After you have decided which server rack to use for your home or business, it is important to decide which rack mount power strip is right for your needs. This decision should not be made lightly, as the power strip will be essential to cable management, running your data center, and protecting your equipment. There are two basic options to consider: horizontal or vertical mounted strips. You will also need to decide whether or not to choose a power strip that offers surge protection.
Surge Protection: Do you need it?
The first thing you will have to decide is whether or not you want a surge protected power strip. While non-surge protected power strips exist, they are a risky option, especially for expensive, high-risk equipment. Surge protected strips keep overloaded circuit speed regulated throughout the day, maintaining productivity. In the event of a thunderstorm or electrical storm, the surge protected power strip prevents damage made possible by electrical surges. While you can cut startup costs by going with a non-surge protected outlet, you may end up paying for it later.
Horizontal Mounted Power Strips
Horizontal power strips have numerous benefits. They tend to run smaller than vertical power strips, and are easily mounted onto surfaces. These horizontal power strips are oftentimes equipped with surge protection to protect against circuit overload and electrical surges. They tend to provide 6 to 8 outlets per strip, which is perfect for servers that are smaller or spread out in over a larger space.
Vertical Mounted Power Strips
Vertical mounted power strips provide more flexibility. These strips are available in various sizes, offering eight, sixteen, or twenty-four outlets per power strip. They offer more options for mounting as well as different options for cord direction and placement. These strips are oftentimes equipped with surge protection, which is very much encouraged, especially when the number of outlets per strip increases, and they are a great for small rooms that need to utilize what little space they have.
Different power strips provide different benefits. By choosing the strip that best suits your needs, you can maintain efficiency, cut needless costs, and utilize space.