Cisco UCS rack servers are designed as standalone servers; however, these can be managed or unmanaged through UCS Managers. Unmanaged servers can be connected to any standard upstream switch or Nexus switch to provide network access. However, managed servers need to connect with Fabric Interconnects directly or indirectly through Fabric Extenders to provide LAN, SAN, and management network functionality. Based on the application requirement, the model of rack server can be selected from the various options discussed in the previous chapter. All the rack servers are designed in a similar way; however, they vary in capacity, size, weight, and dimensions. These rack servers can be fitted into any standard 19-inch rack with adequate air space for servicing the server. Servers should be installed on the slide rails provided with them. At least two people or a mechanical lift should be used to place the servers in the rack. Always place the heavy rack servers at the bottom of the rack, and lighter servers at the top.

Cisco UCS rack servers provide front-to-rear cooling, and the data center should maintain adequate air conditioning to dissipate the heat from these servers. A Cisco rack server's power requirement depends on the model and can be checked in the server data sheet.