Extending the Network? Consider This When Delivering Network and Power to Edge Enclosures.
February 03, 2022
As we extend IT equipment into nontraditional spaces, which are many times found outdoors among the elements, where such an enclosure must reliably provide the primary protection for sensitive electronic and networking equipment, it’s also important to know that the components and equipment needed to make it happen must be rated for use in environments that are dusty, dirty, possibly wet and which may experience wide temperature variations.
Let's discuss what to consider as you work to deliver network and power connections to industrial enclosures, as it will be key to continual, optimal equipment and network reliability.
Delivering Network and Power Connections to Edge Enclosures
To maintain the enclosure protection rating, any openings added to the enclosure for the network and power cables need to be sealed. In most cases, electrical conduit is used to protect and deliver cables. If it is NOT used, the cable openings need to be sealed with special grommets that match the enclosure’s protection level and maintain the seal around the cable.
The BEST solution is a single-service seal with an adaptable inner and outer diameter, which allows multiple cables to enter a single enclosure opening (take a look at the RMR® Enclosure Gland Seal and RMR Enclosure ComSeal Grommet). This system uses a single grommet housing with an internal multi-piece assembly that creates a tight seal around each cable.
Sealing around individual cables provides the best result for maintaining protection category, but this approach is very different from the brush-sealed grommets typically used on IT cabinets. As an alternative, if you only have one cable to pass into the enclosure, a basic gasket seal (i.e. one cable, one opening) will work.
Remote Monitoring and Control
To ensure environmental conditions remain optimal for equipment and to detect changes in the environment or signs of tampering, also consider adding remote monitoring and control.
- Environmental monitoring appliances (check out CPI’s Remote Infrastructure Management RIM-750) can measure temperature, humidity, airflow, power and detect entry of water.
- Rack-mount power distribution units (PDUs) distribute power to switches, provide remote outlet control so you can remotely cycle power to equipment, and monitor power use by equipment.
- Some PDUs also monitor environmental conditions.
- Both devices automate monitoring, keep logs of measured data and let you set thresholds and receive alarm notifications when conditions approach limits, so you can prevent network outages.
Ultimately, these considerations and more will all be important to intentionally plan for and understand as teams continue to embark on the fundamentals of any successful edge network deployment.
Optimize Power Management at the Edge with eConnect® PDUs
Chatsworth Products’ eConnect® PDUs offer intelligent power solutions designed to support high-density environments, providing advanced features such as remote monitoring, outlet-level switching, and environmental monitoring. These PDUs help optimize power usage, enhance reliability, and ensure your equipment runs smoothly even in the most demanding conditions.
Explore CPI’s eConnect® PDUs today to power your edge deployments with confidence!
Posted by Brittany Mangan, Digital Content Specialist at 2/3/2022 9:51:40 AM