Server equipment can’t work without power. To make the system run, it is important to feed it with a sufficient amount of electricity. To connect it to a PDU, wires are used. Cables also serve to connect system components to each other. All in all, a network system comprises hundreds of cords that help connect all the functioning units.
Cable management is a process of organizing wires properly to avoid tangling and keep all cords structured.
Benefits of Cable Management
- Improved system performance
A neat and organized system is always more durable and functions more sustainably. This rule is applicable to not only equipment and the system as a whole but to each tiny part. Cords stand as an indispensable element of system performance. Their proper management will make the system more resistant to external influence and save space inside server furniture.
- Enhanced accessibility
If a server or other device needs to be replaced or taken off the server cabinet, chaotic routed cables can interfere with putting hardware off and harden the process. Cords can be ruptured during replacement, or system administrators will need to rearrange the system to find other ways to get out hardware. Arranging wires helps solve this problem and access any hardware easily.
- Improved maintenance and serviceability
Unorganized cables tend to tangle. When it comes to service, it becomes difficult to find what wires connect particular units resulting in slowing down the maintenance time and prolonging the uptime. Well-arranged cords simplify and speed up the service. The maintenance staff easily copes with all tasks and performs quickly.
- Increased cooling efficiency
Tangled cables impede the airflow, which results in overheating. When cords are arranged in special boxes and routed effectively, the air can circulate freely, and nothing impedes system cooling.
Since the space is limited in server cabinets, the issue of cooling and the use of airflow are essential. Every inch of space does matter. Organizing wires properly can improve system cooling and guarantee better air circulation. Thus, server rack cable management contributes to the maintenance of the optimal temperature and environment for sustainable and durable system functioning.
- Improved scalability
Since the number of wires can reach several hundred and connect diverse units, the use of different tools of cord management can help scale large systems and make service more convenient and targeted. For example, the use of wire coloring for different units of the system.
Steps for Planning Cable Management
To maximize the benefit of server cabinet cable management, follow the below-mentioned guide:
- Plan appropriately.
It is recommended to make a layout of cord wiring to find out possible hinders can appear on the route and design the best scheme to lay cables the most effectively.
- Measure connection distance.
Cords have different lengths. To determine the needed length of wires, measure the distance between units to be connected by them.
- Identify cords.
Here, different techniques can be used. System administrators can use wire coloring or other ways to mark certain cords to make them easily noticeable and identified.
- Label both ends of cables.
Labeling can help when you need to stretch wires over a long distance. This solution helps quickly find the needed cable in a bunch of cords.
- Route cords alongside panels of server cabinets.
When routing along vertical or horizontal posts, wires are securely fastened and avoid accidental raptures. They do not hinder the airflow and provide better access.
- Consider future expansion.
In most cases, network systems are enlarged and expanded over time. Foresee this point and think about the way you can add more wires without making significant changes in an operating system.
- Avoid thermal issues.
IT equipment heats well. When cables are touted closely to devices, emitted heat can warm up wires. Make sure to use thermal-resistant cords.
- Document and maintain organization
Once all cords are wired and connected, and the system is ready to start working, document all wire routes to ensure its easy maintenance.
Useful Accessories of Wire Management
When dealing with network rack wire management, the following accessories may come in handy.
- Horizontal cable manager
This is a special plastic or metal box attached to horizontal posts of server cabinets or racks. They are empty inside and designed for routing and supporting wires. They can have partitions.
- Vertical cord manager
These are plastic or metal constructions fastened to vertical uprights of server furniture. Different sizes are offered on the market. Consumers can pick a suitable model for any cabinet height and size.
- Cable manager arm
This is a long elastic accessory that allows wiring dozens of cables and stretching them on the floor and along walls.
- Patch panel
A patch panel is one of the main components in building structured cabling networks. It is a kind of passive equipment with special slots for cables to connect different types of equipment. Server rack patch panels, more on the website, allow placing and rearranging circuits by connecting and disconnecting the appropriate patch cords.
- Cord management trays
This is a long metal construction that allows wiring dozens of cables in one tray. They can be fastened both vertically and horizontally, as well as installed alongside a plinth or ceiling.
- Sliding panel
This type of accessory features the ability to slide. Such solutions are applicable when it is necessary to frequently move panels with cords.
It is impossible to imagine a data center without cables since they are used to connect hardware and power the system. Each Ethernet network requires a connection to the PDU. So, routing cables is an obligatory part of IT system development. Proper cable management will simplify data facility organization and maintenance. The modern infrastructure offers diverse solutions and accessories designed to manage wires and secure them from occidental raptures.
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