A rack server, also known as a rack mount server or a rack-mounted server, is a computer designed to be housed in a structure known as a server rack. Rack servers are commonly found in data centers where hundreds or thousands of servers may be located.
Mechanically, rack servers easily slide in and out of a server rack to allow system administrators, technicians, and operators to quickly diagnose problems and swap parts without the need to shut down or disassemble the entire system, causing unnecessary and costly downtime.
Computationally, a rack server is a piece of hardware that provides functionality, or services, for other programs or devices.
Rack servers are typically 19 inches in width to fit the standard 19-inch server rack configuration and they are measured in height in terms of rack units, or 1.75 inches. For example, a rack server with a 1U height is 1.75 inches high while a 2U rack server is 3.5 inches high.
While some data center managers rely on outdated Excel files, Visio diagrams, and homegrown systems to manage their rack servers, these tools are hard to use, difficult to maintain, and error prone. To easily and accurately track and manage all rack server assets, many data center managers use Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) software. DCIM software enables you to maintain an accurate inventory of all data center assets, including rack servers, and real-time views across your entire data center.
Want to see how Sunbird’s world-leading DCIM software makes it easy for you to track and manage all your rack servers? Get your free test drive now!
