The server rack has emerged as an important component in any office setup- be it small or big. But sometimes it may become a nuisance, because of the high noise quotient especially if you have to make client phone calls etc. from a server room.
Here are some tips that can help you reduce noise without compromising on the quality or performance of your rack server.
See, if you can reduce the number of cooling fans in your server rack to get the best performance as well as reduce noise to a great extend for example if you have four fans, it is okay to have two instead.
Putting some sound absorbing foam on or around the server area is a good option, if you have large surfaces so as to limit reflective surfaces, etc, and dampen the sound. Be sure to allow for proper airflow when doing this.
Though it is true that server racks were never silent, today you can find varieties with temperature regulated fans for less noise in your office IT setup.
If you cannot do anything in the server rack, a simple solution can accomplished by getting a free standing sound absorbing office partition and place between your area and the server rack. However, it is critical that you do not block the airflow or this could cause your servers to overheat.
Having a rack that is open at the back can help you in getting the air flow out without disturbing the flow. You may be able to do away with the fans thus reducing noise pollution to a great extend.
You can install an air controller in your server room so that you can reduce the number of cooling fans from your server rack. Trying to cool a server rack using fans in room temperature would obviously result in noise pollution.
Try all these different tips to get reduced noise in your server rack and enjoy the difference.