F5 8400, User Manual

Page: 23 / 91

Installing the IP Application Switch Platform
Platform Guide: 8400 and 8800 2 - 1
Installing and connecting the hardware
After you have reviewed the hardware requirements and become familiar
with the IP Application switch, as described in
Getting started with the 8400
and 8800 platforms , on page 1-2, you can install the unit.
There are two types of mounts available to hold the IP Application Switch:
the standard front-rack mount that comes with the IP Application Switch,
and an optional rail mount that allows you to slide the unit in and out as
needed. The tasks you need to perform to install the IP Application Switch
hardware differ depending on which type of mount you decide to use:
◆ Standard front mount
If you want to install the IP Application Switch into the standard
front-rack mount that comes with the hardware, you need to install the
unit into the rack, and then connect the peripheral hardware and the
interfaces. For detailed information, see
Installing the IP Application
Switch hardware , on page 2-2, and Connecting the cables and other
hardware , on page 2-4.
◆ Optional rail mount
If you want to install the IP Application Switch into a rail mount (using
the optional rail-mount kit), you need to perform two preliminary steps.
• First, you must remove the standard mount-related hardware (known
as rack-mount ears ) from the unit, because the mount hardware is no
longer necessary.
• Second, you must install the optional rail-mount kit.
Once you have completed these tasks, you can then install the unit into
the rack and connect the cables and other hardware. For detailed
information on installing a rail-mount kit and installing the unit into the
rack, see Appendix A,
Installing an IP Application Switch Using an
Optional Rail-Mount Kit . For information on connecting the cables and
other hardware, see Connecting the cables and other hardware , on page
2-4.
Whether you are using the standard front mount or the optional rail mount,
you should read the following general recommendations before proceeding
with the installation of the IP Application Switch.
General recommendations for mounting a unit in a rack
We recommend that all units have 1U spacing between them when mounted
in a rack to allow for a rack mounting shelf, and to provide additional air
circulation for cooling the unit.
Although not required, a 1U space between units makes it easier for you to
remove the unit from the rack in the event that the unit requires service. A
1U space between units also provides additional cable routing options.