Let’s raise a toast to the mid-depth server cabinet ─ the enclosed rack that tries to be everything for everybody, and mostly succeeds. When you need an enclosure that is deep enough for all or most of your components, and yet shallow enough to fit in an IT closet without Bogarting floor space, a mid-depth server cabinet will usually do the job.

What Is ‘Mid Depth’?

Granted, “mid depth” is a subjective term, but at NavePoint it means our line of enclosed cabinets that have an adjustable rack depth of 3 to 30 inches and an exterior depth of 33 inches. A mid-depth server rack falls between our 42U line, which holds depths up to 47 inches, and our mountable wall cabinets, which come in super-compact depths down to 12 inches. So, they might not solve all your rack enclosure needs, but many of our customers consider them the most useful cabinets they own.

Below are six essential features to look for in mid-depth rack enclosures.

1. Adjustable Rack Depth ─ If it has an adjustable rack depth, a mid-depth server rack can accommodate a wide range of devices. One of the best uses of an adjustable depth server cabinet is in environments with limited space where compact yet functional storage is essential. These network rack enclosures are perfect for small to medium-sized businesses, home offices, and remote sites needing efficient organization without compromising accessibility. With the variable depth, they can house servers, switches, patch panels, and other networking gear.
2. Mid-Sized Depth ─ A mid-depth enclosure is typically between 25 and 35 inches deep on the outside of the cabinet. This is deep enough to hold most components and cables but shallow enough to fit in most IT spaces. NavePoint’s 33-inch deep server cabinet line is on the roomier side of mid-depth, giving you room to spare but keeping a moderate footprint.
3. Capacity Options ─ Having a range of capacities to choose from (NavePoint offers 12U, 18U, and 24U) provides flexibility for different storage needs, catering to users with a small to moderate amount of equipment. Different vertical capacities present different options. If you remove the wheels from a 12U server cabinet it can fit on a desktop. Leave the wheels on an 18U server cabinet and you have a rack that’s easy to move from room to room. Also look for cold-rolled steel construction that supports a lot of weight (ours hold 1,000 pounds), making them suitable for heavier setups like power distribution units and larger IT components.
4. Airflow ─ Effective airflow is another feature to look for in a mid-depth server rack. Having large, perforated panels on the front, back, and sides promotes excellent ventilation, preventing overheating and ensuring optimal performance of the equipment inside. Also look for slots on the top panel to allow for the installation of fans to further enhance cooling. Fans are especially critical in high-temperature environments.
5. Accessible but Secure ─ Accessibility is key in managing IT hardware. Look for mid-depth cabinets with front and rear doors and removable side panels. The ability to access equipment from all sides streamlines maintenance and upgrades, saving valuable time. But of course, the accessibility should be only for authorized people. Make sure your mid depths have locks on all sides to keep the stored equipment safe from unauthorized access. This is a critical feature for businesses that prioritize data protection.
6. Mobility ─ A floor-standing mid-depth server rack is much more useful if it can be moved without much effort. Make sure it includes or can be easily fitted with caster wheels. A server rack cabinet with wheels is much easier to move within a facility, enabling quick reconfiguration of workspaces or relocation of IT infrastructure as needed. This feature is particularly valuable in dynamic environments like data centers and temporary setups at events.

Summary

Clearly, the mid-depth server cabinet is a blend of versatility, security, and efficiency ─ its robust construction, excellent airflow design, and mobility make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a durable and reliable network rack enclosure. Whether used in permanent installations or mobile applications, a mid-depth server cabinet delivers exceptional value and functionality.