Thermal requirements for electronic equipment cabinets exposed to outdoor environments

Criteria for the design of sealed, outdoor electronic cabinets are discussed. In particular, the focus is on determining the impact of solar radiation and outside air temperature on the internal cabinet environment. The effect of materials, finishes, and insulation on the penetration of solar radiation is shown, and design ideas for limiting solar effects are discussed. In addition to solar radiation, the author discusses how circulating fans in a sealed cabinet can lower internal air temperature, as well as some mechanisms for the removal of excess heat energy from the cabinet.<>