APC NetShelter SX 42U Server Rack Enclosure (AR3100): Ideal Solution for Data Centers and IT Environments

The APC NetShelter SX 42U Server Rack Enclosure (AR3100) is one of the most popular server racks in data centers, IT rooms, and network closets worldwide. With its robust design, modularity, and versatility, the AR3100 offers an optimized solution for housing servers, networking equipment, and power distribution units (PDUs). This blog explores the features, technical specifications, and benefits of the APC NetShelter SX 42U (AR3100), illustrating why it is trusted by businesses for reliable IT infrastructure management.

Key Features of the APC NetShelter SX 42U (AR3100)

  1. Robust Design and Construction
    The AR3100 is built with high-quality, sturdy steel construction that ensures long-term durability. Its strength supports heavy equipment loads while minimizing vibration, making it ideal for housing high-density server and network gear.
  2. Optimized for Cable Management
    Proper cable management is essential for airflow, accessibility, and system performance. The AR3100 features vertical and horizontal cable management systems with ample pass-through holes and cable tie-off points. This design reduces clutter and helps with cable routing, ensuring easier maintenance and organization.
  3. Superior Ventilation for Cooling
    Effective cooling is critical in high-performance IT environments, where overheating can cause downtime or hardware damage. The AR3100 has perforated front and rear doors that allow for ample airflow, facilitating proper cooling within the enclosure. Additionally, it is compatible with cooling solutions like in-row and rack-mounted cooling units.
  4. Adjustable Mounting Rails
    The AR3100 offers four vertical mounting rails with adjustable depth, which provides flexibility in mounting different server models, network devices, and PDUs. These adjustable rails accommodate a variety of equipment depths and sizes, maximizing versatility.
  5. Lockable and Secure Enclosure
    Security is a priority in any IT infrastructure. The AR3100 has lockable front and rear doors as well as removable side panels, which enhance physical security and prevent unauthorized access to equipment. It also integrates with APC’s security solutions, including rack access control, for additional monitoring.
  6. Toolless Accessories Integration
    To simplify setup and configuration, the AR3100 supports toolless installation for APC rack PDUs and cable management products. This feature allows IT teams to quickly install and modify power and network configurations, saving time and effort during deployment and maintenance.
  7. Compatibility with Power and Cooling Equipment
    The AR3100 is designed to work seamlessly with APC’s Smart-UPS, PDUs, and cooling solutions. This compatibility creates a comprehensive infrastructure management system, allowing for integrated power, cooling, and access management.

Technical Specifications

FeatureDetails
ModelAPC NetShelter SX 42U
Part NumberAR3100
Rack Height42U (42 Rack Units)
Weight CapacityStatic: 3000 lbs (1363 kg); Dynamic: 2250 lbs (1021 kg)
Dimensions1991 x 600 x 1070 mm (78.4 x 23.6 x 42.1 in)
Door TypePerforated front and rear doors
Cable AccessTop and bottom access, cable management
Locking MechanismFront and rear doors, side panels
Cooling CompatibilityCompatible with in-row, rack-mounted cooling units
Mounting RailsAdjustable, toolless installation
ColorBlack

Benefits of the APC NetShelter SX 42U (AR3100)

  1. Enhanced Equipment Protection
    With its secure, lockable design and sturdy build, the AR3100 offers an added layer of protection for sensitive IT equipment. Its compatibility with APC’s access control systems also helps in monitoring access to the enclosure, enhancing security.
  2. Optimized for High-Density Deployments
    The AR3100’s design and adjustable rails make it well-suited for high-density IT deployments. It supports heavy equipment and helps in maximizing space, which is particularly beneficial in data centers and IT rooms with limited floor space.
  3. Efficient Thermal Management
    The perforated doors and compatibility with cooling systems ensure that the enclosure supports effective airflow management. This feature helps maintain optimal temperatures, reducing the risk of overheating and prolonging equipment life.
  4. Easy Installation and Maintenance
    Toolless accessory integration, adjustable mounting rails, and ample cable management options make the AR3100 easy to install and maintain. These features save time and resources, enabling faster deployment of IT equipment and easier management.
  5. Flexible Integration with APC’s EcoStruxure™
    The AR3100 integrates with Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure™ platform for intelligent monitoring and management. This capability allows for advanced remote monitoring, power management, and performance optimization, making it ideal for complex IT setups.

Common Applications

The APC NetShelter SX 42U (AR3100) is an excellent solution for:

  • Data Centers: Its high-density configuration support, security features, and thermal management make it suitable for large data centers housing servers and network gear.
  • Corporate IT Rooms: With its compact design and effective cable management, it is well-suited for corporate IT rooms that need to maximize space.
  • Telecom and Networking Environments: The enclosure’s cable management and ventilation make it ideal for housing routers, switches, and other networking equipment.
  • Industrial Environments: The AR3100’s robust construction and secure access features make it suitable for industrial settings where physical protection and durability are essential.

Final Thoughts

The APC NetShelter SX 42U Server Rack Enclosure (AR3100) is a highly reliable, durable, and versatile solution for managing IT equipment in data centers, IT rooms, and network closets. With its robust design, excellent cable management, efficient cooling, and compatibility with APC’s ecosystem, the AR3100 offers an exceptional balance of performance, security, and ease of management. For businesses looking to enhance their IT infrastructure with a well-built and scalable rack enclosure, the APC NetShelter SX 42U (AR3100) is a top choice.

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A Comprehensive Guide to the APC NetShelter SX 42U Server Rack Enclosure (AR3100)

In the world of data centers, reliable and efficient rack enclosures are crucial for housing and protecting IT equipment. The APC NetShelter SX 42U Server Rack Enclosure (AR3100) is a popular choice among IT professionals due to its robust design, versatility, and the extensive features it offers. In this blog, we will explore the key aspects of the APC NetShelter AR3100, highlighting its design, features, and benefits.

1. Overview of the APC NetShelter SX 42U (AR3100)

The APC NetShelter SX 42U (AR3100) is a high-quality server rack enclosure designed to provide optimal conditions for IT equipment. With a 42U height, this enclosure is suitable for medium to large-scale installations, making it a go-to choice for data centers, server rooms, and network closets. Its dimensions are 75.5 inches (1921 mm) in height, 23.6 inches (600 mm) in width, and 42.1 inches (1070 mm) in depth, making it a standard 19-inch rack enclosure that can fit into a wide range of environments.

2. Robust Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of the APC NetShelter AR3100 is its sturdy design. Built with high-quality, cold-rolled steel, the enclosure provides a durable and stable framework for housing sensitive IT equipment. The robust construction ensures that the rack can withstand the rigors of a busy data center environment, including high foot traffic, vibrations, and other physical impacts. Additionally, the AR3100 can support static loads of up to 3,000 lbs (1364 kg) and dynamic loads of up to 2,250 lbs (1020 kg), offering reliable support for a wide array of equipment.

3. Efficient Cooling and Thermal Management

Effective cooling is essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of IT equipment. The APC NetShelter AR3100 addresses this need with its intelligent cooling and thermal management features:

  • Perforated Doors: The AR3100 features perforated front and rear doors, which allow for improved airflow, reducing the risk of overheating. The design is optimized to support both front-to-back and side-to-side airflow patterns, catering to various cooling configurations.
  • Cable Management: Integrated cable management features, such as vertical cable managers and cable access ports, help keep cables organized and out of airflow paths. This ensures that airflow remains unobstructed, further aiding in heat dissipation.
  • Optional Accessories: The AR3100 is compatible with a range of cooling accessories, including fans, air containment systems, and blanking panels, allowing users to customize their cooling solutions to meet specific needs.

4. Security and Accessibility

In addition to robust construction and efficient cooling, the APC NetShelter AR3100 also prioritizes security and accessibility:

  • Lockable Doors and Side Panels: The enclosure features lockable front and rear doors, as well as side panels, providing a secure environment for sensitive equipment. This is essential for preventing unauthorized access and protecting valuable data.
  • Quick-Release Doors and Panels: Despite its security features, the AR3100 does not compromise on accessibility. The quick-release doors and side panels allow for easy access to equipment for maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting.
  • Reversible Doors: Both front and rear doors are reversible, offering flexibility in installation and providing convenience in various rack configurations.

5. Cable Management and Organization

Efficient cable management is vital for maintaining an organized and efficient data center. The APC NetShelter AR3100 excels in this area with several built-in cable management features:

  • Vertical Cable Organizers: These are integrated into the enclosure’s design, allowing cables to be routed neatly along the sides of the rack. This minimizes clutter and makes it easier to manage and identify cables.
  • Cable Access Ports: Located at the top and bottom of the enclosure, these ports facilitate easy cable entry and exit, enabling neat and efficient cable routing.
  • Toolless Mounting: The AR3100 supports toolless mounting of accessories, such as cable management rings and organizers, further simplifying the installation and maintenance process.

6. Versatility and Customization Options

The APC NetShelter AR3100 is designed to be highly versatile, accommodating a wide range of equipment and configurations:

  • Adjustable Mounting Rails: The enclosure features adjustable front and rear mounting rails with square holes, allowing for easy installation of various IT equipment, including servers, switches, and patch panels.
  • Compatibility with Accessories: The AR3100 is compatible with a broad range of APC accessories, such as power distribution units (PDUs), environmental monitoring sensors, and more, enabling users to customize their setup according to specific requirements.
  • Side Panel Options: The enclosure is available with or without side panels, giving users the flexibility to choose the configuration that best suits their needs.

7. Ease of Installation

The APC NetShelter AR3100 is designed for easy installation, which is a significant advantage in busy data center environments:

  • Pre-installed Casters and Leveling Feet: The enclosure comes with pre-installed casters and leveling feet, making it easy to move into place and stabilize once positioned.
  • Wide Door Opening Angle: The doors of the AR3100 can open up to 180 degrees, providing ample space for equipment installation and maintenance.
  • Toolless Mounting: Many of the enclosure’s features, including cable management accessories and mounting rails, support toolless installation, saving time and effort during setup.

8. Compliance and Certifications

The APC NetShelter AR3100 meets various industry standards and certifications, ensuring that it adheres to best practices in safety, reliability, and performance. It complies with EIA-310-E, IEC 60297, and UL 60950-1 standards, making it a reliable choice for critical IT environments.

Conclusion

The APC NetShelter SX 42U Server Rack Enclosure (AR3100) is a versatile and robust solution for housing IT equipment in data centers and server rooms. Its sturdy construction, efficient cooling, security features, and ease of installation make it an ideal choice for organizations looking to optimize their data center infrastructure. Whether you are setting up a new data center or upgrading an existing one, the APC NetShelter AR3100 offers the reliability and performance needed to support your IT operations.

Additional Resources

  • For more information on the APC NetShelter AR3100, visit the APC product page.
  • Explore the full range of accessories compatible with the NetShelter series to enhance your rack setup.

Note: Before making any purchase decisions, it’s essential to consult with us @ TIACO TECHNOLOGIES to ensure the chosen equipment meets your specific needs and requirements.