This fancy talk about "1U servers" isn't a high-tech designation, but rather a reference to the size of hardware that fits into standard "server racks" where 1U stands for "one unit" of server space. These small 1U rack mount server models take up exactly one unit of space; makers achieve this compact design by compressing all of the components into a smaller space than was previously possible.

Businesses looking to use 1U server models with a "1U racks" setup can look to the web for specs and ideas on using this kind of hardware for data handling, communications and more. Readers online can find resources for different 1U rack servers applications and uses including:

1. Product specs for 1U rack servers and a variety of 1U hardware solutions for arranging a server setup with minimal space requirements.

2. Tips on how to integrate a 1U rack mount server into an existing setup and what features may be available.

3. Some info on what to look out for with 1U rack shelf server hardware, since the compact design can have some effect on how you use server room space.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use 1U rack servers with 1U KVM switch technology

One way to utilize multiple hardware segments is with a 1U KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) solution -- this 'hardware switching' can come in the form of on-board server features or in other stand-alone hardware that conforms to a rack space of one unit.

I recommend: Take a "single unit" hardware approach with a 1U rack KVM Switch from Rack Mount Mart. Get more of these solutions from KVM Switches Online.

Get 1U rack mount server solutions for the 'server room'

If you want to 'stack' a 1 unit rackmount server to provide a lot more data handling, create a dedicated server space, with a lot of rack room, and build your IT towers as applicable to your projects. Just be sure to monitor these compact 1U servers for heat, as they tend to get toasty, and space them out accordingly.

I recommend: This JNCS 1U rack mount server compresses lots of hardware into a single unit space, but makers caution that the compact nature produces a significant amount of noise. Find resources for dealing with cooling solutions for the "hot spots" that 1 U rackmount servers tend to create at SearchDataCanter.com.

Find high performance dual core 1U rack servers for a server setup

The market now offers high performance 'dual core' microprocessors in 1U rack servers to help get the job done without adding additional server hardware. See if you can manage with a 1U rack server designed to handle a lot of data.

I recommend: Get dual core 1U rack server models from Directron for handling the high-pressure jobs without expanding your rack. Find more of these dual core 1U rack servers from sites like ACME Micro Systems.

1U rack servers, given their small profile, are often thought of as simply pieces for a large network, providing additional performance boosts and storage space. For smaller networks, however, the right 1U rack can handle your entire network, and do so without taking up much space in your office.

1U servers are slim computer servers that are meant to fit in a rack-style chassis. As their name indicates, a 1U rack mount will only take up 1 unit of space in the rack. As a result, you get a lot of power in a very small enclosure. Deciding weather a 1U rack mount server is right for your needs, and then which rackmount servers to buy, can be a daunting task. You must take several factors into account, including:

1. Whether a 1U server will provide enough power for your network's needs.

2. Which operating system you need your rackmount server to run.

3. Where to buy your 1U servers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Make sure a 1U rack mount server is enough to power your network

1U racks provide a big punch of power in a very small space. That said, a 1U server does not provide as much power as a larger tower server, nor do 1U servers have as many expansion bays for extra storage. As a result, you have to make sure a 1U server is enough to power your network before you proceed. If you decide that the limitations outweigh the space advantages, then another option is to create a cluster of multiple 1U servers, gaining extra power without sacrificing too much space.

I recommend: InfoWorld has a great article on 1U rack servers, which reviews several available units. The article goes into great detail about what tasks these 1U servers can handle well, so it is a great first read in the process.

Decide on an operating system, and a manufacturer for your 1U racks

If you already have an existing IT infrastructure running Windows software, then chances are you will want to run Windows on your 1U server. Luckily, Windows servers comprise a majority of the market, and you will have a vast array of options to choose from. If you are starting from scratch, however, you might want to consider the alternative operating systems. Apple recently released an incredibly high-powered server that runs flawlessly on a Macintosh network, and many IT people love servers that run on the Linux operating system. The latter can be used with computers on your network running Windows or Mac as well.

I recommend: If you're not already committed to Windows for your 1U rack, check out Apple's high-powered Xserve. Dell's PowerEdge servers are one of the best for running Windows, and their website offers a wealth of customization options. This is a good place to go to see what options are available on 1U servers, even if you ultimately don't buy a Dell.

Decide where to buy your 1U rack servers

Once you've decided on an operating system, it's time to make your purchase. If you decide to go with Apple, Dell, or any other major manufacturer, it's best if you buy directly from them, as you will have access to the best warranties and service plans available for the product. If you decide to go with a custom-built rackmount server, or one from a smaller company, there are many computer retailers to choose from. Be sure to do some price comparison before you buy.

I recommend: FreedomTechnologies has a variety of 1U racks that can be configured with a number of custom options. These servers are known for running Linux with ease as well. TigerDirect is one of the best computer stores around, and they have a wide selection of 1U servers that are worth a look.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure a 1U server packs enough of a punch for your network before you commit to going this route. If you need more power, additional 1U racks will provide a boost.

Server racks hold server components of different height units, and a 1U server is the shortest server. Usually, these are less than 2-inches high. The benefit of this size is that you can fit the server in the smallest amount of space.

1U rack servers pricing and costs depend on many factors. The most important factors that affect the cost are the following things:

1. The processor, which plays a factor in the price of servers because it runs, brands and determines the speed of the server.

2. The amount of memory, or random access memory (RAM), in a 1U server can vary greatly, and more RAM costs more money.

3. The number of hard disk drives, which a server may use as an extra hard disk to back up data; a server with room for more drives will cost more, especially if you get one that comes with a drive in every open drive bay.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Save money with a basic 1U server

Basic servers are just the simple, off-the-shelf product, but that doesn't mean there's anything wrong with them. This type of product is high quality, if your needs match the specifications. Expect to pay anywhere from $300 for a low-end model to a thousand dollars or more for one with a high-powered processor and a large hard drive.

I recommend: Find basic servers of all types at Newegg. Check out an overview of the various classes of rackmount servers at Iron Systems.

Order custom 1U servers to get exactly what you need

Shop around and ask for quotes from several dealers, if you want to save money. You can also go with a vendor that you know will give you good service. Expect to pay from $500 to $5,000, depending on the options you need.

I recommend: Read reviews of servers from Aberdeen, which has custom servers of various types. Purchase pre-configured servers or get a custom quote on just the server you want at Bantam Electronics.

Get prices by brand for servers like the 1U rack servers by Super Micro

Super Micro is one popular brand of rackmount servers. This manufacturer has a comprehensive line, competitively priced products and 3-year warranties. Take advantage of their 24-hour customer support on server products. Expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $2,000 for this brand of 1U servers.

I recommend: Read about the benefits of SuperServers by Super Micro Computers. Once you find one you like, purchase Super Micro servers at ANTOnline.

Get a rack for your 1U rack mount server

Find out about selecting a rack frame and the parts you need for it. There are lots of options for 1U racks, including front and rear doors, top panel, side panel, air circulation, power distribution and more. Expect to pay at least several hundred dollars for a rack, more for a fancy one with lots of accessories.

I recommend: Learn more by reading a server rack information guide at Server Racks Online. Purchase all sorts of racks and accessories from servercase.com, a division of KRI Computer.

Build your own 1-unit rackmount server to save even more money

The price on this one varies, especially since you may be able to use some parts you have on hand. Expect to pay a few hundred dollars or more, depending on how you want to equip your server, unless you already have some of the more expensive parts in house.

I recommend: Find an article on building a 1U rack mount server at Linux Today, a division of WebMediaBrands. Read a step-by-step guide on building your own Linux server at Instructables.