F5 8900, Platform Manual

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Platform Installation
About platform installation
After you have reviewed the hardware requirements and become familiar with the 8900 platform, you can
install the unit.
Determining which rack mounting kit to use
The 8900 platform comes with two types of rack mounting kits: stationary front-mounting and sliding
rail-mounting. An advantage of installing the sliding rail-mounting kit is that you can then slide the unit in
and out of the rack as needed.
The tasks required to install the platform differ depending on the type of rack mount you decide to use or
which type of cabinet unit you are installing into (single two-post cabinet or four-post cabinet).
About general recommendations for rack mounting
Although not required, a 1U space between units makes it easier for you to remove the unit from the rack
if that the unit requires service. A 1U space between units also provides additional cable routing options.
Leaving at least 100 mm spacing from the front panel of the unit to the rack front or rack door provides
enough room for you to route the cables without excessive bending or insulation damage.
A shelf or similar device is required to support the unit if only one person is installing the unit.
Caution: To prevent personal injury or damage to the unit, F5 Networks strongly recommends that at least
two people perform the installation.
Important: This product is sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). F5 Networks recommends that you
use proper ESD grounding procedures and equipment when you install or maintain the unit.
About the front-mounting kit
You can use the front-mounting kit if you are installing into a two-post rack.
Front-mounting kit hardware
The front-mounting kit includes these parts.