Rack-mount connectivity panels provide a fixed mechanical surface for organizing connectors, pass-throughs and custom I/O in equipment racks. They are used in communications, broadcast, control, test and industrial systems where cable interfaces need to be presented cleanly at the front or rear of a rack.
This category includes connector-cutout panels and blank rack panels that can support D-sub and other interface layouts. Standard rack mounting is based on 19-inch equipment rack width, while panel height is commonly specified in rack units (RU).
Select the panel by rack width, RU height, connector opening pattern, hole count, material and whether the installation needs a pre-punched interface or a blank panel for custom fabrication.
Confirm the rack standard and available vertical space. One rack unit is approximately 1.75 inches high, so a 1U, 2U or 3U panel occupies a different amount of rack space even though the rack width is the same.
For pre-punched panels, match each connector cutout precisely. DB9, DB15, DB25 and other D-sub shells require different openings and mounting-hole spacing.
Blank panels can close unused rack space or provide a base for custom machining. Leviton notes that blank panels can also support future expansion and improve airflow management when used to close open rack positions.
Plan cable support behind the panel. A rack panel secures the connector face, but heavier cable bundles may still require lacing bars, strain relief or cable-management hardware so connector mounting screws are not carrying the cable load.