Top Rack Diagram Tools for AV Integrators in 2025

For AV integrators, delivering organized, efficient, and scalable systems is critical to project success. Among the most important elements of a professional AV design is the equipment rack. These racks house the essential devices that make the AV system function—from amplifiers and processors to switchers and servers.

Designing a rack that is clean, well-ventilated, and accessible requires more than guesswork. It demands precise planning, and in 2025, that planning starts with intelligent software. The Top Rack Diagram Software Tools for AV integrators have evolved to offer automation, accuracy, and integration with broader AV design workflows.

In this blog, we explore the top tools that help AV pros build better rack diagrams, speed up documentation, and stay ahead in a competitive market.

XTEN-AV: Built for the AV Integrator

XTEN-AV is more than just a rack diagram tool—it is a complete AV design automation platform built specifically for the AV industry. From signal flow diagrams to proposals and cable schedules, XTEN-AV allows integrators to manage every aspect of AV documentation in one place.

One of the standout features of XTEN-AV is its intelligent rack diagram engine. When you select devices for a room or system, the platform automatically calculates rack space and generates a visual layout. It uses real-time manufacturer data to ensure rack unit dimensions and port labels are accurate.

Key Features of XTEN-AV’s Rack Diagram Tool:

Auto-generated rack layouts from the bill of materials
Accurate device dimensions and RU tracking
Drag-and-drop rack editing
Integration with signal flow diagrams and project specs
Export to PDF, DWG, or project submittals

For AV integrators in 2025, XTEN-AV leads the pack among the Top Rack Diagram Software Tools thanks to its cloud-based collaboration and automation features that eliminate hours of manual work.

1. D-Tools System Integrator (SI)

D-Tools is a well-established player in the AV design space, offering comprehensive tools for quoting, engineering, and documentation. Its rack diagram capabilities are tightly connected to the platform’s system design and proposal workflow.

With D-Tools SI, integrators can place devices in a rack elevation view, ensuring that RU space is calculated properly. You can also align your rack diagrams with CAD drawings or use built-in Visio integration for creating visuals.

Why It Works for AV Integrators:

Fully integrated with design and sales workflow
Detailed device library with real-world specs
Rack accessories and cable management tools included

Downside:
It requires a more significant setup and investment, which may not be ideal for smaller firms.

2. StarDraw Design 7

StarDraw is a dedicated AV system design software that includes modules for schematics, presentations, and rack diagrams. While lighter than XTEN-AV or D-Tools, it offers a streamlined interface for AV integrators who want focused functionality.

Designers can build rack layouts using manufacturer-verified device blocks. There is also a connection between the rack and schematic modules, meaning changes made in one part of the design reflect in the other.

Key Strengths:

Straightforward and AV-specific interface
Real-time linking of signal and rack diagrams
Good balance of features for mid-sized projects

Limitation:
Not cloud-based, which may slow collaboration in remote teams.

3. Middle Atlantic RackTools

For AV integrators using Middle Atlantic racks and accessories, RackTools is a practical and brand-specific solution. It is free, fast, and user-friendly. While it is not a full AV design platform, it serves as an excellent rack planning tool for installers and engineers.

You can drag and drop devices, see rack spacing, weight distribution, and cooling requirements. Rack diagrams can be exported to PDF or shared with project managers for review.

Ideal Use Case:
Field installers and engineers who need a fast, reliable way to design Middle Atlantic rack layouts.

Note:
Limited to Middle Atlantic’s product catalog.

4. AutoCAD with AV Block Libraries

Many AV consultants and design engineers still rely on AutoCAD for precise rack elevation drawings. While AutoCAD does not offer native AV-specific tools, it can be enhanced with block libraries and plug-ins created for AV design.

AV integrators who work on large architectural projects often use AutoCAD to align rack layouts with construction and electrical plans.

Best For:
Projects that require formal CAD documentation as part of the deliverables.

Challenge:
Manual process with limited automation and no integration with BOM or signal flow tools.

5. NetZoom

NetZoom enhances other design tools like Visio and AutoCAD by providing a massive library of accurate AV and IT equipment stencils. With NetZoom, integrators can create rack layouts using verified device specs, improving the realism and reliability of their visuals.

Though not a full design platform, NetZoom’s compatibility with major tools makes it a valuable addition to your software toolkit.

Features That Stand Out:

Updated library of 250,000+ devices
2D and 3D rack visualization
Works with existing design platforms

Best For:
AV firms already using Visio or AutoCAD who want better rack visuals and accuracy.

What to Look for in a Rack Diagram Tool

When selecting from the Top Rack Diagram Software Tools, AV integrators should consider the following:

1. Integration:
Does the tool connect with your signal flow diagrams, BOM, and proposal documents?

2. Automation:
Can it automatically generate rack layouts based on selected equipment?

3. Accuracy:
Does it use real device data from manufacturers, including RU, port labels, and spacing?

4. Collaboration:
Can your entire team access and update diagrams from anywhere?

5. Export Options:
Does it allow you to export in the formats your clients and contractors expect, such as PDF, DWG, or Excel?

Conclusion

In 2025, AV integrators need more than just a rack drawing tool. They need platforms that think ahead, adapt to real-time project changes, and connect all pieces of the AV design process. That is why tools like XTEN-AV are setting a new standard.

With smart automation, deep manufacturer integration, and cloud-based collaboration, XTEN-AV is clearly leading the Top Rack Diagram Software Tools available to integrators today. But depending on your team’s size, project scale, and software ecosystem, alternatives like D-Tools, StarDraw, and RackTools also provide strong value.

Ultimately, the best rack diagram tool is the one that fits your workflow, enhances your accuracy, and helps you deliver professional results—rack after rack, project after project.