Equipment racks that hold 19-inch-wide components are considered “standard width,” but that doesn’t mean they’re the only width you can choose from.

If your work space is tight, you might consider investing in narrower components that fit in 10-inch-wide wall-mount rack cabinets. Such cabinets, also known as mini-racks or half-racks, can fit almost anywhere and share the same professional features and options of wider models − such as rugged steel construction, high weight capacity, multiple depth choices, and lockable and reversible doors.

Let’s review the main benefits and most common uses for 10-inch network cabinets.

10-Inch Racks: Small Size, Big Usefulness

Standard 19-inch racks became prevalent in the early 20th century, mostly due to the telecommunications industry’s adoption of standardized equipment sizes. However, as technology evolved, the need for more compact and specialized solutions arose, leading to the development of smaller racks.

Ten-inch mini racks have been around for several decades, and they have been used for specific applications in various industries. Often they are utilized in environments with limited space or when deploying smaller-scale setups. The electronic components that fit into 10-inch racks are commonly related to networking, telecommunications, and audiovisual applications. The recent popularity of narrower cabinets has been partly driven by:

• The high cost of office space
• An increase in sophisticated computer networking and audiovisual setups in the home
• High-tech components being manufactured in smaller sizes

Other factors that drive the use of 10-inch-width racks include:

• Low-density applications: For certain low-density networking applications, where only a few network devices or peripherals need to be mounted, a 10-inch rack might be sufficient. This is often the case in small-scale deployments or when setting up a specific functionality, like a small network closet or a remote branch office.
• Easy installation and portability: The smaller size of 10-inch racks makes them easier to install and manage. They are also more portable, allowing for simpler transportation and setup when needed.
• Aesthetic considerations: In some scenarios, organizations might prefer the look of a 10-inch rack for specific installations, such as in retail stores or modern office environments.
• Specialized equipment: Certain networking or audio/video equipment is designed specifically for 10-inch racks. Choosing a 10-inch rack might be necessary to accommodate these specialized devices.

7 Types of Components that Fit in 10-Inch Racks

• Networking equipment: Switches, routers, network firewalls, and other small to mid-sized network devices are commonly mounted in 10-inch racks.
• Telecommunications equipment: PBX (Private Branch Exchange) systems, patch panels, and other telecom infrastructure components can fit into 10-inch racks.
• Audiovisual gear: In some cases, audio and video equipment like compact audio mixers, video matrix switches, and audio processors are mounted in 10-inch racks.
• Media converters: Devices that convert between different networking media types, such as fiber optic to Ethernet, can fit into 10-inch racks.
• Power distribution units (PDUs): Small PDUs that provide power distribution and management for the mounted equipment are suitable for 10-inch racks.
• Patch panels: Smaller patch panels used for managing network connections or audio/video connections may be mounted in these racks.
• Home automation components: In home automation and smart home setups, some control units or hubs may fit into 10-inch racks.

NavePoint’s Line of 10-Inch Rack Cabinets

NavePoint carries more than two dozen models of 10-inch-wide, wall-mount network cabinets. Their main differences are in depth, color, vertical capacity, and front door type. The door choice is either an impact-resistant tempered glass door that allows you to visually monitor your components, or a perforated door that increases air flow.

In addition, two of our models come in kits that include two shelves and one blank panel. The shelves are especially useful in allowing you to install gear that is not rack-mountable. These convenient kits offer either six rack spaces or nine rack spaces.

Our 10-inch network server cabinets and our 6U kit and 9U kit with shelves and blank panel are in stock now and available with FREE same-day shipping.

Questions? Need recommendations? Our U.S.-based team of experts is eager to help you at +1 (866) 312-5401, or email us at sales@navepoint.com.