Gear article
Adam Hall 1U 19-inch Rack Panel with 16 D-Type Holes and Tie Bar
The Adam Hall 1U Rack Panel is a specialised hardware component designed to facilitate the custom mounting of 16 D-type connectors within a standard 19-inch equipment rack. Constructed from powder-coated steel, it features an integrated tie bar for cable strain relief, making it a staple for professional stage and studio patchbay builds.

Overview
The Adam Hall 19 Rack Panel is a utility solution for engineers and technicians looking to create custom connection points. It provides 16 pre-punched holes specifically sized for D-type connectors, which are the industry standard for XLR, BNC, and SpeakON chassis sockets. The panel occupies a single unit (1U) of vertical space in a standard rack enclosure.
Its primary function is to centralise inputs and outputs, allowing for a cleaner and more efficient signal flow in complex audio, lighting, or broadcast environments. By moving connections to the front of a rack, users reduce wear on internal equipment ports.
Design and Construction
Constructed from steel with a black powder-coated finish, the panel is designed to be both lightweight and robust. This finish provides resistance against scratches and environmental wear common in touring applications. The inclusion of a rear tie bar distinguishes this model from basic flat panels. This bar provides a physical anchor point for cables, allowing technicians to use zip ties to secure wiring, which prevents tension on the soldered or crimped connections of the D-type sockets.

Installation and Compatibility
Installation is straightforward, requiring standard rack screws to secure the panel into the rack rails. The 16 D-type holes are spaced to accommodate standard Neutrik or compatible connectors, such as the NC3FRX or NA2MP. The panel is frequently paired with short patch cables, such as the Studiospares 30cm or 60cm XLR cables, to bridge the gap between the panel and the internal rack gear.
Applications
This panel is suited for various professional scenarios:
- DIY Patchbays: Creating a custom interface for rack-mounted mixers or audio interfaces.
- Stage Boxes: Consolidating microphone inputs for touring racks.
- Lighting Racks: Managing DMX connections using 5-pin Neutrik connectors and DMX cables.
- Studio Integration: Bringing hard-to-reach rear I/O from outboard gear to an accessible front-facing panel.
Related gear
£5.99 ($8)Studiospares
Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Cable 60cm
£17.57 ($22)Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball P06049 10ft Straight-Angle Instrument Cable White
£32.00 ($41)LD Systems
LD Systems WS100BNC10 BNC to BNC Antenna Cable 10m
£4.99 ($6)Gear4Music
Essentials Dual Jack to RCA Phono Cable 3m
£10.50 ($13)Neutrik
Neutrik NC3FRX Right-Angled 3-Pole Female XLR Connector
£56.00 ($71)Adam Hall
Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik DMX 5-Pin Lighting Cable 20m
£4.99 ($6)Studiospares
Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Patch Cable 30cm
Frequently asked questions
- How many connectors can this panel hold?
- The panel is designed with 16 pre-punched holes specifically sized for D-type connectors. This allow for a high density of connections in a single 1U rack space.
- What is the purpose of the included tie bar?
- The tie bar provides strain relief for the cables connected to the back of the panel. By securing cables to the bar with ties, you prevent weight and movement from damaging the connector solder joints.
- Is the material durable enough for touring?
- Yes, the panel is made of powder-coated steel. This construction provides a balance of being lightweight for transport while remaining robust enough for professional stage use.
- What size rack does this panel fit?
- This panel is designed to fit any standard 19-inch equipment rack. It occupies 1U (one unit) of vertical rack space.
- Does the panel come with the XLR connectors included?
- No, the panel is supplied as a chassis only. You must purchase the 16 D-type connectors, such as those from Neutrik, separately.
- Can I use this for DMX lighting connections?
- Absolutely. It is compatible with 5-pin D-type DMX connectors, making it suitable for managing lighting rigs alongside Adam Hall 5 STAR DMX cables.
- What type of finish does the panel have?
- The panel features a black powder-coated finish. This gives it a professional look that matches most standard rack equipment and provides extra durability.
- How do I secure the cables to the tie bar?
- Cables are typically secured using standard cable ties (zip ties). The tie bar acts as a sturdy horizontal rail to which multiple cables can be bundled and fastened.
- Is it possible to mount BNC connectors on this panel?
- Yes, as long as the BNC connectors use the standard D-type flange mount. This makes it useful for antenna distribution systems like the LD Systems WS100BNC10.
- What is the benefit of a 'D-Type' hole?
- The D-type hole is a universal mounting standard for professional audio and video connectors. It allows you to mix and match different types of sockets (XLR, Jack, USB, BNC) on the same panel.
- Does the panel include mounting screws for the rack?
- Typically, rack panels do not include rack screws, as these are usually provided with the rack cabinet itself. You will need four standard rack screws to install it.
- Can I fit 1/4 inch jacks into these holes?
- You can fit 1/4 inch jacks if they are housed in a D-type adapter, such as the Neutrik NA2MP. Standard non-flanged jacks will not fit these holes without an adapter.
