Middle Atlantic Custom Shelf, 3 RU, 20.5" D, Anodized

The Middle Atlantic Custom Shelf offers a purpose-built, professional-grade solution for hosting a wide range of equipment in a standard 19" rack. Engineered to support components precisely where they need to be, this 3 RU shelf is expertly cut to provide an opening that matches the face of the mounted device, delivering a clean, borderless presentation inside a standard enclosure. Designed with the RSH concept in mind, these shelves are not generic add-ons; they are specially crafted to integrate with Middle Atlantic’s RSH custom rackmount system, ensuring a secure, finished look with minimal modification. Whether you’re installing audio, video, network gear, or control equipment, this shelf helps you create a tidy, organized rack environment that enhances performance, accessibility, and airflow.

In addition to its exacting fit, the shelf carries the premium, durable qualities you expect from Middle Atlantic products. The anodized finish not only provides a sleek, contemporary appearance but also offers exceptional resistance to wear, corrosion, and environmental exposure — essential for broadcast suites, control rooms, or compact IT closets where gear sits in active use. Constructed from high-grade aluminum, the shelf remains lightweight yet robust, able to support a range of 3 RU devices while maintaining rigidity and stability over time. The result is a rack-mounted surface that stays true to its dimensions, remains square, and presents a professional image to clients and team members who rely on consistent performance and presentation in high-visibility environments.

What sets the Middle Atlantic Custom Shelf apart is its focus on practical, real-world installation benefits. It’s not just a piece of hardware; it’s a component that contributes to better cable management, more accessible front-panel controls, and smoother maintenance workflows. The precise machining and cutouts align with the unit’s electrical and aesthetic specifications, so you won’t need to improvise with tools or modify the enclosure to achieve a perfect fit. For integrators, installers, and operators who demand efficiency and reliability, this shelf is designed to minimize installation time while maximizing rack density and organization.

From a user experience perspective, the 3 RU, 20.5" depth is optimized for a broad spectrum of devices, including field-deployed equipment, network appliances, and compact power distribution units. The depth provides ample room for connectors, cables, and ventilation paths behind the installed device, reducing the risk of interference and overheating. The anodized finish not only elevates the appearance of your rack, it also makes cleaning straightforward, with resistance to fingerprints and smudges that can accumulate in busy install environments. By combining an exact-fit opening with sturdy construction and attractive finishes, Middle Atlantic delivers a solution that looks as professional as it performs.

For installers working across environments—from studio control rooms to data closet racks—the shelf represents a thoughtful balance of form and function. The 3 RU height fits neatly into standard rack spaces, while the 20.5" depth allows for comfortable access to front-panel controls and interfaces without sacrificing rear clearance for cabling. The shelf’s design accommodates a variety of cabinet configurations, ensuring compatibility with most 19" enclosures while maintaining a consistent, clean edge that aligns with other Middle Atlantic mounting accessories. When you pair this shelf with RSH custom rackmounts, you gain an integrated approach to mounting that simplifies the assembly process, reduces customization needs, and yields professional results that stand up to scrutiny in quality-conscious environments.

In short, the Middle Atlantic Custom Shelf is a strategic investment for anyone seeking a reliable, aesthetically pleasing, and easy-to-install solution that integrates seamlessly with standard 19" racks. Its combination of precise fit, robust anodized aluminum construction, and compatibility with Middle Atlantic’s RSH system offers tangible benefits: faster deployments, better gear protection, improved cable management, and a polished rack appearance that communicates quality and professionalism to clients and collaborators alike.

• Custom fit: Precisely cut opening for the face of the mounted component, delivering a neatly trimmed, professional look inside a standard 19" enclosure.
• Durable anodized finish: Sleek, corrosion-resistant surface that maintains its appearance in busy environments and over time.
• Standard rack compatibility: Designed for standard 19" enclosures, enabling quick integration with existing infrastructure.
• RSH-friendly design: Part of Middle Atlantic’s custom rackmount ecosystem, ensuring a clean, secure installation with minimal modification.
• Versatile application: Ideal for audio, video, network, and control gear, providing reliable support and easy front-panel access for servicing.

Technical Details of Middle Atlantic Custom Shelf

• RU height: 3 RU
• Depth: 20.5 inches
• Finish: Anodized aluminum
• Material: Aluminum
• Enclosure compatibility: Standard 19" rack enclosures

How to install Middle Atlantic Custom Shelf

• Prepare your rack: Ensure you have a standard 19" enclosure with available mounting rails and space for a 3 RU shelf.
• Position the shelf: Slide the shelf into the rack rails at the desired height, ensuring the front face aligns with the rack’s front mounting plane.
• Align the opening: Verify that the face opening of the shelf matches the front of the component to be mounted, so the device’s controls and indicators are accessible when installed.
• Secure the shelf: Use standard rack screws through the shelf’s mounting holes into the rack rails, tightening evenly to maintain a square, secure fit.
• Install the device and manage cabling: Place the component onto the shelf, connect cables, and route them to maintain clean pathways and adequate ventilation around the unit.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the depth of the shelf? A: The shelf has a depth of 20.5 inches, which provides ample space for front-access equipment while leaving room for rear cabling and ventilation in standard 19" racks.

Q: Is this shelf compatible with all 19" racks? A: It is designed for standard 19" rack enclosures and works particularly well with Middle Atlantic’s RSH custom rackmount ecosystem, offering a precise fit when used with compatible components.

Q: What finish is used on this shelf? A: The shelf features an anodized aluminum finish, delivering a durable, attractive surface that resists wear and enhances rack aesthetics over time.

Q: Does the shelf come with hardware? A: Mounting hardware compatibility is with standard rack rails; the inclusion of screws or mounting hardware may vary by package or region. Check your shipment contents to confirm exactly what is included.

Q: Can I use this shelf for heavy equipment? A: The shelf is designed to support typical 3 RU components intended for rack mounting. For exceptionally heavy gear, verify the combined weight rating of your rack and the shelf, and distribute weight accordingly to avoid overloading the mounting rails.