Black Box ACS236A, ACS235A User Manual

JANUARY 2001
R
G
B
2
1
FIBER KVM EXTENDER
Remote
Unit
ACS235A ACS236A
1
THE SERVSWITCH™ FAMILY
Welcome to the ServSwitch
TM
Family!
Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX®ServSwitch™Brand KVM-switching accessory! We appreciate your business, and we think you’ll appreciate the many ways that your new ServSwitch keyboard/video/mouse switch will save you money, time, and effort.
That’s because our ServSwitch family is all about breaking away from the traditional, expensive model of computer management. You know, the one-size­fits-all-even-if-it-doesn’t model that says, “One computer gets one user station, no more, no less.” Why not a single user station (monitor, keyboard, and mouse) for multiple computers—even computers of different platforms? Why not a pair of user stations, each of which can control multiple computers? Why not multiple user stations for the same computer?
With our ServSwitch products, there’s no reason why not. We carry a broad line of robust solutions for all these applications. Do you have just two PCs, and need an economical alternative to keeping two monitors, keyboards, and mice on your desk? Or do you need to share dozens of computers, including a mix of IBM
®
PC,
RS/6000
®
, Apple®Macintosh®, Sun Microsystems®, and SGI®compatibles among multiple users with different access levels? Does your switch have to sit solidly on a worktable and use regular everyday cables? Or does it have to be mounted in an equipment rack and use convenient many-to-one cables? No matter how large or small your setup is, no matter how simple or how complex, we’re confident we have a ServSwitch system that’s just right for you.
The ServSwitch
family from Black Box—the one-stop answer for all your KVM-
switching needs!
*
This manual will tell you all about your new ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender, including how to install, operate, and troubleshoot it. For an introduction to the Extender, see Chapter 2. The Extender product codes covered in this manual are:
ACS235A ACS236A
2
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This is to certify that, when installed and used according to the instructions in this manual together with the specified cables, the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender is shielded against the generation of radio interference in accordance with the application of Council
Directive 89/336/EEC, as well as these standards:
EN 55022: 1989 class B
EN 50082-1: 1993
IEC 801-2: 1991 - 4kV CD/8kV AD
IEC 801-3: 1984 - 3V/m
IEC 801-4: 1988 - 4kV power-supply lines
- 2kV data lines
The Extender was tested in a typical configuration.
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
BLACK BOX and the logo are registered trademarks, and ServSwitch is a
trademark, of Black Box Corporation.
Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
ST is a registered trademark of AT&T
®
.
IBM, PC/AT, and PS/2 are registered trademarks of International Business
Machines Corporation.
Sun and Sun Microsystems are registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in
the United States and other countries.
Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the
trademark owners.
3
FCC/IC STATEMENTS
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION AND INDUSTRY CANADA
RADIO-FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENTS
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference to radio communication. It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user at his own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary to correct the interference.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emission from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation of Industry Canada.
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 publié par Industrie Canada.
4
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
NORMAS OFICIALES MEXICANAS (NOM)
ELECTRICAL SAFETY STATEMENT
INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD
1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas antes de que el aparato eléctrico sea operado.
2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para referencia futura.
3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de operación deben ser respetadas.
4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas.
5. El aparato eléctrico no deberá ser usado cerca del agua—por ejemplo, cerca de la tina de baño, lavabo, sótano mojado o cerca de una alberca, etc.
6. El aparato eléctrico debe ser usado únicamente con carritos o pedestales que sean recomendados por el fabricante.
7. El aparato eléctrico debe ser montado a la pared o al techo sólo como sea recomendado por el fabricante.
8. Servicio—El usuario no debe intentar dar servicio al equipo eléctrico más allá a lo descrito en las instrucciones de operación. Todo otro servicio deberá ser referido a personal de servicio calificado.
9. El aparato eléctrico debe ser situado de tal manera que su posición no interfiera su uso. La colocación del aparato eléctrico sobre una cama, sofá, alfombra o superficie similar puede bloquea la ventilación, no se debe colocar en libreros o gabinetes que impidan el flujo de aire por los orificios de ventilación.
10. El equipo eléctrico deber ser situado fuera del alcance de fuentes de calor como radiadores, registros de calor, estufas u otros aparatos (incluyendo amplificadores) que producen calor.
11. El aparato eléctrico deberá ser connectado a una fuente de poder sólo del tipo descrito en el instructivo de operación, o como se indique en el aparato.
5
NOM STATEMENT
12. Precaución debe ser tomada de tal manera que la tierra fisica y la polarización del equipo no sea eliminada.
13. Los cables de la fuente de poder deben ser guiados de tal manera que no sean pisados ni pellizcados por objetos colocados sobre o contra ellos, poniendo particular atención a los contactos y receptáculos donde salen del aparato.
14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las recomendaciones del fabricante.
15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las lineas de energia.
16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del cuando el equipo no sea usado por un largo periodo de tiempo.
17. Cuidado debe ser tomado de tal manera que objectos liquidos no sean derramados sobre la cubierta u orificios de ventilación.
18. Servicio por personal calificado deberá ser provisto cuando:
A: El cable de poder o el contacto ha sido dañado; u
B: Objectos han caído o líquido ha sido derramado dentro del aparato; o
C: El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia; o
D: El aparato parece no operar normalmente o muestra un cambio en su
desempeño; o
E: El aparato ha sido tirado o su cubierta ha sido dañada.
6
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
Contents
Chapter Page
1. Specifications ............................................................................................. 8
2. Introduction ............................................................................................. 11
2.1 Overview ............................................................................................ 11
2.2 The Complete Package ..................................................................... 12
3. Configuring the ACS235A ....................................................................... 13
3.1 Configuring for RGB Video ............................................................. 13
3.1.1 VGA vs. RGB Signaling ........................................................... 13
3.1.2 VGA Video Card to RGB Monitor
(VGA to RGB Conversion) ................................................ 13
3.1.3 RGB Video Source to RGB Monitor ...................................... 14
3.1.4 RGB Video Source to VGA Monitor
(RGB to VGA Conversion) ................................................ 14
3.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional) .................... 16
3.2.1 The VGA/RGB Jumpers (JP6, JP10, and JP11) ..................... 17
3.2.2 VGA-to-RGB Sync-Generation Jumper JP2 ............................ 18
3.2.3 Local Gain-Control Jumper JP3 .............................................. 18
3.2.4 Core-Diameter Jumper JP5 ..................................................... 18
3.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional) ................ 19
3.3.1 The Sync-on-Color Jumpers (JP1, JP2, and JP3) ................... 20
3.3.2 Remote Gain-Control Jumper Bank JP8 ................................ 21
3.3.3 VSYNC Enable/Disable Jumper JP9 ...................................... 22
3.3.4 SYNC-Polarity Jumper JP12 .................................................... 22
4. Configuring the ACS236A ....................................................................... 23
4.1 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional) .................... 23
4.1.1 The Video-Handling Jumpers JP2 and JP10 .......................... 24
4.1.2 Local Gain-Control Jumper JP3 .............................................. 25
4.1.3 Core-Diameter Jumper JP5 ..................................................... 25
4.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional) ................ 26
4.3.1 Remote Gain-Control Jumper Bank JP8 ................................ 27
4.3.2 VSYNC Enable/Disable Jumper JP9 ...................................... 28
7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter Page
5. Installation ................................................................................................ 29
5.1 Guidelines and Limitations for Attaching Equipment ................... 29
5.1.1 CPU .......................................................................................... 30
5.1.2 VGA Monitor ........................................................................... 30
5.1.3 RGB Monitor or Legacy Sun Monitor ................................... 30
5.1.4 Keyboard and Mouse .............................................................. 31
5.1.5 Parallel Printer (Optional with ACS235A) ............................ 31
5.1.6 Serial Device (Optional with ACS236A) ................................ 31
5.2 Connecting a CPU or KVM Switch to the Local Module ............... 32
5.3 Connecting User Equipment or a KVM Switch to the
Remote Module ........................................................................... 34
5.4 Running Fiber Cable Between the Local and Remote Modules .... 36
5.5 Connecting Power to the Local and Remote Modules ................... 37
5.6 Powering Up the Rest of the System ................................................ 37
6. Operation ................................................................................................. 38
6.1 Interpreting the Remote Module’s 7-Segment Display .................. 38
6.2 Making Video Adjustments with the
Remote Module’s User Controls ................................................. 40
7. Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 41
7.1 Things to Try First ............................................................................. 41
7.2 Calling Black Box .............................................................................. 42
7.3 Shipping and Packaging ................................................................... 42
Appendix A: Pinouts ....................................................................................... 43
A.1 Connectors on Both Models ..............................................................43
A.1.1 The VGA Video Connectors ................................................... 43
A.1.2 The Power Connector ............................................................. 43
A.2 Connectors on the ACS235A ............................................................ 44
A.2.1 The PS/2 Keyboard Connector ............................................. 44
A.2.2 The PS/2 Mouse Connector .................................................. 44
A.2.3 The Parallel Printer Connectors ............................................ 45
A.3 Connectors on the ACS236A ............................................................ 46
A.3.1 The Sun Video Connectors .................................................... 46
A.3.2 The Sun Keyboard/Mouse Connector .................................. 46
A.3.3 The Serial Connectors ............................................................ 47
Appendix B: Rackmounting the Extender .................................................... 48
8
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
1. Specifications
Cable Required — 62.5/125-µm or 50/125-µm multimode fiberoptic breakout
cable with at least five strands (not included)
Compliance — CE (EN 55022, 50082-1); FCC Class A, IC Class/classe A
Interfaces — Both ACS235A and ACS236A:
Extension: Multimode fiberoptic;
ACS235A:
Video: VGA, SVGA, XGA, XGA-2, or RGB (RGB must be
patched to an HD15 connector); Plug-and-Play not
supported for monitors; Keyboard and mouse: IBM PS/2 compatible; Printer: IBM PC parallel (Centronics compatible);
ACS236A:
Video: Either legacy Sun type or VGA, SVGA, XGA,
XGA-2, or RGB (RGB must be patched to an HD15
connector); Plug-and-Play not supported for monitors; Keyboard and mouse: Sun type; Serial device: EIA/TIA RS-232 (ITU V.24/V.28) pinned
according to TIA-574 (PC serial-port compatible)
Resolution — Up to 1280 x 1024
Refresh Rate — Up to 75 Hz
Keyboard Current Consumption — Up to 100 mA
Data Rate — ACS235A’s parallel interface: Transparent to data rates up
to 20,000 cps;
ACS236A’s serial interface: Transparent to data rates up to
38,400 bps
Optical Wavelength — 850 nm
Optical Power — Into 62.5-µm cable: Typically 88 microwatts;
Into 50-µm cable: Typically 40 microwatts
9
CHAPTER 1: Specifications
Maximum Optical Loss — 5 dB
Maximum Distance — 1000 m (3281 ft.) between Extender’s Local and Remote
Modules
User Controls — Both ACS235A and ACS236A, rear-mounted on the
Remote Module: (2) Rear-mounted dials for contrast and brightness; (3) Rear-mounted trimpots for adjusting color-signal
gain;
ACS235A:
(12) Internal jumper sets for configuration options:
(6) inside Local Module, (6) inside Remote Module;
ACS236A:
(7) Internal jumper sets for configuration options:
(4) inside Local Module, (3) inside Remote Module
Indicators — (1) Front-mounted 7-segment LED display;
(2) Rear-mounted LEDs for power
Connectors — Both ACS235A and ACS236A, on both the Local and
Remote Modules: (5) Rear-mounted ST female for Module-to-Module link; (1) Front-mounted 6-pin DIN female for power;
ACS235A:
Front-mounted on Local Module:
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female:
(1) for CPU’s keyboard port,
(1) for CPU’s mouse port; (1) HD15 male for CPU’s video port; (1) DB25 male for CPU’s parallel port;
Front-mounted on Remote Module:
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female:
(1) for keyboard,
(1) for mouse; (1) HD15 female for monitor; (1) DB25 female for parallel printer;
10
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
Connectors (continued) — ACS236A:
Front-mounted on Local Module:
(1) 8-pin mini-DIN female for CPU’s keyboard and
mouse ports; (1) HD15 male for CPU’s video port (if it’s VGA type); (1) 13W3 male for CPU’s video port (if it’s legacy Sun
type); (1) DB9 female for CPU’s serial port;
Front-mounted on Remote Module:
(1) 8-pin mini-DIN female for keyboard and mouse; (1) 13W3 female for monitor (if it’s legacy Sun type); (1) HD15 female for monitor (if it’s VGA or multisync
type); (1) DB9 male for serial device
Temperature Tolerance — Operating: 50 to 113˚F (10 to 45˚C);
Storage: 23 to 131˚F (–5 to +55˚C)
Humidity Tolerance — Up to 80% noncondensing
Power — From utility-power (mains) outlet, through external
transformer: Input: 100 to 240 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz, autosensing, at up to
0.7 amps;
Output: +12 VDC at 2.1 amps;
Consumption:
Local Module: Approx. 8 watts; Remote Module without keyboard: Approx. 8 watts; Remote Module with keyboard: Approx. 9 watts
Size — Each Module: 2.2"H x 6.3"W x 7.5"D (5.6 x 16 x 19.1 cm)
Weight — Net for each Module: 2 lb. (0.9 kg);
Shipping (both Modules plus accessories): At least 7.7 lb.
(3.5 kg)
11
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
2. Introduction
2.1 Overview
The purpose of the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender is to greatly extend the distance between a Sun
®
or IBM®PC compatible computer CPU and the keyboard, mouse, monitor, and serial or parallel peripheral that the computer operator will be using, especially in electrically noisy environments. Normal keyboard-, video-, and mouse-extension cables (and extenders that use normal cabling) can only go so far, and electromagnetic noise can limit their distance and reliability. But with a fiberoptic system like the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender, these concerns are a thing of the past. You can leave the computer CPU in a secured cabinet or data center while you operate it from a convenient location up to 1000 m (3281 ft.) away.
There are two models of the Extender. The PC version (product code ACS235A) extends KVM distance for IBM PC compatible computers. The Sun version (product code ACS236A) extends KVM distance for Sun Microsystems
®
computers. Each model consists of two main components: a Local Module that you’ll attach the computer’s CPU to, and a Remote Module that you’ll attach the user equipment to. (With the ACS235A, the “user equipment” will be an IBM PS/2
®
compatible keyboard and mouse, VGA type monitor, and an optional IBM PC compatible or Centronics
®
compatible parallel printer. With the ACS236A, it will be a Sun compatible keyboard and mouse, VGA or legacy Sun monitor, and an optional serial device.) You’ll connect the two units with a five-strand fiberoptic breakout cable. With this Extender, you’ll get high monitor resolution, optical isolation, and color fidelity, even in electrically rough surroundings.
The Extender units automatically adapt to the correct transfer rates for all of your data; you won’t need to manually set these rates. There is one setting you might need to make after you start operating the units: The Extenders’ amplification might need to be adjusted if you use very long fiberoptic cables. (The controls for this are located on the Remote Module—refer to Section 6.2.) And even this adjustment is easy to “eyeball” by watching the picture on the monitor screen.
12
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
2.2 The Complete Package
Before you do anything else with it, verify that you received everything you should have with your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender. These components come with both models of the Extender:
• The Extender’s Local Module.
• The Extender’s Remote Module.
• (2) power supplies, one for each Module.
• (2) power cords, one for each power supply (equivalent to our product code EPWR08).
• (1) set of eight adhesive feet.
• This manual.
The ACS235A also comes with these components:
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) keyboard/video/mouse CPU-extension cable with an HD15 female video connector and 6-pin mini-DIN keyboard and mouse connectors (equivalent to our product code EHN235-0010).
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) DB25 male to DB25 female IBM PC parallel (Centronics compatible) extension cable (equivalent to our product code BC00705).
• (1) 6-in. (15.2-cm) PC/AT
®
keyboard-port adapter (6-pin mini-DIN female to
5-pin DIN male, equivalent to our product code FA222).
• (1) RS-232 serial mouse-port adapter (6-pin mini-DIN female to DB9 female, equivalent to our product code AC244A).
The ACS236A also comes with this cable:
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) keyboard/video/mouse CPU-extension cable with an HD15 female video connector and an 8-pin mini-DIN keyboard/mouse connector (equivalent to our product code EHN236-0010).
If anything is missing, contact Black Box right away. If the package has been damaged, contact both Black Box and the shipping carrier.
13
CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A
3. Configuring the ACS235A
This chapter describes how to configure the PC model of the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender (ACS235A). If your Extender is the Sun model (ACS236A), see Chapter 4.
3.1 Configuring for RGB Video
In normal configuration at delivery time, the Extender units are configured to carry video from a VGA source to a VGA monitor. But if you’d like to attach RGB equipment (either an RGB source or an RGB monitor or both) to your Extender system, this section discusses how you might need to set the units’ configuration jumpers. (See Table 3-1 on page 15 for a full layout of this.) Of course, RGB video can come in a variety of signal forms and combinations. If after reading the rest of this section you’re not sure how to get your RGB application working (or even whether it can be done), call Black Box for technical support.
NOTE
In any application involving RGB video, if the picture on your monitor looks OK with AGC ON, leave the Local Module’s JP3 jumper and the Remote Module’s JP8 jumpers in their factory settings. Otherwise, remove JP3 at the Local Module and move JP8 at the Remote Module to turn AGC OFF. You will then have to adjust the gain of the Extenders’ video signal manually. See Sections 3.2.3 and 3.3.2.
3.1.1 VGA VS. RGB S
IGNALING
VGA uses two video-synchronization signals, HSYNC (horizontal sync) and VSYNC (vertical sync). In its factory-default settings, the Extender’s Local Module receives these signals from the CPU and overlays them on the color signals for transmission to the Remote Module: HSYNC on green, VSYNC on blue, and SYNCPOL (the combined HSYNC and VSYNC polarity information) on red. But most RGB applications use a single CSYNC (composite sync) signal overlaid on the green color signal instead, so for such applications you’ll need to have the Local Module substitute this signal for HSYNC, as well as create its own SYNCPOL information for use by the Remote Module. Then you might have to set the Remote Module to process these signals properly at the other end.
3.1.2 VGA V
IDEOCARD TO
RGB M
ONITOR
(VGA TORGB C
ONVERSION
)
To connect a CPU that outputs VGA video to an RGB monitor, remove the Local Module’s JP2 jumper (so that it generates the CSYNC signal needed by the RGB monitor), but leave the JP6, JP10, and JP11 jumpers in their factory-default settings (see Sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2). At the Remote Module, install jumpers at
14
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
the JP1, JP2, and JP3 locations to deactivate the decoupling diodes (so that the Remote Module leaves the sync signals on the color signals), and remove the jumpers at JP9 and JP12 to disable VSYNC and force the sync polarity signals negative (see Sections 3.3.1, 3.3.3, and 3.3.4).
CAUTION!
You can only connect an RGB monitor to a VGA source if the monitor is able to process the source’s synchronization frequency; for example, the monitor of a graphic workstation with horizontal bandwidth of 40 to 90 kHz probably won’t work with a VGA graphics adapter that has a resolution of 640 x 480 = 31.5 kHz.
3.1.3 RGB V
IDEOSOURCE TO
RGB M
ONITOR
To connect an RGB video source to an RGB monitor, set the Local Module’s JP6, JP10, and JP11 jumpers all to the “RGB settings” (the ones opposite the factory
defaults; see Section 3.2.1). At the Remote Module, install jumpers at the JP1, JP2, and JP3 locations to deactivate the decoupling diodes (so that the Remote Module leaves the sync signals on the color signals; see Section 3.3.1).
3.1.4 RGB V
IDEOSOURCE TO
VGA M
ONITOR
(RGB TOVGA C
ONVERSION
)
To connect an RGB video source to a VGA monitor, set the Local Module’s JP6, JP10, and JP11 jumpers all to the “RGB settings” (the ones opposite the factory
defaults), but leave jumper JP2 in its factory setting so that HSYNC, not CSYNC, is transmitted on the HSYNC lead. Remove the Remote Module’s JP12 jumper in order to force polarity negative. See Sections 3.2.1 and 3.3.4. In this application, the Remote Module also functions as a sync stripper: It strips the sync signals from the color signals, separates them, and presents them as normal TTL signals to the VGA monitor.
IMPORTANT NOTES
You can only connect a VGA monitor to an RGB video source if the monitor is able to process the source’s synchronization frequency; for example, a multisync monitor with horizontal bandwidth of 30 to 90 kHz probably won’t work with a WF470 graphics adapter that uses a frequency of 15.625 kHz.
The Extender can not generate the special VGA-standard phase
relation required by some types of dual-scan monitors (LCD panels, etc.).
Be aware that, because of the way some RGB cards output sync signals, it is possible that, despite how the jumpers are set in your Local Module, your monitor will still receive CSYNC on its HSYNC lead as well as VSYNC on its VSYNC lead. Some VGA monitors have no problem with this, but others will suffer from distorted displays. If your monitor is affected by this distortion, you can suppress the VSYNC signal by removing the Remote Module’s JP9 jumper; the monitor should work fine using CSYNC only. See Section 3.3.3.
Siemens
®
users: The Extender can process CP581 signals, but this
requires special cabling. Call Black Box for technical support.
15
CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A
Table 3-1. Jumper Settings
For all of these applications, to use AGC you must leave JP3 in the Local Module installed and keep the JP8 jumpers in the Remote Module on the left-hand posts. To operate without AGC, remove JP3 in the Local Module installed, move the JP8 jumpers in the Remote Module to the right-hand posts, and use the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials as necessary (see
Sections 3.2.3, 3.3.2, and 5.2).
LOCAL
Standard VGA Standard VGA RGB Source RGB Source
MODULE
Source to Std. Source to to Standard to
JUMPERS:
VGA Monitor RGB Monitor VGA Monitor RGB Monitor
JP2 Installed Removed Installed Installed
JP6 Removed Removed Installed Installed
JP10 Removed Removed Installed Installed
JP11 Installed on Installed on Installed on Installed on
left-hand left-hand right-hand right-hand
posts posts posts posts
PINS 13 & 14 Connected Connected Open Open (HS, VS) FROM CPU
REMOTE­MODULE JUMPERS:
JP1, 2, 3 Removed Installed Removed Installed
JP9 Installed Removed Installed Removed
JP12 Installed Removed Removed Removed
PINS 13 & 14 Connected Open Connected Open (HS, VS) TO MONITOR
USE RM’S CONTROLS?
Contrast If necessary If necessary If necessary If necessary
Brightness No If necessary No If necessary
16
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
3.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional)
There are six user-settable jumpers inside the Local Module of the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:
• Whether the Local Module transmits VGA (default) or RGB video signals to the Remote Module, and if RGB, which signals and how (jumpers JP6, JP10, and JP11).
• Whether the Local Module transmits HSYNC (default) or CSYNC to the Remote Module (jumper JP2).
• Whether the Local Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control (jumper JP3).
• Whether the Local Module expects to transmit into 62.5/125-µm (default) or 50/125-µm fiber (jumper JP5).
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Local Module—being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in Figure 3-1.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in Sections 3.2.1, 3.2.2,
3.2.3, and/or 3.2.4, and then close the unit back up.
Figure 3-1. The locations of the ACS235A Local Module’s jumpers.
JP6
JP10
JP2
JP3
JP11
JP4
JP5
A A
17
CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A
3.2.1 THEVGA/RGB J
UMPERS
(JP6, JP10,
AND
JP11)
If you’ll be using a VGA monitor in your Extender system, leave these jumpers set as they are (in their factory-default positions). But if you need to use an RGB monitor instead, take these steps (refer to Figure 3-2):
• Install a jumper on JP6 if you want the Extender to add the HSYNC (horizontal sync) polarity signal to the red color signal.
• Install a jumper on JP10 if you want the Extender to add the VSYNC (vertical sync) polarity signal to the red color signal.
JP11 is the main VGA vs. RGB control. To select RGB on the local side (if your computer is transmitting RGB video), move the jumper from the left-hand posts to the right-hand posts, as shown below.
Figure 3-2. Setting the VGA/RGB jumpers.
Installed
Removed
Removed
Installed
Jumper on right-
hand posts
Jumper on left-
hand posts
JP6
JP10
JP11
VGA Signals
(Factory Defaults)
RGB Signals
18
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
3.2.2 VGA-TO-RGB S
YNC-GENERATIONJUMPER
JP2
For most applications you should leave this jumper installed. However, if you are using the Extender to connect a VGA video card or other VGA source to an RGB monitor, remove this jumper as shown in Figure 3-3. (This causes the Local Module to generate a CSYNC signal for transmission to the Remote Module.)
Figure 3-3. Setting VGA-to-RGB jumper JP2.
3.2.3 L
OCALGAIN-CONTROLJUMPER
JP3
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the jumper ON the JP3 jumper posts. (We recommend this factory-default setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 5.2), remove the jumper from these posts as shown in Figure 3-4. (Whichever way you set this jumper, make sure that jumper JP8 in the Remote Module is set the same way.)
Figure 3-4. Setting gain-control jumper JP3.
3.2.4 C
ORE-DIAMETERJUMPER
JP5
If you’ll be using fiberoptic cable with a 62.5/125-µm diameter in your Extender system, leave the JP5 jumper posts empty. (This is the factory-default setting.) But if you’ll be using 50/125-µm-diameter cable, install a jumper on these posts as shown in Figure 3-5. The Extender does not work with fiber cables of any other diameter.
Figure 3-5. Setting core-diameter jumper JP5.
JP2
Removed
Installed
Use existing sync
(factory default)
VGA to RGB
(create CSYNC)
JP3
Removed
Installed
With AGC
(factory default)
Without AGC
JP5
Installed
Removed
62.5/125-µm
(factory default)
50/125-µm
19
CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A
3.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional)
There are six user-settable jumpers inside the Remote Module of the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:
• Whether the Remote Module strips the sync signals from the color signals (default) or leaves them in (jumpers JP1, JP2, and JP3).
• Whether the Remote Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control (jumper bank JP8).
• Whether the Remote Module passes a separate VSYNC signal to the monitor (default) or disconnects it (jumper JP9).
• Whether the Remote Module uses the SYNC polarities transmitted from the local side (default) or forces both HSYNC and VSYNC to negative polarity (jumper JP12).
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Remote Module— being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in Figure 3-6.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in
Sections 3.3.1, 3.3.2, 3.3.3, and/or 3.3.4, and then close the unit back up.
Figure 3-6. The locations of the ACS235A Remote Module’s jumpers.
JP8
K A
JP1, 2, 3
JP9
JP11 JP12
20
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
3.3.1 THES
YNC-ON-COLORJUMPERS
(JP1, JP2,
AND
JP3)
The Local Module of the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender adds synchronization signals to the color signals for transmission across the fiber link. If you are using a VGA monitor (which is probably not equipped to handle sync on color), you will want the Remote Module to use its decoupling diodes to strip this sync information from the color signals, so you will leave the jumper posts at locations JP1, JP2, and JP3 empty (the default setting) so that these diodes will be active. But if you are using an RGB monitor (which is probably designed to receive sync on color), you will want the Remote Module to leave the sync signals combined with the color signals, so you should install jumpers at JP1, JP2, and JP3 to deactivate the decoupling diodes, as shown in Figure 3-7.
CAUTION!
The on-screen image might be displayed at a different size or screen location at the remote site than it is when the monitor is attached directly to the PC’s CPU. This difference can be fixed or at least minimized by using the monitor’s display-size and -placement controls. Screen images that appear normal except for their size or placement can not be made “right” by installing these jumpers!
Figure 3-7. The sync-on-color jumpers and diodes.
JP1
JP2
JP3
Installed
Removed
Diode active, sync stripped
(factory default)
Diode inactive, sync on color
21
CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A
3.3.2 R
EMOTEGAIN-CONTROLJUMPERBANK
JP8
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the jumpers ON the right-hand posts of each of the three pairs of JP8 jumper posts, as shown below. (This is the factory-default setting as well as the recommended setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 6.2), move the jumper to the left-hand posts of each of the three JP8 jumper-post pairs, as shown in Figure 3-8.
When you have AGC selected, the Remote Module ignores the gain-control screwdials on its rear panel and automatically adjusts the gain of each of the three color signals, which is possible because each of the signals has the same white reference value (0.7 Vpp) that the Module can use for comparison. If the colors of the picture on your monitor still seem a little off, you can tweak them with the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls, in addition to any color controls on the monitor itself.
When AGC is turned off, the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials become activated, and you can use them to control the gain of the corresponding colors. (Be aware that when you’re in this mode, chromatic aberrations can affect your display.) Adjust the gain and check your adjustments by either watching the monitor or, to get best results, by using an oscilloscope. See Section 6.2. As always, you can also use the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls. We don’t recommend that you turn AGC off unless you have a color problem that you can’t seem to solve by any other means.
Whichever way you set these jumpers, make sure that jumper JP3 in the Local Module is set the same way.
Figure 3-8. Setting gain-control jumper bank JP8.
Jumpers on right-hand posts
J8
Jumpers on left-hand posts
With AGC (factory default)
Without AGC
22
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
3.3.3 VSYNC E
NABLE/DISABLEJUMPER
JP9
It is possible to use the Extender to connect a VGA monitor to a computer that outputs RGB video that superimposes CSYNC on the green signal. In this situation, depending on the computer, the Remote Module might express only CSYNC (composite sync) on the HSYNC lead of its VGA connector, or it might express both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC (vertical sync) on the VSYNC lead. If your VGA monitor works fine even with both signals coming through, leave jumper JP9 installed (the factory-default setting). But if your VGA monitor’s picture becomes distorted if the monitor receives both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC on VSYNC, remove jumper JP9 as shown in Figure 3-9; this causes the Remote Module to suppress the VSYNC signal so that only CSYNC is expressed. Most VGA monitors, including most of those that have problems when they receive both signals, work well using the CSYNC signal alone.
Figure 3-9. Setting VSYNC jumper JP9.
3.3.4 SYNC-P
OLARITYJUMPER
JP12
With jumper JP12 installed (the factory-default setting), the Remote Module restores the video SYNC signals to their original polarity as the Local Module received them. Sometimes, however, you might want the Remote Module to force both HSYNC and VSYNC to negative polarity, so that the clock is measured on the falling edges of the signals. If you do, remove jumper JP12, as shown in Figure 3-10. (Be careful—this jumper is right next to the reserved jumper labeled JP11; do not change the setting of JP11.)
Figure 3-10. Setting SYNC-polarity jumper JP12.
CSYNC and VSYNC
(factory default)
CSYNC only,
VSYNC disabled
Removed
Installed
Use existing polarity
(factory default)
Force negative
sync polarity
Removed
Installed
JP9
JP12
23
CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A
4. Configuring the ACS236A
This chapter describes how to configure the Sun model of the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender (ACS236A). If your Extender is the PC model (ACS235A), see Chapter 3.
4.1 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional)
There are four user-settable jumpers inside the Local Module of the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:
• How the Local Module handles video: VGA input to VGA output (default), VGA input to legacy Sun output, or Sun input to either VGA or Sun output (jumpers JP2 and JP10).
• Whether the Local Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control (jumper JP3).
• Whether the Local Module expects to transmit into 62.5/125-µm (default) or 50/125-µm fiber (jumper JP5).
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Local Module—being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in Figure 4-1 on the next page.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in Sections 4.1.1, 4.1.2, and/or 4.1.3, and then close the unit back up.
24
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
Figure 4-1. The locations of the ACS236A Local Module’s jumpers.
4.1.1 THEV
IDEO-HANDLINGJUMPERS
JP2
AND
JP10
Jumpers JP2 and JP10 in the Local Module control how the Extender handles video signals, depending on whether the computer outputs VGA signals to the Extender’s HD15 connectors or legacy Sun signals to the Extender’s 13W3 connectors, as well as what type of signal input the monitor accepts. Refer to Figure 4-2 on the next page:
• If the computer attached to the Local Module outputs VGA video, and the monitor attached to the Remote Module accepts VGA input, leave jumpers JP2 and JP10 in their default settings: JP2 installed, JP10 empty.
• If the computer outputs VGA and the monitor accepts Sun input, leave jumper JP10 in its default empty setting, but remove jumper JP2. In this setting, automatic gain control (AGC) isn’t possible, so you’ll have to turn it off at both the Local and Remote Modules (see Sections 4.1.2 and 4.2.1) and set the gain manually (see Section 6.2).
If the computer outputs Sun video, regardless of what the monitor accepts, leave jumper JP2 in its default installed setting, but also install a jumper on JP10. You might also need to set jumper JP9 in the Remote Module (see Section 4.2.2).
25
CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A
Figure 4-2. Setting video-handling jumpers JP2 and JP10.
4.1.2 L
OCALGAIN-CONTROLJUMPER
JP3
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the jumper ON the JP3 jumper posts. (We recommend this factory-default setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 5.2), remove the jumper from these posts, as shown in Figure 4-3. (Whichever way you set this jumper, make sure that jumper JP8 in the Remote Module is set the same way.)
Figure 4-3. Setting gain-control jumper JP3.
4.1.3 C
ORE-DIAMETERJUMPER
JP5
If you’ll be using fiberoptic cable with a 62.5/125-µm diameter in your Extender system, leave the JP5 jumper posts empty. (This is the factory-default setting.) But if you’ll be using 50/125-µm-diameter cable, install a jumper on these posts, as shown in Figure 4-4. The Extender does not work with fiber cables of any other diameter.
Figure 4-4. Setting core-diameter jumper JP5.
JP2
JP10
Removed
Removed
Removed
Installed
Installed
Installed
VGA in, VGA out
(factory default)
VGA in, Sun out Sun in,
Sun or VGA out
JP3
Removed
Installed
With AGC
(factory default)
Without AGC
JP5
Installed
Removed
62.5/125-µm
(factory default)
50/125-µm
26
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
4.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional)
There are two user-settable jumpers inside the Remote Module of the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:
• Whether the Remote Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control (jumper bank JP8).
• Whether the Remote Module passes a separate VSYNC signal to the monitor (default) or disconnects it (jumper JP9).
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Remote Module— being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in Figure 4-5.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in
Sections 4.2.1 and/or 4.2.2, and then close the unit back up.
Figure 4-5. The locations of the ACS236A Remote Module’s jumpers.
27
CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A
4.2.1 R
EMOTEGAIN-CONTROLJUMPERBANK
JP8
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the jumpers ON the right-hand posts of each of the three pairs of JP8 jumper posts, as shown below. (This is the factory-default setting as well as the recommended setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 6.2), which is necessary with VGA input and Sun output (see Section 4.1.1), move the jumper to the left-hand posts of each of the three JP8 jumper-post pairs, as shown in Figure 4-6.
When you have AGC selected, the Remote Module ignores the gain-control screwdials on its rear panel and automatically adjusts the gain of each of the three color signals, which is possible because each of the signals has the same white reference value (0.7 Vpp) that the Module can use for comparison. If the colors of the picture on your monitor still seem a little off, you can tweak them with the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls, in addition to any color controls on the monitor itself.
When AGC is turned off, the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials become activated, and you can use them to control the gain of the corresponding colors. (Be aware that when you’re in this mode, chromatic aberrations can affect your display.) Adjust the gain and check your adjustments by either watching the monitor or, to get best results, by using an oscilloscope. See Section 6.2. As always, you can also use the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls. We don’t recommend that you turn AGC off unless (a) you are using VGA input with Sun output, or (b) you have a color problem that you can’t seem to solve by any other means.
Whichever way you set these jumpers, make sure that jumper JP3 in the Local Module is set the same way.
Figure 4-6. Setting gain-control jumper bank JP8.
Jumpers on right-hand posts
J8
Jumpers on left-hand posts
With AGC (factory default)
Without AGC
28
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS
4.2.2 VSYNC E
NABLE/DISABLEJUMPER
JP9
It is possible to use the Extender to connect a VGA monitor to a legacy Sun computer that outputs Sun video with CSYNC superimposed on the green signal. (If you do this, make sure that jumpers JP2 and JP10 in the Local Module are both installed; see Section 4.1.1.)
In this situation, depending on the computer, the Remote Module might express only CSYNC (composite sync) on the HSYNC lead of its VGA connector, or it might express both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC (vertical sync) on the VSYNC lead. If your VGA monitor works fine even with both signals coming through, leave jumper JP9 installed (the factory-default setting). But if your VGA monitor’s picture becomes distorted if the monitor receives both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC on VSYNC, remove jumper JP9 as shown in Figure 4-7. This causes the Remote Module to suppress the VSYNC signal so that only CSYNC is expressed. Most VGA monitors, including most of those that have problems when they receive both signals, work well using the CSYNC signal alone.
Figure 4-7. Setting VSYNC jumper JP9.
CSYNC and VSYNC
(factory default)
CSYNC only,
VSYNC disabled
Removed
Installed
JP9
29
CHAPTER 5: Installation
5. Installation
5.1 Guidelines and Limitations for Attaching Equipment
This section discusses a few things you need to keep in mind about the types of devices you can attach to a ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender. As you read the rest of this section, you might want to refer to Figure 5-1, which shows how the Extenders handle the various signals they carry. For pinouts of the Extender’s connectors, see Appendix A.
Figure 5-1. Schematics of signal processing in ACS235A (top) and
ACS236A (bottom) Extender systems.
ACS235A
ACS236A
NOTE: You can make either a VGA or a Sun video
connection to the ACS236A, not both at once.
PC
VGA/RGB
keyboard
mouse
printer
R G B
HS VS
DC
R G B
VSYNC HSYNC SYNCPOL
X
parallel/ serial
Y
serial/ parallel
DC DC
R
SYNC polarity
G
B
HSYNC-
VSYNC-
Stripper
Stripper
X
serial/ parallel
Y
parallel/ serial
VGA/RGB
R G B
HS/VS VS
keyboard
mouse
printer
8…28V/DC8…28V/DC
DC
VGA VGA
13W3
Keyboard/
Mouse
RS-232/
(V.24)
R
G
B
R G B
HS/VS VS
13W3
Keyboard/
Mouse
RS-232
(V.24)
8…28V/DC8…28V/DC
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