Installing new shared storage hardware can be tricky. There are many things that can take you by surprise or impeed your installation process. You may also run into problems once the system is already installed. In order to ensure you have a smooth installation process, we've created the 8 most important questions to ask yourself before installing your new hardware.
Whether this is your first or fiftieth time preparing a network space for a new shared storage system we hope you find this information useful:

 

    1. Is Your Network Space in a High-Traffic Area? - High-traffic areas include patch panels, experimental equipment, or equipment that needs frequent physical reconfiguration. Make sure your new hardware will be place away from potential impacts.

 

    1. Does Your Space Keep a Moderate Temperature with Little Change in Humidity? - This is extremely important in choosing a network space. Damage could occur if there is too much moisture or the hardware becomes overheated. Choose a location where the hardware will be free from significant temperature or humidity changes, or possible damage from moisture.

 

  1. Our experts at MelroseTEC deliver complete turnkey information and communications technology solutions including: IP Networks, wireless, VOIP, and Cloud Services. Interested in learning more? Visit our MelroseTEC section and discover quality solutions to meet your needs.
    1. How Clean is the Environment of Your Space? - Ensure the location of your hardware is in a clean environment, free from smoke and dust. Do not place any hardware over or near ventilation holes in a raised-floor computer room. Do not place any hardware under ceiling or wall ventilation ducts or cold air returns. Dust from the ventilation can cause problems with the hardware.

 

    1. Is the Location of Your Network Space Stable? - Be sure to verify that the location you select has a sturdy, level floor, and is not subject to vibration. The rack holding the hardware must be stable during normal operation and service so that it doesn’t fall over or collapse.

 

    1. Can You Reconfigure the Hardware Easily? - Like many components, servicing and rewiring may take place with your hardware. Make sure the hardware has adequate space in front of and behind the rack for times when service or reconfiguration is necessary. If the rack has a door, it must be able to open completely to allow access to the front panels of the hardware.

 

    1. Do You Have Adequate Power Available for Each Hardware Component? Make sure there is adequate power and the correct receptacle type for each hardware component, the rack power strips, and the optional UPSs. It is important to not use extension cords to plug in any of the hardware components. If you are using a Failover System Director you should connect it to a different circuit than the First System Director.

 

    1. Our experts at MelroseTEC deliver complete turnkey information and communications technology solutions including: IP Networks, wireless, VOIP, and Cloud Services. Interested in learning more? Visit our MelroseTEC section and start solving your business and operational challenges.
    1. Where are Your Ethernet Connections Located? When using a hardware system like Avid you will need to ensure you have Ethernet connections near the hardware.This allows for connections to the network for configuration and troubleshooting, when necessary.

 

    1. Are Telephone Lines Setup Nearby? When you have a workgroup operating in your space, it is important to ensure you are able to access support and service centers easily. Make sure you have a telephone line near your workgroup to allow you to talk with Customer Support, if necessary.

 

If you are looking for state-of-the-art hardware MelroseMAC recommends checking out Avid. They are known for being first class in hardware and customer support.