How to install a server wall mount rack

How to install a server wall mount rack

Wall mount racks are a great option when your computing needs are not too high and your workspace is tight. They usually allow the equipment to be installed vertically, so they are flush with the wall and look good in public areas.

But how difficult is it to actually mount the server rack to the wall? Well, an additional step in the process is figuring out how much weight the wall can support. It's like installing (and racking IT equipment on top of it).

Where is the best place to mount a server rack on the wall?

All Gometal?wall mount racks are longer than 16 inches wide and can be supported by two studs. This allows up to 15 units of standard size rack space to be wall mounted.?

Wall mount racks can also be installed on drywall, but at the expense of weight capacity. For example, this minimalist 4U wall mount of him holds up to 105 pounds on drywall using the included fasteners. With professional stud mounting, the capacity increases to 200 lbs.

In general, best practice is to mount on studs if possible. Drywall works, but if something hits the mount or an earthquake hits, it won't hold up as well as studs.?

Unfortunately there is no answer to the question "how much weight does the stud support" as it depends on the location of the stud and the type of fastener you are using. Individual professional advice is recommended for large wall mounting projects involving sensitive equipment.?

What type of fasteners should I use for my wall rack?

wall mount fasteners

Screw (left) Wall anchor (right)

Synonymous with fasteners, drywall anchors are often included in wall mounting kits. These are typically designed with large threads that lock onto different pieces of drywall to maintain a sturdy hold.

If your kit does not come with fasteners and you want to mount the rack on drywall, check the load you are installing. Some drywall anchors are more effective than others, so you should make sure they are evaluated according to your needs.?

Also, the more weight you can carry, the bigger the hole in the wall. For this reason, there is no need to use maximum load capacity wall anchors unless you really need to.?

How to install network equipment

wall mount network equipment

Ear-worn network equipment

If you want to mount the equipment vertically on the wall, it is easy to put the rails or chassis ears on the mounting rails and attach the screws. This can be done if the mount is already attached to the wall, so you don't have to completely disassemble it when replacing equipment.?

Most wall mounts have square-hole rails for mounting equipment. This means you also need cage he nuts that fit over the rails or chassis ears. A cage nut can be installed in the square hole and a screw can be screwed in to mount the equipment.

Network equipment, which is typically lightweight, can be mounted by ear without rails. I would recommend using rails if possible.?

How to install the server

Rails or L brackets are required for server installation. Server chassis ears are not designed to support the weight of the server when installed. They are mainly used to lock the server in place.?

Server shoulder screws and keyhole slots

Slide the inner rails onto the server chassis

Wall mounting with only front mounting rails requires two post server rails. Many 2-post rails are installed in the middle, so be careful when purchasing. You will need two post rails attached to the front.?

If your wall mount has 4 mounting rails or posts, you need 4 post server rails. They have four support points when mounted and are suitable for heavy equipment such as full size servers.?

Installation on a wall rack is similar to a standing rack.

Inner rails must be attached to the server prior to installation. This is done using shoulder screws.

The shoulder screws are located on the side of the server chassis and slide into j-slots or keyhole slots on the outer rails.

The outer rails are screwed into cage nuts placed on the wall mount rack.

The inner rail attached to the wall mount slides onto the rail to lock it in place.