Tips to Data Center Air Flow Management

1. Use cold/hot aisle configuration, whenever possible, for maximising the cooling from the systems. When not using the configuration, blow the exhaust air right from a row of servers to the intake vents of next server row.

2. The cold aisles must be of 2 tiles wide always. Only place the perforated tiles in the aisles.

3. Install the brush seal cable grommet for keeping static pressure maximised under raised floor & get optimal delivery of the cold air into the cold aisles.

4. While installing as well as removing the communication cables or power whips, don’t remove more than the six raised tiles at the same time. Basically, removing them can cause a substantial drop on the static pressure under raised floor & cause the equipment to get overheat.

5. If you’ve CRAH or CRAC units, which are shut down or not actually used for maintenance, make sure to place Plexiglas cover over the unit’s top, for preventing the loss of any static pressure from back-flow under pressurized raised floor.

6. Blank off the positions of the unused server rack. Unblocked open racks may cause the bypass air from hot aisles to mix with the cold aisles tempering intake air to the servers.

7. Avoid creating the air dam build-up of the cables under raised floor that is going to interfere with the airflow. Run the communication and power cables in hot aisles. Don’t ever leave the fibre optic wire spools under raised floor; buy them to proper length. Build ups of cable generally block the movement of the air and create fire hazard.

8. Have a good maintenance program for ensuring that the CRAH/CRAC filters are changed on a daily basis. The dirty air filters may reduce output capacity of A/C units & contaminate under floor air plenum.

9. Check CFM output on every CRAH/CRAC unit to ensure they’re at the factory specifications. When its below the specs, you should know that you’re not getting maximum cooling experience which the unit is supposed to deliver. It’s even essential to know you’re not exceeding factory specs because this may cause draw off of amp to fan motors.

10. Don’t ever place the perforated tiles close to one another (closer than six feet) from the AC units. Air velocity that comes from unit may be so high that it can cause the air to be very much sucked into perforated tile. This is ineffective not only for cooling the servers but may even temper cold air under pressurised raised floor.

Mess On Your Office Desktop Is About To Get Sorted

Have you got tired of assembling cables on your desktop? Does it drain out your precious time? What ways have you tired to keep them in place? All these questions are going to meet the end with grommet solutions.

Cables seem to have a mind of their own and tend to make your desktop look untidy despite of how many hours you spend to reorganise them. The awful truth is, cables get hardened with time and lose their flexibility, taking a shape of their own. This phenomenon of cables makes them tough to arrange them. But your trouble is not exclusively yours because everybody faces the same problem.

Extensive range of cable grommet solutions brought to you by renowned companies around the globe has made things easier. Whether you have dozens of servers stacked in your room or a network of computers arranged in your office, there is a solution for every cable mess you could have.

There is a wide range of products available for you according to your needs. Some of the products available are:     *

Cable Grommets – A cable grommet is a tube or ring through which an electrical cable passes. Usually made up of rubber or plastic, they are inserted in holes in desks or floors in order to protect, reduce friction or seal cables passing through it.

Air-Block Gasket Grommets – A two-part grommet that is simple to open and close and forms a tight air seal around housed cables.

Watertight Socket Outlet – These watertight outlets let sockets sit inside them in hard floor areas. When power is needed from ground level, these watertight solutions work wonders.

Brush Grommets – These grommets are fitted with a circular brush insert and a two-part cover. The circular brush replaces the original grommet lid and creates a large brush seal which concentrates bristles towards the centre of the grommet. The bristles’ concentration forms an excellent air seal around cables.

Metal Grommets – Just like the normal cable grommets, these grommets come with a metal lid instead of the conventional plastic one. Sometimes the body is made up of aluminium with a lid locking screw and gasket seal.

As such, cable grommets are really useful when it comes to organising the mess of wires. If you are facing problems with your tangled cables, then you should definitely sort them with using the extensive range of grommets available.

Tips To Clear Cable Clutter Underneath Workstation Before Christmas

Has your office desk got a jungle of wires and cables underneath it? If your answer is yes, then you must take immediate steps to clear the clutter before the workplace shuts down for the holidays. If you don’t clear the clutter, dust would continue to accumulate throughout the holidays and the janitor as well as you will have more dirt to deal with when you return. Therefore, take action while there is still time and use these tips to eliminate cable clutter on and underneath your workstation:

Hold Cables In Position Using Binder Clips

If your desk has less dense edges, you can attach binder clips on them and the pass cables from different devices through it to keep them from falling. This trick is bound to work wonders for wires that generally tend to fall off every now and then.

Jam Wires With Custom Organiser

Do you have any old credit or club card? Then you can easily transform it into a cable holder. All you need is a puncher and a pair of scissors. First, punch a few holes into the card and cut in them from the edges. Once you are done, insert the wires in the holes, place the card on your table and keep a paperweight on it.

Install A Cable Grommet

Have a cable grommet installed on top of your desk. That way, you would be able to channel all wires through without getting them frayed or tangled severely. You can even opt for a desk power grommet if you wish to have a power source right on your desktop. Then you won’t have to fumble under the desk for the power outlet anymore.

Label & Organise Wires With Bread Clips

If there are way too many cables at a specific spot around your workstation, use bread clips for labelling them. Use one clip for tagging each cable and then write the name of the device on the clip.

Organising cables quickly and eliminating their clutter or ‘jungle’ is not too difficult. Using stuff that are available right at hand, you can easily establish a workspace with zero wire clutter. The result may not always be immaculate or perfect zen, but it would get the job done for you nonetheless. Just make sure that the strategies you implement leave you with a professional-looking space. And don’t forget to tie down excess cables.

Simon IP66 Rated Floor Box – Product Review

Created by one of the most popular manufacturers of electrical components in Europe, Simon IP66 rated floor boxes are utilised in various applications and projects throughout UK, wherever IP rated outlets for floors are required. The product commonly finds its usage in places like designer stores, concourses, airports, car showrooms and supermarkets.

With its lid closed, the watertight floor box exceeds a loading of approximately 300 kilogrammes. For using the product, its lid has to be raised slightly so that the integral pillars support it and prevent cable crush as well as accidental damage from foot traffic. And when in this position, the outlet meets a rating of IP20.

A typical Simon floor outlet is designed for sitting flush in tiled surfaces along with the hard floor finish. Its top surface is generally found in stainsteel or brass finish, which has either a secure Allen/Hex Key or standard lever opening option. The outlet is capable of accepting 13 amp or 5 amp socket, and has a power/data outlet option too. When multiple power points are needed, more than a couple of units can be connected together via a certain joiner bracket.

KSEO Security Lid

This product is IP66 rated and made of stainless steel entirely. It comes with a Hex Head/Allen key opening lock and features a 13 amp socket. It also has either a screed type ref KGE170/23 or flanged type ref KGETF/170/23 back box. A safety lock option allows to open the lid only with a proper Allen Key. When in use, the lid rests on a pair of 2no. pillars which click into a locking mechanism in conformation with IP20 rating. While in closed position, the product complies with the waterproof rating of IP66.

KSEO Standard

Featuring either a 13 amp or 5 amp socket, this stainless steel floor box has a back box that is either a screed type ref KGE170/23 or flanged type ref KGETF/170/23. The trigger styled cap release ensures easy opening of the lid. When in use, the lid sits on a couple of 2no. pillars and conforms to the IP20 rating. And just like KSEO Security Lid, it meets IP66 rating when closed.

If you are planning to buy Simon watertight floor boxes, then you can order them online at Gromtec Europe Ltd., which is a leading supplier of cable grommets in UK.

Why Should Data Centres Have Cable Grommets?

Nowadays, it is a general rule to install suitable grommets while developing a data centre so that bypass air flow via underfloor plenum can be reduced – a highly effective airflow management technique. This is because impeding bypass airflow not only improves the efficiency of a data centre, but also gives a substantial boost to its cooling capacity. But, a large number of data centre managers forget using cable grommet when building their facility. They later realise their mistake when the operating costs start to inflate.

Making incorporation of cable grommets a mandatory measure when constructing data centres can help in achieving the desired performance and also improve it gradually after initiation. When the plan of a modern-day data centre is being drafted, integrating the right kind of grommets into it can result in a myriad of benefits, the primary ones of which have been mentioned below in detail:

Allows Secure Installation & Hassle Free Relocation :-

Grommets meant for use in data centres are generally designed with lids which keep equipment pieces from rolling over. On top of that, sealing the cutouts before a facility is started can be a very cost-effective move. Moreover, location work involving reserved panels & panels and racks of different sizes may be utilised for future moves, modifications or adds quite easily.

Excellent Cooling Capacity From The Beginning :-

Specifying the performance and type of grommets in construction plans for a data centre or an expansion of one will ensure that the cooling capacity of the facility remains unaffected, even if, by accident, inferior techniques are used in future.

Improves Overall Facility Efficiency :-

Incorporating grommets right at the start can very well hike up static pressure underneath the floor. This would allow for effective airflow management and in turn, enhance overall efficiency of the facility.

Prevents Wastage Of Time :-

If grommets are installed during the construction of a data centre, it would eliminate the the need and hassle of using air filters in future, thereby saving a quality amount of precious time that can be spent on improving facility design.

Therefore, as can be comprehended from the above mentioned points, using standard data centre and cable grommets when building up a facility can help in optimising air flow throughout its lifetime. Besides that, it can also save a staggering amount of future expenses and aid in achieving the desired temperature in the place.

Tips For Organising Your Computer Table

Does your computer table look all cluttered and messy? A disorganised & unclean computer desk can look very unappealing and also divert your concentration when you are trying to do some important work like homework or office project. Fortunately, there are plenty of tips that you can follow to clean up the mess and make sure that everything on & around your desk looks organised. They have been described below in detail:

Place Small Storage Boxes Beneath The Table

Keeping 4 to 5 small storage boxes right under the desk would allow you to store your essentials in them. You can even number the boxes and then use each one for a particular purpose. The first one can house items that you use frequently. In the second box, you can store the essentials that you do not need often, and so on.

Keep A Dustbin Close By

This is a very important thing to do for preventing waste papers from accumulating on top of the table. Buy a small waste bin from any home improvement store and place it close to the desk. Dump all kinds of waste items like paper scraps, used pens, broken paper clips, etc. into it.

Manage The Cables Using Grommets

If you do not want the wires and cables from the devices on your computer desk to get tangled with each other, then install grommets for imparting an organised and uncluttered look to the space. You can use computer floor grommet cable seal, desk power grommets and so on. Feed the wires and cords from the mouse, keyboard, monitor, etc. through those grommets and achieve a neat appearance.

Label The Drawers

If the desk that you use has extra storage space like drawers or cabinet, then use every one of them for a different purpose. To make sure that you do not get confused later as to which one is used for what, stick a label on each. Doing so would also help you to find a certain item easily when it is required.

Reserve Some Space For Incoming Papers

Establish a dedicated space to accommodate new papers that you will be receiving later on. You can use a three-tier organiser or a freestanding document holder. Make sure you go through the stored papers from time to time and get rid of the ones that are no longer required.

Thus, use the above mentioned tips to keep your computer desk clean and tidy.

How do you choose the right desk power grommet?

Desk grommets are fixtures that can be used to route cords and cables through desks, tabletops and other furniture in an organised manner. Besides ensuring protection from abrasion, grommets can also help to prevent cables from getting tangled with each other and direct them where they need to go through the openings. Make certain considerations in order to choose the right desk power grommet for any application. There are several shapes, design and style options that must be looked into. Let’s take a look at some important things that should be taken into account to find a suitable power grommet for a desk.

The ideal size and shape required :-
Grommets come in different sizes and shapes, including rectangular, oval and round. The size of the grommet will greatly depend upon the number of cables you need to fit through it.

Material used for the grommet :-
Another thing to consider while choosing a grommet is the type of material used to make the accessory. Desk grommets can be made of plastic, wood or steel. Plastic grommets are used more commonly than others for a typical desk. But you can also choose metal as it can be more durable. Wooden grommets can also perfectly match the decor of wooden desks.

Connectivity adjustments :-
It is always a hassle crawling below the desk to plug into an electrical outlet or USB ports. There are times you may find your cellphone chargers snaking its way across your workplace. To avoid these hassles, you can ask for a customisable desk grommet that can be configured to contain both a power source and a USB connectivity. These grommets also guarantee an organized look and provide relief from running multiple cables all over the workstation.

The style of opening :-
You can choose your desired grommet opening style depending on your budget and needs. Brush grommet with flexible opening and a sliding top is most commonly preferred nowadays. But keep in mind that the number of cables you need to fit in the grommet should define the type of opening style you need. The right style of grommet will give you easy control on the cables when you route them into it.

It is vital to know the type of grommet you need for your workspace. Whether your aim is wire routing, convenient connectivity or cord protection, you should always be able to find a grommet that suits your purpose perfectly.

How Will You Know Whether Your Car Needs A Tune-up

Whether you have a vintage car or a brand new one, if you drive it long enough, it is going to need a tune-up. But how would you know when is the time for a tune-up?

From Visually.

How To Have An Ergonomic Office Space At Home

Are you planning to set up your personal workspace at home? The task may appear quite simple in the beginning – after all, how much does it require to buy desk, a rotating chair and a desktop or laptop computer! However, there are several things that you will have to take into account instead of just the requirements. You need to make sure that the space you create is ergonomic and relaxing.

Have a look at the following tips to ensure a healthy home office space:

• First of all, you will require to determine your natural posture by pulling the chair away from your table or desk and sitting down comfortably. Switch from one straight posture to another for determining which one is the most convenient for you. Once you have found your natural posture, your vertebrae will be stacked and your back would move slightly while you breathe. With this position in mind, you may start constructing an ergonomic home office workspace.
• When placing the mouse and keyboard, make sure you position them in a way that allows you to rest your elbows on the side. If you have keyboard pull-out tray, it must be 1 or 2 inches above your knees or thighs. Avoid using the kickstands that are generally provided under keyboards. To prevent disorganisation, get a computer floor grommet cable seal and keep the wires from getting tangled with one another.
• Your computer’s monitor will also have to be placed strategically. Sit back on the chair, extending your arm forward while the tip of your fingers landing on the screen. That’s how far your monitor should be while you are working. In case you are going to work with two monitors at the same time, make sure you leave no gap in between while placing them.
• Adjust your chair ergonomically too. When you are sitting down, it is important for some space to exist between the back of your knees and your chair’s edge. This space has to be as big as your fist. Your feet must be resting on the ground, otherwise you will need to lower your chair. Alternatively, you can use a footrest.
• After everything is set, you will need to do just one more thing. Do not forget to take a short break after every 3 hours of work. Do not just stay seated, but stand up and walk around.

In addition to all of these, stretch your body every once in a while to combat health issues which can arise due to prolonged sitting.

Different Types of Electrical Fixtures

Electrical fixtures are often required when updating an old building to accommodate requirements of new electrical codes or contemporary electronics. They come in a variety of types, some of which are used in regular wiring whereas others find their usage in special applications. Let’s have a look at some of them in detail:

Home Wiring :

Standard wiring meant for use in households generally carry 120V power on a combination of 20 ampere and 15 ampere circuits. Most small appliances such as lamps receive power at 15 ampere. Large appliances, on the other hand, work when they get power from 20-ampere circuits.

Outlets :

An outlet is an important part of a wall receptacle that helps in making power available for business or household devices. They are available in many different types:

• Standard 15 ampere that features a U-shaped receptacle and two slots.
• 20-ampere outlet, which is almost the same as a standard one, but has a horizontal slot too.
• Some old homes have outlets without any receptacle for the ground prong. These outlets are usually changed when such a house is sold off.

Floor Box :

A floor box is essentially one of the most commonly used kinds of electrical boxes. It is an electrical outlet that can be installed in the floor. It features multiple outlets and allows for easy distribution of power within a spacious area. Brass and stainless steel floor box products are generally preferred by businesses for their durability. The ones having an IP66 rating are designed to be waterproof. They usually come with a lid that is supported by two pillars when in use, so as to prevent accidental damage from foot traffic and cable crush.

Tap Adapter :

Tap adapters allow multiple appliances to be connected in a single outlet. In other words, it optimises the tap to allow additional plugs. The ones most commonly used at homes allow either 3 plugs in one outlet or 6 plugs in two. There is also another type that permits a 3-prong grounded item to be plugged into a 2-prong outlet. However, it has now become nearly obsolete due to being safe and usually found in older households.

GFCI Receptacle

GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) receptacles are designed for shutting down power if water comes into contact with the power source. They are required mandatorily to be installed in wet areas of bathrooms and kitchens as well as in basements and outdoors.

Before buying any electrical fixture, it is important to check the existing electrical codes properly.

Tips To Organise A Computer Desk

Nowadays most people have jobs that require the support of a computer system. However, it is quite common for most employees to have their computer desk spaces cluttered with piles of papers, files, folders and other important documents. Sometimes the mismash makes it difficult to search for necessary documents or items when required. But this problem can be solved easily by maintaining an organised computer desk space.

Given below are some tips for organising a computer desk properly, have a look :

Taking everything out of the desk :
The first step is to clean the desk by taking off all the things from it. The papers must be separated and grouped accordingly. One can use folders in different colours for doing so, and then tag those folders with labels describing their contents. Alternatively, clear folders may also be used and marked with names of the files placed in them.

Organising the cords and wires :
A desktop system is bound to have plenty of cords and cables. Most of the times it becomes difficult to handle and manage the wires, which result in a messy jungle of cords near the table. The best way to prevent the cords of a computer system from getting entangled with one another is by using a cable grommet. There are various types of cable grommets available in the market such as those made out of rubber, steel, plastic and so on.

Placing the books in a systematic order :
If there are too many books on top of the desk, they must be kept somewhere else. Purchasing a bookshelf can be the best way to arrange the books in a systematic manner. It would become easier to find a book when it is required, which can save a lot of time.

Keeping a trash can beside the desk :
Instead of placing unnecessary things such as unwanted papers, chocolate wraps, etc. on the desk, they can be just thrown in a trash can. The trash can will have to emptied on a regular basis.

Organising the drawer :
Some people have a habit of throwing things in the drawers of their desk randomly. It can contribute to the already existing clutter. Instead, placing the daily required items such as stapler, calculators, pins, correction tape, pencil and pen inside the drawer can be beneficial. It would help in accessing those things easily whenever needed.

Having an organised desk space is essential, as it helps in maintaining a positive attitude towards work and allows to concentrate better.