I’ve come across various discussions on mounting servers vertically in tight or shallow rack spaces. However, I haven’t found any instances of servers being mounted upside down, with the rear side facing upward. I’m considering adopting this approach for my server rack setup, and here’s my plan:
- Cut a 3/4 plywood to fit the wall (36" by 24)
- Lag plywood into studs
- Mount a 4U vertical rack on bottom plywood
- Mount a 2U vertical rack on top of plywood
- Install a Dell R730xd static rail to U closest to plywood
- Install Dell R730XD onto rail
My intention for deploying the 4u vertical rack is primarily for the potential installation of items like a UPS or KVM. I’m wondering about the structural integrity of the screws used to secure the server in an upside-down configuration. I’m particularly concerned about the possibility of the HDD falling out. Additionally, I’m curious if the static rail would provide any additional support in this setup. The server is slated for installation in a closet alongside other shallow-depth racked items, and I’ve implemented a continuous heat exhaust system to maintain optimal conditions. I’m interested in hearing from anyone who may have attempted a similar configuration or has insights on the stability and safety of such an installation.
None of the fasteners or hardware are really designed to fight gravity. When you’re mounting gear vertically, it’s best to let Gravity work for you when securing equipment to the wall. I wouldn’t vertically install a UPS at all. I’d get a floor-standing unit if I can’t have a horizontal rack even if I have to install L-brackets for a small shelf for the pedestal UPS to sit on.