Middle Atlantic DWR-12-26PD
12U Sectional Wall Rack with Plexiglass Door
-Patrick S.
Description
The Middle Atlantic DWR-12-26PD represents the pinnacle of professional wall-mounted equipment storage, combining exceptional build quality with innovative accessibility features that set new standards for network and AV installations. This 12-rack-unit sectional wall cabinet provides 200-pound weight capacity through robust welded steel construction, accommodating substantial equipment loads while maintaining compliance with the strictest seismic safety standards including CBC, IBC, ASCE 7, and NFPA 5000 requirements for high seismicity zones. The included transparent plexiglass door provides equipment visibility while maintaining security, making this solution ideal for secured data closets, equipment rooms, and network installations where visual monitoring is essential.
Installation efficiency reaches new heights through Middle Atlantic's patented Tool-Free Quick-Mount system, enabling single-person mounting of the center section to the backpan without specialized tools or assistance. The innovative dual-pivot design allows the reversible padlockable center section to swing open for complete rear equipment access, with the unique ability to reverse the opening direction without disassembly—providing unmatched installation flexibility for challenging spaces. Measuring 23.4 inches wide by 28 inches high by 26 inches deep externally, with 24 inches of usable internal depth, this cabinet accommodates standard 19-inch rack-mounted equipment while maintaining a relatively compact wall footprint that preserves valuable floor space in crowded equipment rooms.
Thoughtful engineering extends throughout the design, with comprehensive knockout patterns on all surfaces facilitating cable entry from virtually any direction. Multiple knockout sizes ranging from 1/2-inch to 3-inch electrical knockouts, plus 5/8-inch UHF/VHF antenna knockouts, accommodate diverse cabling requirements. The large 12.5-inch laser knockout on the backpan accepts electrical pull boxes, while strategically placed fan knockouts support installation of up to four cooling fans for active thermal management. Finished in durable black textured powder coat over phosphate-pretreated 16-gauge steel construction, with 11-gauge steel rackrails featuring tapped 10-32 mounting holes in universal EIA spacing, the DWR-12-26PD delivers the professional-grade durability and reliability that mission-critical installations demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the actual usable racking space and equipment depth?
The DWR-12-26PD provides 21 inches of vertical racking height for 12 rack units of standard EIA-compliant equipment. The usable depth is 24 inches, with the rackrail extending 3.5 inches into the backpan, providing ample space for deep networking equipment, servers, and AV processors. Internal dimensions measure 21 inches high by 19 inches wide by 24 inches deep, while external dimensions are 28 inches high by 23.4 inches wide by 26 inches deep. This depth specification makes it suitable for modern network switches and equipment that exceed the dimensions of shallow wall cabinets.
How does the Tool-Free Quick-Mount system work?
Middle Atlantic's patented Tool-Free Quick-Mount system revolutionizes wall rack installation by eliminating the need for tools during the mounting process. The system separates into two main components: a backpan that mounts directly to the wall, and a center equipment section that attaches to the backpan. A single installer can securely mount the backpan to wall studs, then simply align and attach the center section without requiring additional personnel or specialized equipment. This design dramatically reduces installation time and complexity while ensuring proper alignment and secure attachment.
Is this cabinet suitable for seismic zones?
Yes, the DWR-12-26PD is specifically certified for use in the highest seismic risk areas. It satisfies requirements for Seismic Use Group III, Zone 4, or Seismic Design Category D installations with an Importance factor of 1.5, making it suitable for mission-critical and high-importance facilities including hospitals, emergency operations centers, and essential infrastructure. The seismic-certified load capacity is 140 pounds when used with the DWRSR-ZL latch accessory. This certification demonstrates Middle Atlantic's commitment to protecting valuable equipment in regions prone to seismic activity.
Can the door swing direction be changed after installation?
Absolutely—one of the DWR series' most innovative features is its dual-pivot design that allows reversal of the center section's opening direction without disassembly. This unique capability proves invaluable when installation requirements change, when racks are relocated, or when original spatial planning didn't account for door clearances. The reversible center section is padlockable and keyed differently from the optional front plexiglass door, providing layered security for sensitive installations. This flexibility eliminates the need to order left or right-hand specific models during procurement.
