Where extensive measurements and data collection have to be carried out by mobile stations, the necessary measuring devices and the server on which the collected data is stored and processed are often installed in the vehicle at the same time. As such a server cannot be placed loosely in the vehicle, there are special server racks - also known as server cabinets. The server must be secured and must not wobble, as this type of electronics in particular is very sensitive to vibrations.
The server rack is standardized to a 19-inch width and is around one metre deep, just like normal stationary racks. What must be taken into account during installation is, as already mentioned, the sensitivity to shocks and impacts. The server rack is nothing more than a metal frame in which the server and usually other components are installed. In vehicles, this frame must be particularly stable. It must be mounted on special vibration dampers that compensate for shocks caused by uneven road surfaces. Fixed tensioning straps hold the server rack in place if it is not bolted directly to the vehicle's interior trim.
During the measurement process, the vehicle may be left open in busy areas for long periods of time. For this reason, the server rack should also be secured against theft. Protection against soiling is also advisable for such sensitive devices.
All these aspects must be taken into account when using a server or rack mount, as they make it difficult to use in mobile applications such as special vehicles.
