APC NetShelter SX Air Containment – 42U Rack Cabinet

Experience advanced airflow management and organized server housing with the APC NetShelter SX Air Containment 42U Rack Cabinet. This black enclosure is designed for data centers and IT rooms that demand reliable, scalable, and secure equipment containment. The SX Air Containment series from APC combines purpose-built airflow containment with flexible mounting options, making it easier to manage dense equipment while preserving optimal cooling performance and simplifying maintenance. With a dedicated 42U capacity, technicians can deploy a broad mix of servers, storage, and networking hardware in a compact footprint without sacrificing accessibility or security.

• 42U rack capacity for scalable deployments: ideal for mid-to-large IT environments that require substantial space for servers, switches, patch panels, and storage devices while keeping equipment reachable for maintenance and upgrades.
• Air containment design to improve cooling efficiency: containment panels and streamlined airflow paths minimize hot air recirculation, helping data centers achieve better thermal performance and potentially lower cooling costs.
• Elegant black finish for a professional data-center look: a neutral, modern aesthetic that blends with existing decor and helps hide dust and fingerprints, keeping the enclosure looking clean and organized.
• Flexible mounting with standard 19-inch rails: supports a wide range of equipment from multiple vendors, enabling easy integration into existing racks and simplifying cable management and front-to-back installation.
• Secure and durable enclosure: lockable doors and robust construction provide reliable protection for sensitive IT gear, supporting the security and reliability requirements of enterprise environments.

Technical Details of APC NetShelter SX Air Containment

• U size: 42U
• Color: Black
• Cabinet type: Air Containment Rack Cabinet
• Mounting: Standard 19-inch equipment rails
• Purpose: Air containment and organized housing for IT gear in data centers and server rooms

How to install APC NetShelter SX Air Containment

Installing the APC NetShelter SX Air Containment cabinet is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime and maximize airflow efficiency. Begin by preparing the installation site: verify the floor and ceiling clearances required for the 42U cabinet height, ensure space for front and rear door access, and confirm that the room’s cooling system and containment pathway align with your planned hot- and cold-aisle arrangement. Position the cabinet in a stable location with adequate clearance for service and cable routing, then secure the cabinet to the floor per local codes and manufacturer guidelines.

Next, install the standard 19-inch mounting rails inside the cabinet. These rails accommodate a wide range of equipment vendors and sizes, enabling you to assemble a heterogeneous rack portfolio without sacrificing alignment. Route power and data cables neatly through the rear channels and along the sides, using optional cable management accessories to maintain clean, unobstructed airflow. Attach containment components as needed to maximize airflow isolation—these elements help ensure that cool air flows to hot components while hot exhaust stays contained, improving cooling efficiency across the rack.

Once equipment is mounted, verify labeling and labeling consistency for easy service and quick identification. Check that doors and panels are securely latched and that lock mechanisms engage properly to deter unauthorized access. Finally, run a commissioning check to ensure proper airflow distribution and thermal performance with your installed hardware. For in-depth, model-specific steps, always refer to the official APC installation guide and any project-specific documentation from your data center team.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the primary purpose of the APC NetShelter SX Air Containment 42U rack cabinet? A: The cabinet is designed to house IT equipment while enabling efficient air containment, reducing hot air recirculation and improving thermal performance in data centers and server rooms.
• Q: How many U does this cabinet hold? A: It has a 42U capacity, offering ample space for a range of servers, storage, and networking devices.
• Q: What color is the cabinet? A: The enclosure comes in a black finish, suitable for modern data-center aesthetics and easy integration with existing gear.
• Q: Are the doors lockable? A: Yes, the NetShelter SX Air Containment cabinet includes lockable doors to enhance security for sensitive equipment.
• Q: Is it compatible with standard 19-inch rack equipment? A: Yes, it supports standard 19-inch mounting rails, enabling broad compatibility with equipment from multiple vendors.
• Q: Does this cabinet improve energy efficiency? A: By enabling effective air containment and reducing hot-air mixing, it can contribute to more efficient cooling when used in conjunction with an appropriate data-center cooling strategy.