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Subracks – The Ultimate FAQ Guide - Rdekono

Jun. 09, 2025

Subracks – The Ultimate FAQ Guide - Rdekono

A subrack, also known as a card cage or chassis, is a structural framework designed to hold and protect electronic modules, circuit boards, or cards. It provides a standardized mechanical interface for mounting and interconnecting various electronic components within a larger system.

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What are the primary components of a subrack?

A subrack typically includes:

Frame: The structural framework that holds all components together.

Guide Rails: Slots that guide and support the insertion of electronic modules.

Backplane: A printed circuit board (PCB) with connectors that interconnect modules.

Front Panels: Cover plates that protect the front of the modules and provide access.

Handles and Fasteners: Used for handling and securing modules within the subrack.

VERO Subracks

What are the common sizes and standards for subracks?

Subracks adhere to various international standards to ensure compatibility and interoperability. Common standards include:

IEC : Specifies dimensions for 19-inch rack-mounted equipment.

IEEE .10: Defines mechanical and environmental specifications for subracks.

VME, VXI, PXI, and CompactPCI: Industry standards for modular electronic systems, each with specific requirements for subrack dimensions and configurations.

What materials are used to manufacture subracks?

Subracks are typically made from materials such as:

Aluminum: Lightweight and strong, offering good thermal conductivity and resistance to corrosion.

Steel: Provides excellent strength and durability, often used for heavy-duty applications.

Plastic: Lightweight and cost-effective, suitable for less demanding environments.

What are the advantages of using a subrack?

Using a subrack offers several benefits:

Modularity: Allows for easy insertion, removal, and replacement of modules.

Standardization: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of electronic modules and systems.

Protection: Shields electronic components from mechanical damage, dust, and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Cooling and Ventilation: Facilitates effective cooling of electronic components through proper airflow design.

Cable Management: Helps organize and secure cables, reducing clutter and improving maintenance.

19"EMC Shielded Subracks

What types of subracks are available?

There are various types of subracks tailored for different applications:

Fixed Subracks: Permanent installations for stable environments.

Portable Subracks: Designed for mobile or temporary setups, often featuring handles and reinforced frames.

Customizable Subracks: Allow for specific configurations and adjustments to meet unique requirements.

How do you choose the right subrack for your application?

Consider the following factors when selecting a subrack:

Size and Compatibility: Ensure the subrack meets the dimensions and standards required by your electronic modules.

Material and Durability: Choose a material that offers the necessary strength and environmental resistance.

Cooling Requirements: Assess the cooling needs of your modules and ensure the subrack supports adequate ventilation.

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Mounting and Accessibility: Consider how the subrack will be mounted and accessed, including front or rear access.

Customization: Determine if you need a standard subrack or if custom modifications are required for your application.

What are the installation and maintenance considerations for subracks?

When installing and maintaining subracks, keep in mind:

Proper Installation: Follow manufacturer guidelines for secure mounting and module insertion.

Regular Inspections: Periodically check for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage to ensure continued protection and performance.

Cleaning: Keep the subrack and its components free of dust and debris to maintain airflow and cooling efficiency.

Upgrades and Modifications: Plan for future expansions or upgrades by selecting subracks that allow easy modifications.

Where can you purchase subracks?

Subracks can be purchased from:

Electronics and Industrial Suppliers: Companies that specialize in electronic components and systems.

Online Retailers: E-commerce platforms offering a wide range of subracks and related accessories.

Custom Manufacturers: Providers that offer custom subrack solutions tailored to specific needs and specifications.

Conclusion

Subracks are essential components in electronic systems, providing a modular, standardized, and protective environment for electronic modules. By understanding the various types, standards, materials, and selection criteria, you can ensure you choose the right subrack for your application, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of your electronic systems.

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Benefit from our variety of high-performance electronics packaging solutions from 19” subracks, chassis, tabletop cases and front panels, designed to meet the diverse needs of industries such as military, test and measurement, telecommunications, and transportation.

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Versatile Designs

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Case Studies

Rack-Mount Portfolio

These protective casings are designed to house and organize essential hardware and components, providing easy access, enhanced security, and improved airflow within a rack system.

19-Inch Subracks: Modular Architecture

  • Standardized Modular Frames  
  • Provides optimized and reliable housing for PCBs, electronic modules, and plug-in units  
  • Ensures seamless integration within rack-mounted systems  
  • Comes with guide rails for easy sliding and positioning  
  • Offers an extensive accessories portfolio, including guide rails and card retainers  
  • Available in non-standard or standardized options

19-Inch Chassis: Horizontally Board Mount

  • 19” chassis are a form of subrack designed for horizontally boards or non-standard components like transformers or heavy accessories
  • Typically mounted on a chassis plate
  • Options available for various heights and depths
  • Features include EMC-shielding, cooling, and varying degrees of robustness

19-Inch Cases: Flexible for Mobile or/and Rack-Mounting

  • Designed for durability and mobility  
  • Features 19-inch cases as a complete enclosure  
  • Ensures optimal transportation and EMC shielding  
  • Ideal for systems that need to be self-contained  
  • Integrates seamlessly into a larger rack system  
  • Suitable for both rack-mount and mobile applications

Non Rack-Mount Portfolio

Non-rack mount enclosures are essential for providing protection and functionality beyond traditional rack systems. They serve a wide range of applications, from portable solutions for fieldwork to permanent installations in industrial settings.

19" Desktop Cases: Framework for 19" Components

  • 19" desktop cases meet standardized 19-inch rack specifications internally.
  • They provide a strong framework for full-sized components.
  • These cases are not intended for assembly into a 19" cabinet.

Small Form Factor Cases: Space-Efficient Design for Compact Components

  • Designed for compact electronic components  
  • Prioritize space efficiency while maintaining performance  
  • Offer flexibility in sizing  
  • Adhere to small form factor board standards

Front Panels and Cassettes

Front panels and cassettes are acting as the main interface between users and equipment.

Front Panels: Interface and Accessibility

  • Front-facing section of devices or enclosures  
  • Provides access to controls, displays, connectors, and indicators 
  • Serves as the interface between the user and internal components  
  • Typically made from metal or plastic  
  • Includes EMC protection  
  • Customizable design, colors, and printing options  
  • Comes with wide selection of accessories, such as screws and nipples

Plug-In Units: Front Panel with Handle

  • Include a front panel, handle, and PCB mounting hardware.
  • Plug-in units are modular, self-contained components.
  • Easily inserted or removed from a subrack or chassis.

Cassettes: Fully enclosures for extra protection

  • A cassette is like a plug-in unit but includes side panels and is fully enclosed.
  • It functions independently as part of a larger system.
  • It provides additional mechanical or RF protection.

News and Resources

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Boost EMI Shielding by 45% with Future-Proof Subrack Design

Enhance electromagnetic resilience in your rail systems for seamless operational continuity

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Design Your Desktop Enclosures within minutes

The RatiopacPRO Style digital configurator shortcuts the design process, saving customers approximately 65% of the time they would have spent evaluating and developing entirely new mechanical housing concepts.

Products in Action

Mechanical Design

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Mechanical Production

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For more information, please visit Subrack Kit for Backplane.

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