Introduction
In the modern IT landscape, organizing and protecting critical infrastructure is paramount for businesses, data centers, and even advanced home setups. The APC NetShelter SX AR3100, a 42U server rack enclosure by Schneider Electric, is a versatile and robust solution designed to meet the demands of high-density server, storage, and networking applications. With its focus on cooling, power distribution, cable management, and environmental monitoring, the AR3100 is an industry-standard choice for mission-critical equipment. This blog explores the specifications, features, benefits, and considerations of the APC NetShelter SX AR3100 to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your IT environment.
Key Specifications
The APC NetShelter SX AR3100 is a feature-rich, freestanding rack enclosure optimized for medium to high-density IT deployments. Here are its core specifications:
- Rack Capacity: 42U
- Dimensions: 1991 mm (H) x 600 mm (W) x 1070 mm (D) (approximately 78.4 x 23.6 x 42.1 inches)
- Weight: 125.1 kg (275.78 lbs) empty
- Weight Capacity: 3750 lbs (1701 kg) static/stationary; 2249.99 lbs (1020 kg) dynamic/rolling
- Rack Width: 19 inches (EIA-310 compliant)
- Mounting Depth: Adjustable up to 915 mm (36 inches)
- Color: Black
- Construction: Heavy-gauge steel frame, perforated front door, lockable side panels
- Certifications: UL 60950-1, EIA-310-E, RoHS, REACH, Green Premium
- Warranty: 5 years (repair or replace)
- Included Components: Baying hardware, keys, keyed-alike doors and side panels, leveling feet, mounting hardware, pre-installed casters, roof, side panels, ground studs, installation guide
These specifications make the AR3100 suitable for a wide range of IT applications, from small server rooms to large data centers.
Premium Features
The APC NetShelter SX AR3100 is designed with functionality and scalability in mind, offering advanced features that enhance usability and performance:
1. Optimized Cooling
The perforated front door provides over 830 square inches (5355 cm²) of ventilation, ensuring optimal airflow to keep critical equipment cool, even in high-density environments. The enclosure integrates seamlessly with APC’s cooling solutions, such as InRow cooling systems, for enhanced thermal management.
2. Advanced Cable Management
The AR3100 features comprehensive cable management solutions:
- Roof Cable Access: Eight large cable-entry slots with pre-installed brush strips for data cable passthrough.
- Bottom Cable Access: Unobstructed access for raised floor installations.
- Zero U Mounting Holes: Dedicated spaces for Data Distribution Cable (DDC) patch systems.
- Overhead and Vertical Cable Management: Supports overhead cable troughs and rear/vertical cable organizers for tidy wiring.
3. Robust Construction
The heavy-gauge steel frame, reinforced corners, and heavy-duty mounting rails ensure structural integrity, supporting up to 3750 lbs statically. The enclosure’s design allows it to roll through standard 2-meter doorways, with low-profile casters and adjustable leveling feet for mobility and stability.
4. Flexible Mounting Options
- Adjustable Mounting Rails: Feature a turn-bolt design with automatic alignment and adjustability in ¼-inch increments for precise equipment positioning.
- Numbered U Positions: Simplify installation with exact U-spacing and alignment markers.
- Vendor-Neutral Compatibility: Supports all EIA-310-compliant 19-inch equipment, ensuring multi-vendor compatibility.
5. Security and Accessibility
- Quick-Release Doors and Side Panels: Lockable, half-height side panels and removable doors provide secure yet easy access for maintenance. Panels are designed to stay in place without increasing cabinet width when bayed together.
- Keyed-Alike Locks: Simplify access with a single key for doors and panels.
- Grounding Provisions: Roof, doors, side panels, and frame are grounded, with eight additional grounding inserts for external connections.
6. Toolless Installation Features
The enclosure includes toolless mounting capabilities for quick setup, with pre-installed brush strips and a removable roof via pull-pin hinges for easy access during cabling.
7. Integration with APC Ecosystem
The AR3100 is compatible with APC’s InfraStruXure products, including rack power distribution units (PDUs), cooling systems, and environmental monitoring tools, creating a complete IT infrastructure solution.
Benefits
The APC NetShelter SX AR3100 offers significant advantages for IT professionals and businesses:
- Reliable Infrastructure: Provides a secure, organized, and cooled environment for mission-critical equipment, ensuring uptime and longevity.
- Scalability: Supports high-density applications and integrates with additional APC accessories for future expansion.
- Ease of Installation: Toolless features, adjustable rails, and included hardware streamline setup, reducing deployment time.
- Enhanced Cooling: Large ventilation area and compatibility with cooling systems prevent overheating in dense setups.
- Comprehensive Cable Management: Keeps wiring organized, improving airflow and aesthetics while simplifying maintenance.
- Durability: Heavy-duty construction and high weight capacity ensure long-term reliability for heavy equipment.
- Peace of Mind: Backed by a 5-year warranty and Schneider Electric’s reputation for quality.
User Considerations
While the AR3100 is a top-tier server rack, there are some factors to consider:
- Weight and Handling: At 275.78 lbs empty, the enclosure is heavy and requires careful handling or multiple people for installation. Users recommend using the included casters for mobility.
- Cost: Starting at approximately €1,106.99 (depending on region and retailer), the AR3100 is a premium investment compared to basic racks, with additional costs for optional accessories like PDUs or rail kits.
- Space Requirements: The 1070 mm depth and 1991 mm height require sufficient floor space, which may be a constraint in smaller server rooms.
- Shipping Concerns: Some users report receiving units with damaged packaging or missing accessories (e.g., keys or hardware), though APC’s customer service is noted for quick resolutions.
- Noise from Equipment: While the enclosure itself is silent, densely packed equipment may generate fan noise, which could be noticeable in quiet environments.
Ideal Use Cases
The APC NetShelter SX AR3100 is ideal for:
- Data Centers: Houses servers, storage systems, and networking gear with robust cooling and cable management.
- Enterprise IT Environments: Supports high-density computing and AI applications with reliable power distribution and monitoring.
- Small to Medium Businesses: Provides a scalable solution for growing IT needs in server rooms or offices.
- Broadcast and Audio-Video Applications: Organizes equipment for media production with efficient cable routing.
- Home Labs: Suitable for advanced home users running servers or networking setups requiring professional-grade infrastructure.
Customer Feedback
Users praise the AR3100 for its sturdy construction, excellent cable management, and ease of setup. One reviewer highlighted the “awesome delivery time” and quality, while others noted the enclosure’s ability to handle heavy equipment without compromising mobility. The perforated door and adjustable rails are frequently cited as strengths for cooling and flexibility. However, some users mention minor issues like missing hardware in shipments or the need for additional accessories to fully optimize the rack. APC’s support is generally well-regarded for addressing such concerns.
Conclusion
The APC NetShelter SX AR3100 is a premium 42U server rack enclosure that combines robust construction, advanced cooling, and comprehensive cable management to create a reliable environment for mission-critical IT equipment. Its compatibility with APC’s ecosystem, vendor-neutral design, and scalability make it a top choice for data centers, businesses, and power users. While its cost, weight, and space requirements may be considerations, the AR3100’s durability, functionality, and 5-year warranty offer exceptional value for those needing a professional-grade solution. Whether you’re building a new data center or upgrading your server room, the APC NetShelter SX AR3100 delivers the performance and reliability required for today’s IT demands.
For more details or to purchase, CONTACT US @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES.