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Connecting multiple racks with rack-to-rack attachment kit

You might need to connect multiple racks together. Use the procedure in this section to perform this task.

This topic describes how to connect multiple racks to each other using a rack-to-rack attachment kit. To do this, you will need the rack-to-rack attachment kit (feature 7840):

  1. Read the Rack Safety Notices.
  2. Remove the side panels from each rack, if they are installed. Remove side panels only from the sides that will be attached to each other. To do this:
    1. Lift the two panel-release tabs up.
    2. Pull the panel up and away from the rack chassis. This motion will release the panel from the two lower J brackets.
    3. Store the side panels.
  3. Remove the two Z brackets and the two J brackets. These brackets are used to hang the side panels.
  4. Install the first two standoffs in the upper-left and lower-right corners of the first rack as shown in Figure 1.
  5. Install the second two standoffs in the upper-left and lower-right corners of the second rack as shown in Figure 1.
  6. Attach the long foam as shown in Figure 1. For a model T42 rack, join the short foam to the end of the long foam, and adhere it to the frame length of the rack.
  7. Position the racks together.
  8. Align the standoff holes. You might need to adjust the leveling feet to do this.
  9. Install a screw and washer into all four positions, but do not tighten.
    Figure 1. Removing the side panels, Z and J brackets, and installing standoffs and long foam to connect multiple racks.
    connecting multiple racks
    Figure 2. Location of foam strips (top view).
    location of foam strips (top view)
  10. After all racks are bolted together, level the racks.
  11. Tighten all four screws.
  12. Snap on the trim pieces that go between the front and back racks.
  13. Snap on the trim piece that goes on top and between the racks.
  14. Install rack filler panels to cover the open areas at the front of the racks. All the gaps in the front of the rack must also be sealed, including the gaps between equipment. This step ensures that proper airflow within the rack is maintained.
  15. Connect the cables that go between the racks.
  16. If you are installing tip plates, go to step 5 in Install a rack.

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Last updated: Fri, Oct 30, 2009