Network Equipment Installation: The Ideal Mounting Method for Cable Modems
In the world of home networking, the need for seamless integration with other network infrastructure is paramount. For those seeking a more professional setup, custom 19" rack mount solutions are becoming increasingly popular for home routers and modems.
One such example is the TP-Link ER605 router, which boasts a modular 1U 19-inch rack mount specifically designed for it. This 3D printed mount is configurable and can be used with other modular pieces or blanking plates to fit into standard 19" racks [1].
For those desiring a more professional-grade router, the Swissonic LAN+WiFi-6 Router stands out. This router is a real 19" rack-mount unit, intended for stage and professional use but adaptable for home use where rack mounting is desired. It comes ready for integration into portable racks [5].
Eero WiFi Systems, while not offering full rack mounts, do have wall mount brackets compatible with their home WiFi devices, and 8U 19" vertical wall mount cabinets usable for rack mounting related devices [3].
Generic 19" wall mount brackets and acrylic rack holders are also available, capable of fitting a range of routers and modems that are sized to fit into a 19" rack frame. Walmart, for instance, sells some acrylic mounts and patch panel brackets that can be used for home routers with the correct dimensions [2].
When it comes to cable modems, dedicated rack mounts are less common, but third-party modular mounting brackets might be adaptable depending on the device size. For instance, a recent modification of an Arris modem was done to improve its integration with other network infrastructure. The modem was mounted in a 1U rack case, and a new 19" rack mount was designed and 3D printed for it [4].
The front panel of the modified Arris modem was professionally cut and laser etched to appear as if it were original to the device, even including an Arris logo. The plastic case of the Arris modem was easy to dismantle, making the modification process simpler [4].
In conclusion, while many consumer-grade home routers do not come with native 19" rack mount kits, third-party modular mounts (including 3D printed options) and stage/professional routers built into rack form factor (like Swissonic models) serve this niche well. For cable modems, checking for available third-party 3D printed mounting kits or professional rack-mount routers (often WiFi 6/6E capable) is recommended.
Sources: [1], [2], [3], [5]
[1] TP-Link ER605 Router 1U Modular 19-inch Rack Mount: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4950383 [2] Acrylic Rack Mount Brackets for Home Routers: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Acrylic-Rack-Mount-Brackets-for-Home-Routers-15U-19-Inch-Rack-Mount-Kit/990654633 [3] Eero Wall Mount Brackets and 8U 19" Vertical Wall Mount Cabinets: https://www.eero.com/support/setup/mounting/ [4] The Modification of an Arris Modem for Rack Mounting: https://www.eccentricworkshop.com/blog/modifying-arris-modem-for-rack-mounting [5] Swissonic LAN+WiFi-6 Router: https://www.swissonic.ch/en/products/lan-wifi-6-router/
The TP-Link ER605 router features a modular 1U 19-inch rack mount, suitable for data-and-cloud-computing technology in a professional setup. For a more adaptable solution, third-party 3D printed mounting kits are available for cable modems, such as the one used in a recent modification of an Arris modem.
