nonrack

Nonrack, or non-rack, is a term used to describe hardware or equipment that is not designed for mounting in a standard 19-inch equipment rack. The phrase lacks a formal, universally accepted definition, and its meaning varies by context; it generally signals freestanding, tabletop, wall-mounted, or portable deployment rather than fixed rack installation.

In information technology and data-center discussions, nonrack devices include compact servers, microservers, and other equipment intended for desk- or cabinet-free setups. They often rely on alternative mounting options such as wall brackets, shelf supports, or compact chassis, and must address different cooling and cabling needs than traditional rack-mounted gear.

Advantages of nonrack designs include lower upfront costs for small deployments, easier relocation, and reduced space requirements. Drawbacks can include limited scalability, potentially reduced cooling efficiency, and less standardized integration with existing rack-based infrastructure.

Outside IT, the term can appear in discussions of consumer electronics or industrial gear that is sold or used without a rack, or in hobbyist contexts where equipment is placed on desks or walls.

Because "nonrack" is not a formal standard, usage varies by vendor and community. When encountered, it generally indicates a non-rack mounting or placement option for the product. See also: rack-mount, enclosure, tabletop chassis, wall-mount enclosure.