[R-390] Rack rails and mounting

[John Lawson]

   I've gotten a couple of very helpful mails from folks on the subject of 
side-rails to support heavier gear in racks -

   Considering first of all that you have the kind of rack with front and 
back rails, and rails or flanges on the sides to bolt stuff to - I buy 1" 
or 1 1/2" aluminum angle from McMaster Carr, long enough to go from the 
front rail to the back rail in the rack I'm using.

Then drill holes in it to match the rails in the rack. If needed I'll use 
counter-sunk bolts to provide side clearance.  The angles are mounted 
front-to-back, the 'flat' part of the angle can either be the top-most 
surface, in which case the Gear sits on the top of the angle with the 
other edge facing down ( the edge with the bolts) or the bolted edge can 
be upward alongside the Gear, with the other edge protruding into the 
space.  How it's done is a matter of side clearance and possible 
interference with other items in the rack.

   Now - this won't work with the cheaper "Bud" type racks, and of course 
not at all with 'relay racks' that only have front rails.  With fully 
enclosed Bud-type racks, one could drill and mount side brackets to carry 
the rails - but that's a lot of work, and surplus racks are still 
available, especially as ISPs and companies migrate 'server farms' to 
ever-smaller packages.  A lot of times you can find firms that would be 
happy if you came with a truck and hauled off a rack or two. Or twenty....


   Cheers

John  KB6SCO
Carson City DM09fg
R390 R390A R388