How to Install a Server Rack Shelf?

The importance of server racks stems from the fact that they provide a well-structured and safe method to house different types of hardware. Special parts are used to make this storage more efficient and ergonomic, e.g., rack mount server shelves.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the installation process to help you avoid common pitfalls and install the shelf with ease.

What You’ll Need for the Server Shelf Installation

Before you proceed to mounting the server shelf, you have to gather all the required tools and materials. Typically, you’ll need the following items:

1. Screwdrivers;
2. Wrenches and ratchets;
3. A level;
4. Mounting rails, as required (U-Mark mounting vertical rails);
5. Set of cage bolts and nuts – 20 un;
6. Cable management tools (horizontal and vertical cable managers, cable organizers, brush cable entries);
7. Insulating gloves and safety glasses.

Main Preparatory Steps

Everyone who is trying to figure out how to install the server rack shelf has to keep in mind that it cannot be done without a smooth installation process. Server assembly involves taking several steps, more specifically:

• Check compatibility. Make sure that the server rack shelf matches the dimensions of your rack. The majority of racks have a standardized width of 19 inches, which refers to the usable width. It implies the internal width that matches the size of the hardware being mounted. The shelves should also be selected to fit this usable width.
• Inspect the work area. The place where you’re planning to perform the installation must be perfectly clean, spacious, and unhindered. Besides, don’t forget to ensure adequate lighting.
• Check the availability of all the required tools and materials. Ensure you have everything you need before starting in the mandatory manner.
• Carefully assess shelf placement. Choose the best possible shelf position in the rack. You need to focus on such aspects as weight distribution, proper ventilation, and facility of access. Fill your rack from the bottom to the top. This is a proven safety measure that will protect your server cabinet against falling over.
• Confirm rack stability. You must make sure that the server rack is level and stable in order to prevent the most common accidents that might occur during installation.

Easy Steps to Install Your Rack Shelf

1. Prepare the shelf itself and necessary mounting fixtures

• Unbox the shelf and examine to make sure that all fixing accessories are in place.
• Remove any protective wrapping.

2.  Install the mounting rails (if required)

• Attach the mounting rails to your server rack with the help of the supplied screws or bolts.
• Align the rails in such a way as to achieve the preferable shelf depth.
• Verify that they are level.

3. Place the shelf inside the server rack

• Slide the shelf into the server rack with care. It must align with the mounting rails or preliminarily drilled orifices.

4.  Secure the shelf with screws or bolts

• Draw tight the screws or bolts. It’ll allow you to secure the shelf thoroughly.
• To ensure a tight fit, you’ll have to use either a wrench or a screwdriver. However, you mustn’t strip or damage the screws. One must bear it in mind when performing the work with the use of electric tools. The fact is that they tend to generate a lot of torque.

5. Check the level and stability

• To confirm that the shelf is placed horizontally, you need to use a level. It must be firmly locked so that to withstand the assumed weight.

Safety Tips during Installation

Anyone who is trying to find an answer to the question “How to install the server rack shelf?” must guarantee a safe and well-organized installation process. Following this simple guide will allow you to do so:

• Use proper instruments and equipment to prevent damage to the shelf or rack.
• Put on protective gear. You need to wear insulating gloves and safety glasses. They will protect you against sharp edges and debris.
• Comply with the load recommendations. You mustn’t exceed the maximum acceptable load capacity of the shelf. In addition, place the heaviest component on the bottom of your server cabinet. It provides the opportunity to lay a strong foundation. This aspect is of paramount importance to those who are planning to put a lot of equipment on a tall rack.
• Verify that the server cabinet is stable and anchored, if required.
• Avoid electrical hazards. You must keep your hands and instruments away from exposed wires and live parts.
• Collaborate with a partner. Ask a colleague to help you with the tasks that involve heavy lifting and alignment. It’ll help you avoid injuries and damage to the equipment. This is particularly important if your hardware is heavy-duty, bulky, or out-of-balance.
• Arrange cables safely. Keep wires and cables as far as possible from moving parts and verify that they are properly tied to avoid tangling.
• Check for potential obstacles. Make sure that there are not any objects in the rack environment that could disrupt the installation process.
• Rely on the manufacturer’s instructions. To achieve the best results, try to rigorously follow the specific instructions supplied together with the rack and shelf.

Summary

Installing a server rack shelf becomes an uncomplicated process if you have the right instruments, a plan of installation, and safety measures at hand. To ensure a secure and productive setup, verify compatibility, organize your work area, and mount components based on step-by-step instructions. If you have faced difficulties during the installation, don’t hesitate to ask our technical support for assistance ([email protected]).