A patch panel is a piece of hardware consisting of multiple ports to help organize cables. They are small equipment with numerous ports for containing lines going to different locations. Patch panel manufacturers often work with network rack producers to help organization and neatness in data and network centers. They work together with network rack accessories for better efficiency.
Types of network rack accessories
The following are some essential accessories for network racks;
1. Cooling equipment
This accessory is found in network racks without perforated walls. The contents of a network rack are prone to getting hot. This is why most network racks have perforated walls to allow for a constant flow of air. However, some network racks do not have this feature. In this case, cooling equipment is used. A fan can be mounted inside the rack to keep the contents from overheating and getting damaged or malfunctioning.
2. Fan housing units
The cooling equipment, in this case, the fan, is usually housed in a housing unit. A single network rack can feature more than one housing unit. The housing units are either mounted on the roof or the side plate. Each unit can host between two to six fans for cooling the network server contents. Some network server manufacturers also mount their housing fans on the racks and equipment to allow for cooling at specialized positions.
3. The AC distribution box
Most of the equipment inside the network rack requires AC power. This accessory is necessary where each unit needs to be powered using an external energy source. In this case, an AC distribution box is placed inside the rack to power individual tools. They use a single or a couple of power lines from outside the network rack. Note that a single distribution box contains about five to fifteen sockets.
4. The cable manager
A cable manager is an open channel used for passing several cables across the horizontal section of the network rack. The cable manager usually has metal holdings. The role of this accessory is to help make the cabling arrangement look neat. It also helps prevent any excessive bending and potential breakage of the cables.
5. Cable channels
These are accessories used to enable the easy and neat arrangement of the cables. Conduits can also be applied for this purpose.
6. Sliding or fixed shelves
In a network rack, not all equipment is kept inside. This is because the components come in varying shapes and sizes. Therefore, some fixed shelf plates may get inserted into the rack. The equipment that cannot fit in the rack is placed over the shelves. These shelves must be sturdy and high-quality enough to accommodate the components.
7. Model holders
Some manufacturers use specific shelves to hold modems on their network racks. These accessories are required where a lot of modems are needed.
Conclusion
The accessories mentioned above are used to make network racks more efficient. They are also applied to foster efficient usage of space within the racks. Note that not all network racks on the market come with these accessories. Therefore, when shopping for network racks, you may want to ask around for one with the accessories listed above and more.