Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 21RU Open-Frame Rack - 2in Depth

Designed for professional AV, IT, and equipment installations, the Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 21RU Open-Frame Rack offers a rugged, versatile solution for projects where accessibility, cooling, and flexible mounting matter most. This open-frame rack frame combines a strong steel construction with a lightweight, compact footprint, providing expansive access to rear cabling and front mounting space without sacrificing structural integrity. With 21 rack units (RU) of capacity and a shallow 20-inch (660 mm) depth, it’s tailor-made for control rooms, equipment closets, studios, and integration sites where space is at a premium. Ships ready-to-assemble, the Slim 5 Series is designed for fast deployment, straightforward installation, and long-term reliability in demanding environments. Whether you’re mounting servers, AV processors, power distribution, or a mix of 19-inch equipment, this rack frame delivers the open access and robust support needed for clean, efficient, and scalable connectivity.

• 21U capacity in a compact 20-inch (660 mm) depth, maximizing rack space while preserving cable management and airflow.
• Bolt-together, ready-to-assemble design that simplifies on-site assembly and reduces installation time for busy projects.
• Strong steel construction with an open-frame profile that enables easy equipment mounting, wiring, and service access from multiple angles.
• Wide open access for effortless integration of rear cabling and front-facing equipment, supporting organized workflows and efficient cooling.
• Perfectly suited for Middle Atlantic accessories and standard 19-inch equipment, offering flexible configuration for AV, IT, and broadcasting setups.

Technical Details of Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 21RU Open-Frame Rack

• Model: Slim 5 Series 21RU Open-Frame Rack – Rack Frame – 2in Depth
• Rack Units: 21U
• Depth: 20in (660 mm)
• Construction: Steel open-frame rack frame
• Assembly: Bolt-together, ready-to-assemble
• Access: Wide open access for easy integration and serviceability
• Intended use: Open-frame rack for AV, IT, and related equipment mounting

How to Install Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 21RU Open-Frame Rack

Step 1: Unpack all components and verify that you have the full Slim 5 Series frame kit, fasteners, and any included brackets or supports. Prepare a clean, level workspace to ensure accurate assembly and alignment.

Step 2: Lay out the frame pieces and hardware in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Begin by connecting the side rails to the base frame using the supplied bolts, making sure all joints are snug but not overtightened to preserve easy adjustment during assembly.

Step 3: Assemble the main frame sections, aligning each bolt pattern carefully. Tighten bolts incrementally to ensure even pressure and square alignment, which helps with subsequent mounting of equipment and rails.

Step 4: Install any optional accessories such as cable management features, shelves, or support brackets according to your project needs. Use standard 19-inch rack hardware when mounting equipment to maintain compatibility and secure fit.

Step 5: Mount your 19-inch equipment into the frame, starting with heavier or taller components and working toward lighter items. Route cables with clean, organized pathways to promote airflow and ease of service, then secure cables with ties or management accessories as appropriate.

Step 6: Verify levelness and overall stability. If necessary, make small frame adjustments to ensure that all equipment sits squarely and that mounting points remain aligned. Perform a final check on all fasteners to confirm a secure installation.

Step 7: Close out the installation with any required covers or accessory installations. Power down and test equipment to confirm proper operation within the open-frame framework, ensuring airflow paths are clear and unobstructed for optimal cooling performance.

Step 8: Document the configuration for future maintenance. Record the equipment layout, cable routing plan, and any additional accessories installed. Proper documentation helps with future upgrades, troubleshooting, and expansion as your system evolves.

The Slim 5 Series 21RU Open-Frame Rack is designed to streamline deployment while delivering dependable support for a variety of equipment profiles. By prioritizing open access and straightforward assembly, it helps installers meet tight schedules without compromising on build quality or reliability. Whether you are consolidating multiple components in a control room, organizing AV processing gear in a studio, or setting up a compact IT rack for a small data environment, this 21U, 20-inch-depth frame is built to accommodate growth and simplify ongoing maintenance.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What does Slim 5 Series 21RU refer to? A: It refers to Middle Atlantic’s open-frame rack frame with a 21U vertical capacity, designed for 19-inch equipment and a compact 20-inch depth. The open-frame design provides easy access for installation, maintenance, and cable management.
• Q: Is this rack ready to assemble? A: Yes. The Slim 5 Series is shipped as a ready-to-assemble kit with bolt-together components, intended to save installation time and provide flexible configuration on site.
• Q: What equipment can fit in this rack? A: The rack is designed for standard 19-inch equipment, including AV processors, patch panels, servers, network gear, power distribution, and related accessories. The 21U height accommodates multiple devices while keeping depth manageable for restricted spaces.
• Q: Does it come with cable management or shelves? A: Cable management accessories and shelves may be available as compatible options from Middle Atlantic or third-party suppliers. Check the product’s compatibility with your chosen accessories before purchasing.
• Q: Can I upgrade or customize this frame later? A: Yes. The open-frame, bolt-together design supports modular upgrades and reconfigurations. You can add rails, shelves, or other compatible accessories as your rack needs change over time.
• Q: What environments is this rack best suited for? A: It’s ideal for control rooms, AV racks, studio setups, and IT spaces where there is a need for fast access to equipment, efficient cooling pathways, and straightforward assembly without a heavy, enclosed cabinet.