Have you ever thought about having rack mounted PCs? These small and simple devices are often seen to be a great alternative to desktop computers which usually have a bigger size. In comparison, rack mount PCs are generally slimmer and have some good benefits in keeping the space more efficient if you do have limited room.
For those who struggle in dealing with the complex cable management of a desktop, having a rack mount PC can also be a smart solution. It basically keeps everything simpler, while maintaining the desktop through proper cooling and cable management.
Another advantage these computers may provide is better cooling, even when compared to bigger desktops. So, yes, rack mount PCs can still handle those high temperatures as long as it’s properly managed.
Now, since the size is smaller and looks fragile, you need something to protect it from damage. And that’s when you use the rack mount PC case. These cases are varied in size as the sizes of rack mount PCs are also different depending on the structure. On the market, you can find even the 1U case, which is suitably used as a server case.
Inside this case, you may safely store the desktop components, including cooling fans, power supply, motherboard, and hard drives. Another thing to point out is the availability of the ports on the outside of this case, making it easier for users to connect their devices or peripherals to the computer.
1u Rack Mount PC Case
Aside from the 2U, or 3U size, you may also find the 1U. It is the smallest case that has a height of 1.75 inches. This small case is typically used for many different systems according to the users’ needs.
Besides using the 1U rack mount PC case to safely protect a server, you may also use it for gaming PCs, workstations, or even high-performing computers. As the structure is much shallower and smaller compared to others, this case is mostly suitable to be used in a room with such a limited place, like data center. Some people tried to use the case for their desktop system, and it surprisingly worked.
Purpose and Use Cases
Generally, cases may offer better protection for PCs. However, this 1U rack mount PC case may also fit other purposes, such as:
1. Better Accessibility in Smaller Rooms
Having a rack mount PC is generally better in terms of accessibility, especially if you use a room with limited space. But, using the case can make it even better as you can effectively protect your desktop while keeping it easy to access at the same time.
2. Better Desktop Protection
Storing your desktop system inside the 1U rack mount PC case can protect your hardware from any potential external damage. So instead of putting it under the desk (which is risky both for the system and your knees), you may safely put it inside this case. The case is also made of strong materials, such as steel and stainless steel, and aluminum.
3. More Efficient Cable Management
PC management is a tricky task that most PC users are struggling with. Thanks to the case, now you can effectively adjust the computer cables to make your desk nice and tidy. Improving the cleanliness of your desk may result in a better mood and workflow.
Features of 1U Rack Mount PC Case
Talking about the features, the 1U rack mount PC case can provide:
- Smaller size for limited space
- Better cooling options
- Better protection thanks to the sturdy materials
- Easy way to store your desktop system inside thanks to the slider
Considerations for Selecting a 1U Rack Mount PC Case
When selecting a 1U Rack Mount PC Case for your system, there are a few features you might need to consider:
- The space. Before buying a rack mount PC case, be sure that the space supports the size of your system.
- See whether there are adjustable mountain points in the case or not
- Check the cooling options. As the size is definitely limited in 1U cases, seeking the best cooling for your system is definitely necessary.
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Pros and Cons of 1U Rack Mount PC Cases
Of course, even simple cases like this are not perfect. There are pros and cons that you need to consider:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Improved cooling system, compared to conventional PC cases | The space for rack mounted cases, especially in the lower Us, is definitely limited |
| Thanks to their form factor, data security may be improved | It can be quite noisy due to the abundant cooling fans used for the system |
| An ideal option for limited space | Users will always need specialized hardware to be able to fit in |
| Affordable in price | Cannot effectively accommodate bigger hardware, like bigger graphic cards and PCI audio. |
| Really compact, which is suitable for travel |
Best Practices for Installation and Maintenance
Before starts installing the case, or even setting the motherboard, you’ll have to know what you’re dealing with first. At a glance, rack mount PCs can be pretty beneficial as it only uses such a small space and power to work. With a nice setup consisting of all the necessary parts to build a desktop, you’ll effectively have much simpler devices in terms of space and availability.
However, the system does have a few drawbacks, such as the lack of space to put in the powerful parts, and the noise. The noise can be quite troubling when you use the system to work on harder tasks.
And now if you’re ready for the consequences, we’ll explain the proper steps to install the rack mount PC and the case, as well as the way to maintain it. Check the steps below:
- First and the most obvious step is to assemble the motherboard. So get everything you need from the motherboard, processor, RAMs, and other components.
- Make sure that the motherboard will fit inside the 1U case, which should be really small and slim. (the motherboard for rack mount PCs is generally smaller compared to conventional desktops)
- Now add the parts to the case, including case fans, power supply, connectors, and of course, the motherboard.
- When everything is properly installed, close the case.
- Connect it with a monitor, and try to boot up the system to if it’s working
As for the maintenance, the way you clean the case and the system is basically the same as the conventional PCs. The only difference here is the size. As the system is smaller, you’ll need to have smaller tools to clean the parts. Gently wipe down all the dust on the case using a damp cloth.
Conclusion
And that’s all thing you’d like to know about the 1U rack mount PC case. As the size is smaller, you can have better accessibility, and also better security as you can safely store it on a rack or somewhere safe.
To effectively protect the system better, you’ll always need a case. Please note that the 1U is not a definite size here. You may freely adjust the case size depending on the complexity and the system you want to use to support your needs.
