Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1386104
July/August/September 2021 I 33 FIGURE 9: Modern cabinet designs allow for quick, tool-less attachment of accessories like PDUs and cable and airflow management in a manner in which all systems co-exist and complement one another in a unified ecosystem. FIGURE 10: Modern cabinet designs also include integrated bonding on door hinge and side panels for a safer and more intuitive electrical installation. 4. Does the cabinet structure support thermal and power management accessories, as well as the cable pathway directly above it? Answer: A strong, roll-formed, tubular and fully welded steel frame allows for reliable support of equipment and overhead cabling systems. A strong frame that can support at least 5000 pounds (≈2268 kg) better prepares data center managers for future changes regarding equipment, overhead structure and for potential transitions to liquid cooling. 5. Does the cabinet space provide enough room for a rack PDU and cable and airflow management accessories? Answer: The cabinet design should enable separate pathways for power and cabling. Additionally, these pathways should not interfere with airflow. To speed up maintenance and equipment refreshes, consider cabinet designs that simplify attachment, alignment, and fastening of accessories with more tool-less features and intuitive adjustments. 6. Do the mechanics of the cabinet allow for easier equipment installation and maintenance? Answer: Doors should be easy to remove during main- tenance. For flexibility, doors should also open from the left or right depending on preference or application. Additionally, doors and panels should bond to the cabinet frame to provide an added level of safety for personnel and equipment. In fact, newer cabinet designs ensure proper bonding without the additional, cumbersome step of prepping the cabinet for a bonding connection. This integrated bonding capability at each attachment point ensures bonding of doors, rails, accessories, and panel work when installed after service work. 7. Is the cabinet designed to facilitate unique requirements, such as seismic bracing? Answer: Seismic areas require specific building codes and installation guidelines for buildings to ensure the safety of people and equipment. The California Building Code requires that a licensed structural engineer design the components, supports, and attachments for non- structural building components, such as equipment racks. This means an engineer defines the exact instal- lation hardware, placement, and materials that attach the rack to the floor and, if necessary, how it will be braced overhead. Additionally, TIA-942-B, Section 6.4.4.11 specifies that the data center facilities meet all applicable seismic zone requirements.