the rack
introduction
Computers need a permanent home. A computer in a data center is mounted in a 19 inch rack. A rack costs at least £600. I have at most 600 pence. I will create a rack out of string and wet cardboard.
what it is
A rack is a framework for holding objects. In mediaeval times (difficult word, spelled correctly) officials of the ecclesiastical court of the Inquisition used racks to hold heretics. I want a rack to place all my computers on. If I lay all the computers horizontally they will stretch from my data center building (my shed) across the lawn to my neighbor's house and he does not want that. I need to stack them up vertically. This stack of computers must meet a few criteria.
| LIC topography: computers on the rack and desk | ||
|---|---|---|
| front | top | back |
 |
 |
 |
- Each computer must be accessible. Occasionally I will need to replace computer hardware. I am afraid the one to go bang will be the one at the bottom of the stack.
- The stack of computers must not topple over and squish me.
- Computers on top must not crush the computers underneath.
- I want easy access to the rear of the stack. All the sockets are built into the rear of a IBM PC. That's where the I/O plate is.
dimensions
A big data center uses 19 inch racks to hold computers. I am using timber, brackets and wheels from the local DIY store (£60). I end up with this.
I think these sizes are aLL WRONG
- Total size is 1250mm high x 1750mm wide x400mm deep.
- The bottom shelf is 1750mm wide. Plenty wide enough for about eight computers.
- The bottom shelf is about 400mm deep. This is a little shallow: a typical PC will overhang by about 50mm.
- The bottom shelf is 200mm off the floor. That will save the lower computers from freezing and floods.
- Vertical gap is ?. A half-height tower PC will fit with no problems.
- Cables will hang down the back.
- Six castor wheels rest on the wooden floor. They won't dig into the soft pine shed floor.
