Middle Atlantic RLA-series Open Rack Frame

The Middle Atlantic RLA-series Open Rack Frame is a premium, purpose-built solution for distributing, organizing, and accessing equipment in professional AV and IT environments. Crafted from high-quality aluminum and finished in a sleek silver tone, this 45U rack height by 19" rack width frame delivers a sturdy foundation for servers, AV gear, networking devices, and rack-mmounted electronics. Designed for quick retrieval and easy maintenance, the RLA-series open frame minimizes clutter while maximizing airflow and accessibility. Its open architecture supports efficient cable management, simplified component swaps, and reliable performance under demanding rack applications—from broadcast studios and data centers to corporate AV installations and control rooms. With a robust static weight capacity of up to 1600 pounds, this frame is built to handle dense configurations, heavy equipment stacks, and future growth without sacrificing stability or reliability. Whether you’re consolidating a small rack need or deploying a large, scalable rack solution, the RLA-series Open Rack Frame is engineered to deliver professional-grade organization, ease of installation, and lasting value in a compact, stylish package.

• The open-frame design enables rapid equipment access and straightforward maintenance, while the standard 19" mounting rails ensure compatibility with a broad range of devices, including servers, switches, patch panels, and AV interfaces. This arrangement simplifies setup and reduces downtime during upgrades, repairs, or reconfigurations, making it ideal for high-demand data centers and busy control rooms. The frame’s clean lines and precise tolerances also promote improved airflow, helping equipment run cooler and more efficiently.
• With a substantial static weight capacity of up to 1600 lb, the RLA-series Frame supports dense, multi-unit configurations without compromising structural integrity. This makes it suitable for hosting a mix of heavy equipment—ranging from enterprise servers to professional audio consoles—while maintaining rigidity and stability. The high load-bearing capability also enables safe stacking of equipment and accessories, reducing the need for additional support structures or reinforced mounting options.
• 45U of vertical space paired with a standard 19" width provides ample mounting area for expanding rack setups. This combination offers generous room for future growth, additional expansion cards, or extra distribution gear, without requiring a larger footprint. The 45U height is particularly advantageous for organizations seeking to consolidate equipment into a compact, easy-to-manage footprint while preserving headroom for future deployments.
• Constructed from durable aluminum, the frame delivers excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. The silver finish adds a contemporary, professional aesthetic that integrates seamlessly with most rack environments and existing Middle Atlantic systems. Aluminum construction also aids in heat dissipation and reduces overall weight for easier handling during installation, relocation, or reconfiguration.
• Versatility and modularity define the RLA-series Open Rack Frame. Its open design is compatible with a wide range of accessories and components—such as rack shelves, cable management arms, and fan trays—allowing technicians to tailor the setup to specific workflows. This flexibility supports diverse applications, from broadcast production setups to IT closets, ensuring efficient cable routing, accessible servicing, and scalable performance as equipment inventories evolve.

Technical Details of Middle Atlantic RLA-series Open Rack Frame

• Height: 45U
• Rack width: 19 inches (standard EIA mounting width)
• Material: Aluminum
• Finish: Silver
• Weight capacity: 1600 lb static/stationary
• Design: Open rack frame for rapid access and improved airflow
• Compatibility: Standard 19" equipment with multiple mounting options

How to install Middle Atlantic RLA-series Open Rack Frame

Installing the RLA-series Open Rack Frame is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime and maximize stability. Begin by choosing a level, vibration-free location with adequate clearance for airflow, cable management, and future expansion. Verify that the floor or mounting surface can support the combined weight of the frame and the equipment it will hold. If you plan to integrate the frame into a larger rack system, confirm that the mounting rails align with the adjacent racks and that compatible hardware is available. Gather the necessary installation hardware, including rack screws and washers sized for 19" equipment, plus any anchors or stabilizers if the frame will be freestanding or attached to a supporting surface.

Step 1: Prepare the mounting site. Clear the area, check for level footing, and ensure there is sufficient space for maintenance access and cable routing. If you are integrating the frame into a larger rack configuration, align it with neighboring frames and mark the mounting holes. Step 2: Assemble or position the frame. If assembly is required, loosely attach any crossbars or support components following the manufacturer’s guidelines to allow final alignment. For freestanding installations, ensure any anti-tip or stabilizing features are engaged. Step 3: Secure the frame. Use appropriate 19" rack screws and washers to attach the frame to the mounting rails or to the supporting structure, ensuring a solid hold without over-tightening. Step 4: Route cables and prepare for devices. Begin with power and data conduits on one side, leaving excess length neatly coiled or routed through a cable management system. This helps maintain airflow and simplifies future changes. Step 5: Install equipment and balance weight. Begin with heavier equipment toward the bottom to lower the center of gravity, ensuring an even distribution across the mounting rails. Check for any conflicts with doorways, cable bundles, or adjacent hardware, and adjust as needed. Step 6: Final checks. Inspect all connections, confirm that devices sit securely on their 19" rails, and verify that venting and airflow paths remain unobstructed. If you are integrating the frame into a larger rack ecosystem, perform a final alignment pass to ensure consistent spacing and screw engagement across the entire rig. Step 7: Documentation and routine maintenance. Record the installation layout, device allocations, and weight distribution for future reference. Schedule periodic checks for tightness of mounting hardware and signs of wear or corrosion, especially in environments with high humidity or temperature fluctuations.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the mounting width of the RLA-series Open Rack Frame?

A: The frame uses a standard 19" mounting width, compatible with a wide range of 19" rack-mount equipment including servers, switches, patch panels, and AV gear.

Q: What is the maximum static weight capacity of this rack frame?

A: The RLA-series Open Rack Frame provides a static (stationary) weight capacity of up to 1600 pounds, allowing reliable support for heavy equipment configurations.

Q: What are the dimensions and size specifications?

A: The frame measures 45U in height and 19" in width, offering ample vertical space for equipment expansion while maintaining a standard rack footprint.

Q: What materials and finish are used?

A: The frame is constructed from aluminum and finished in silver, delivering a durable, corrosion-resistant product with a professional appearance and lighter weight than many steel alternatives.

Q: In what environments is the RLA-series frame ideal?

A: This open rack frame is well-suited to data centers, broadcast studios, control rooms, IT closets, and other professional settings where quick access, robust weight support, and clean cable management are priorities. Its open design and modular potential make it adaptable to evolving equipment needs and workflows.