Hey Techies: A/V Racks vs LAN Racks

[steve42]

I don't know if any of you are audiophiles or not. I know we have several computing pros in here.

What I am wondering is if anyone knows how A/V Racks and Server Racks compare in sizing and screw-hole spacing?

I want to build an enclosure for my home theater so I can begin rack mounting ans organizing my equipment, but I am also building a PC-based PVR/editing system that could be put in a 4U Server Case and installed as well.

What I don't know, not having an A/V rack to compare it to, is are the widths and screwhole configurations on server racks and A/V racks the same?

I can probably get a used LAN rack relatively cheaply and get it powdercoated black if it isn't already for much less than a new A/V rack.

Steve

[ducati996]

A/V is typically 19 " EIA while servers racks can be 21" EIA...you would be better served with everything being 19" EIA....many different choices and options ( like A/C) but take a look at Middle atlantic Products - one of many choices


www.middleatlantic.com/index.htm

[MowHoward2210]

Steve42, I don't really have any input to give on this as Ducati verified what I was guessing on the widths. Sounds real interesting though. Let us know what you find out or end up with. Are you going to integrate a HTPC into the mix?

[steve42]

A/V is typically 19 " EIA while servers racks can be 21" EIA...you would be better served with everything being 19" EIA....many different choices and options ( like A/C) but take a look at Middle atlantic Products - one of many choices


www.middleatlantic.com/index.htm
Actually, I had already considered the Middle Atlantic Slim 5 series (like the #5-21).

19" server cases are very common, so that'll be the size I go with. So long as the A/V racks' holes line up with the server case mounting holes, that will probably be my goal.

The only reason that I would go with a 19" server rack is if I can get a 21 or 24U rack from an associate for less than the $225-250 price for the Slim 5. My step-brother has all the HVLP paint equipment, so we could paint sandblast and paint it black if need be.

Steve42, I don't really have any input to give on this as Ducati verified what I was guessing on the widths. Sounds real interesting though. Let us know what you find out or end up with. Are you going to integrate a HTPC into the mix?
The PC is still a work in progress. I've been considering something like KnoppMyth (http://www.mysettopbox.tv/knoppmyth.html) or MythTV (http://www.mythtv.org/) along with the Windows Media Center.

My goal is to be able to manage my own ad-free, broadcast flag-free PVR system (down with TiVo!) and also have the ability to do A/V editing.

I already have my Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS Platinum Pro (http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=1&subcategory=204&product=4925) for handling sound inputs. I am considering something like the Video Magician (http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1050249&CatId=1427) for video capture.

By the time I'm done with the PC, I'll probably have about $2500 in it, so it's being purchased as sales happen.