Re: Experiences with rack mounted kit mounted *vertically*

On 2/5/2025 11:21 AM, John R Walliker wrote:

Some fanless 24-port network switches from HP specify that they can
be mounted with the connectors up or down but not sideways.

Hmmm... I have three such beasts in the office and had never noticed
the holes in the sides.  I had just assumed they dissipated heat
through the skin.
[Not a problem for the office switches, though, as they are mounted
horizontally]

Sideways mounting would give the best airflow, so there must be some
other explanation.  My best guess is that the relatively large
"side" ventilation holes would not allow the product to pass regulatory
safety testing in that orientation.  (Holes must be small enough that
burning molten plastic cannot fall through the holes and ignite
flammable materials below.  Similarly, holes in the top must prevent
flames from escaping and they must protect against foreign objects from
dropping in and causing damage.

My reason for mounting the switches vertically, front-down was to
minimize the chances of "stuff" (detris) getting into the ports.
I figure I could more easily "protect" the fans (being on top) with
just another layer of filtration.
I don't see any prohibitions against particular mounting configurations
on most of the switches I've (casually) examined.  So, I suspect
it's not an issue in the *general* case.
Lots of ambiguous chatter, however, in folks describing their preferences
and concerns for these types of mounts.  As expected, an equal number
advocating/warning for/against each!  <frown>
Thankfully, this won't be something homeowners/businessmen will likely
install by themselves.  So, there's a chance that some care will be
exercised, there!