Server Rack Cable Management: What Is the Best Practice?
Posted by Erric Ravi on May 27th, 2021
Present day data centres are composed of rows of server racks and network cabinets to support the amplitude of power cords, data cables, and network devices. Although a dexterous cable management system in a tightly-spaced, confined server rack can be seen as difficult, following the right guide along with some tried and tested tools makes it easier.
Server Rack Cable Management Benefits
If not handled the right way, server rack cable management can cause a series of problems. It can result in cable damage and failure, leading to performance issues, data transmission errors and system downtime. However, successful cable management in server rack can benefit you in every aspects, including:
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Improved System Performance - Server rack cable management requires the separation of data and power cable within the racks to help decrease the chances of crosstalk and interference.
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Improved Maintenance and Serviceability - Effective server rack cable management ensures a safe and easy access to individual components.
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Enhanced Availability - Functional server rack cable management allows for an easier access to IT devices and cables, and reduces human error.
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Increased Cooling Efficiency - Server rack cable management keeps the cables organised and out of airflow paths.
Server Rack Cable Management Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get an effective server rack cable management:
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Plan Appropriately
Proper planning contributes to a smooth server rack management process, hence, it is beneficial to consult a professional cabling contractor.
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Determine the Routes of Power and Data Cables
It is important to figure out whether the cables enter from the top of the server rack or the bottom. Post that information, plan the routes to separate data and power cables, and copper data cables and fiber cables.
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Identify Cables
You can use different colour cables or cable labels to identify the cables and differentiate between them.
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Route and Retain Cables
It is important to protect the cables at points where they encounter sharp edges or heated areas. For this purpose, you can opt for cable managers or cable ties.
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Secure Cables
All connectors and cables must be secured to prevent excessive movement and provide strain relief of critical points.
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Avoid Thermal IssuesPlan Appropriately
It is important to ensure a path for airflow as restrained airflow can cause temperatures to rise, shortening the expected lifespan of the devices.
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Document and Maintain Organisation
Remember to document the entire infrastructure with diagrams, patching information, cable types, and cable counts.
Efficient Tools for Server Rack Cable Management
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Horizontal Cable Manager
This type of cable manager is excellent for all types of cables. They come with a rack-mountable 1U or 2U design, and some of them are built with finger duct and D-rings for easier finger access in the server rack.
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Vertical Cable Manager
Vertical cable managers can be used to organise and hold cables, ensure proper flow of air, and avoid overheating in a complex server rack environment.
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Cable Hangers and Trays
Cable hangers come in handy for organising cables within the server racks. Cable trays, on the other hand, are exceptional for running wires from one place to another and can be installed on the floor or overhead in the ceiling.
Proper server rack management can not only help improve the physical appearance but also cable traceability, cooling efficiency, air flow, while also eliminating the chance of human error. You can check Schneider Electric India for their excellent range of management tools like cable organisers, data center management, cable managers, data center cooling, cable ties, etc.
