109 Russell Street, Emu Heights NSW 2750

02 4728 6111

Standards such as ISO 27001 outline best practices for physical security within a data centre

Argent provides updates on new products, new installations, design innovations and tips on security enclosures

Physical security at the server rack level is critical as part of a data security plan

Data security has never been more important.

The evolving requirements of modern IT infrastructure in data centres demand maximum physical security.

There are standards such as ISO 27001 that outline best practices for physical security within a data centre.

Another example in the USA is HIPAA part 164.310 (a) (1) which requires relevant organisations to “implement policies and procedures to limit physical access to its electronic information systems and the facility or facilities in which they are housed, while ensuring that properly authorised access is allowed.”

HIPAA does not specify which physical safeguards organisations must use, but the particular law clearly requires the relevant organisations to take reasonable measures that limit physical access to information systems.

IT Security vs Cybersecurity

Although closely related, IT security differs slightly from cybersecurity. IT security is broader in nature and focuses on protecting all of an organisation’s data — whether that be in electronic or a more physical form.

For example, IT security would include securing keypads that allow access to a room full of data files.

In addition to securing data centre access, there are many mechanisms that restrict physical access at the rack level. A good offering should be cost effective and strong.

Argent V50 Data Vault Sept22

Patented Argent V50 Data Vault

The Argent V50 Data Vault is a unique option for in-rack physical security.

Server rack physical security is often associated with the use of colocation facilities. Organisations that lease space within a colocated data centre sometimes erect cages as a way of restricting physical rack access. Because of the cost of floorspace in a colocation facility, however, organisations are increasingly abandoning the cage in favour of rack level security mechanisms.

The benefit is reduced floorspace which decreases overall costs to rent space.

Data centres can see a surprisingly high volume of foot traffic as technicians come and go, performing various installations, maintenance or upgrade related tasks. Physical security mechanisms help ensure that anyone who has access to a data centre – legitimate or not – cannot access unauthorised hardware. Besides restricting access to systems that contain sensitive information, server rack physical security systems help prevent hardware theft.

Argent V50 Data Vault Sept22

Argent’s V50 Data Rack

  • Can be installed inside any 19-inch server rack
  • No external fasteners or screws when fitted
  • Uses very little valuable RU space
  • An extremely cost effective security system
  • Has integrated ventilation
  • Secure cable entry
  • Depth is adjustable
  • Included front & rear factory fitted key locks
  • Option for client specified key lock
  • Can be retro-fitted into an existing server rack already in use

Argent 25 Series Server Racks

Ideal for commercial applications, the 25 Series server rack is high quality, cost effective, and 100% Australian designed and manufactured.

Argent also designs and manufactures SCEC approved B Class and C Class products for use in security applications.

Argent PSN racks are another option for government organisations where a secure rack is required.

Argent can assist clients with designs before manufacturing of the server rack commences.

100% Australian designed and manufactured – no supply chain delays Contact sales@argent.com.au or T: 02 9914 0900

Australia’s first Mobile Mission Operations Centre (MOC), unveiled by CSIRO at IAC 2025,

Engineered for Motion

At the heart of the MOC are Argent’s custom-built server racks — designed to withstand vibration, shock, and rapid setup cycles.

“All of our server racks are designed to pull all the way out and spin so that you’ve got easy access to both the front and the rear,” Dunn noted.

Each rack can be fully removed to allow clients such as Southern Launch to install their own mission hardware, creating a secure, modular computing environment ready to run launch simulations, satellite operations, or payload control within an hour.

We took one of our existing, popular, and high-performance Argent rack designs and re-engineered it to create a bespoke version for CSIRO,” said Humberto Mesa, Senior Design Engineer at Opie Manufacturing Group.

The new rack features shock-absorbing mounts so it can be safely mounted on a truck, and we also improved the pull-out and rotation mechanism for smoother, more durable operation. It’s a small redesign — but one that makes a big difference in performance and reliability.

Seamless Integration with Varley’s Manufacturing Excellence

The MOC was built at Varley’s Brisbane facility, a project that exemplifies Australian collaboration across manufacturing, research, and advanced engineering. Argent’s precision-engineered rack systems were integrated into Varley’s structure to host critical compute, comms, and data systems — providing unmatched access, stability, and safety.

Through this partnership, local expertise from Opie Manufacturing Group and Varley has helped CSIRO establish a deployable mission control hub capable of supporting both commercial launches and STEM outreach for students across Australia.

A Backbone for the Next Generation of Missions

With redundant 4G, 5G, UHF/VHF, and satellite communications, solar-backed power, and complete off-grid capability, the MOC is built for continuous uptime — and Argent’s robust rack systems are its backbone.

Whether operating in the desert, coastal environments, or at launch sites thousands of kilometres apart, these racks safeguard the systems that power flight telemetry, trajectory data, and secure communications.

Conclusion:

Argent’s involvement in the CSIRO MOC highlights how precision metal fabrication and smart engineering make innovation possible. From the shop floor in Western Sydney to the frontier of space, Argent racks carry the weight of Australia’s most advanced missions.

Argent — Supporting Australia’s space ambitions, one rack at a time.

 

📚 Sources: CSIRO News | Varley Group | EEVblog 1712 – CSIRO Mobile Mission Control Centre.

🔗 CSIRO Article | Varley News | YouTube Tour

Featuring Argent server racks engineered and manufactured by Opie Manufacturing Group.

Argent Server Racks are the powerhouse for CSIRO’s Mobile Mission Operations Centre

Australia’s first mobile Mission Operations Centre (MOC) is more than a feat of engineering — it’s a statement of national capability. Built by Varley Group for CSIRO, this state-of-the-art control centre transforms from a B-double trailer into a fully functional...

Case Study: High-Density Data Center Solution for a Leading Financial Institution

Client Overview A leading financial institution faced growing challenges in managing its expanding data center infrastructure. With increasing demands for high-performance computing, data security, and energy efficiency, the organization sought an advanced server...

Building Your Data Security with Argent 50 B&C Class Security Server Racks

Argent’s 50 Series racks are trusted by Sydney Trains, defence organisations, and major infrastructure projects across Australia.

Optimising High-Performance Computing with Hot Aisle Containment

efficient cooling is critical—not just to safeguard equipment but also to maximise system performance. One key strategy driving efficiency is hot aisle containment.

Sydney Trains supports Argent server racks that are 100% designed and manufactured in Australia

This case study explores how Argent server racks support Sydney Trains’ operations and highlights key features that make them a preferred choice.

ARGENT acquired by OPIE Group

Opie Manufacturing Group, Australia’s leading steel products manufacturer, proudly announces the successful merger and acquisition of Wilson & Gilkes, a distinguished provider of security enclosures and fabricated metal components. This strategic move enhances Opie Manufacturing Group’s industry standing and expands its capabilities in fabrication and contract manufacturing.

Argent PDU – Power Distribution Unit

Argent In-Post PDU used for Infrastructure IT Server Racks Power Distribution Units (PDU’s) play a crucial role in distributing power to devices in Argent commercial server racks and SCEC B Class and C Class enclosures. In the fast-paced digital era, organisations...

Argent New Robotic Press Brake – Art to Part in 20 minutes

Better, Faster, Cheaper - Argent Components On display at Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW) 2023 was the new acquisition to the Argent manufacturing facility, the LVD Dyna-Cell press brake. The robotic bending cell was extremely popular with visitors to the 2023...

New robotic technology for Argent SCEC Class B and Class C server racks

Argent SCEC server racks use advanced Australian manufacturing automation With businesses facing the tightest labour market since the 1970s, the shortage of skilled staff requires manufacturers to consider a range of technology options to remain relevant and...

Argent Open Frame Racks compared to enclosed server racks

Five Advantages of Argent Open Frame Racks Choosing between Open Data rack and Enclosed server racks, users have one of two choices to make. Enclosed or Open Frame, which one is really better? Server racks are open frames or cabinets designed for mounting, organising...