Universal Rails
Common Rail Questions
▼ What U height should my rail be?
If you are buying rails which are designed for a specific server, they are already sized to be the optimal U height for that piece of equipment.
Universal rails, on the other hand, will be able to hold your server as long as it is under the weight capacity. For instance a 1U universal rail can hold a 2U server as long as that server is less than 45 lbs. Best practice is to purchase a rail that takes up the same number of rack units as your server.
▼ What’s the difference between mounting depth and equipment depth?
Mounting depth refers to what sized rack the rail will fit inside. For example, a Cobra 90 Rail with a mounting depth range of 20” - 30” will fit inside of racks with 20” - 30” of space between the connection points on the uprights.
Equipment depth, on the other hand, describes what length equipment must be to fit on the rail. A Universal Rail can mount equipment up to 35” deep. This is mostly relevant to rails that are compatible with multiple servers.
▼ What are the pros and cons of Universal Rails?
You can mount any server on Universal Rails and re-use them for new equipment in the future without worrying about compatibility.
Unfortunately, in order to make rails cross compatible the design needs to ignore shoulder screws which are typically what keep servers locked in place. When using a Universal Rail, you will need to take advantage of your server’s thumb screws for extra security.
▼ What are Cobra Rails?
Cobra Rails is our server rail product line that is compatible with all 11th gen and newer Dell servers. Between our four Cobra rail options, you should find one that mounts your Dell server with an OEM quality fit.
▼ What’s the easiest way to install cage nuts?
Before installing your server rails, we recommend picking up our Cage Nut Tool. Cage nuts are able to be installed without tools, but after putting in more than a few, it can be uncomfortable and potentially hurt your hand.
▼ Is all of the hardware I need included?
Most of our rails work with square, round and threaded hole racks. Because of this, we include all the hardware that is needed to mount the rails in any type of rack. All you’ll need is a phillips head screwdriver, unless you’re using our tool-less rails in which case you don’t need any tools at all.