Installation
The servers are all pre-configured with Debian Linux and are ready to install into the rack cabinet. We do this in blocks of 5 servers, each block occupying one quarter of a rack. Whilst this does not utilise all the space, it does use all the power allocation for that space due to the high specification of our machines.
We first install rails into the rack cabinet, and then we slide the servers in, much like drawers. This enables us to rapidly move machines when necessary to ensure the minimum of disruption (usually done overnight).
The cabinet
The cabinets are arranged in rows, with each alternate row having underfloor air conditioning. This is the cold air that is drawn in through the front of the servers. The back of the cabinet is also accessible in a warm row, so called because the hot air from the machines is ejected here. This process reduces costs of air conditioning and allows us to keep our costs low also.
The cabinets are locked so that only Higher Sites and nominated data centre personnel have access to the machines. The servers themselves also have physical security locks to prevent accidental shutdown.
