FAQ – Racks and Accessories
- What is a rack unit? A rack unit (represented as RU or U) is a standard measurement used in the trade. 1 RU = 1.75 inches
- How much space is there between the inside of the rack’s front door and the rail? Many Lowell racks provide about 2.5 inches of space between the inside front door and rails; however, some designs provide much less space in this area. Check individual product specification sheets and/or CAD drawings for actual measurements.
- How much will a mobile base add to overall rack height? The height added depends on the model chosen. Lowell’s standard mobile base (LMB Series) raises a rack 1.25 inches above the floor, while the shallow mobile base (LMSB Series) raises a rack 4.06 inches above the floor.
- How much width will side panels add to a rack? When side panels are added as an optional accessory, they increase overall rack width by 1.25 inches. Each panel measures 0.625 inches (5/8 inch) wide.
- Can a mobile base be used with a seismic-certified rack? Requirements for seismic-certified racks do not permit a mobile base or casters.
- Do the front and back doors of a rack use the same key? Front and back doors for most Lowell racks are made with different locks to provide greater security. Check individual spec sheets for more information.
- Are side locks and door locks on wall-mount racks keyed the same? Most Lowell wall-mount racks feature different key locks for the sides and front door to provide greater security. Check individual spec sheets for more information.
- How many screws are included with racks? Generally, Lowell provides 50 screws with tall racks (35+ RU) and 25 screws with shorter racks. Check specification sheets for information.
- Are rack side panels be removable? Some racks, like LER Series enclosed racks, feature side panels that are welded in place and cannot be removed. Check product specs for information.
- Does Lowell offer thermal solutions for racks? Yes. If doors are required on a rack, passive heat dissipation can be improved with fully-perforated front and rear doors. For active cooling, install fan panels in the top, rear, and/or sides of a rack and use vent blockers to direct air flow. Check with your project engineer for the specific cooling requirements required for the electronic equipment to be installed in your rack.
- Can you change the height of a Vari-Rack (LVR Series)? Yes. The rack’s corner post mounting rails are marked in E.I.A. increments and feature triangular marks to help guide field-cuts if the height needs to be trimmed.
- Can slim frame racks (LXR Series) be ganged together? Yes. Insert a bolt through matching holes in the sides of the mounting rails. If the racks will have the optional front door added, add the cable chase between them if you want to gang them together.