Cabinet size

• You can mount the switch in a cabinet that contains a 19-in. rack as defined in Cabinets, Racks, Panels, and Associated Equipment (document number EIA-310–D) published by the Electronics Industry Association (http://www.eia.org).

  Note: The rack must meet the strength requirements to support the weight of the switch.

• The minimum cabinet size must be able to accommodate the maximum external dimensions of the switch.

Cabinet airflow requirements

When you mount the switch in a cabinet, ensure that ventilation through the cabinet is sufficient to prevent overheating.

• Ensure adequate cool air supply to dissipate the thermal output of the switch or switches.
• Ensure that the cabinet allows the chassis hot exhaust air to exit the cabinet without recirculating into the switch. An open cabinet (without a top or doors) that employs hot air exhaust extraction from the top allows the best airflow through the chassis. If the cabinet contains a top or doors, perforations in these elements assist with removing the hot air exhaust.
• Install the switch in the cabinet in a way that maximizes the open space on the side of the chassis that has the hot air exhaust. This maximizes the clearance for critical airflow.
• Route and dress all cables to minimize the blockage of airflow to and from the chassis.
• Ensure that the spacing of rails and adjacent cabinets allows for the proper clearance around the switch and cabinet.
• A cabinet larger than the minimum required provides better airflow and reduces the chance of overheating.