Middle Atlantic AXS-FAN
4.5-Inch Rack Cooling Fan
Description
The Middle Atlantic AXS-FAN represents a precision-engineered thermal management solution specifically designed for AXS Series equipment racks. This professional-grade 4.5-inch cooling fan delivers reliable airflow to protect sensitive audiovisual and IT equipment from heat-related failures, ensuring optimal performance and longevity in rack-mounted installations. With its whisper-quiet operation at just 30 dBA, the AXS-FAN provides effective cooling without introducing disruptive noise into professional environments such as conference rooms, broadcast studios, or control rooms where sound levels are critical.
Engineered with smooth ball bearings for extended operational life and ultra-quiet performance, the AXS-FAN moves 57 cubic feet of air per minute through your equipment rack. This airflow capacity effectively dissipates heat generated by densely packed electronic components, preventing thermal throttling and protecting your investment in expensive AV and networking gear. The fan's slim 1-inch profile design enables flush mounting within AXS Series racks, maximizing usable equipment space while maintaining professional aesthetics. Middle Atlantic's commitment to quality construction ensures this fan will provide years of reliable thermal management.
Installation is streamlined for professional integrators, with all necessary mounting hardware and power cord included. The fan operates on standard 115V power, simplifying electrical requirements without the need for specialized power supplies. AXS Series racks feature pre-cut ventilation patterns that accept up to two fans, and the complete AXS-FAN-K kit provides both fans for comprehensive cooling coverage. UL listing ensures compliance with safety standards, giving installers and facility managers confidence in every deployment. Whether protecting media servers, network switches, or control processors, the AXS-FAN delivers the thermal management essential for mission-critical installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many fans can be installed in an AXS Series rack?
AXS Series racks from Middle Atlantic feature ventilated tops with pre-cut knockouts designed to accommodate up to two 4.5-inch fans. For installations requiring comprehensive cooling, the AXS-FAN-K kit includes both fans with all necessary hardware. Single-fan configurations using the AXS-FAN are appropriate for lighter equipment loads, while dual-fan setups provide enhanced cooling for densely populated racks with high heat generation. The modular design allows integrators to scale cooling capacity based on specific installation requirements.
What is the noise level, and is it suitable for quiet environments?
The AXS-FAN operates at an exceptionally quiet 30 dBA sound level, making it ideal for noise-sensitive applications including executive boardrooms, broadcast control rooms, houses of worship, classrooms, and residential installations. Middle Atlantic achieves this whisper-quiet operation through precision-engineered ball bearings that eliminate the grinding and rattling common in lower-quality fans. The low noise profile ensures that thermal management doesn't compromise the acoustic environment, a critical consideration in professional AV installations.
Is this fan compatible with non-AXS rack enclosures?
The AXS-FAN is specifically engineered for Middle Atlantic AXS Series racks, which feature precisely sized mounting locations and ventilation patterns optimized for this fan's dimensions and airflow characteristics. While the 4.5-inch form factor is an industry standard size, optimal performance, mounting security, and warranty coverage are guaranteed when used with AXS Series products. For other Middle Atlantic rack series or third-party enclosures, consult Middle Atlantic's comprehensive fan product line to identify the appropriate thermal management solution.
How do I determine if my rack requires active cooling?
Active cooling becomes essential when equipment generates significant heat or when natural convection proves insufficient. Key indicators include racks housing power amplifiers, high-performance network switches, densely packed AV processors, or equipment operating in enclosed spaces with limited airflow. Middle Atlantic provides thermal calculators and technical resources to help integrators assess heat load and determine appropriate fan configurations. If equipment feels warm to the touch or displays thermal warnings, implementing active cooling with the AXS-FAN can prevent premature equipment failure and ensure reliable operation.
