Soundproofing box for a noisy server

Project Overview

In May 2014, DECIBEL was commissioned to provide a custom acoustic solution for the Sofia office of Alcatel-Lucent—the issue: a noisy server unit that disrupted the surrounding workspace. The solution needed to suppress the sound without interfering with the equipment’s thermal management and operational integrity.

Challenge

Servers generate continuous low- to mid-frequency noise, which can quickly become a source of distraction in office environments. In this case, the challenge was heightened by the need to enclose the server without compromising airflow or causing overheating. A delicate balance had to be struck between soundproofing and system ventilation.

Scope of Work

DECIBEL handled the full process—from design and fabrication to delivery and installation of a custom-built silencing enclosure. The system was designed to integrate with the existing office layout while meeting the functional needs of the server equipment.

Solution

A tailored soundproofing box was constructed using noise-insulating materials specifically selected for their performance in the relevant frequency ranges. The enclosure included a built-in ventilation system to ensure uninterrupted air circulation. This allowed the server to maintain optimal operating temperatures while significantly reducing the noise it emitted into the surrounding workspace.

Result

The result was a quieter, more comfortable office environment. The noise from the server was brought down to acceptable levels, improving the acoustic conditions for nearby employees without affecting the server’s performance. The solution extended the utility of the server area while preserving the integrity of the equipment.

How does a server sound? Noisy... 

As digital infrastructure expands, noisy equipment like servers is becoming more common in open-plan and shared office environments. Solutions like DECIBEL’s custom-made silencing box offer an efficient way to integrate essential hardware into workspaces without sacrificing comfort, productivity, or technical reliability.

If you want the server room to be the quiet room in your office, give us a call!