Ready to Go Wide? 7 Advantages of 23-Inch-Width Server Racks

Though 23-inch-width server racks are not used as widely as their narrower 19-inch cousins, they offer distinct benefits you can only get with the extra width. Below we list some popular uses and the seven biggest advantages of these roomy models, and we conclude with a summary of NavePoint’s recently launched line of 23-inch-width server racks.

Popular Uses

The 23-inch rack is not a recent development. It was introduced in the mid-20th century, primarily used by Bell System (later AT&T) and other telephone companies for certain types of telecommunications equipment. Then and now, the wider rack not only holds wider components but enables more equipment to be mounted in a single unit. It is still common in telephone company central offices but has also been adopted for use in internet service provider facilities, broadcasting operations, and elsewhere.

Specific types of equipment often housed in 23-inch racks include:

• Telephone switches
• Fiber optic transmission equipment
• Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexers (DSLAMs)
• Network routers and switches
• Patch panels
• Power distribution units (PDUs)

7 Advantages of 23-Inch-Width Server Racks

• Accommodation of All Equipment: 23-inch racks can hold all your equipment, including 19-inch-wide components. This is achieved through the use of adapter brackets or shelves, allowing for a mix of 23-inch and 19-inch equipment in the same rack. This flexibility is particularly useful in environments that have both telecommunications and standard IT equipment.
• Extra Room for Cables: The additional width provides more space for cable management. This extra room allows for neater cable routing, reduced cable stress and strain, improved airflow around equipment, and easier access for maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Improved Cooling: The extra space allows for better air circulation, which can lead to more efficient cooling of equipment. This can potentially reduce cooling costs and extend the life of the hardware.
• Higher Equipment Density: Some telecommunications equipment is designed specifically for 23-inch racks and can offer higher port densities than their 19-inch counterparts. This allows for more efficient use of vertical rack space.
• Easier Installation and Maintenance: The additional width can make it easier for you to install, remove, or service equipment, especially in tight spaces.
• Better Weight Distribution: The wider base provides improved stability for heavy equipment, which can be particularly important in areas prone to seismic activity.
• Legacy Compatibility: Many older telecommunications systems were designed for 23-inch racks. Using these wider racks allows for easier integration of legacy equipment with newer systems.

NavePoint’s 23-Inch-Width, Open-Frame Server Racks

As the table above shows, NavePoint offers three types of 23-inch racks:

• 23-inch-wide four-post floor racks
• 23-inch-wide two-post floor racks
• 23-inch wide two-post wall racks

For larger installations, the floor racks are the way to go, with 25U to 45U of capacity. But the 6U and 9U wall racks allow you to fit these open frames into smaller rooms and IT closets for space efficiency. We also carry a full line of 23-inch-width rack accessories to make your rack more functional.

Are you ready to go wide? NavePoint’s 23-inch-width server racks are in stock and available with FREE standard same-day shipping. Check out our 23-inch-width server racks today!