When you’re planning to install rack-mount networking equipment, one of the first decisions to make is whether to go with open-frame server racks or enclosed cabinets. In recent years there has emerged a follow-up decision – a new option offering benefits that might suit your needs: Do I get the standard dark-colored enclosure or a white one?

We discussed the benefits of white enclosed cabinets in a previous blog post. Below we explore the reasons you might choose a white open-frame rack instead. We conclude with a few details about NavePoint’s new white two-post open-frame server racks and white four-post open-frame server racks.

Cutting to the chase, the three main advantages of going with open-frame racks are accessibility, airflow, and cost savings. On top of that, white server racks offer distinct aesthetic benefits as well as better visibility and temperature control.

Open-Frame Accessibility

• Easy Installation and Maintenance: Open-frame racks provide unobstructed access to your equipment, making it simpler to install and maintain components. This is especially beneficial when you need to add or replace devices. There are no doors to unlock or side panels to unlock and remove to get to your gear.

• Cable Management: The open design facilitates better cable management, reducing the chances of tangled and messy cables. This not only looks neater but also improves troubleshooting and maintenance efficiency. Of course, you can also attach cable management devices to enclosed cabinets, but with open-frame server racks it is easier to run cables to and from components.

Open-Frame Airflow

• Cooling Efficiency: Electronic devices generate heat, and efficient cooling is essential to prevent overheating. Open-frame racks allow for natural convection from all sides, enabling heat to dissipate more effectively. This helps in maintaining a cooler environment for the equipment.

• Preventing Hot Spots: Enclosed cabinets can sometimes create hot spots due to limited airflow. Open-frame racks distribute airflow more evenly, minimizing the risk of localized overheating in specific areas.

Open-Frame Cost Savings

Most open-frame racks cost considerably less than most enclosed cabinets. For instance, compare the prices of these NavePoint 42U open-frame racks with our 42U enclosed cabinets. Of course, the enclosed models offer more features and security, but if cost is one of your top concerns, open frame might be the way to go.

Aesthetic Benefits of White Server Racks

• Clean and Modern Look: White open-frame racks give a clean, modern, professional, and more spacious appearance to the overall setup. They can contribute to an organized and visually appealing workspace, which is particularly important in areas where clients or visitors may have access. White racks show dust and scratches less prominently than those painted black. Light-colored racks also blend in with light-colored walls, which can make a room seem bigger and less cluttered.

• Brand Image: The modern aesthetic of white server racks can be associated with a forward-thinking approach. This can contribute to a more positive brand image for both internal employees and visitors/customers, especially in industries that most value out-of-the-box thinking.

• Versatility: White is a neutral color that can easily blend with various design schemes. It provides a versatile option that can complement different styles and color palettes.

Practical Benefits of White Server Racks

• Visibility: White server racks reflect more light than models that are painted the standard black, making it a bit easier to see and identify cables, connectors, and equipment. This can be especially advantageous when working with equipment in less well-lit environments.

• Temperature Control: Lighter colors, like white, are generally better at reflecting sunlight, reducing the absorption of heat. This can contribute to better temperature control in the room.

Deciding Between 2 Posts and 4 Posts

Choosing between a two-post and a four-post open-frame rack depends on your specific needs and the equipment you plan to install. For insights on the best uses for each type of rack, please read our blog post, “Do You Need a 2-Post or 4-Post Open-Frame Server Rack?”

NavePoint’s New Bright White Open-Frame Racks

NavePoint offers two full lines of open-frame racks in our Bright White series.

Our white four-post open-frame racks are made of cold-rolled steel, rock solid enough to hold up to 1,322 pounds. We have your size, with vertical options of 25U, 37U, 42U, or 45U, and adjustable depths of 15.7 to 40.7 inches. Their caster wheels are both lockable and removable.

NavePoint’s white two-post open-frame racks have a small footprint but hold up to 661 pounds. They come in vertical sizes of 22U, 25U, 42U, and 45U. They are made of cold-rolled steel or lightweight aluminum. The ones with a flat base can be bolted to the floor for added stability, or get one with caster wheels if you want more mobility.

New White Rack-Mount Accessories

These new white accessories match our cabinets and open-frame racks.

• White rack shelves let you install non-rack-mountable components in your rack. Our rack shelves come in three designs – cantilever shelf, cabinet shelf, and fixed shelf. We offer four depths: 8, 10, 14, 16, and 21.6 inches.

• White rack-mount drawers keep your necessities safe and close at hand. Our locking white rack-mount drawers are a generous 13.7 inches deep and come in depths of 2U, 3U, or 4U.

• White blank panels fill unused rack spaces for a more finished, professional look. We offer white rack-mount blank panels in both solid and vented and in 1U, 2U, or 3U.

• A raceway is a box that mounts just inside your rack that helps route cables and tucks them away for a cleaner look. Our well-vented white horizontal cable management raceway is 1U by 2.5 inches deep.

Our white two-post open-frame server racks, white four-post open-frame server racks, and matching white rack accessories are in stock now and available with FREE standard same-day shipping. If you have product questions or need recommendations, contact our U.S.-based team of experts at +1 (866) 312-5401 or email us at sales@navepoint.com.