the other hand, remain exposed so they are not so ideal for high-security applications unless external security is provided, e.g. security personnel, alarms, CCTV surveillance, etc.  

Dust

Dust is a constant threat to server racks just as heat is. An accumulation of dust on your data racks can affect the performance of your servers by interfering with performance or cooling. Both fair well in urban settings. However, closed-frame server racks are encouraged in dusty environments because they shield the servers while open-frame racks expose them to the elements. So unless you have a vacuum cleaning system in place, closed-frame servers remain the better option for highly-dusty surroundings, e.g. country/field locations.

Storage

The most basic function of a server rack is storage. And while both closed and open frame server racks provide this function, there is one disparity. Open-frame racks provide more flexibility because you can fit any size of servers and in any order. However, for closed-frame racks, you are limited only to servers that can fit within the enclosure. However, you are still able to arrange the server in any order you like.

Seeking data cabling services? Talk to your contractor and seek advice on which types of server ​racks best fit your networking needs and working environment. They should be able to advise you accordingly after talking to you and viewing your work site.

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28 September 2016