Avocent AutoView 2000 Installer/user Manual

AutoView

Installer/User Guide

®

2000

INSTRUCTIONS

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

DANGEROUS VOLTAGE

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
dangerous voltage within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

POWER ON

This symbol indicates the principal on/off switch is in the on position.

POWER OFF

This symbol indicates the principal on/off switch is in the off position.

PROTECTIVE GROUNDING TERMINAL

This symbol indicates a terminal which must be connected to earth ground
prior to making any other connections to the equipment.

AutoView® 2000

Installer/User Guide

Avocent, the Avocent logo and The Power of Being There are
trademarks or registered trademarks of Avocent Corporation.
AutoView is a registered trademark of Cybex Computer
Products Corporation. OSCAR is a registered trademark of Apex
Inc. Energy Star is a registered trademark of the Environmental
Protection Agency. All other marks are the property of their
respective owners.

© 2002 Avocent Corporation. All rights reserved.

USA Notification

Canadian Notification

Japanese Approvals

Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.

Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les
limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe A prescrites dans le Règlement
sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.

Taiwanese Approvals

Agency Approvals

UL 60950, CSA C22. 2 No. 60950, EN60950, EN55024, EN 61000-3-3,
FCC CFR 47 part 15A, EN55022, ACA AS/NZS 3548A

Republic of Korea EMI Standard Certificate Number: E-F900-01-2012 (A)

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Product Overview

Features and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Chapter 2: Installation

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Rack Mounting Your AutoView . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Installing the AutoView 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Setting Up Your AutoView System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Chapter 3: Basic Operations

Controlling Your System at the Analog Ports . . . . 17

Viewing and Selecting Ports and Servers . . . . . . . . 17

Navigating OSCAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Configuring OSCAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Displaying Version Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Scanning Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Broadcasting to Servers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Changing Your Switch Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Appendices

Appendix A: FLASH Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Appendix B: Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . 41

Appendix C: Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

1

Product Overview

Contents

Features and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Chapter 1: Product Overview 3

Chapter 1: Product Overview

Features and Benefits

The multiuser, 16 port AutoView 2000 integrates Avocent’s field-proven analog
keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) switching technology with advanced cable
management, flexible access for two simultaneous users and a patented, next­generation user interface. The AutoView 2000 KVM switch conveniently
supports all major server platforms and features powerful on-screen
management for easy system configuration and server selection.

A unique benefit of the AutoView 2000 is the AVRIQ intelligent module. The
AVRIQ module with CAT 5 design dramatically reduces cable clutter, while
providing optimal resolution and video settings. The built-in memory of the
AVRIQ simplifies configuration by assigning and retaining unique server
names and Electronic ID (EID) numbers for each attached server. The AVRIQ
is powered directly from the server and provides Keep Alive™ functionality
even if the AutoView is not powered.

NOTE: Throughout the documentation you will see the word “appliance” used generically to
describe the AutoView 2000 switch.

Figure 1.1: AutoView 2000

AVRIQ intelligent module

AVRIQ modules allow direct KVM connectivity to servers in your AutoView
system. Each AutoView 2000 has 16 Avocent Rack Interface (ARI) ports for
connecting AVRIQ modules.

Utilizing an AVRIQ, you can attach additional switches to expand your
AutoView system. This flexibility allows you to add capacity as your data
center grows.

Multiplatform support

The AVRIQ modules available with the AutoView 2000 support PS/2, Sun and
USB server environments. Using the On-Screen Configuration and Activity
Reporting interface (OSCAR) in conjunction with these modules allows you
to switch easily across platforms.

4 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

OSCAR graphical user interface

An AutoView 2000 switch uses OSCAR, which features intuitive menus to
configure your switch system and select computers. Computers can be
identified by unique name, EID or port number, allowing you to assign unique
server names.

Security

OSCAR allows you to protect your system with a screen saver password. After
a user-defined time, the screen saver mode engages and access is prohibited
until the appropriate password is entered to reactivate the system.

Operation modes

The OSCAR user interface provides convenient operation modes for easy
AutoView 2000 system administration. These modes (Broadcast, Scan, Switch
and Share) allow you to manage your switching activities. Chapter 3 explains
these modes in detail.

Video

AutoView 2000 provides optimal resolution for analog VGA, SVGA and XGA
video. Achieve resolutions of up to 1600 x 1200 with a 10 foot cable and up to
800 x 600 with a 50 foot cable. Resolutions will vary depending upon the length
of cable separating your switch and servers.

Plug and Play

The AutoView 2000 also supports Display Data Channel Plug and Play, which
automates configuration of the monitor and is compliant with the VESA
DDC2B standard.

FLASH upgradable

Upgrade your firmware at any time through a simple update utility to ensure
that your AutoView system is always running the most current version
available. Both the AutoView 2000 switch and the AVRIQ modules are FLASH
upgradable. See Appendix A for more information.

Cascading expansion

Each AutoView 2000 switch supports up to 16 directly attached servers and can
conveniently scale to support more. You can expand your system using
cascadable Avocent products such as other AutoViews or Outlook appliances.
This extra “cascade” of units allows you to attach up to 256 servers in one system.

Chapter 1: Product Overview 5

AVRIQ

Module

AVRIQ

Module

Figure 1.2: Example AutoView 2000 Configuration

Switch

Rack of
Servers

Analog Connection

Switch

Rack of
Servers

Critical Server

Analog Connection

AV2000

Safety Precautions

To avoid potential video and/or keyboard problems when using Avocent products:

• If the building has 3-phase AC power, ensure that the computer and monitor
are on the same phase. For best results, they should be on the same circuit.

• Use only Avocent-supplied cable to connect computers and K VM switches.
Avocent warranties do not apply to damage resulting from user-supplied cable.

To avoid potentially fatal shock hazard and possible damage to equipment,
please observe the following precautions:

• Do not use a 2-wire extension cord in any Avocent product confi guration.

• Test A C outlets at the computer and monitor for proper polarity and grounding.

• Use only with grounded outlets at both the computer and monitor. When

using a backup power supply (UPS), power the computer, the monitor and
the appliance off the supply.

NOTE: The AC inlet is the main disconnect.

6 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Rack mount safety considerations

• Elevated Ambient Temperature: If installed in a closed rack assembly, the
operation temperature of the rack environment may be greater than room
ambient. Use care not to exceed the rated maximum ambient temperature
of the unit.

• Reduced Air Flow: Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such
that the amount of airfl ow required for safe operation of the equipment is
not compromised.

• Mechanical Loading: Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be such
that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven mechanical loading.

• Circuit Overloading: Consideration should be given to the connection of
the equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that overloading of
circuits might have on overcurrent protection and supply wiring. Consider
equipment nameplate ratings for maximum current.

• Reliable Earthing: Reliable earthing of rack mounted equipment should be
maintained. Pay particular attention to supply connections other than
direct connections to the branch circuit (for example, use of power strips).

2

Installation

Contents

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Rack Mounting Your AutoView . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Installing the AutoView 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Setting Up Your AutoView System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Chapter 2: Installation 9

Chapter 2: Installation

Getting Started

Before installing your AutoView appliance, refer to the following list to ensure
you have all items that shipped with the appliance as well as other items
necessary for proper installation.

Supplied with the AutoView 2000

• AutoView 2000 unit

• Power cord

• One null modem serial cable

• AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

• AutoView 2000 Quick Installation Guide

Additional items needed

• One AVRIQ module and UTP cabling per attached server or switch

• (Optional) Rack mounting kit

Rack Mounting Your AutoView

NOTE: Rack mounting kits are sold separately.

Your AutoView appliance may be rack mounted using brackets available
through Avocent. Before installing the appliance and other components in the
rack cabinet (if not already installed), stabilize the rack in a permanent
location. Install your equipment starting at the bottom of the rack cabinet, then
work to the top. Avoid uneven loading or overloading of rack cabinets.

Figure 2.1: AutoView 2000 Horizontal Installation

10 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

CAUTION: Rack Loading - Overloading or uneven loading of racks may result in shelf or rack
failure, causing damage to equipment and possible personal injury. Stabilize racks in a
permanent location before loading begins. Mount components beginning at the bottom of the
rack, then work to the top. Do not exceed your rack load rating.

To install the 1U switch mounting bracket: (kit sold separately)

1. Remove the fi rst two screws on each side.

2. Line up the holes in the “long side” of the kit’s side brackets with the
screw holes in the switch.

3. With a Phillips screwdriver, fasten the mounting brackets to the switch
using two screws on each side.

4. Attach four cage nuts or clip nuts to the rack mounting fl ange of the rack
cabinet so that the nut is positioned on the inside of the rack.

NOTE: Nuts are not included with the rack mount kit.

5. Mount the switch assembly to the rack cabinet by matching the holes in
the “short side” of each bracket to an appropriate set of matching holes on
your rack cabinet. Next, insert the combination hex head screws through
the slots in the bracket and the holes in the mounting rail, then into the

cage nuts or clip nuts.

Installing the AutoView 2000

Plug the supplied power cord into the back of the appliance and then into an
appropriate power source. Figure 2.2 illustrates one possible configuration for
your AutoView appliance. See the following detailed set of procedures to
successfully install your appliance.

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to your equipment -

- Do not disable the power cord grounding plug. The grounding plug is an important safety feature.

- Plug the po w er cord in t o a gro unded (earthed) outlet tha t is easily accessi ble at al l times.

- Disconnect the power from the unit by unplugging the power cord from either the electrical

outlet or the unit.

Chapter 2: Installation 11

Analog User B

Confi guration Port

for updating fi rmware

AV2000 Appliance

1357 9111315
2468 10121416

Servers 2-16

Analog User A

AVRIQ

Module

Server 1

Figure 2.2: Basic AutoView 2000 Configuration

To connect an AVRIQ module to each server:

1. Locate the AVRIQ modules for your AutoView 2000 unit.

2. Attach the appropriately color-coded cable ends to the keyboard, monitor and
mouse ports on the fi rst server you will be connecting to the unit.

3. Attach one end of the CAT 5 cabling that will run between your AVRIQ and
AutoView unit to the RJ45 connector on the AVRIQ module.

4. Connect the other end of the CAT 5 cable to the desired ARI port on the
back of your AutoView unit.

5. Repeat steps 2-4 for all servers you wish to attach.

12 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

NOTE: When connecting a Sun AVRIQ module, you must use a multi-sync monitor to
accommodate Sun computers that support both VGA and sync-on-green or composite sync.

Adding legacy switches

You can add cascade switches to the AutoView 2000 system for easy integration
into your existing configuration. In a cascaded system, each ARI port will
accommodate up to 24 servers. See the following table for legacy switches
compatible with the AutoView 2000 system.

Legacy Switch Support

Legacy Product Model Numbers

OutLook ES 1 40ES, 180ES, 280ES, 1160ES, 2160ES, 4160ES
AutoView AV200-4, AV200-8, AV400-4, AV400-8, AV416, AV42 4

Local Analog User A

AV2000 Appliance

AVRIQ Module

PS/2, USB and Sun
cables are available.

OutLook ES Switch

Figure 2.3: AutoView 2000 Configuration with a Legacy KVM Switch

AVRIQ Module

AV200/400 Switch

Server 1

Server 1

Chapter 2: Installation 13

To add a legacy KVM switch:

1. Mount the KVM switch into your rack cabinet. Locate a length of CAT 5
cabling to connect between your AutoView 2000 appliance and the AVRIQ
for your switch.

2. Attach the keyboard, monitor and mouse connectors of the AVRIQ to a
user port on your cascade switch.

3. Attach one end of the CAT 5 cabling to the RJ45 connector on the AVRIQ.

4. Connect the other end of the CAT 5 cable to an available port on the back of
your Auto View 2000 .

5. Connect the servers to your Avocent cascade switch according to the
instructions included with the device.

6. Power cycle the cascade switch to enable the cascade code.

7. Repeat steps 2-5 for all cascade switches you wish to attach to your system.

To connect local peripherals:

1. Select the keyboard, monitor and mouse to be connected to local analog
user A.

2. Locate the port set labeled A on the back of the appliance. Connect these
peripherals to their respective ports.

3. Repeat these steps for the local analog port set labeled B.

4. Bundle and label the cables for easy identifi cation.

Setting Up Your AutoView System

With the AutoView 2000 system, you can auto detect and configure each port
on your appliance. Chapter 3 provides detailed instructions on naming,
customization and OSCAR setup and configuration.

14 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

3

Basic Operations

Contents

Controlling Your System at the Analog Ports . . . . 17

Viewing and Selecting Ports and Servers . . . . . . . . 17

Navigating OSCAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Configuring OSCAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Displaying Version Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Scanning Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Broadcasting to Servers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Changing Your Switch Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 17

Chapter 3: Basic Operations

Controlling Your System at the Analog Ports

The AutoView 2000 features two analog port sets on the back of the unit that
allow you to connect a monitor and a PS/2 keyboard and mouse for direct
analog access. The appliance uses OSCAR, the On-Screen Configuration and
Activity Reporting interface, which utilizes intuitive menus to configure your
system and select computers.

Viewing and Selecting Ports and Servers

Use the OSCAR Main dialog box to view, configure and control servers in the
AutoView 2000 system. View your servers by name, port or by the unique
Electronic ID number (EID) embedded in each AVRIQ. You will see an
OSCAR-generated port list by default when you first launch OSCAR.

The Port column indicates the ARI port to which a server is connected. If you
connect a legacy KVM switch to the appliance, the port numbering displays the
ARI port first, then the switch port to which the server is connected. For
example, in Figure 3.1, servers 04-03 and 01-02 are connected to switches.

To access the Main dialog box:

Press Print Screen to launch OSCAR. The Main dialog box appears.

Figure 3.1: Example of Configured Main Dialog Box

NOTE: You can also press the Control key twice within one second to launch OSCAR. You can
use this key sequence in any place you see Print Screen throughout this installer/user guide.

Viewing the status of your appliance

The status of the servers in your system is indicated in the right columns of the
Main dialog box. The following table describes the status symbols.

18 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

OSCAR Status Symbols

Symbol Description

AVRIQ is online (green circle).
AVRIQ is offl ine or is not operating properly.
Connected switch is online.
Connected switch is offl ine or is not operating properly.
AVRIQ is being upgraded (yellow circle).
AVRIQ is being accessed by the indicated user channel (green channel letter).
AVRIQ is blocked by the indicated user channel (black channel letter).

Selecting servers

Use the Main dialog box to select servers. When you select a server, the appliance
reconfigures the keyboard and mouse to the proper settings for that server.

To select servers:

Double-click the server name, EID or port number.

-or­If the display order of your server list is by port (Port button is depressed), type
the port number and press Enter.

-or­If the display order of your server list is by name or EID number (Name or EID
button is depressed), type the first few characters of the name of the server or
the EID number to establish it as unique and press Enter.

To select the previous server:

Press Print Screen and then Backspace. This key combination toggles you
between the previous and current connections.

To disconnect the user from a server:

Press Print Screen and then Alt+Ø. This leaves the user in a free state, with no
server selected. The status flag on your desktop displays Free.

Soft switching

Soft switching is the ability to switch servers using a hotkey sequence. You can soft
switch to a server by pressing Print Screen and then typing the first few
characters of its name or number. If you have set a Screen Delay Time and you
press the key sequences before that time has elapsed, OSCAR will not display.

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 19

To confi gure servers for soft switching:

1. Press Print Screen to launch OSCAR. The Main dialog box appears.

2. Click Setup - Menu. The Menu dialog box appears.

3. For Screen Delay Time, type the number of seconds of delay desired
before the Main dialog box is displayed after Print Screen is pressed.

4. Click OK.

To soft switch to a server:

1. To select a server, press Print Screen. If the display order of your server list
is by port (Port button is depressed), type the port number and press Enter.

-or­If the display order of your server list is by name or EID number (Name or
EID button is depressed), type the fi rst few characters of the name of the
server or the EID number to establish it as unique and press Enter.

2. To switch back to the previous server, press Print Screen then Backspace.

Navigating OSCAR

This table describes how to navigate OSCAR using the keyboard and mouse.

OSCAR Navigation Basics

This Keystroke Does This
Print Screen Opens OSCAR. Press Print Screen twice to send the Print

Screen keystroke to the currently selected device.
F1 Opens the Help screen for the current dialog box.
Escape Closes the current dialog box without saving changes and returns

to the previous one. In the Main dialog box, it closes OSCAR and

returns to the fl ag. In a message box, it closes the pop-up box

and returns to the current dialog box.
Alt Opens dialog boxes, selects or checks options and executes

actions when used with underlined or other designated letters.

Alt+X Closes the current dialog box and returns to the previous one.
Alt+O Selects the OK button, then returns to the previous dialog box.
Single-click, Enter In a text box, it selects the text for editing and enables the Left

and Right Arrow keys to move the cursor. Press Enter again to

quit the edit mode.

Enter Completes a switch in the Main dialog box and exits OSCAR.
Print Screen, Backspace Toggles back to previous selection.
Print Screen, Alt+Ø Immediately disengages user from a server; no server is selected.

Status fl ag displays Free. (This only applies to the Ø on the

keyboard and not the keypad.)

20 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

OSCAR Navigation Basics (continued)

This Keystroke Does This
Print Screen, Pause Immediately turns on screen saver mode and prevents access to that

Up/Down Arrows Moves the cursor from line to line in lists.
Right/Left Arrows Moves the cursor between columns. When editing a text box,

Page Up/Page Down Pages up and down through Name and Port lists and Help pages.
Home/End Moves the cursor to the top or bottom of a list.
Delete Deletes current selection in the scan list or characters in a text box.
Shift-Del Deletes from the current selection to the end of the list when

Numbers Type from the keyboard or keypad.

Configuring OSCAR

You can configure your AutoView 2000 from the Setup menu within OSCAR.
Select the Names button when initially setting up your appliance to identify
servers by unique names. Select the other setup features to manage routine
tasks for your servers from the OSCAR menu.

specifi c console, if it is password protected.

these keys move the cursor within the column.

editing a scan list.

Setup Features to Manage Routine Tasks for your Servers

Feature Purpose

Menu Change the server listing between numerically by port or EID number and alphabetically

by name.
Change the Screen Delay Time before OSCAR displays after pressing Print Screen.
Flag Change display, timing, color or location of the status fl ag.
Broadcast Se t u p t o s i m u l t aneously contr ol multiple servers through k eyboard and mouse actions.
Scan Set up a custom scan pattern for up to 16 servers.
Security Set passwords to restrict server access.
Enable the screen saver.
Devices Identify the appropriate number of ports on an attached cascade switch.
Names Identify servers by unique names.
Switch Choose the switch mode and the share mode time-out.

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 21

To access the Setup menu:

1. Press Print Screen to launch OSCAR. The Main dialog box appears.

2. Click Setup. The Setup dialog box appears.

Figure 3.2: Setup Dialog Box

Assigning server names

Use the Names dialog box to identify individual servers by name rather than by
port number. The Names list is always sorted by port order. Names are stored in
the AVRIQ, so even if you move the cable/server to another ARI port, the name
and configuration will be recognized by the appliance.

NOTE: If a server is turned off, its respective AVRIQ will not appear in the Names list.

To access the Names dialog box:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Setup - Names. The Names dialog box appears.

Figure 3.3: Names Dialog Box

NOTE: If the server list changes, the mouse cursor will turn into an hourglass as the list is

automatically updated. No m ouse or keyboard input will be accepted until the list update is complete.

22 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

To assign names to servers:

1. In the Names dialog box, select a server name or port number and click

Modify. The Name Modify dialog box appears.

Figure 3.4: Name Modify Dialog Box

2. Type a name in the New Name box. Names of servers may be up to 15

characters long. Legal characters include: A-Z, a-z, Ø-9, space and hyphen.

3. Click OK to transfer the new name to the Names dialog box. Your selection

is not saved until you click OK in the Names dialog box.

4. Repeat steps 1-3 for each server in the system.

5. Click OK in the Names dialog box to save your changes.

-or­Click X or press Escape to exit the dialog box without saving changes.

NOTE: If an AVRIQ has not been assigned a name, the EID is used as the default name.

Assigning device types

While the appliance automatically discovers cascade KVM switches attached to
your unit, you will need to specify the number of ports on the cascade switch
through the Devices dialog box. You will see an Sw-8 or Sw-24 appear in the
Type category for the cascade switch. Select the switch from the list and the
Modify button appears, allowing you to assign it the appropriate number of ports.

NOTE: The Modify button will only be available if a confi gurable switch is selected.

To access the Devices dialog box:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Setup - Devices. The Devices dialog box appears.

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 23

Figure 3.5: Devices Dialog Box

When the AutoView appliance discovers a cascade switch, you will notice the
port numbering change to accommodate each server under that switch. For
example, if the switch is connected to ARI port 6, the switch port would be
listed as 06 and each server under it would be numbered sequentially 06-01,
06-02 and so on.

To assign a device type:

1. In the Devices dialog box, select the desired port number.

2. Click Modify. The Device Modify dialog box appears.

Figure 3.6: Device Modify Dialog Box

3. Choose the number of ports supported by your cascade switch and click OK.

4. Repeat steps 1–3 for each port requiring a device type to be assigned.

5. Click OK in the Devices dialog box to save settings.

NOTE: Changes made in the Device Modify dialog box are not saved until you click OK in the
Devices dialog box.

24 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Changing the display behavior

Use the Menu dialog box to change the display order of servers and set a Screen
Delay Time for OSCAR. The display order setting alters how servers will display
in several screens including the Main, Devices and Broadcast dialog boxes.

To access the Menu dialog box:

1. Press Print Screen to launch OSCAR. The Main dialog box appears.

2. Click Setup - Menu in the Main dialog box. The Menu dialog box appears.

Figure 3.7: Menu Dialog Box

To choose the default display order of servers:

1. Select Name to display servers alphabetically by name.

-or­Select EID to display servers numerically by EID number.

-or­Select Port to display servers numerically by port number.

2. Click OK.

To set a Screen Delay Time for OSCAR:

1. Type in the num ber of seconds (Ø-9) to delay OSCAR display after you press

Print Screen. Entering Ø will instantly launch OSCAR with no delay.

2. Click OK.
Setting a Screen Delay Time allows you to complete a soft switch without OSCAR

displaying. To perform a soft switch, see Soft switching in this chapter.

Controlling the status flag

The status flag displays on your desktop and shows the name or EID number
of the selected server or the status of the selected port. Use the Flag dialog box

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 25

to configure the flag to display by server name or EID number, or to change
the flag color, opacity, display time and location on the desktop.

OSCAR Status Flags

Flag Description

Flag type by name
Flag type by EID number
Flag indicating that the user has been disconnected from all systems
Flag indicating that Broadcast mode is enabled
Flag indicating that the user is sharing but has no control
Flag indicating that the user is sharing and has control

To access the Flag dialog box:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Setup - Flag. The Flag dialog box appears.

Figure 3.8: Flag Dialog Box

To determine how the status fl ag is displayed:

1. Select Name or EID to determine what information will be displayed.

2. Select Displayed to show the fl ag all the time or select Timed to display the
fl ag for only fi ve seconds after switching.

3. Select a fl ag color in Display Color.

4. In Display mode, select Opaque for a solid color fl ag or select Transparent
to see the desktop through the fl ag.

5. To position the status fl ag on the desktop:
a. Click Set Position to gain access to the Set Position Flag screen.

b. Left-click on the title bar and drag to the desired location.
c. Right-click to return to the Flag dialog box.

26 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Figure 3.9: Set Position Flag

NOTE: Changes made to the fl ag position are not saved until you click OK in the Flag dialog box.

6. Click OK to save settings.

-or­Click X to exit without saving changes.

Setting console security

OSCAR enables you to set security on your analog port console. You can establish a
screen saver mode that engages after your console remains unused for a specified
Inactivity Time. Once engaged, your console will remain locked until you press any
key or move the mouse. You will then need to type in your password to continue.

Use the Security dialog box to lock your console with password protection, set
or change your password and enable the screen saver.

NOTE: If a password has been previously set, you will have to enter the password before you
can access the Security dialog box.

To access the Security dialog box:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Setup - Security. The Security dialog box appears.

Figure 3.10: Security Dialog Box

To set or change the password:

1. Single-click and press Enter or double-click in the New text box.

2. Type the new password in the Ne w text box and press Enter.
Passwords must contain both alpha and numeric characters, are case

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 27

sensitive and may be up to 1 2 characters long. Legal characters are: A-Z,
a-z, Ø-9, space and hyphen.

3. In the Repeat box, type the password again and press Enter.

4. Click OK to change only your password, and then close the dialog box.

NOTE: If you should lose or forget your password, you must return your switch for service or
technical support. See Appendix C: Technical Support for contact information.

To password protect your console:

1. Set your password as described in the previous procedure.

2. Select Enable Screen Saver.

3. Type the number of minutes for Inactivity Time (from 1 to 99) to delay
activation of password protection and the screen saver feature.

4. For Mode, select Energy if your monitor is E

NERGY STAR

otherwise select Screen.

CAUTION: Monitor damage can result from the use of Energy mode with monitors not
compliant with ENERGY STAR®.

®

compliant;

5. (Optional) Click Test to activate the screen saver test which lasts 10
seconds then returns you to the Security dialog box.

6. Click OK.

To log in to your console:

1. Press any key or move the mouse.

2. The Password dialog box appears. Type your password, then click OK.

3. The Main dialog box appears if the password was entered properly.

To remove password protection from your console:

1. From the Main dialog box, click Setup - Security; the Password dialog box
appears. Type your password, then click OK.

2. In the Security dialog box, single-click and press Enter or double-click in
the New box. Leave the box blank. Press Enter.

3. Single-click and press Enter or double-click in the Repeat box. Leave the
box blank. Press Enter.

4. Click OK to eliminate your password.

To enable the screen saver mode with no password protection:

1. If your console does not require a password to gain access to the Security
dialog box, proceed to step 2.

28 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

-or­If your console is password protected, see the previous procedure, then go
to step 2.

2. Select Enable Screen Saver.

3. Type the number of minutes for Inactivity Time (from 1–99) to delay
activation of the screen saver.

4. Choose Energy if your monitor is E
select Screen.

CAUTION: Monitor damage can result from the use of Energy mode with monitors not
compliant with ENERGY STAR®.

5. (Optional) Click Test to activate the screen saver test which lasts 10
seconds then returns you to the Security dialog box.

6. Click OK.

NOTE: Activation of the screen saver mode disconnects the user from a server; no server is
selected. The status fl ag displays Free.

To exit the screen saver mode:

Press any key or move your mouse. The Main dialog box appears and any
previous server connection will be restored.

NERGY STAR

®

compliant; ot herwise

To turn off the screen saver:

1. In the Security dialog box, clear Enable Screen Saver.

2. Click OK.

To immediately turn on the screen saver:

Press Print Screen, then press Pause.

Displaying Version Information

OSCAR enables you to display the AutoView 2000 and AVRIQ firmware
versions. For optimum performance, keep your firmware current. For more
information, see Appendix A.

To display version information:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Commands - Display Versions. The Version dialog box appears. The
top half of the box lists the subsystem versions in the appliance.

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 29

Figure 3.11: Version Dialog Box

3. Click AVRIQ to view individual AVRIQ version information. The AVRIQ
Selection dialog box appears.

Figure 3.12: AVRIQ Selection Dialog Box

4. Select an AVRIQ to view and click the Version button. The AVRIQ Version
dialog box appears. For more information on loading fi rmware, see

Appendix A.

Figure 3.13: AVRIQ Version Dialog Box

5. Click X to close the AVRIQ Version dialog box.

30 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Scanning Your System

In scan mode, the appliance automatically scans from port to port (server to
server). You can scan up to 16 servers, specifying which servers to scan and
the number of seconds that each server will display. The scanning order is
determined by placement of the server in the list. The list is always shown in
scanning order. You can, however, choose to display the server’s name or EID
number by pressing the appropriate button.

To add servers to the scan list:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Setup - Scan. The Scan dialog box appears.

Figure 3.14: Scan Dialog Box

3. Determine the order within the list to add the server. If there are no servers
in the scan list, your cursor will appear in a blank line at the top of the list.

-or­To add a server to the end of the list, place your cursor in the last server
entry and press the Down Arrow key.

-or­To add a server in the midst of an existing list, place your cursor in the line
below where you want to insert a new server and press Insert.

4. Type the fi rst few characters of a server name or port number to scan. The
fi rst matching server will appear in the line.

-or­To mov e through the list, press the following keyboard commands in the Name,
Port or T ime column to move through the list of servers av aila ble to scan.

a. Press Alt+Down Arrow to move the cursor down through the list

of servers.
b. Press Alt+Up Arrow to move the cursor up through the list of servers.
c. Press Alt+Home to move the cursor to the fi rst server in the list.
d. Press Alt+End to move the cursor to the last server in the list.

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 31

5. In the Time column, type the number of seconds (from 3 to 255) of desired
time before the scan moves to the next server in the sequence.

6. Move the cursor to the next line or press the Down Arrow and repeat steps
2-5 for each of the remaining servers to be included in the scan pattern.

7. Click OK.

To remove a server from the scan list:

1. In the Scan dialog box, click the server to be removed.

2. Press Delete.

-or­Press Shift+Delete to remove the selected server and all entries below it.

3. Click OK.

To start the scan mode:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Commands. The Commands dialog box appears.

Figure 3.15: Commands Dialog Box

3. Select Scan Enable in the Commands dialog box.

4. Click X to close the Commands dialog box.

NOTE: Scanning will begin when the Main dialog box or fl ag is displayed. Scanning is inhibited
in any other OSCAR dialog box.

To cancel scan mode:

1. Select a server if OSCAR is open.

-or­Move the mouse or press any key on the keyboard if OSCAR is not open.

32 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Scanning will stop at the currently selected server.

-or­Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Commands. The Commands dialog box appears.

3. Clear Scan Enable.

Broadcasting to Servers

The analog user can simultaneously control more than one server in a system,
to ensure that all selected servers receive identical input. You can choose to
broadcast keystrokes and/or mouse movements independently.

NOTE: You can broadcast to up to 16 servers at a time, one server per ARI port.

To access the Broadcast dialog box:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Setup - Broadcast. The Broadcast dialog box appears.

Figure 3.16: Broadcast Dialog Box

NOTE: Broadcasting Keystrokes - The keyboard state must be iden tical for all servers receiving

a broadcast to interpret keystrokes identically. Specifi cally, the Caps L ock and Nu m Lock modes
must be the same on all keyboards. While the appliance attempts to send keystrokes to the
selected servers simultaneously, some servers may inhibit and thereby delay the transmission.

NOTE: Broadcasting Mouse Movements - For the mouse to work accurately, all systems
must have identical mouse drivers, desktops (such as identically placed icons) and video
resolutions. In addition, the mouse must be in exactly the same place on all screens. Because
these conditions are extremely diffi cult to achieve, broadcasting mouse movements to multiple
systems may have unpredictable results.

Chapter 3: Basic Operations 33

To broadcast to selected servers:

1. From the Broadcast dialog box, select the mouse and/or keyboard
checkboxes for the servers that are to receive the broadcast commands.

-or­Press the Up or Down Arrow keys to move the cursor to the target server.
Then press Alt+K to select the keyboard checkbox and/or Alt+M to select
the mouse checkbox. Repeat for additional servers.

2. Click OK to save the settings and return to the Setup dialog box. Click X or
press Escape to return to the Main dialog box.

3. Click Commands. The Commands dialog box appears.

4. Click the Broadcast Enable checkbox to activate broadcasting. The
Broadcast Enable Confi rm/Deny dialog box appears.

Figure 3.17: Broadcast Enable Confirm/Deny Dialog Box

5. Click OK to enable the broadcast. Click X or press Escape to cancel and
return to the Commands dialog box.

6. If broadcasting is enabled, type the information and/or perform the mouse
movements you want to broadcast from the user station. Only servers in
the list are accessible.

NOTE: The other user is disabled when broadcast mode is enabled.

To turn broadcasting off:

From the Commands dialog box, clear the Broadcast Enable checkbox.

Changing Your Switch Mode

Your AutoView 2000 allows you to connect to attached servers using two
methods: Preemptive and Cooperative.

34 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Select Preemptive (default setting) to allow any user to select any server at any
time; a request from another user disconnects the current user without warning.

-or­Select Cooperative to maintain the current user connection; the current user
won’t be disconnected if another user requests connection.

If the Share Enable box is checked, users may share access to a single server.
Only one may be in control at any given time.

To access the Switch dialog box:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Setup - Switch. The Switch dialog box appears.

3. Select either Preemptive or Cooperative as your switch mode.

Figure 3.18: Switch Dialog Box

To enable sharing:

1. Click Share Enable. This allows two users to share a video connection.

2. Type the number of seconds for a sharing time-out (from 10 to 600) to
designate the amount of time that another user has control of the
connected port.

Appendices

Contents

Appendix A: FLASH Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Appendix B: Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . 41

Appendix C: Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Appendices 37

Appendices

Appendix A: FLASH Upgrades

Upgrading the AutoView 2000

You can upgrade the firmware of your AutoView switch by using a special update
utility provided by Avocent. This utility automatically configures the port
communications settings to allow direct downloading from the connected server.

Items needed for the upgrade

• Server running Windows NT, Windows 95, Windo w s 98 or W indow s 2000

• Available serial port (COM port) on the server

• Null modem serial cable (DB-male) that connects the switch and the server

• Firmware update

To upgrade fi rmware:

1. Connect the standard serial cable to a COM port on the server and to the
serial connector on the back panel of the switch. Make a note of which
COM port you have chosen, then turn on the switch.

2. Go to http://www.avocent.com/support and click on Downloads to access
the fi rmware upgrade fi le. Once the download is complete, navigate to the
drive where you have saved the fi rmware update and unzip the fi le.

3. Double-click to run the fi le WUpDateAvct.exe.

4. In the dialog box that displays, select the desired language and COM port.

5. Click Load.

6. Once the fi rmware is updated, the following message displays Download
complete. Click Done to exit the dialog box.

7. The switch automatically reboots after the upgrade is completed.

Possible error conditions

If the download does not execute properly, verify the following:

• Verify that the COM port is correct.

• Verify that no other program is currently using the COM port, or that a

previous DOS window/shell is open that had used the desired COM port.

• Verify that no other copies of the WUpDate utility are currently running.

• Verify that a null modem serial cable is used.

• Verify in the selected COM port’s Advanced Port settings that the FIFO

buffers are selected and that the receive buffer is set to High.

WARNING: While upgrading, do not use your computer for anything else or switch between
windows. Close all other windows if necessary. If the upgrade was unsuccessful (such as
during a power outage), repeat the procedure.

38 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Upgrading the AVRIQ firmware

The AVRIQs can be upgraded individually or simultaneously.

To simultaneously upgrade multiple AVRIQs:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Commands - AVRIQ Status. The AVRIQ Status dialog box appears.

Figure A.1: AVRIQ Status Dialog Box

3. Click one or more types of modules to upgrade. Click Upgrade.

4. The AVRIQ Upgrade dialog box appears. Click OK to initiate the upgrade
and return to the AVRIQ Status dialog box.

Figure A.2: AVRIQ Upgrade Dialog Box

Appendices 39

To upgrade AVRIQ fi rmware individually:

1. Press Print Screen. The Main dialog box will appear.

2. Click Commands - Display Versions. The Version dialog box appears.

Figure A.3: Version Dialog Box

3. Click AVRIQ to view individual cable version information. The AVRIQ
Selection dialog box appears.

Figure A.4: AVRIQ Selection Dialog Box

4. Select an AVRIQ to upgrade and click the Version button. The AVRIQ
Version dialog box appears.

Figure A.5: AVRIQ Version Dialog Box

40 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

5. Click the Load Firmware button. The AVRIQ Load dialog box appears.

Figure A.6: AVRIQ Load Dialog Box

6. Click OK to initiate the upgrade and return to the Status dialog box.

NOTE: During an upgrade, the AVRIQ status indicator in the Main dialog box will be yellow.
The AVRIQ is unavailable while an upgrade is in progress. When an upgrade is initiated, any
current connection to the server via the AVRIQ will be terminated.

Appendices 41

Appendix B: Technical Specifications

AutoView 2000 Product Specifi cations

Server Ports

Number 16
Types PS/2, Sun and USB AVRIQ modules
Connectors RJ45
Sync Types Separate horizontal and vertical
Plug and Play DDC2B
Video Resolution Analog Port Maximum 1600 x 1280 @ 75 Hz
Update Port
Number 1
Type Serial RS232
Connector DB9 Male

Analog Port Sets

Number 2
Type PS/2 and VGA
Connectors PS/2 MiniDIN and 15 pin D
Dimensions
Dimensions (H x W x D) 4.45 x 43.18 x 27.94 cm 1U form factor

Weight 3.6 kg (8 lb) without cables
Heat Dissipation 92 BTU/Hr
Airfl ow 8 cfm
Power Consumption 12.5 W
AC-input power 40 W maximum
AC-input voltage rating 100 to 240 VAC Autosensing

AC-input current rating 0.5 A

AC-input cable 18 AWG three-w i r e cable, with a three-lead IE C-320

AC-frequency 50/60 Hz
Temperature 10º to 50º Celsius( 50º to 122º Fahrenheit) operating

Humidity 20 to 80% noncondensing operating

5 to 95% noncondensing nonoperating

Agency Approvals

EN55022 Class A, EN55024, EN61000-3-3, FCC15 Class A, V CCI Class A,

IEC950, EN60950, UL 1950/60950 third edition, CSA C22.2 No. 950

(1.75 x 17.00 x 11.00 in)

receptacle on the power supply end and a country or
region dependent plug on the power resource end

-20º to 60º Celsius (-4º to 140º Fahrenheit) nonoperating

42 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

Appendix C: Technical Support

Our Technical Support staff is ready to assist you with any installation or
operating issues you encounter with your Avocent product. If an issue should
develop, follow the steps below for the fastest possible service:

1. Check the pertinent section of this manual to see if the issue can be
resolved by following the procedures outlined.

2. Check our web site at www.avocent.com/support to search the knowledge
base or use the on-line service request.

3. Call Avocent Technical Support for assistance at [phone]. Visit the
Avocent web site at http://www.avocent.com/support and click on Getting
Support for current phone support hours.

Appendices 43

44 AutoView 2000 Installer/User Guide

LIMITED WARRANTY

Avocent Corporation warrants t o t he original retail purchaser that this product is and will be free from defects
in materials and workmanship for a period of 24 months from the date of purchase.

Additionally , all A vocent products carry an unconditional thirty-day satisfaction guarantee. If, for any reason, you
are dissatisfi ed with t he performance of this product, you may return it to the point of purchase for a refund of
the purchase price (excluding shipping charges). This guarantee does not apply to special order products, and
may not be available through all resellers. During the warranty period, purchaser must promptly call Avocent
for a RETURN MATERIALS AUTHORIZATION (RMA) number. Make sure that the RMA number appears on the
packing slip, proof of purchase, AND ON THE OUTSIDE OF EA CH SHIPPING CARTON. Unauthorized returns
or collect shipments will be refused.

Ship prepaid to: Avocent Corporation
4991 Corporate Drive
Huntsville, AL 35805 U.S.A.
Telephone: [phone]

The above limited warranty is voided by oc c urrenc e of any of the following events, upon which the product is
provided as is, with all faults, and with all disclaimers of warranty identifi ed below:

1. If non-Avocent approved cabling is attached to the unit. Poorly constructed and miswired cabling can diminish
video quality and damage equipment. Av ocent manufactured cabling is built to high quality standards utilizing
overall braided shield to comply with FCC emission standards, and each cable is individually tested

under load.

2. If defect or malfunction was caused by abuse, mishandling, unauthorized repair, or use other
than intended.

3. If unauthorized modifi cations were made to product.

4. If unreported damages occurred in any shipment of the product.

5. If damages were due to or caused by equipment or software not provided by Avocent.

6. If the unit is used with non-grounded or incorrectly polarized AC power.

7. If the product is used in cont radiction to any instruction provided by any User Guide or Instruction Sheet
provided to you or with the product.

8. If the product is damaged due to power surges, water exposure or act of God including lightning.

EXCEPT AS SP ECIFI CALLY PROVIDED ABOVE AN D TO THE MAXIMU M EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW,
AVOCENT CORPORATION DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS WHETHER EXPRESS,
IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY AS TO ANY MATTER WHATSOEVER INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION,
TITLE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, CONDITION, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR OR
INTENDED PURPOSE.

EXCEPT AS EXPRESSL Y PR OV IDED A BOV E A ND TO THE MAX IMUM EX TE NT A LL OW ED B Y LAW , A VOC ENT
CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, I NDIRE CT OR CO N S E QUENTIAL DAMAG E S
(INCLUDING WITH OUT LIMITATION, LOS S OF PROF IT, LOSS O F BUS INES S, LOS S OF IN FORMATION,
FINANCIAL L OSS, PERSONAL INJURY , LOSS OF PRIV ACY OR NEGLIGENCE) WHICH MAY BE CA USED BY OR
RELA TED TO, DIRECTL Y OR INDIRECTL Y , THE USE OF A PRODUCT OR SERVICE, THE INABILITY TO USE A
PRODUCT OR SERVICE, INADEQUA CY OF A PRODUCT OR SERVICE FOR ANY PURPOSE OR USE THEREOF
OR BY ANY DEFECT OR DEFICIENCY THEREIN EVEN IF AVOCENT CO RP O RA TION OR AN AUT H O RI ZED
AVOCENT DEALER HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR LOSSES.

©2002 Avocent Corporation. All rights reserved.

For T echnical Support:

Email: [e-mail]

www.avocent.com

Avocent Corporation
4991 Corporate Drive
Huntsville, Alabama 35805-6201 USA
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Avocent Asia Pacifi c
Singapore Branch Offi ce
100 Tras Street, #15-01
Amara Corporate Tower
Singapore 079027
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Avocent Canada
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Richmond Hill, Ontario
L4B 1E4 Canada
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

590-284-001A

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Avocent House, Shannon Free Zone
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Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

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Gottlieb-Daimler-Straße 2-4
D-33803 Steinhagen, Germany
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]