Middle Atlantic Custom Wide Shelf, 4 RU, 11.5"D, Anodized

Designed for professional rack environments, the Middle Atlantic Custom Wide Shelf in anodized aluminum delivers a precise, tool-free integration for a wide range of 19" equipment. Built on the trusted RSH (Rack Shelf Hybrid) concept, this shelf is custom-cut to provide a perfect opening for the front face of the component being mounted. The result is a clean, flush installation with a neat, professional appearance that minimizes gaps, reduces front-panel wear, and ensures easy access to controls, LEDs, and connectors. Ideal for broadcast rooms, post-production suites, data centers, AV racks, and anywhere a reliable, aesthetically pleasing rack solution is required, the Custom Wide Shelf combines durability, rigidity, and versatile mounting in a single, elegant package. With the anodized finish and robust aluminum construction, this shelf is ready for daily use in demanding environments, where reliability and a polished look matter as much as functionality.

• Custom fit for standard 19" enclosures: The shelf is engineered to integrate with standard 19" racks using the proven RSH custom rackmount approach. By matching a precise opening to the component’s face, it eliminates awkward gaps and misalignments, delivering a clean, factory-finished look. This means faster installations, fewer modifications, and a more professional presentation in every rack draw. The precision-cut face opening ensures that front-panel features remain accessible while maintaining a sleek, uniform appearance across the entire rack.
• 4 RU height with 11.5" depth: At 4 rack units high, this shelf provides ample space for larger modules while preserving a compact footprint in the rack. The 11.5" depth offers a substantial base for deeper devices, ensuring stability and allowing adequate room for cable management, connectors, and ventilation. This combination is ideal for mid-size servers, audio/video interfaces, network appliances, and other equipment that benefits from a solid support surface without sacrificing rack density or airflow.
• Durable anodized aluminum finish: The anodized finish not only delivers a refined, professional look but also enhances longevity in tough environments. Anodizing provides corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and easy cleaning, helping the shelf maintain its appearance even in high-traffic racks or rooms with challenging conditions. The light-weight yet rigid aluminum construction contributes to overall rack resilience, reduces vibration, and supports reliable mounting of sensitive components without bending or bending over time.
• Neatly-trimmed installation for a flawless front: The custom-cut opening creates a tightly trimmed face that mirrors the exact silhouette of the installed device. This reduces the risk of gaps that can collect dust or interfere with airflow, while preserving a professional, museum-quality front. The precise opening also improves access to front-panel controls, status LEDs, and connectors, allowing technicians to work comfortably without removing the shelf or disturbing adjacent equipment. A clean, flush presentation is essential in televised studios, control rooms, and any environment where aesthetics matter as much as performance.
• Versatile mounting and airflow-friendly design: Beyond simply holding a component, this shelf supports thoughtful cable routing, power distribution, and accessory integration within a 19" rack. Its rugged yet lightweight aluminum construction is compatible with a broad range of devices, from compact servers to audio interfaces and network appliances. The shelf’s design preserves front-to-back airflow, enables neat cable management, and accommodates accessories such as blanking panels or ventilation panels to maintain an orderly, efficient rack environment.

Technical Details of Middle Atlantic Custom Wide Shelf

• Height (RU): 4 RU
• Depth: 11.5 inches
• Finish: Anodized
• Material: Aluminum
• Compatibility: Standard 19" rack enclosures
• Product family: RSH custom rackmount shelf system
• Intended use: Provides a precise face opening for mounted components while maintaining a clean rack appearance

How to install Middle Atlantic Custom Wide Shelf

Installing the Custom Wide Shelf in a 19" rack is designed to be straightforward and secure, with a focus on preserving rack integrity and ensuring proper ventilation. Begin by planning the shelf location within the rack. Identify a stable mounting area that sits level with existing equipment and leaves clear access to the component’s front panel. Power down devices as needed and gather the appropriate mounting hardware—typically screws compatible with your rack’s front rails. Align the shelf so that its face opening lines up with the target component, ensuring the cutout sits precisely around the device’s front profile. Carefully slide the shelf into the rack until it rests against the rack rails, then attach the shelf to the front rails using the standard mounting holes. Tighten screws evenly to avoid distortion of the face opening or misalignment with the adjacent equipment. Once secured, insert the component so that its face aligns with the opening, and attach any required front-mount hardware or device ears following the manufacturer’s instructions. Finally, route cables with attention to airflow and clearance, check for any interference with door swings or adjacent modules, and power up to verify that the device operates normally and front-panel controls remain accessible. Regularly inspect mounting hardware to ensure long-term stability and re-tighten as needed in accordance with your facility’s maintenance schedule. This process results in a neat, professional installation where the face of the component sits precisely within the custom opening, delivering both functional accessibility and a polished rack appearance.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What does 4 RU height mean for this shelf? A: RU, or rack units, measure vertical space in a 19" rack. Four RU equals about 7 inches of vertical space, so the shelf provides substantial room for mid-size components while keeping a compact rack footprint. This height suits devices with front panels that require a precise opening without overshadowing neighboring equipment.
• Q: What kinds of devices are best suited for this shelf? A: The shelf is designed for standard 19" rack-mountable equipment. It is ideal for mounting network appliances, audio/video interfaces, small servers, patch panels, power distribution units, or other devices that benefit from a custom-cut, flush front opening. Availability depends on the device’s front face dimensions and mounting ears or flanges; ensure the component’s face fits within the cutout and aligns with the rack rails for secure mounting.
• Q: Is the shelf adjustable or fixed? A: This shelf is designed as a fixed-width, fixed-height solution with a custom face opening tailored to the component. It does not include adjustable rails; the emphasis is on a precise, clean fit and a professional presentation within the rack. For variability, consider additional shelves or different RSH configurations that accommodate other component sizes if needed.
• Q: Does the shelf require special tools for installation? A: Standard rack-mounting hardware and basic tools (such as a screwdriver) are typically sufficient. Follow the included or standard installation procedure for your rack to ensure a secure fit. Always verify that the mounting hardware is compatible with your enclosure’s rails and that any front-panel openings remain unobstructed by screws or hardware.
• Q: What maintenance or care does the anodized finish require? A: Anodized aluminum is resistant to corrosion and wear, but routine care is still recommended. Wipe with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid harsh chemicals that could affect the finish. Regular checks to ensure screws are tight and that the shelf remains level help maintain a pristine appearance and stable operation in busy rack environments.