This document outlines the installation procedure for the Brocade Flush Mount Rack Kit, designed to integrate Brocade VDX series switches into telecommunications (Telco) racks. The kit supports a range of Brocade VDX models, including the VDX 6710-54, VDX 6720-24, VDX 6720-60, VDX 6730-32, VDX 6730-76, and VDX 6740. These switches come in both 1U (single height) and 2U (double height) form factors, with the VDX 6710-54, VDX 6720-24, VDX 6730-32, and VDX 6740 being 1U models, and the VDX 6720-60 and VDX 6730-76 being 2U models. The installation process is estimated to take between 15 to 30 minutes.
Function Description:
The Flush Mount Rack Kit facilitates the secure and proper mounting of specified Brocade VDX switches within a standard Telco rack. This ensures physical stability and proper integration into existing network infrastructure, adhering to industry standards for rack-mounted equipment. The kit is essential for deploying these switches in data centers or network closets where rack space and secure mounting are critical. The installation procedure involves attaching front and rear brackets to the switch, and then securing these brackets to the rack uprights. This method provides a robust mounting solution, preventing accidental dislodgement and ensuring optimal performance by maintaining proper airflow and cable management.
Important Technical Specifications:
The kit includes various components and requires specific tools for installation.
- Kit Components:
- Front brackets (right and left): 2 units
- Rear brackets (right and left): 1 unit (though the illustration shows two distinct rear brackets, the parts list specifies one unit, implying a pair or a single component that serves both sides)
- Screw, 8-32 x 5/16-in., panhead Phillips: 12 units
- Screw, 6-32 x 1/4-in., flathead Phillips: 8 units
- Screw, 10-32 x 5/8-in., panhead Phillips: 8 units
- Retainer nut, 10-32: 8 units
- Required Tools:
- Clamps or other means for temporary switch support.
- Phillips #2 torque screwdriver.
- 1/4-inch slotted blade torque screwdriver.
- Torque Specifications:
- 8-32 x 5/16-in. screws (attaching front brackets to switch): 15 in-lbs (17 cm-kgs).
- 10-32 x 5/8-in. screws (attaching front brackets to rack): 25 in-lbs (29 cm-kgs).
- 10-32 x 5/8-in. screws (attaching rear brackets to rack): 25 in-lbs (29 cm-kgs).
- 8-32 x 5/16-in. screws (attaching rear brackets to switch): 15 in-lbs (17 cm-kgs).
- Supported Switch Models and Heights:
- 1U: Brocade VDX 6710-54, VDX 6720-24, VDX 6730-32, VDX 6740
- 2U: Brocade VDX 6720-60, VDX 6730-76
Usage Features:
The installation procedure emphasizes several critical usage and environmental considerations to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the switch:
- Rack Compatibility: The kit is designed for Telco racks, requiring verification that the rack's weight limits are not exceeded by the switch.
- Electrical Requirements:
- An electrical branch circuit must be available with the required voltage and frequency (200-230 VAC preferred), as specified in the hardware reference manual.
- Circuit protection must be in accordance with local electrical codes.
- Supply circuit, line fusing, and wire size must conform to the electrical rating on the switch nameplate.
- A grounded outlet, compatible with the power cord and installed by a licensed electrician, is mandatory.
- All rack-installed equipment must be grounded through a reliable branch circuit connection, not a secondary connection like a power strip.
- Mechanical Stability: The rack must be mechanically secured to ensure stability, preventing any movement that could compromise the switch or other equipment.
- Airflow Management:
- The air temperature at the fan inlet must remain below 40°C (104°F) during switch operation.
- The airflow available at the air vents must meet the minimum requirements for the switch.
- Crucially, the switch's airflow direction must be aligned with other switches in the rack to maximize cooling, as some switches have port-side to fan-side airflow, while others have the opposite. This prevents hot spots and ensures efficient heat dissipation within the rack.
- Screw Usage: Only the specified screws should be used, as longer screws can cause damage to the switch.
Maintenance Features:
While the document primarily focuses on installation, several aspects contribute to ease of maintenance and long-term reliability:
- Secure Mounting: The flush mount design provides a stable and secure installation, reducing the risk of physical damage due to vibration or accidental impact, which in turn minimizes the need for physical repairs.
- Proper Grounding: Emphasizing proper grounding ensures electrical safety and helps protect the switch from electrical surges, reducing the likelihood of component failure and associated maintenance.
- Airflow Optimization: The instructions regarding airflow alignment and temperature limits are critical for preventing overheating, a common cause of hardware degradation and failure. By ensuring optimal cooling, the lifespan of the switch components is extended, reducing the frequency of maintenance and replacement.
- Clear Installation Steps: The detailed, step-by-step instructions, accompanied by illustrations, simplify the installation process. This reduces the chance of incorrect installation, which could lead to operational issues and increased maintenance efforts. The document clearly distinguishes between attaching brackets to the switch and to the rack, and provides specific torque values for each screw type, ensuring a precise and reliable assembly.
- Documentation: The document itself serves as a maintenance aid, providing a clear record of the installation procedure and requirements. This is invaluable for troubleshooting, reinstallation, or verifying proper setup during routine maintenance checks. The document history also tracks changes and updates, ensuring that users have access to the most current and accurate information for their specific switch models.