Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 8RU Open-Frame Rack - 17.8in Depth - Black

The Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 8RU Open-Frame Rack is a versatile, robust frame designed for professional installations where accessibility, adaptability, and reliability matter. Built with strong steel construction, this open-frame rack provides wide access for easy integration of equipment, cables, and power setups without sacrificing strength or durability. The Slim 5 Series is engineered for a modern workflow, shipping ready-to-assemble and boasting a bolt-together design that makes on-site setup fast and straightforward. Whether you’re building a compact audio/video rig, a compact networking or server rack, or a studio-grade electronics shelf, this 8RU frame delivers clean lines, robust support, and practical performance in a compact footprint. Its black finish adds a sleek, professional look that complements any studio, office, or data room, while maintaining a low visual profile in high-visibility environments. With an emphasis on accessibility and flexibility, the Slim 5 Series is ideal for installers who demand an open, serviceable, and modular foundation for gear with standard 19-inch rack widths.

• The Slim 5 Series 8RU Open-Frame Rack combines a strong steel frame with a lightweight, bolt-together design, delivering durability without adding unnecessary bulk. Its open architecture means technicians can easily access rear connections, side panels, and front mounts during installation, upgrades, or servicing, reducing downtime and simplifying cable management. This makes it an excellent choice for audio/video rigs, networking gear, and small server deployments that require frequent reconfiguration.
• Designed for easy integration, the 17.8-inch (approximately 45.2 cm) depth and standard 19-inch rack width provide a compact yet spacious environment for mounting 8RU of equipment. The open-frame construction promotes airflow and minimizes heat buildup, helping equipment perform at peak efficiency while reducing the risk of thermal throttling in dense setups.
• Ready-to-assemble elements and a bolt-together construction streamline deployment on-site. The frame ships with clear assembly steps and hardware, enabling a quick, tool-efficient build that can be customized to fit your room layout, cabinet, or wall-mount configuration. The modular nature of Slim 5 Series makes it easy to add, remove, or rearrange gear as project needs evolve.
• Versatile compatibility is a core benefit. The 8RU frame accommodates a wide range of 19-inch equipment from AV processors and patch panels to network switches and power distribution; technicians can pair it with compatible rails, shelves, and accessories from Middle Atlantic to tailor the setup to precise requirements while preserving a clean, organized presentation.
• Aesthetically pleasing and maintenance-friendly, the Slim 5 Series in black powder-coated steel presents a professional finish that blends into any control room, studio, or data environment. The open-frame design combined with a secure bolt-together system ensures a sturdy foundation for active gear while facilitating routine cleaning, upgrades, and service tasks.

Technical Details of Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 8RU Open-Frame Rack - Rack Frame - 17.8in Depth - Black

• Rack height: 8RU, offering a compact yet scalable footprint suitable for smaller setups or expansion rooms.
• Depth: 17.8 inches (approximately 45.2 cm), optimized for tight spaces while still providing ample room for standard 19-inch equipment and cabling behind the front faces.
• Frame type: Open-frame rack designed for maximum access, airflow, and flexible mounting options in both free-standing and cabinet-integrated configurations.
• Width: 19 inches, aligning with industry-standard 19" rack-mount equipment for broad compatibility with controllers, patch panels, power distribution units, and server/network gear.
• Material and finish: Robust steel construction with a black powder-coated finish for durability, corrosion resistance, and a professional, low-visibility appearance in professional environments.
• Assembly: Bolt-together design that ships ready-to-assemble, enabling straightforward on-site construction with minimal tools and downtime.
• Weight and portability: Lightweight relative to fully enclosed racks, facilitating easier handling during transport and installation while maintaining strong structural integrity once assembled.

how to install Middle Atlantic Slim 5 Series 8RU Open-Frame Rack

• Plan your layout and prepare the installation area. Verify the available space, clearance for front and rear access, and alignment with any wall or cabinet mounting points. Gather the included hardware and basic tools before starting the assembly.
• Assemble the frame sections according to the provided instructions. Begin with the base and vertical posts, ensuring all bolts are snug and aligned to maintain a square, stable frame. Periodically check for plumb alignment as you tighten hardware to avoid rack skew during mounting.
• Position the assembled frame in its intended location. If mounting to a wall or inside a cabinet enclosure, align mounting holes with the chosen anchors or rails and secure the frame to maintain stability under load. If used as a freestanding unit, ensure the frame rests on a flat, level surface with adequate ventilation around all sides.
• Install 19-inch equipment using appropriate rails, cage nuts, and mounting screws. Start with heavier, low-profile devices on the bottom to optimize center of gravity, then load lighter equipment toward the top as needed. Check that each device is securely fastened and that there is sufficient clearance for cables, ventilation, and access to power connections.
• Route cables cleanly and manage airflow. Use cable ties, Velcro straps, and cable organizers to keep power, data, and audio/video lines separated and tidy. Leave extra slack behind devices to accommodate future upgrades and prevent strain on connectors. Close the front and rear areas only as needed for maintenance and safety, ensuring there are no loose components.
• Perform a final safety and performance check. Verify all equipment is seated correctly, screws are tight, and there is no interference with fans or airflow paths. Power up in stages to confirm proper operation and monitor for thermal or acoustic issues. Periodically inspect the frame and hardware to maintain long-term reliability.

Frequently asked questions

• What does 8RU mean for this Slim 5 Series rack? Answer: 8RU indicates the rack can hold eight standard rack units of equipment, providing a compact yetExpandable mounting height for a range of AV, network, and small server components.
• What depth is the frame, and why does it matter? Answer: The depth is 17.8 inches, which balances space efficiency with sufficient room to accommodate most 19-inch devices and cabling behind the front-facing equipment. If your space or gear requires deeper layouts, consider alternate Slim 5 Series configurations or additional space planning.
• Is the Slim 5 Series ready-to-assemble? Answer: Yes. The frame ships with the necessary hardware and clear assembly instructions, enabling a straightforward setup with a bolt-together approach that minimizes on-site complexity.
• Is this frame compatible with standard 19-inch equipment? Answer: Yes. The Slim 5 Series uses a standard 19-inch width, ensuring broad compatibility with racks, patch panels, controllers, switches, and other typical rack-mount gear.
• Can I use this rack for free-standing and cabinet-mounted installations? Answer: The open-frame design is suitable for both free-standing use and integration into rack enclosures or cabinets, giving you flexible mounting options and easier access for installation and servicing.
• What finishing and materials are used? Answer: The frame is constructed from steel with a black powder-coated finish for durability, corrosion resistance, and a professional look suitable for studio, office, and data-room environments.