Rack Mount GPDI/IR above PS-2

Stage & Studio Valvulator GPDI/IR
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1

Hello,
I am setting up a rack mount for a PS-2 (the OG, not the PS-2a) on the bottom, with the standard, no handles rack kit. I want to mount my GPDI/IR and Cyclops on a rack shelf above the PS-2. I’d like to mount a power distribution/surge unit at the top. Do I need an empty space above either the PS-2 or the GPDI/IR?

Here’s what I’m thinking, and do I need the blank space?

1U Power Distribution / Surge
1U Blank Space
2U Shelf space for Cyclops (left) and GPDI/IR (right) with the feet left on if possible
2U PS-2 in rack mount kit

I’d really like to do without the 1U blank space, but with the GPDI/IR at the front, directly under the power unit, it seems like pretty tight quarters for heat evacuation between the GPDI/IR and the power unit. Thoughts?

2

Bumping and evolving my thoughts a bit. I’ll add a Synergy SYN-2 at some point soon. Total of 6U in hardware, not allowing for any needed blank spaces for cooling, as below. For ease of handling and placement in my little studio, I’m leaning to either 2 or 3 equal sized separate cases.

  1. PS-2 in the rack mount bracket = 1x2U,
  2. GPDI/IR (ideally with feet) and Cyclops side by side on a vented tray = 1x2U,
  3. Furman or similar = 1x1U + SYN-2 = 1x1U; total 2U

Can I get away with the above, no added cooling spaces, and not overheat equipment or melt tolex glue or tolex on covered cases such as the Case Smith brand cases? Or should I just plan on 3U cases and add a blank space for heat dissipation in each case, or at least the PS-2 and the GPDI/IR cases?

I’m hoping for input int the next week or two, as I plan to purchase cases as soon as I get confirmation on whether or not the additional 1U blank space is needed for heat dissapation. Thanks All!

3

Hi @aamefford

Sorry for the delay.

Follow these principles:

  • The air needs to be able to flow in and out of the rack
  • The PS-2A fans must not be blocked – air must be able to move freely near the fan locations
  • The inside of the rack does not get above 40C

I think it’s possible all in one rack, but splitting is fine too. Consider a rack fan slot if in doubt.

Really, if you have a rack, give it try and see.

4

Dan, Thank you. I don’t have cases yet, hence my questions before I purchase. I know the Fryette rack head case for the PS-2 is a 2U case with open front and back. I don’t know if it is a “Standard Sized” 2U case internally. I’d just get that and be done with it, but I’d like matching cases for the other items.

Will the GPDI/IR with the Cyclops right next to it, be OK in a 2U rack fastened to a vented rack? With the feet left on, I think the top of the GPDI/IR will be close to the top of the rack, but the area around the GPDI/IR will be pretty clear.

Knowing these answers will help me decide on case size and which items go in which cases. Thank you!