A personal computer, or PC, is used for a single operator’s digital application needs such as an e-mail client, word processors, spreadsheets, Internet access, and more. This is ideal for private users, but at a business, whether small or larger, a data center is optimal for many computer users working together, and this means having a computer server system in place. Data center supplies are available for any new business setting up its electronics racks, or for a business upgrading to new hardware. Different types of server racks are open for various needs, such as wattage of the computers and level of security. With the right types of server racks, any business can keep its software running smoothly.
Why Have a Server?
Businesses, both small and large, are usually based on multiple cooperating computers with multiple users. Processes such as e-mail, messaging, and print servers require a proper computer server system, according to PC World , as well as advanced work such as shared calendar programs, databases, and customer relationship management software. A server an act as data security, too: servers will automatically back up PC and laptop systems, so if these devices crash, or are stolen or lost, the data can be easily recovered. What is more, a server enables an office’s workers to share all of their files and data with each other by means of a virtual private network, which even allows workers to access company data from outside devices with an Internet connection. Intranet access is also enabled by a server.
The cloud is another attractive option for businesses. This saves on the costs of computer server hardware and different types of server racks needed to house them, and there’s no hardware that becomes obsolete. In fact, around 82% of companies said that they saved money by moving to cloud services, and among all respondents, 25% said that if they could choose just one application to put onto the cloud, they would choose storage. Cloud users must be prepared to have top of the line cyber-security, however, since data breaches are a real concern, along with corporate espionage and identify theft that can result from this crime.
Types of Server Racks
If a company does choose to have physical server racks, the logistics will be the main issue to handle first. A server cabinet, or all types of data racks, will be tailored to the company’s own preferences. For example, it is best to place heavier machinery on the bottom racks and lighter equipment on the top shelves, to prevent awkward weight distribution. A rack falling over could be a disaster. Also, keeping these machines cool will be the main concern once they start running. To illustrate this point, it has been shown that 65% of IT failures are due to inadequate cooling and air flow in a data server room, since computers are temperature sensitive. If they get too hot, they malfunction and may even become damaged.
One option is to install fans and other air conditioning machinery in the room if it is an open air environment such as a factory or warehouse, instead of a cramped data center room. This cooling can come from vents or standalone devices, and have enough holes in the data racks’ walls to allow cool air to flow continuously and smoothly among all data server machines. The total wattage of these computers, converted into British Thermal Units (BTU) will tell a builder how much cooling is needed.
Another option, according to 42U, is to have Liquid Cooling Units installed into server racks that are fully sealed shut. These cooling units use air and water heat exchange systems to maintain a uniform temperature for the affected machinery, eliminating the need for blowing cold air through perforated cabinet walls. Cooling modules are stored in auxiliary racks on the back of the server racks, and a particular advantage of this system is that it operates independently from the building’s HVAC system. These types of cooling racks are ideal for cramped, specialized rooms for servers that don’t need airflow to function. Such rooms could be made more secure from intruders by having few windows and not being placed on busy roads.