Abstract: A flexible architecture for installing electronic equipment in a data center rack is provided, in the form of a virtual chassis. The virtual chassis simultaneously accepts multiple types of equipment items (e.g., computing devices, storage devices, communication devices) and/or multiple versions of a given type of equipment item, by altering the physical configuration of the chassis. As a result, cells or spaces of multiple different form-factors may be defined for receiving the equipment. Also, services such as data and power may be pre-attached to a virtual chassis so that when a computer server or other item is installed, it is automatically connected to the services without separate effort. One or more electronic equipment items, when installed in a cell of the chassis, may mate automatically with multiple data connectors and/or power connectors.

Abstract: A flexible architecture for installing electronic equipment in a data center rack is provided, in the form of a virtual chassis. The virtual chassis simultaneously accepts multiple types of equipment items (e.g., computing devices, storage devices, communication devices) and/or multiple versions of a given type of equipment item, by altering the physical configuration of the chassis. As a result, cells or spaces of multiple different form-factors may be defined for receiving the equipment. Also, services such as data and power may be pre-attached to a virtual chassis so that when a computer server or other item is installed, it is automatically connected to the services without separate effort. One or more electronic equipment items, when installed in a cell of the chassis, may mate automatically with multiple data connectors and/or power connectors.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a rack for housing electronic components with a movable power distribution unit (PDU). The rack includes a rack housing configured to accommodate a plurality of electronic components. It also includes a first PDU configured to supply electrical power to the plurality of electronic components. The rack additionally includes an attachment mechanism configured to movably attach the first PDU to the rack housing, so that the first PDU can be moved to create an access space to facilitate a maintenance operation while the first PDU continues to supply power to the plurality of electronic components.