IBM Rack

[frl]

Does anybody here use IBM Rack for servers. If so, what is your experience? I am thinking about NETBAY42 Standard rack with 2x8 Console switch from IBM.
Thanks for your answers!

 

[catorze]

IBM racks are some of the strongest I've seen. They aren't made of flimsy, thin, easy-to-warp metal. Anything that meets the industry spec fit like it should. Also, the wrinkle black finish looks pretty cool.

 

[danmoran]

I was a little dissapointed with our IBM racks...until we bought another brand. They are actually quite sturdy. I just don't care for 'universal' racks. The adjustable rails really cause more problems than they resolve.

 

[frl]

Thanks for your replies. Do any of you also use IBM console switches (like 1x4 or 2x8 console switch)?

 

[fluffybunny]

IBM Racks come in a number of different types basically speaking.

For xSeries, there are several types of racks :
- NetBAY42 Standard Rack (19")
- NetBAY42 Standard Expansion Rack (19")

- NetBAY42 Enterprise Rack (19")
- NetBAY42 Enterprise Expansion Rack (19")

Basically, if you want a normal 42U rack for your xSeries, the you go for the Standard rack. The Standard Expansion is for additional racks to keep your servers. These expansion racks do not have sidepanels. Usually, you will purchase 2xStandard Racks to hem in the other expansion racks.

The same for the Enterprise Rack, but these racks are far sturdier than the normal ones, and can hold heavier items than the standard ones, and they are wider. Basically these enterprise racks are almost the same as the pSeries ones, except that pSeries racks are better quality and has some additional features.

Cheers.

 

[danmoran]

We looked at IBM's console switches, but we run a "lights out" datacenter, so we went with Avocent DSView. The mouse movement takes a little getting used to, but I can connect from anywhere.