Things have moved on quite a bit since the post yesterday, in so far that all the server quick deploy rail systems are now in place together with their appropriate cable management arms. I have even managed to install the server switch (a HP ProCurve Switch 2824) and a brush panel through which the network cables can protrude.

The Airflow Optimization kit was installed yesterday but the more I worked with it the more I became convinced that it must be a for a different rack – of the four foam rail gasket rolls only two appear to fit anywhere (the other two must be used when two racks are next to each other). The perforated floor gasket is much too long for the 800W rack even though the installation instructions seem to indicate it should fit just fine. However, air flow is a big priority in our small space so ensuring cool air enters the bottom of the cabinet and doesn’t escape too much out the sides is going to be essential to make the best use of the air cooling system. One thought I had was that I need to add more blanking plates at the back of the cabinet to prevent cool air escaping.

I definitely need another PDU but after enquiring with APC they have kindly told me that the AP7922 isn’t suitable for the UPS we have so now I am looking at either the 1U 8 port AP7921 or the Zero U 21 + 3 Port AP7952 instead so this will now slip into next week whilst I wait for pricing from our dealer.

This weekend I am expecting to move the Rack UPS, the PDU, the four DL380 Servers and the MSA30 drive array into place – this should free up a bit of room.