Middle Atlantic ERK Series 27RU AV Floor Standing Rack – 28in Depth Floor Standing Cabinet

The Middle Atlantic ERK Series 27RU AV Floor Standing Rack is an economical, sturdy solution designed for professional AV environments where reliability, security, and modular growth matter. This 27U, 28-inch-deep cabinet is built to house and protect critical equipment while offering flexible options for expansion. With solid sides and a fully welded construction, the ERK Series stands up to demanding rack-mount gear, quiet operation, and the rigors of live environments. It provides an economical entry point into clean, organized AV rack systems that can be expanded into partitioned, multi-bay configurations as your setup evolves. When paired with ERK-Z4 brackets, this rack becomes seismically certified, delivering enhanced protection for valuable components in areas prone to vibration or seismic activity.

• The ERK Series is designed as an economical standalone rack that can also be ganged to form partitioned, multi-bay installations. This capability supports efficient thermal management and organized security for larger AV ecosystems, letting you add bays side-by-side as your gear footprint grows. Its modular approach helps keep equipment accessible while optimizing airflow and cable routing across multiple units.
• Durable, purpose-built construction ensures long-term reliability in busy control rooms, studios, and install sites. With solid sides and a fully welded frame, the cabinet resists flex, protects sensitive electronics, and maintains structural integrity under routine rack-mount operations. The robust build supports heavy-weight components and provides a stable base for precise mounting of AV, network, and power distribution equipment.
• Seismic certification is a standout feature when used with ERK-Z4 brackets. This compatibility gives you added peace of mind in environments where equipment must remain in place during unexpected events. The combination of the ERK rack and ERK-Z4 brackets creates a secure, compliant installation that protects critical gear during movement, vibrations, or tremors.
• Partitioning and security are central to the ERK Series design. The ability to gang multiple racks means you can create dedicated spaces for different equipment sets—such as source devices, processing units, and distribution hardware—while maintaining clean wiring paths and controlled access. This modular approach helps with maintenance and upgrades, reducing downtime during routine service or component swaps.
• 27RU and 28-inch depth deliver a practical balance of space and reach for professional AV gear. The 27U height accommodates a range of rack-mount devices, including audio processors, video switchers, controllers, and small-format power distribution units. The deeper profile supports larger modules and cabling behind equipment, enabling more generous rear clearance for cooling, power cables, and network connections without crowding front-facing front-access devices.

Technical Details of Middle Atlantic ERK Series 27RU AV Floor Standing Rack

• Rack units (RU): 27U of usable space for mounting standard 19-inch equipment
• Depth: 28 inches (rear clearance and cabling space optimized for AV gear)
• Construction: Fully welded steel cabinet with solid sides for durability and rigidity
• Seismic compatibility: Suitable for use with ERK-Z4 seismic brackets to improve protection against movement
• Modular potential: Designed to be ganged with other ERK components to create partitioned multi-bay installations

How to install Middle Atlantic ERK Series 27RU AV Floor Standing Rack

Before installation, plan your layout to maximize accessibility, airflow, and future expansion. Confirm you have the ERK-Z4 brackets on hand if seismic protection is required for your site, and ensure the floor or mounting surface can support the cabinet’s weight once loaded. Begin by assembling any optional accessories you intend to use, such as cable management, rear rails, or accessory panels, following the manufacturer’s guidance for mounting points and weight ratings. Position the cabinet in its intended location with adequate space for doors to open and for technicians to work comfortably around the sides and back for wiring.

Level the rack on a stable surface using leveling feet or mounts specified by the ERK system. Check that the cabinet is square so that doors, panels, and rails align properly. Install the rear access panels and front doors if included or required, ensuring smooth operation and proper alignment. Attach the internal mounting rails for your rack-mount devices, making sure you follow the 19-inch rack spacing standard and adhere to recommended screw and rail mounting patterns for each piece of equipment.

Route power, signal, and network cabling with careful cable management. Use cable channels, ties, and management plates to maintain clean, organized pathways and minimize heat build-up. Leave sufficient clearance behind equipment to facilitate airflow and keep cables out of front-panel access areas. If you plan to gang multiple ERK cabinets, install the ERK-Z4 seismic brackets as directed to secure the assembly and meet seismic performance requirements.

Load equipment in a logical order to balance weight distribution and improve accessibility. Heavier components should be placed low in the rack for stability, with lighter devices toward the top. Ensure that all devices are properly secured to the rails and that cables do not interfere with device operation or door movement. Finally, perform a post-installation inspection to verify structural integrity, proper panel alignment, and that all access doors operate smoothly without obstruction.

Once installed, perform a general equipment check—verify power connections, confirm cooling paths are clear, and test that all components communicate correctly through their data interfaces. If your system includes high-density equipment or dense cabling, consider additional venting or airflow management tools appropriate for your environment. Regular maintenance should include periodic checks of rail screws, bracket integrity, and seals to preserve performance over time.

Frequently asked questions

What gear can fit into the ERK Series 27RU floor-standing rack?

The ERK Series is designed to accommodate standard 19-inch rack-mount devices, including AV routers, video processors, field monitors, power distribution units, network switches, and other rack-mounted equipment. With 27U of space and a 28-inch depth, you have enough room for mid-to-large equipment profiles and additional cabling behind front-facing gear. Always verify the specific depth and mounting requirements of each device to ensure proper fit and clearance within the cabinet.

Can I combine multiple ERK cabinets to form a larger installation?

Yes. The ERK Series is built to be ganged with other ERK components to create partitioned multi-bay installations. This modular approach supports scalable growth, better thermal management across bays, and organized security. When expanding, plan cable routing and access to maintain consistent workflows across all bays and ensure that seismic protection remains integrated with the expanded setup using ERK-Z4 brackets as recommended.

Is seismic protection included, or do I need to purchase brackets separately?

Seismic protection is achieved by using ERK-Z4 brackets in conjunction with the ERK cabinets. The ERK-Z4 brackets provide the required seismic anchoring and stabilization when installed as part of a compliant system. If your facility requires seismic resistance, plan to acquire the ERK-Z4 brackets and install them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to maximize protection for mounted equipment.

Does the ERK 27RU cabinet come with doors, panels, or front/back access?

The description indicates solid sides and a fully welded construction, with components designed for security and durability. Specific door configurations or removable panels may vary by model or configuration. If you need doors or additional panels, verify availability with the supplier or consult the ERK accessory lineup to select compatible front, rear, or side panels that suit your installation.

What installation considerations improve thermal management?

Prioritize clear airflow paths around the rack and within the bay by keeping front-to-back cooling unobstructed. Utilize the cabinet’s solid sides and any included ventilation features as designed, and consider implementing additional cable management and rear ventilation devices if your equipment generates substantial heat. In multi-bay configurations, staggered equipment placement and consistent spacing between bays can help promote efficient thermal distribution across the entire installation.