Tips for selecting the right rackmount monitor
Over the past 20 years we have provided solutions for many applications. Through this process we have partnered with many end users and integrators to provide the best solution. The below questions are designed to help in the planning process when selecting a rackmount KVM console solution.
What is the best rackmount chassis depth for my application?
The first thing to consider is the front rail to rear rail depth of the chassis the rackmount monitor will be mounted to. There are mounting options for 15.7” to 35” available. The physical chassis size as well as the adjustable mounting range should be considered. 4 point mounting and 2 point relay rack mounting can both be addressed with the proper bracket system.
Considerations when selecting the correct 1U rackmount LCD display
What equipment other than the LCD Drawer is being housed in the rack, cabinet, or transit case? Example, selecting a shorter chassis can create additional space behind the chassis for cabling or other storage which could be advantageous when all U space in the rack is being utilized. Proper cable management can also help with overall organization and air flow if being mounted in a server rack.
And last, in some cases, the vertical height of the monitor should be considered (what is the height of the LCD Panel when deployed in a vertical position? Blocking the view of equipment directly above the rackmount monitor while deployed should be considered.
What video input should I select for my PC/Server/hardware?
1U Rackmount Consoles are available with VGA, DVI, HDMI, DP, and USB-C Input. Consider what your video input servers have available today, but also, what new servers require in the future. VGA is prevalent for older equipment however, the trend is heading toward HDMI and USB-C for newer gear. One way to address and future proof your investment is to consider a Cat5 / Cat6 KVM Switch which offers Cat5/Cat6 Dongles with the flexibility of selecting VGA, DVI, HDMI, DP, and USB-C Input. Having the ability to switch to a different video input later is a great way to protect your initial investment. There are other advantages to Cat5 KVM Switches which we will cover later.
How often, and how long is information displayed on the rackmount monitor?
Some additional questions for consideration -
Do I need to access information Daily? Weekly? Monthly? Is the screen on 24/7?
What information is being viewed? Command line text, or hi resolution images? Engineering drawings? Live video?
What resolution is best for the application?
What screen size should I choose?
What type of environment is the monitor being used in?
Environmentally controlled computer room? Data Closet? Industrial manufacturing environment? Or is it going into a transit case to be used in the field at various sites?
Will the monitor be exposed to high temperature? Humidity? Vibration? Shock?
How much (data input) is involved with this application?
Is access to peripherals important? – ie USB HUB for thumb drives, remote keyboard/mouse, etc?
Is the application inside? or is outdoor viewing important? (high brightness LCD screens)
Is the application mission critical?
Are there budget constraints to this purchase?
Is a CUSTOM solution required for a specific application?
Is there a requirement for MIL-STD-810F/G compliance? Other MIL-STD Compliance?
Does the application require friction (dry slides)?
How important is post order support?