An open frame wall mount rack is a skeletal mounting frame that attaches directly to a wall, providing 19-inch rail space for networking, AV, and IT equipment without an enclosure. Unlike an enclosed wall mount cabinet, an open frame rack has no door or side panels, allowing for maximum airflow, easier cabling, and unobstructed access to installed equipment.
A rack unit (U or RU) is the standard unit of measurement for rack-mountable equipment height. One U equals 1.75 inches (44.45 mm). Equipment is rated in U heights, such as 1U or 2U, and racks are sized by how many U of equipment they can hold.
Add up the U height of all equipment you plan to install, then add extra U for cable management and future expansion. A small wiring closet setup typically fits in a 6U to 9U rack, while a larger installation with multiple switches and patch panels may need 12U to 22U. When in doubt, size up.
An open frame rack, like this Networx® lineup, is a bare mounting frame with no door or side panels, offering unrestricted airflow and easy access for cabling-heavy installations. An enclosed wall mount cabinet adds a lockable door and side panels for physical security and dust protection, at the cost of somewhat reduced airflow and access.
Fixed-depth racks, like the 101 Series, mount flush to the wall and are accessed from the front only. Swing-out racks, like the 201 and 301 Series, hinge away from the wall so the frame can pivot outward, giving full access to the rear of installed equipment for cabling and maintenance.
Yes. All Networx® open frame wall mount racks are built to the standard 19-inch rack profile with dual tapped rails (#12-24), making them compatible with virtually all standard rack-mountable networking and AV equipment.
No. Every rack in this lineup, from 6U to 22U across the 101, 201, and 301 Series, is rated for the same 150 lb load capacity.
Yes. These racks ship flat packed and require assembly. Mounting hardware, including #12-24 rack screws and assembly screws, is included.