Stacking computers

From: ajp166 <ajp166_at_bellatlantic.net>
Date: Mon Oct 23 18:51:56 2000

From: McFadden, Mike <mmcfadden_at_cmh.edu>


>I wonder if pile stability is the most important, or that the heaviest
stuff
>be on the bottom, or is regular shape items on the bottom best. Seeing
the
>floor is not a problem.


Yes, if it falls over things may break. Apply common sense here. Also
of the stack is too heavy for one of the lower units fix it!

>Can anyone guess what the average per foot floor load is for 3' high
>computer piles? I'm afraid that my garage attic may collapse on the
cars if
>I stack it higher than 3'. I'm also worried about the temperature
extremes
>in the garage attic.


I'd bet 50-100 pounds SQft for really nasty stuff and for a stack of
common
PCs down around 25. The problem is how much can the floor hold? If
it flexes when you stand on it that would be around say 170lb/sqft
(assuming
nominal adult person) and might represent a upper limit.

Temperature is not an issue. Humidity and condensation are big issues.
Some plastics dont age well when hot or get very brittle when cold so
handle with care and avoid the sun (UV). Also sitting for years is bad
for
caps so lack of use can be problematic.

The last problem varies with area but is likely everywhere, Vermin.
Spiders, bees, roaches, mice to name a few can be very distructive
from chewing, feces, urine and introduced debries(nesting material for
one) or a hazard to the user Bee stings or other bites. Seal stored
equipment to keep them out and keep them dry.

Allison
Received on Mon Oct 23 2000 - 18:51:56 BST