3.2 Panels: In addition to side panels, there are times when a quick release door is needed. Side panels usually have a lock and frequently are equipped with slide latches as well. In low security situations, the user may not want to deal with a lock (lose the key problem) and the slide latches are ideal. The doors may encounter a problem with not enough space. In this case, a quick release door or panel may be the answer. Rather than rotate on hinges, it acts like a side panel, and comes off in entirety for access.

3.3 Castors and leveling feet: Castors or wheels are useful for moving the rack, whether assembled or not to the final location. There is a big difference in a loaded rack and an empty rack, and we must be aware of the load bearing ability the racks itself and the castors. The load bearing will be expressed in two methods. Static, or the amount of weight the rack and/or castors will support standing still and dynamic, or the load the castors will support while moving around. Note that even though the rack may support 1,000 KG dynamic, it may be very difficult if not impossible to move it. In all events, it is STRONGLY recommended to engage leveling feet or to bolt the rack down after it is in its final location. Leveling feet serve 2 purposes. One is to stabilize and support the rack; the second is to make final adjustments to the overall alignment.

7. Final Comments

This paper is a very short introduction to 19” Racks. One of the most important lessons we can draw from this product is that in fact, a 19” Rack is a complex piece of equipment. It is incorrect to lump racks into the office furniture category with filing cabinets and other products. Some poorly designed racks may be in this category, but a well-designed and installed rack is much more valuable to the user.

Though racks have been in use for many years, and the basic dimensions are fixed, the overall presentation and design continues to evolve to make the rack more aesthetically pleasing and more user friendly. Improved thermal management, less hardware to assemble and better accessibility are just some of the areas constantly being developed.

It must be remembered the rack is the product, which houses many other devices. The value of those other devices will exceed the cost of the rack many times over. Most people would not put their money into a glass jar if a bank were an option. Don't put your million-dollar equipment into a glass jar; put them into a proper 19” Rack. It is your investment, protect it.

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