Middle Atlantic DWR Series Rack, DWR-12-17PD

The DWR-12-17PD from Middle Atlantic’s acclaimed DWR Series delivers a superior solution for mounting and servicing equipment in tight spaces without sacrificing accessibility, security, or organization. Designed as a pivoting, sectional wall cabinet, this rack keeps floor space open while offering quick rear access to gear, cables, and power distribution. Whether installed in a secure data closet, a broadcast or AV installation, or any environment where space is at a premium, the DWR-12-17PD provides a versatile, rugged home for servers, switches, patch panels, AV receivers, and PDUs. Built for professional environments, this wall rack blends streamlined cable management with robust hardware and long-lasting finishes to support reliable, ongoing operation in demanding conditions. The result is a highly adaptable rack that simplifies installation, maintenance, and upgrades, enabling faster service and a cleaner, more professional setup overall.

• Pivoting, sectional wall cabinet with rear access: A smart swing-out design lets technicians reach rear ports, power connections, and cabling without removing equipment. This minimizes downtime, reduces handling risk, and keeps your floor area clear for movement and service work, making it ideal for crowded rooms, limited spaces, and secured or non-secured environments.
• Rear access and cable management for clean, organized setups: The DWR-12-17PD provides dedicated rear access channels, cable glands, and internal management features to route power and data cables neatly. By separating front-accessible components from rear cabling, technicians can perform upgrades or routine maintenance quickly while maintaining excellent airflow and traceability.
• Secure, flexible installation for demanding environments: Built with heavy-duty welded steel and a robust lockable door, this cabinet delivers reliable security for valuable equipment. The pivot hinge system is designed for repeated use, ensuring dependable performance in daily operations and long-term deployments.
• Adjustable 19" rack rails and high-capacity layout: The internal rails are adjustable to accommodate a variety of standard 19" equipment, with space optimized for up to 17U of gear. This flexibility makes it easy to mix servers, switches, patch panels, and PDUs in a single, compact enclosure while preserving service access and airflow.
• Space-saving, durable finish for professional environments: The wall-mount design preserves valuable floor space, while the textured powder-coated finish resists dents and corrosion and stands up to everyday use in offices, studios, and technical rooms. The result is a clean, professional appearance with dependable performance over time.

Technical Details of DWR-12-17PD

• Model: DWR-12-17PD
• Series: DWR (Door with Rear Access) Wall Rack
• Construction: Heavy-duty welded steel with durable powder-coated finish
• Rack Rails: Adjustable 19" mounting rails; supports up to 17U of equipment
• Access: Pivoting wall-mount design with rear access panel for easy cabling
• Security: Locking door with keyed cam lock for added protection
• Finish: Textured black powder coat; color options may vary by configuration
• Includes: Wall mounting hardware and installation instructions
• Capacity and standards: Designed to accommodate standard 19" equipment in professional AV/IT installations

How to install DWR-12-17PD

Preparation is key to a clean, secure installation. Start by selecting a location with solid wall support and access to electrical outlets or data drops as needed. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs and plan mounting points that position the cabinet at a comfortable working height. Remove any doors or components as needed to simplify the mounting process. Attach the pivoting hinge mechanism to the wall or frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring level alignment and secure anchoring into studs or solid backing. With the cabinet panel ready, mount the main body to the wall using the included hardware, checking again for plumb and level. Install the internal 19" rack rails, adjusting the rails to the desired U-space (up to 17U) and securing them firmly to the cabinet frame. Reinstall any doors or panels and verify the swing action of the pivot mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Route cables through rear access openings or grommets, using the built-in cable management channels to keep wires orderly and unobstructed. When you’re ready, mount your equipment in front, starting with heavier items first and leaving room for cable connections at the rear. Connect power distribution and network cables with care, labeling cables for future maintenance. Close the door, engage the lock, and perform a light power-on test to verify adequate ventilation and cooling paths. Finally, perform a thorough inspection to confirm there are no cable pinches, obstruction to the pivot, or clearance issues during operation. Periodic maintenance should include checking hardware fasteners and ensuring the rear access panels remain properly seated for continued serviceability.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What equipment fits in the DWR-12-17PD? A: It supports standard 19" rack-mount equipment and provides up to 17U of vertical space, making it suitable for servers, switches, patch panels, PDUs, and related network or AV devices.
• Q: Is the cabinet lockable? A: Yes. The door is locking to protect gear in secured environments. Depending on configuration, additional tamper-resistant features or higher-security options may be available.
• Q: Can it be used in unsecured or mixed environments? A: Absolutely. The rear-access design and sturdy construction make it flexible for secured rooms or more open spaces where quick service is needed without exposing the floor area.
• Q: How do I maximize ventilation? A: The cabinet uses vented or perforated panels and thoughtfully placed air paths. Keep cables neatly organized to avoid blocking vents and ensure optimal airflow around active equipment.
• Q: Do I need special tools to install? A: Basic tools for mounting to studs and securing the rails are typically sufficient. Always follow the included installation manual for precise hardware and torque specifications.