ᐅ Selection of Network / Server Cabinet in Basement

Created on: 9 Nov 2023 00:17
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HausKaufBayern
HausKaufBayern9 Nov 2023 00:17
Hello everyone,
I am looking for a suitable server cabinet for our basement to
1) house a Vodafone cable modem (Vodafone Station modem with about 20cm (8 inches) depth), which will then be connected to our switch on the ground floor and from there to the Wi-Fi access point.
2) Additionally, I would like to install a SIMATIC S7-1200 with I/Os and a SIMATIC HMI panel for visualization to support automation (electricity meter reading, future irrigation control, possibly groundwater pump control). Mostly for experimentation, but that’s another story.
S7-1200
HMI panel 12 inches
The depth of both devices does not exceed 15cm (6 inches).

3) Probably a switch to have enough ports available in the basement in the future.
What would be suitable here?

4) Possibly another PC/server in the future.

What do you think would be a suitable cabinet? I would prefer one with a viewing window and ideally not too deep. Most start at 60cm (24 inches) depth, which is quite bulky, and I need to check in the basement if that would get in the way. Something around 40cm to 45cm (16 to 18 inches) like this: 45cm (18 inch) deep server cabinet

I like the design, but it would need to be taller, like this one: 9U server cabinet

Do I need a special mounting method for the PLC and the panel? Normally they are mounted on a DIN rail, but I’m not sure if DIN rails are compatible with server mounting methods?

Thanks for your help.
T
Tassimat
19 Nov 2023 00:23
I have a Digitus network cabinet with 9U and 450mm (18 inches) depth.
They are very affordable and widely available.
I am very happy with it.

The HMI panel is usually not designed for a server cabinet. I don’t think there is a ready-made 19-inch solution available for purchase. Maybe it’s enough to have a suitable sheet metal piece made with the appropriate cutout and a few drilled holes. You can easily order everything online and have it delivered to your home.
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xMisterDx
19 Nov 2023 10:24
Isn't a logo enough for you?
The 1200 series is quite expensive for the small amount of logic you’ll probably put in there. You can get almost three logos for the price of one 1212c.
An HMI is always installed in a metal enclosure by cutting a panel opening and clamped from behind with brackets and screws.
But even here… it’s expensive. The TP1200 costs four figures.

The 20cm (8 inches) depth doesn't bother you in the end? Only those who know that you’ll still be screwing into the side walls notice it.

Take a look at Rittal, they are the industry leader.
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guckuck2
19 Nov 2023 10:53
Go for a depth of 600mm (24 inches) if you plan to install a server. Otherwise, you will only be able to fit 19" cases with ITX motherboards later, because a 450mm (18 inches) cabinet is simply not deep enough for a 19" case. A shelf with a NAS on it will certainly be fine at 450mm (18 inches).

Personally, I find Rittal quite overpriced; you can save your money there. Take a look at Digitus.
i_b_n_a_n19 Nov 2023 17:17
Rittal makes great cabinets, but there are also suppliers who offer more than just one manufacturer. We occasionally purchase from it-budget. Modern, "real" servers actually require cabinets that are at least 100cm deep (39 inches) 😎. Keep in mind that from time to time you might need to work on the components inside the cabinet. Not everyone has tiny fingers, so having some clearance around everything makes things much more comfortable.
HausKaufBayern19 Nov 2023 18:50
Thank you,
I think the digitus and IT budget fit well.
I have now seen that there are even custom sizes with 300mm (12 inches). That way, you won’t get stuck on it in the basement (I would otherwise have it hanging in a recess in the hallway).

The S7 and Comfort Panel would be more like toys or possibly a loan from my employer so I can engage with the products again.