Overview

The StarTech 2-Post 42U Mobile Open Frame Server Rack is a highly functional and adaptable solution for mounting a variety of IT and network equipment. This 42U rack features a dual-post design that provides excellent stability while also offering the flexibility of four swiveling casters for easy mobility. Whether you're working in a small office or a larger network setup, this mobile rack helps optimize your space. With a weight capacity of up to 663 lbs, it’s robust enough to handle demanding equipment, making it a versatile choice for various applications.

Features & Benefits

This mobile server rack offers a host of benefits for those who need reliable and efficient equipment mounting. It is fully compliant with industry standards like EIA/ECA-310 and IEC 60297, ensuring broad compatibility with a wide range of devices. The easy setup process requires no additional hardware for mounting, saving time and effort. The open-depth design maximizes accessibility, allowing for both front and rear access in tight spaces, while its sturdy alloy steel construction guarantees long-lasting durability for your gear.

Best For

The StarTech 2-Post 42U Mobile Open Frame Server Rack is ideal for IT professionals, small to medium-sized businesses, and home offices with limited space. If you need a customizable solution for network and server equipment, this rack provides both mobility and space efficiency. Its compact yet robust design makes it a perfect fit for environments where equipment needs to be easily relocated or accessed frequently, making it a go-to choice for offices and small data centers.

User Feedback

Users have praised the StarTech mobile server rack for its easy setup and solid build quality, making it a great choice for professionals looking for an efficient solution. The swiveling casters make it incredibly portable, which is especially useful in setups that require regular adjustments. However, some users have mentioned that while the rack’s weight capacity is impressive, certain setups may require additional mounting hardware for optimal performance. Overall, it’s a well-rounded product with a few minor considerations.

Pros

  • This server rack offers excellent mobility, thanks to its swiveling casters, making it ideal for dynamic IT setups.
  • The 42U size provides ample space for a wide range of server and network equipment.
  • Its open-frame design is perfect for environments where easy access to equipment is necessary.
  • The sturdy build quality ensures long-term durability, even in demanding work conditions.
  • Setup is quick and easy, requiring no additional hardware for mounting ANSI/EIA RS-310-D compliant devices.
  • With a high weight capacity of 663 lbs, this rack can handle heavy equipment with ease.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that additional mounting hardware is needed for specific devices.
  • The open-frame design might not offer sufficient protection against dust or environmental hazards in certain settings.
  • While the rack is mobile, its stability when fully loaded can be a concern for some users.
  • The rack might not be the best option for those who need a fully enclosed server solution.
  • Larger or heavier equipment could cause some instability when the rack is moved, limiting its flexibility for some setups.
  • The assembly process might not be as straightforward for users unfamiliar with rack setups or lacking technical expertise.

Ratings

The ratings for the StarTech 2-Post 42U Mobile Open Frame Server Rack are based on a thorough analysis of verified user reviews across multiple platforms and languages. Reviews were filtered to exclude spam, bot-generated, incentivized, and off-topic feedback, ensuring only high-quality, authentic opinions shaped these scores. Both strengths and pain points were considered to provide a balanced overview of this product's performance and value for money.

Build Quality
89%
Many buyers are impressed with the solid build quality of this server rack. It is made from durable alloy steel, which ensures long-lasting use even under heavy loads. The robust construction is ideal for users who need a reliable setup for their server equipment in both professional and home environments.
However, a few users mentioned that the frame could be a bit heavy for smaller setups. Some also found the edges to be slightly sharp, which may require extra care during assembly to avoid injury or damage to cables.
Ease of Setup
94%
Users consistently mention how easy it is to assemble and set up this rack. The simple design with no extra hardware required makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a hassle-free setup. It's especially praised for its compatibility with ANSI/EIA RS-310-D compliant equipment, making installation a smooth process for most users.
A small number of users reported that the instructions could be clearer. While the setup itself is straightforward, a few felt that more detailed guidance would have helped, especially for first-time users unfamiliar with server racks.
Mobility & Portability
92%
The four swiveling casters are a standout feature, making this server rack easy to move between locations. Reviewers appreciate its portability, which is particularly useful for IT setups that need to be adjusted frequently. The smooth movement allows for flexibility in organizing or relocating heavy equipment with minimal effort.
However, a few users expressed concerns about the stability when the rack is fully loaded and moved. While the casters work well for light-to-medium loads, users with larger setups found that the rack can feel less stable when moved over uneven surfaces.
Weight Capacity
87%
The 663 lbs (300 kg) weight capacity is sufficient for most home or office server setups, making it a reliable choice for those needing sturdy support for their equipment. Users value the high capacity, especially when using it to house heavy networking or AV devices.
Some users noted that while the rack is rated for a high weight capacity, it may not be ideal for those with extremely heavy equipment or more complex server systems. A few felt that additional reinforcements or support could help ensure maximum stability when fully loaded.
Compatibility with Equipment
91%
This server rack is praised for its broad compatibility, especially with ANSI/EIA RS-310-D compliant equipment. It works seamlessly with a variety of server and network devices, which makes it versatile for different professional and home environments. Users appreciate how easily they can mount their gear without compatibility issues.
However, a handful of users experienced difficulties with some non-standard devices or racks. While it's generally very compatible, there were occasional reports of needing to purchase additional mounting hardware for specific types of equipment.
Space Efficiency
90%
The space-saving open-depth design is ideal for smaller environments, such as home offices or cramped IT rooms. Users appreciate how it allows for easy front and rear access, making it easier to manage cables and equipment in tight spaces without feeling cluttered.
While the space-saving design is a major plus, a few users mentioned that the open-frame structure could expose equipment to more dust or dirt in environments without proper cleaning routines. Those in dusty areas might need to take extra precautions to maintain their gear.
Durability
85%
Overall, users find this server rack to be durable and sturdy. Its alloy steel frame and solid construction are designed to withstand long-term use. This durability ensures that it holds up well even with heavy equipment and frequent relocations.
A small number of users mentioned that, while durable, the frame could benefit from additional protective coatings to resist scratches or dents more effectively. Some noted that after extended use, it may show signs of wear, particularly in high-contact areas.
Versatility for Various Environments
88%
This server rack is highly versatile and works well in a range of environments, from home offices to corporate IT setups. Users appreciate its adaptability to various devices, including AV, IT, and telecommunications equipment. Its mobile design is particularly useful for setups that require frequent reconfiguration.
However, some buyers pointed out that the open-frame design might not offer as much protection or security for sensitive equipment. It works well for non-sensitive setups but may not be the best choice for those looking for a more enclosed or secure storage solution.
Ease of Adjustment
80%
20%
The adjustable design allows users to customize the rack to fit various types of equipment. This flexibility makes it a solid option for setups that may require future changes or upgrades, allowing for more adaptability as needs evolve over time.
However, a few users expressed that the adjustments could be smoother, particularly when trying to reposition the rack in tight spaces. Some found the adjustment mechanism a bit stiff, which made fine-tuning the setup more difficult than expected.
Customer Support
70%
30%
Some users have had positive experiences with the customer support team, especially when they needed assistance with assembly or replacement parts. The support staff is generally knowledgeable and helpful, resolving issues in a timely manner.
However, several buyers had negative experiences with customer support, particularly regarding response times and the clarity of solutions. Some noted that their queries were either not addressed or took longer than expected to be resolved, leaving them frustrated with the service.
Value for Money
92%
Many users feel that this server rack offers great value for the price. It provides solid build quality, ease of use, and a high weight capacity, all at an affordable cost. Buyers appreciate that they get a versatile, durable product without breaking the bank.
Some users felt that the price could be slightly lower, especially considering the additional mounting hardware some people need to purchase separately. A few thought that the rack could be more competitive in pricing compared to similar products with slightly better features.
Instructions & Documentation
75%
25%
Most users found the instructions sufficient for setting up the server rack. The included documentation is clear enough for those with basic technical knowledge, making assembly relatively straightforward.
However, a few users mentioned that the instructions could be more detailed, particularly for beginners. Some felt that clearer diagrams and more step-by-step guidance would have improved their overall experience, especially for those new to server racks.

Suitable for:

The StarTech 2-Post 42U Mobile Open Frame Server Rack is ideal for IT professionals and small to medium-sized businesses that require a reliable, versatile server rack. Its mobility and space-saving design make it a great fit for home or office environments with limited space, especially where frequent reconfiguration is needed. Users who need to mount a variety of network or server equipment will appreciate the rack's ease of use, compatibility with ANSI/EIA RS-310-D compliant devices, and sturdy construction. Its portability, thanks to the four swiveling casters, is also a major plus for those who need flexibility in relocating or adjusting their setups.

Not suitable for:

This server rack may not be the best choice for users who need a fully enclosed solution or those with extremely heavy equipment. While the 663 lbs weight capacity is sufficient for many setups, some users with larger or heavier devices reported concerns about stability when the rack is fully loaded and moved. Additionally, users in dusty environments might find the open-frame design less protective, requiring extra maintenance. Those who need more detailed installation instructions or specialized mounting hardware could find the setup process less intuitive than expected.

Specifications

  • Rack Size: This server rack has a 42U size, providing ample vertical space for equipment mounting.
  • Weight Capacity: Supports up to 663 lbs (300 kg) of stationary weight, suitable for heavy network and server devices.
  • Rack Type: Designed as a 2-post server rack, allowing for efficient mounting of equipment.
  • Material: Constructed from durable alloy steel for long-lasting performance and strength.
  • Casters: Equipped with four swiveling casters for easy mobility, even when fully loaded.
  • Compliant Standards: Compliant with EIA/ECA-310, IEC 60297, and DIN 41494, ensuring broad compatibility with various equipment.
  • Mounting Holes: Features square mounting holes, compatible with most standard server and network equipment.
  • Dimensions: The rack measures 81.9 inches in height, 23.6 inches in width, and 23.6 inches in depth.
  • Space Efficiency: The open-frame design allows for easy front and rear access, making it ideal for tight spaces.
  • Intended Use: Suitable for mounting server, network, AV, IT, and telecommunications equipment.
  • Warranty: Backed by a 2-year warranty, offering peace of mind for quality and support.
  • Setup: No additional hardware is required for setup; it supports simple mounting of ANSI/EIA RS-310-D compliant equipment.
  • Portability: The mobile design is ideal for environments where flexibility and easy movement are required.
  • Compatibility: The rack supports a wide range of devices, as it meets industry-standard specifications for equipment mounting.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 63 lbs (28.5 kg), making it relatively easy to move despite its sturdy construction.
  • Build Quality: The alloy steel frame is robust and built to withstand regular use in both office and industrial environments.

FAQ

This server rack supports up to 663 lbs (300 kg) of stationary weight, making it suitable for heavy network and server equipment.

Setup is straightforward and requires no extra hardware. It's designed for easy mounting of ANSI/EIA RS-310-D compliant equipment, making it a hassle-free solution for most users.

This rack is compatible with a wide range of server, network, AV, IT, and telecommunications equipment, as it meets industry standards such as EIA/ECA-310 and IEC 60297.

Yes, the open-depth design allows for easy front and rear access, making it ideal for environments with limited space, such as home offices or smaller server rooms.

Yes, this server rack features swiveling casters, which provide excellent mobility, allowing for easy movement even in crowded or tight spaces.

The 2-post design provides a compact and versatile mounting solution for equipment, allowing for more efficient use of space and easier access to devices compared to larger, more bulky racks.

No special tools or additional hardware are needed to assemble the rack. It’s designed for easy setup, with simple mounting of compliant equipment.

While the rack can support up to 663 lbs, some users have noted that additional stability measures may be required when fully loaded and in motion, especially on uneven surfaces.

The StarTech mobile rack is made of high-quality alloy steel, ensuring strong durability. It’s built to withstand daily use, but some users have suggested that it may require extra hardware for certain devices.

Yes, the space-saving design and mobility of this server rack make it an excellent option for home offices or small businesses where equipment needs to be both accessible and easily moved.