Middle Atlantic 8in. in. MPR 20A CONTROL MODULE - RLM-20A

Middle Atlantic RLM-20A MPR 20-Amp Controlled Power Module

Overview

The Middle Atlantic RLM-20A is an 8-inch deep, 20-amp controlled power module designed to slot into Middle Atlantic MPR (Multi-Power Rack) systems, giving integrators granular, configurable control over individual 120 VAC circuits in rack-mounted installations. Rather than switching an entire power distribution unit on and off, the RLM-20A lets you assign power control to a single 20A circuit — useful when you need sequenced startup, selective load management, or remote enable/disable for specific rack components like NVRs, network switches, or access control panels. If you're building out an Middle Atlantic power and rack system and need per-circuit controllability, the RLM-20A fits directly into that architecture without requiring a separate PDU swap.

Key Features

• 20-Amp / 120 VAC Single Circuit: A single 20A circuit means this module handles the realistic load of most AV and security rack components — NVRs, managed switches, access control power supplies — without sharing capacity across multiple loads. Dedicated amperage per slot prevents cross-load interference and simplifies circuit-level troubleshooting.
• Configurable Power Control: The standout capability of the RLM-20A is configurable power — you decide when and how the circuit energizes. In multi-zone security installations, this allows sequenced power-up of downstream devices (e.g., bring up the network switch before the NVR), reducing inrush current spikes across the whole rack and extending hardware life.
• 8-Inch Depth (20.3 cm): At exactly 8 inches deep, the RLM-20A fits standard shallow-depth MPR enclosures without clearance conflicts behind the rack frame. If your installation is in a wall cabinet or a tight IDF closet, this depth is a meaningful spec — some controlled modules push 10–12 inches and create cable-management headaches.
• Corded Configuration: The corded cable type means the module connects to the MPR backbone via a dedicated lead, not a hardwired bus pin. This simplifies field replacement — you can swap a failed module without re-terminating fixed wiring in the enclosure.
• Controlled Output: Unlike pass-through modules, the RLM-20A's output is actively controlled, not always-on. For rack power distribution in unmanned equipment rooms, this matters — facility management or remote monitoring platforms can cut power to a circuit without physical access.
• ETL Recognized: ETL Recognition (by Intertek) confirms the RLM-20A has been independently tested to applicable UL safety standards. For commercial and enterprise installations where the AHJ requires listed or recognized components in rack power systems, this covers the compliance checkbox without requiring a separate field evaluation.
• Compact Form Factor — 1.25 lbs (0.6 kg): Weighing under 1.3 lbs, the RLM-20A adds negligible rack weight. In high-density enclosures already loaded with drives and switches, every pound counts against floor load limits and transport weight for pre-configured rack systems.

Integration & Compatibility

The RLM-20A (often searched as RLM 20A) is purpose-built for Middle Atlantic MPR series enclosures. It occupies a dedicated module slot within the MPR power backbone — it is not a standalone PDU and should not be specified outside of an MPR-compatible rack. If you're building a new rack power architecture, pair the RLM-20A with a compatible rack accessory ecosystem to take full advantage of the configurable control capability. Note that this module is not TAA compliant — federal procurement projects subject to the Trade Agreements Act will need to verify that this component is permissible or source a TAA-compliant alternative within the Middle Atlantic line.

Because the RLM-20A controls a single 20A circuit at 120 VAC, it is appropriate for North American installations only. Verify that the downstream load does not exceed 20A continuous (NEC typically derate to 80%, so plan for a maximum of 16A continuous draw on this circuit). Review your rack power planning load calculations before specifying module count.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Middle Atlantic RLM-20A TAA compliant?

A: No. The RLM-20A is explicitly listed as not TAA compliant. If your project has federal procurement requirements under the Trade Agreements Act, verify with your procurement office before specifying this module.

Q: What rack system does the RLM-20A work with?

A: The RLM-20A is designed for Middle Atlantic MPR (Multi-Power Rack) series enclosures. It is a controlled module that slots into the MPR power architecture and is not intended for use as a standalone PDU.

Q: What is the maximum amperage of the RLM-20A?

A: The RLM-20A is rated at 20 amps at 120 VAC. Per NEC guidelines, plan for no more than 16A of continuous load on this circuit (80% derating rule).

Q: Is the RLM-20A ETL certified?

A: The RLM-20A is ETL Recognized by Intertek, confirming it has been tested to applicable UL safety standards. ETL Recognition satisfies most AHJ requirements for rack power components in commercial installations.

Q: How deep is the RLM-20A?

A: The module measures 8 inches (20.3 cm) in depth, making it compatible with standard and shallow-depth MPR rack enclosures.

Q: Can I control the RLM-20A remotely?

A: The RLM-20A features configurable, controlled power output — meaning the circuit can be enabled or disabled as part of the MPR system's control capabilities. Check the MPR system documentation for specific remote management integration options.

Ted Perry

The RLM-20A fills a specific gap in MPR rack builds: you need a 20A controlled circuit without committing to a full replacement PDU. What I find integrators underestimate is the value of the configurable power feature — when you're commissioning a rack with an NVR, a PoE switch, and an access control power supply all on the same system, being able to sequence power-up by circuit rather than throwing everything on simultaneously can make the difference between a clean boot sequence and a tripped breaker on day one.

Technical Highlights:

• Single 20A Circuit at 120 VAC: Dedicated capacity means no shared-load ambiguity — you know exactly what's on this circuit. At 20A, it supports virtually any single rack component in a security or AV system without headroom concerns.
• ETL Recognition: Intertek's ETL mark confirms compliance testing to UL standards — the practical result is that you don't need a separate field evaluation when the AHJ inspector shows up, which matters on commercial jobs with tight closeout schedules.
• 8-Inch Depth: Shallow at 20.3 cm, which keeps the module from conflicting with rear cable management in standard 24–30 inch deep racks. A small thing until it isn't.

Deployment Considerations:

• The RLM-20A is an MPR ecosystem component — it has no utility outside an MPR enclosure. Confirm the target MPR model accepts this controlled module format before placing the order.
• Not TAA compliant — this is a hard stop for federal, DoD, or GSA-schedule projects. Don't spec it into a government bid without confirming TAA exemption applies to this component class.

Best fit for commercial integrators building out managed rack systems in unmanned equipment rooms — schools, municipal facilities, corporate branch offices — where per-circuit power control and sequenced startup are operational requirements, not nice-to-haves.