Blackbox ACS253A-CT, ACS253A-SM, ACS253A-MM, ACS253A-U-MM, ACS253A-U-SM Instruction Manual

THE SERVSWITCH FAMILY

Welcome to the ServSwitch™ Family!

Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX® ServSwitch™ Brand DVI KVM Extender
model! We appreciate your business, and we think you’ll appre ciate the many ways that your
enhanced keyboard/video/mouse system wil l 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-size-fits-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, th ere’ 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 differe nt 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 DVI KVM Extender,
including how to install, operate, and troubleshoot it. F or an introduction to the Extender, see
Chapter 2. The Extender product codes covered in this manual are:

ACS253A-CT

ACS253A-MM

ACS253A-SM

ACS253A-U-MM

ACS253A-U-SM

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Copyrights and Trademarks

©2004. All rights reserved. This information may not be reproduced in any manner without
the prior written consent of the manufacturer.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and the manufacturer shall
not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages in
connection with the use of this material.

All trademark and trade names mentioned in this document are acknowledged to be the
property of their respective owners.

Disclaimer

While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, the manufacturer
assumes no responsibilit y for errors or omissions. Neither d oes the manufacturer ass ume any
liability for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. The
manufacturer reserves the right to change the specifications, functions, or circuitry of the
product without notice.

The manufacturer cannot accept liability for da mage due to misuse of the product or due to
any other circumstances outside the manufacturer’s control (whether environmental or
installation related). The manufacturer shall not be responsible for any loss, damage, or injur y
arising directly, indirectl y, or consequentl y from the use of this product.

Cautions and Notes

The following symbols are used in this guide:

CAUTION. This indicates an important operating instruction
that should be followed to avoid any potential damage to

hardware or property, loss of data, or personal injury.

NOTE. This indicates important information to help you make the best use of
this product.

2

FCC/CDC STATEMENTS

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

AND CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

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 specificati ons in Subpart B 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.

Shielded PC-equipment cables must be used with this equipment to maintain compliance with
radio frequency energy emission regulati ons and ensure a suitably high level of i mmunity to
electromagnetic disturbances.

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emission from digital
apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulatio n of the Canadian Depart ment 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 publié par le Ministerié des Communications du Canada.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

EUROPEAN UNION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

This is to certify that, when installed and used according to the instructions in this
manual, together with the specified cables and the maximum cable length <3m, the
Units are shielded against the generation of radio interferences in accordance with the
application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC as well as these standards:

EN 55022: Fiber+STP 1999 Class B
EN 55022: UTP 1999 Class A
EN 55024: 1999

IEC 61000-4-2: 2001
IEC 61000-4-3: 2001
IEC 61000-4-4: 2001
IEC 61000-4-5: 2001 (CATx device only)

EN 61000-3-2 2001
EN 61000-3-3 2002

The device was tested in a typical configuration with PC.

4

NOM STATEMENT

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 pedestals 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.

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.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

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 cuand o el equip o 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.

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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND INSTALLATION GUIDELINES

Safety Precautions and Installation Guidelines

To ensure reliable and safe long-term operation, please note the following installation
guidelines:

• Do not u se CATx-devices to link between buildings – please use fiber devices.

• Only use in dry, indoor environments.

• If the building has 3-phase AC power, try to ensure that equipment connected to the

Local and Remote units is on the same phase.

• Try not to route a CATx link cable alongside power cables.

• En sure that the system connected to the Local unit is connected to power ground.

• En s ure t hat the monit or connected to the Remote unit is connected to power ground and

does not use an isolated power supply.

• Th e Remote unit, Local unit and any power supplies can get warm. Do not locate them
in an enclosed space without any airflow.

• Do not p lace a power supply dire ctl y on top of a unit.

• Do not obs truct a unit’s ventilation holes.

To safeguard against personal injury and avoid possible
damage to equipment or property, please observe the
following:

• Only use power supplies originally supplied with the

product or manufacturer-approved replacements. Do not
attempt to dismantle or repair any power supply. Do not
use a power supply if it appears to be defective or has a
damaged case.

• Connect all power supplies to grounded outlets. In each

case, ensure that the ground connection is maintained
from the outlet socket through to the power supply’s AC
power input.

• Do not attempt to modify or repair this product, or make

a connection from the CATx link interface (RJ45) or the
Fiber link interface (SC-Duplex) to any other products,
especially telecommunications or network equipment.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Optical Models

Models: ACS253A-SM, ACS253A-MM, ACS253A-U-MM and ACS253A-U-SM
DVI/VGA Upgrade Kits: ACS253A-DVI-MM and ACS253A-DVI-SM

These are Class 1 Laser products. Multimode transceivers comply with IEC 825-1 and FD 21
CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11. Singlemode transceivers comply with IEC 60825-1 and FDA 21
CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11. To meet laser safety requirements, the transceivers shall be
operated within the absolute maximum ratings.

The use of optical instruments with this product may cause
an eye hazard. All adjustments have been made at the
factory prior to shipment of the device. No maintenance or
alteration to the device is required.

Tampering with or modifying the performance of the device
will result in voided product warranty.

Usage Restrictions

Optical ports must be terminated with an optical connector or with a dust plug. Failure to
adhere to the above restrictions could result in a modification that is considered an act of
“manufacturing” and will require, under law, recertification of the modified product with the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (ref. 21 CFR 1040.10(i)).

8

CONTENTS

Contents

1. Quick Setup 11

1.1 Video Input/Output 12

1.2 Command Summary 13

2. Overview 14

2.1 Introduction 14

2.2 Glossary 14

2.3 Features 16

2.4 Product Range 17

2.5 Compatibility 18

2.6 How to Use This Guide 19

3. Installatio n 20

3.1 Package Contents 20

3.2 Interconnection Cable Requirements 21

3.3 System Setup 22

3.4 Diagnostic LEDs 26

3.5 Access Switching 27

3.6 Private Mode 27

4. Device Control 28

4.1 Opening the OSD 29

4.2 Using the OSD 31

5. Monitor Setup 40

6. Extender Setup 41

6.1 Overview 41

6.2 Setup Instructions for VGA Input 42

7. Troubleshooting 44

7.1 Video 44

7.2 Keyboard & Mouse 45

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Appendix A: Example Applications 46

Appendix B: Rack Mount Options 51

Appendix C: System Upgrade & Dual Access 53

Appendix D: Video Modes and Frame Rates 54

Appendix E: USB – Hig h Power/Low Power 56

Appendix F: Audio/Serial Upgrade 57

Appendix G: Calling Black Box 59

Appendix H: Specifications 60

Appendix I: Connectors and Cables 63

10

QUICK SETUP

Install system

Monitor Setup

VGA Input Setup

have a flat screen

1. Quick Setup

This section briefly describes how to install your KVM extender system and optimize the
video signals. Unless you are an experienced user, we recommend that you follow the full
procedures described in the rest of this manual. Refer to t he command summary on page 13
when following this procedure.

1. C onnect Remote unit to KVM.

2. C onnect Local unit to CPU or switch.

3. C onnect Local and Remote units with matching interconnection cable
(CATx, Multimode or Singlemode fiber).

4. Power up the system.

Do you have a

DVI monitor?

Yes

No

No

Carry out the
procedure (please refer to its
manual and see page 40 in
this manual).

Do you have a

DVI source?

No

Carry out

Yes

procedure

(please follow the instructions on page 42).

Do you
(TFT)?

Yes

Done

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

1.1 Video Input/Output

If possible, always use DVI output from your computer’s video card and DVI input to a
monitor. This provides the optimum video signal. If you use a VGA output from your graphi c
source, the ACS253A Local unit must digitize the signal prior to transmission. Similarly, if
your remote TFT screen uses a VGA input, it must digitize the signal from the Remote unit.
In both cases, the built-in video processors must determine the resolution and pixel phase for
an optimized digitization. Your DVI Extender allows you to optimize the video signal
manually or automatically using its on-screen utility (see Chapter 4). If you are using a VGA
input to a TFT monitor, please follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

You may have several possible options for video source output/monitor input. If this is the
case, for the optimum video quality, please select the highest ranked avail able combination
from the following table:

Video Quality Local Unit input Remote Unit output

1 DVI DVI
2 DVI VGA
3 VGA DVI
4 VGA VGA

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QUICK SETUP

1.2 Command Summary

The following table summarizes the ‘hot’ key command sequences used in system
configuration and video tuning on a Remote unit console.

Command

Enter OSD

Exit OSD

Select next position

Select previous

position

Select Submenu

Select parameter

modification

Increase parameter

Decrease parameter

Accept and store

modified parameter

Keyboard

at Remote unit

<Left Control>

+ <Left Shift> + <I>

<ESC> <X>

<Right Arrow> <R>

<Left Arrow> <L>

<Enter> <S>

<Enter> <S>

<Right Arrow> <R>

<Left Arrow> <L>

<Enter> <S>

Terminal or

Windows Utility program*

<O> + <S> + <D>

+ <Enter>

Back to the Menu

selection

* Commands are not case-sensitive.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

2. Overview

2.1 Introduction

A basic KVM extension system comprises a Local unit (transmitter) and a Remote unit
(receiver). The Local unit connects directl y to the computer (or a KVM switch system) using
the supplied cable(s). The user console (keyboard, mouse and monitor) attaches to the
Remote unit. The Remote and Local units communicate video and data information along the
interconnecting cable (see Figure 1). Local units offer dual access, allowing the connection of
a second user console close to the computer. With the optional upgrade kit, you can also use
ACS253A units to communicate stereo audio and serial port signals.

The ServSwitch Brand DVI KVM Extender Series enables high-resolution video, PS/2
keyboard and mouse signals to be communicated up to:

• 300ft (100m) over Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher (CATx) cable.

• 1200ft (400m) over Multimode fiber cable (50/125µ).

• 600ft (200m) over Multimode fiber cable (62.5/125µ).

• 6¼ mil es (10km) over Singlemode fiber cable (9/125µ).

In a digital application (DVI input and output), there is no loss of picture quality irrespective
of extension distance and no adjustments are required. The DVI KVM Extender Series also
supports traditional analog VGA as well as digital DVI. All combinations of DVI and VGA
(graphics cards and monitors) are supported, all owin g eq uip ment to be mixed. In a mixed
analog/digital application, some adjustment of the video signal is necessary to optimize the
analog-digital signal conversions. DVI KVM Extenders are equipped with various automatic
and manual video correction tools in an on screen utility (see page 28).

2.2 Glossary

The following terms are used in this guide:

CATx
Multimode
Singlemode
PSU
KVM
Console
Dual Access
Single Head
Dual Head

Any Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher cable.
Any multimode 2-fiber cable 50/125µ or 62.5/125µ
Any singlemode 2-fiber cable 9/125µ
The desktop power supply connected to the Local/Remote unit.
Keyboard, Video and Mouse.
A keyboard, monitor, and mouse, plus optional serial/audio devices.
A system allowing connection of Local and Remote user consoles.
An extender system that supports one monitor.
An extender system that supports two monitors.

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OVERVIEW

Dual Video Support

Serial/Audio and USB

LOCAL unit

REMOTE unit

Local Access

KVM extension over CATx
or fiber optic cables.

extension options

Figure 1 KVM extender system

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

2.3 Features

All members of the ServSwitch Brand DVI KVM Extender Series offer the following
features:

• Su pport for high video resolution over extended distances:

1600x1200@60Hz over all allowed distances
all lower resolutions with refresh rates of at least 75Hz

• All models come with dual access, to allow local or remote operation

(Local DVI access limited to screen resolutions up to 1280x1024).

• All contr ol and video tuning carried out using an on screen display (OSD) with settings

stored in EEPROM memory.

• Local/Remote unit firmware and settings flash upgradeable.

• Intelligent PS/2 keyboard and mouse emulation ensures PCs do not lock-up and allows

peripherals to be hot-plugged.

• Transparent serial port (on certain models) enables any serial device to be extended (up

to 19.2K Baud). The serial port may be used to extend one device (requiring
handshaking lines), or up to three simple serial devices (no handshaking).

• Bi-directional stereo audio (16-bit digitized) support on certain models enables high-

quality, low-noise audio extension.

• USB support on certain models; connect up to four USB devices directly to the USB hub

on the remote unit.

• Status indicator LEDs on each device.

• Small footprint chassi s.

• Ra ck mount options availa ble.

• CPU cables + Adapters included.

16

OVERVIEW

2.4 Product Range

There are five products in the range and various upgrade kits:

PS2 Style Kits

ACS253A-CT DVI-Extender Set: PS2 Dual Access, CATx
ACS253A-MM DVI-Extender Set: PS2 Dual Access, Multimode
ACS253A-SM DVI-Extender Set: PS2 Dual Access, Singlemode

USB Style Kits

ACS253A-U-MM DVI-Extender Set: USB Dual Access, Multimode
ACS253A-U-SM DVI-Extender Set: USB Dual Access, Singlemode

Upgrade Kits

ACS253A-AS Audio/Ser ial Upgrade kit
ACS253A-TM PS2-keyboard/mouse Upgrade kit for USB devices
ACS253A-DVI-CT DVI Upgrade kit for additional video channel – CATx
ACS253A-DVI-MM DVI Upgrade kit for additional video channel - Multimode
ACS253A-DVI-SM DVI Upgrade kit for additional video channel - Singlemode
ACS253A-G2 Double-width housing

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

2.5 Compatibility

Interface Compatibility

• PS/2 Keyboard: Compatible with all standard keyboards. Certain keyboards with

enhanced features may also be supported with custom firmware.

• PS/2 Mouse: Compatible with all standard 2-button, 3-button and wheel mice.

• Audio: Input and output are line-level. Amplified speakers are required. A microphone

may be directly connected to the Remote unit (optional pre-amplification).

• Serial: Transparent up to 19.2K Baud. The following serial signals are extended: TX,

RX, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR. In rare cases, a wiring adaptor may be required to transfer
RI and DCD.

• USB: compatible to USB 1.0 and USB 1.1. Transmission fully transparent.

Some USB-CDROM or DVD burning devices may not work properly.

• Analog Video: VGA to UXGA. Separate sync, composite sync, or sync-on-green.

Maximum resolution and refresh rates depend on cable length and cable type (see
Appendix H: Specifications, page 46).

• Di git al Video: DVI single link for resolution up t o 1600x1200 at 60Hz. Frame rates and

colors depend on device type (CATx or Fiber – see Appendix D: Video Modes and
Frame Rates, page 54)

18

OVERVIEW

2.6 How to Use This Guide

This guide describes the installation and configuration of the ServSwitch Brand DVI KVM
Extender Series. Although the connection and operation of the system is relatively
straightforward, you should consider the following before getting started:

Connection & Compatibility

If you have purchased an Extender Kit, this will contain all the cables required to connect the
Local unit to your PC or KVM switch. The Remote console (keyboard, monitor and mouse)
and any audio and serial equipment connects directly to the Remote unit.

For information about connection and installation, see Installation, page 20.

Interconnection Cable

For ACS253A-CT Extenders, you will need CATx (any category 5, 5e, 6 or higher) cable,
terminated with RJ45 plugs, to connect the Local and Remote units. Other units require
singlemode or multimode fibers (see Interconnection Cable Requirements, page 21.

Adjusting Video

Due to the digital nature of the transmitted signals, there is no distortion of video signals or
skew problem even with CATx interconnection cables.

If you do not have a DVI source and a DVI monitor, you will need to adjust the monitor
and/or the Extender to the picture widt h and the pixel p hase. You can do this using the Auto
Adjust or Manual Adjust procedures (see page 41).

• For experienced users there is a Quick Setup section at the start of this guide

(see page 11).

• For the full procedure, see Monitor Setup (page 40) and/or Extender Setup (page 41).

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

3. Installation

For first-time users, we recommend that you carry out a test placement, confined to a single
room, before commencing full installation. This will allow you to identi fy and s ol ve any
cabling problems, and experiment with the KVM extender system more conveniently.

3.1 Package Contents

You should receive the following items in your extender package (all types):

• Extender Remote unit.

• 6V DC 12W universal power supply for Remote unit.

• Extender Local unit.

• 6V DC 12W universal power supply for Local unit.

• 2x DVI-I to VGA adapter (DVI-I dual link male to HD15 female) connector.

• 1 x VGA to DVI-I adapter (HD15 male to DVI-I dual link female) connector.

• Pr ogramming cable (DB9 female to RJ11 4p4c).

• Us e r manual.

• 2x US-type power cord.

All PS/2 models are supplied with:

• KVM CPU cable set (1.8m) with PS/2 (6-pin mini-DIN male-to-male) keyboard and

mouse connector and DVI-I video (DVI-I dual link male-to-male) connector

All USB types are supplied with:

• DVI-I video cable (DVI-I dual link male-to-male)

• USB cab le ( USB t ype A to type B)

• 5V DC 12W universal power supply for Remote unit

(only required when connecting t wo or more High Power USB devices -
see Appendix E: USB – High Power/Low Power).

• US-type power cord (additional)
If anything is missing, please contact Technical Support (see Appendix G: Calling Black

Box).

20

INSTALLATION

3.2 Interconnection Cable Requirements

To connect the Local and Remote units you will need:

• CATx M odules: S/UTP (CAT5) cable acc. to EIA/TIA 56A or TSB 36 or Digital STP

17-03170. Four pairs AWG 24. Pinout acc. EIA/TIA 568A (10BaseT). Screen must be
connected on both ends. Please ensure that the connection is tension-free.

• M ult imode Modules: Two fibers 50µm or 62.5µm.

• Singlemode Modules: Two fibers 9µm.

• Power Supply

Connect the supplied 6V/DC power supplies to the Plug terminal on the rear of both
Local and Remote units.

USB devices have an additional power supply. You need to attach this PSU to the
Remote unit if the total power consumption of the attached USB devices exceeds 500 mA
(see Appendix E: USB – High Power/Low Power ).

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

3.3 System Setup

To install your DVI KVM Extender system:

1. Switch off all devices.

2. Connect your keyboard, monitor(s) and mouse to the Remote unit as shown in Figure 2
(ACS253A-CT), Figure 4 (ACS253A-SM/MM) or Figure 6 (ACS253A-U-SM/MM).

These ports may also be attached to the CPU side of a KVM switch in

order to have a Remote CPU. However, if you are attempting to use the
extender between cascaded KVM switches this may not work. Please contact
Technical Support to discuss your application.

3. Connect the interconnect cable to the INTERCONNECT socket(s) as shown in Figure 2
(ACS253A-CT), Figure 4 (ACS253A-SM/MM) or Figure 6 (ACS253A-U-SM/MM).

4. Connect the 6V power supply to power the unit.

Only use the power supply originally supplied with this
equipment or a manufacturer-approved replacement.

5. Using the supplied CPU KVM cable(s), connect the keyboard, monitor(s) and mouse
connectors on the computer (or KVM switch) to the corresponding connectors on the
Local unit as shown in Figure 3 (ACS253A-CT), Figure 5 (ACS253A-SM/MM) or
Figure 7 (ACS253A-U-SM/MM).

Ensure that you attach the keyboard and mouse connectors to the correct ports. The
keyboard connector is purple; the mouse connector is green.

If your PC does not have a PS/2 mouse port, an active serial converter
will be required - Model No: AC244A.

6. For a dual access system, connect the keyboard, mouse and monitor for the Local
console to the appropriate ports on the Local unit. The ports may also be used to feed
into a KVM switch.

7. Connect the Interconnection cable from the Remote unit to the INTERCONNECT
socket on the Local unit as shown in Figure 3 (ACS253A-CT), Figure 5 (ACS253A­SM/MM) or Figure 7 (ACS253A-U-SM/MM).

8. Power up the system.

22

Connect to PS/2 keyboard and

with CATx cable

carries video

mouse using supplied cables

INTERCONNECT – carries video and
data signals – connect to Local unit

Programming connector –
for firmware upgrades

DVI-I Connector – DVI and
VGA output – connect to
Remote console monitor

Figure 2 ACS253A-CT Remote Unit

INTERCONNECT –
and data signals – connect to
Remote unit

Connect to Local
console keyboard
and mouse

INSTALLATION

Connect to 6V
Power supply

Connect to CPU’s
keyboard and
mouse sockets

Connect to 6V
Power supply

Connect to Local
console monitor

DVI-I Connectors

Connect to CPU
video card output

Programming
connector – for
firmware upgrades

Figure 3 ACS253A-CT Local Unit

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

carries video

carries video

Connect PS/2 keyboard and
mouse

Programming connector –
for firmware upgrades

DVI-I Connector – DVI and
VGA output – connect to
Remote console monit or

Figure 4 ACS253A-xM Remote Unit

INTERCONNECT –
and data signals – connect to
Remote unit

INTERCONNECT –
and data signals – connect to
Local unit

Connect to Local
console keyboard
and mouse

Connect 6V
Power supply

Connect to CPU’s
keyboard and
mouse sockets

Connect 6V
Power supply

Connect to Local
console monitor

Figure 5 ACS253A-xM Local Unit

24

Connect to CPU
video card output

DVI-I Connectors

Programming
connector – for
firmware upgrades

carries video

4xUSB connectors for
keyboard, mouse and other
devices, for example, printer

Connect 5V
Power supply for
USB high power

Programming connector –
for firmware upgrades

Figure 6 ACS253A-U-xM Remote Unit

INTERCONNECT –
and data signals – connect to
Remote unit

DVI-I Connector – DVI and
VGA output – connect to
Remote console monitor

INSTALLATION

INTERCONNECT – carries
video and data signals –
connect to Local unit

Connect 6V
Power supply

USB input – connect to CPU

Connect 6V
Power supply

Connect to Local
console monitor

DVI-I Connectors

Connect to CPU
video card output

Programming
connector – for
firmware upgrades

Figure 7 ACS253A-U-xM Local Unit

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

3.4 Diagnostic LEDs

Each Extender unit is fitted with four indicator LEDs: Communication Error, Link Status,
Device Ready and Video Signal. The Indicator LEDs are located in the same positions on all

models in the ACS253A range. The Communication Error and Link Status LEDs are to the
left and right, respectively, of the Interconnect sockets. The Dev ice Ready and Video Signal
LEDs are next to the Power socket.

As an example, the location of the LEDs is shown below for ACS253A-CT Remote and
Local units:

Communication Error Link Status Communication Error Link Status

Video Signal Device Ready Device Ready Video Signal
(Green) (Red) (Red) (Green)

Figure 8 Diagnostic LEDs on Remote (left) and Local (right)

ACS253A-CT units

LED Appearance Diagnostics

Communication
Error

Error counter cleared automatically 60 minutes after previous communication error.

Link Status

Device Ready

(Red LED)
Video Signal

(Green LED)

Off
Flashing

medium

On
Flashing

Off
On

Off
On

No communication error for >60 minutes
Indicates number of communication errors during
previous 60 minutes:

slow

10-100 (CATx) 1-2 (Fiber)
100-1000 (CATx) 3-10 (Fiber)

fast

1000 (CATx) 10 (Fiber)

Link connection is locked
Interconnection cable not connected or not
functioning

Device not ready
Device ready

No video signal or valid mode detected
Attached and valid mode detected

26

INSTALLATION

3.5 Access Switching

The ACS253A series offers dual access through both Local and Remote consoles (see Figure

1). Keyboard and mouse access operates on a first-come, first-served basis. When the

keyboard and mouse is in use at one console, the Extender blocks access at the other until
there is no keyboard or mouse activity for a defined period – the inactivity timeout (2 seconds
– the default, or 15 seconds). A user can then gain control by any keyboard action or by
pressing left and right mouse buttons simultaneously.

The inactivity timeout period and the choice of keyboard only or mouse and keyboard
initiation is determined by jumper settings on the keyboard/mouse daughterboard (see
Appendix C: System Upgrade & Dual Access, page 53).

3.6 Private Mode

On PS2 systems, a user at one console can lock out the other console by triggering a ‘Private
Mode’ function. This prevents the inactive console from being used, even if the inactivity
timeout period expires.

To start a Private Mode session on a console, press the ‘hot’ ke y command sequence:

<Ctrl> + <Shift> + <Scroll Lock>

On the other console, to indicate that a Private Mode session has been started, the extender
system:

• Ill uminates the Num Lock, Caps Lock and Scroll Lock LEDs on the keyboard.

• Displays a blank image on the console’s monitor.

• Locks t h e keyboard and mouse.

To end the Private Mode session, press the ‘hot’ key command seq uence a gain.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

4. Device Control

If you are using the DVI output from your video card and the DVI input to a TFT monitor, no
adjustment should be required. In other cases, when the video signal is converted between
analog and digital formats, either by the Local unit and/or the monitor, you may need to
optimize the video signal using the Extender’s on-screen display (OSD).

Version information
Screen resolution and

refresh rate
Main menu icons

Submenu/command icons

Menu title

Figure 9 OSD Utility

You can adjust the following properties using the OSD:

• Adaptation to analog signal sources (VGA/RGB) – see also Monitor Setup, page 40.

• Color t emperature

• Brightness/contrast

• Saturation

• OSD oper ation, fact ory reset.

28

DEVICE CONTROL

4.1 Opening the OSD

You can access the OSD in three ways:

• Us ing the keyboard attached to the Remote Unit:
Note. On USB devices (ACS253-U-xx) or DVI upgrade kits (ACS253A-DVI-xx),
keyboard access is not available. Please use one of the other methods.

• Us ing a standard terminal program with a serial connection to the programming port.

• Us ing our small WINDOWS™ program with a serial connection to the programming

port.

While the OSD is active, the mouse is locked and only menu keystrokes are allowed at the
keyboard. To indicate that the OSD mode is acti ve, the stat us LEDs (Num Lock, Caps Lock
and Scroll Lock) are flashed. There is a summary of OSD commands on page 13.

Using the keyboard attached to the Remote Unit

Type the following key sequence at the Remote console keyboard:

<Ctrl> + <Shift> + < I >

Note. On some keyboards, <Ctrl> is replaced by <Strg>.

To navigate within the OSD:

• Us e the left and right arrow keys to highlight a submenu and/or function.

• Press the <ENTER> key to select the highlighted submenu or function.

• Select the Exit icon to go back to the previous menu level.

• Press the <ESC> key to exit the OSD mode.

Using a standard terminal program with a serial connection

On all devices, you can use a terminal (or terminal software) for OSD access:

1. Connect the programming cable to the programming port of the Remote unit.

2. Connect the programming cable to the serial port of a computer running a terminal
client.

3. Set up the terminal to 115200 baud with 8 data bits, no parity and 1 stop bit, ASCII­mode.

4. Type in the following key sequence:
< O > + < S > + < D > followed by <ENTER>

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5. When the OSD starts, it displays information about the attached device and firmware

version, for example:

BlackBox
ACS253A-12lo
Vers.1.3
03/05/15

To navigate within the OSD:

• Us e the <L> and <R> keys to highlight a submenu and/or function.

• Press the <S> key to select the highlighted submenu or function.

• Select the Exit icon to go back to the previous menu level.

• Press the <X> key to exit the OSD mode.

Using our WINDOWS™ program

On all devices, you can use our small WINDOWS™ program, runnin g on a WINDOWS™
computer for OSD access:

1. Download the program from our server:

http://www.blackbox.com/tech_support/ts_upgrades/ts_ss.html

2. Connect the programming cable to the programming port of the Remote unit.

3. Connect the programming cable to the serial port of your computer, where the program
is running.

4. Start the program and follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Type in the following key sequence:
< O > + < S > + < D > followed by <ENTER>

When the OSD starts, it displays information about the attached device and firmware version,
for example:

Company Name : BlackBox
Modul Name : ACS253A-12lo
Version : Vers.1.3
Date : 03/05/15

To navigate within the OSD:

• Us e the <L> and <R> keys to highlight a submenu and/or function.

• Press the <S> key to select the highlighted submenu or function.

• Select the Exit button to go back to the previous menu level.

• Press the <X> key to exit the OSD mode.

30

DEVICE CONTROL

4.2 Using the OSD

The OSD is an icon-based utility. The top line of symbols shows the main menu categories:

Input Select

Specify whether the input is analog (VGA) or digital (DVI)
Scale Mode

Choose whether transmission occurs at the original screen resolution
(“transparent”) or the Extender imposes a fixed resolution.

Brightness – Contrast
Adjust brightness or contrast or reset to default values.

Color
Adjust color calibration, temperature, flesh/skin tone, hue and saturation.

Image
VGA Input source only - Adjust pixel clock and phase.

Tools
Set OSD position and size, fixed scale sharpness, color depth, factory reset.

1. Use the left and right arrow keys (<L> and <R> keys on terminal or in Windows
program) to highlight the icon you want. The OSD displays additional icons relating to
commands in the selected menu category.

2. Press the Enter key (<S> key on terminal or in Windows program). The OSD highlights
the first command icon.

3. Use the Left and Right arrow keys (<L> and <R> keys on terminal or in Windows
program) to highlight the command or submenu you want. In the case of the latter, your
selection will cause the OSD to display additional command icons (Color Temperature
commands, for example).

4. Press the Enter key (<S> key on terminal or in Windows program) to accept a
highlighted command. If this requires the increase or decrease of a value (Contrast, for
example), the OSD displays a value bar:

5. Use the Left and Right arrow keys (<L> and <R> keys on ter minal or in Windows

-

program) to change the value as required.

+

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6. In many cases, after you have chosen a new setting, the OSD displays the following

confirmation message:

7. Highlight the Yes button and press the Enter key (<S> key on terminal or in Windows

program) to confirm your choice. Alternatively, highlight the No button and press the
Enter key (<S> key on terminal or in Windows program) to discard the new setting and
restore the previous value.

8. Select the Exit icon to close a submenu.

9. Press the Esc key (<S> key on terminal or in Windows program) to close the OSD,
saving all settings, and restore normal mouse and keyboard functions.

The following table summarizes the keyboard actions and icons used to navigate the OSD
utility, and to select and adjust the Extender’s parameters:

Key/Icon

Remote Keyboard Terminal or

Windows program

Esc <X>

Enter <S>

Left arrow <L>

Right arrow <R>

32

Action

Close the OSD, restore normal keyboard and
mouse functions.

Return to previous Menu selection.

Open the highlighted menu or submenu
Accept the highlighted command

Select the previous menu or command icon
Decrease the highlighted parameter

Select the next menu or command icon
Increase the selected parameter

DEVICE CONTROL

Input Select

Some graphic cards are equipped with both DVI and VGA outputs. On powering up
the CPU, the Extender system uses the first detected signal unless you explicitly

specify the input type. Use the Input Select menu to specify the type of video signal
to be used by the Local unit. The actual graphic source is displayed with a ‘[’ symbol (for
example, VGA[).

VGA Video input to Local unit
DVI Video input to Local unit
Return to main menu

Figure 10 Input Select menu

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Scale

Use the Scale menu to specify whether the Extender system changes the resolution

of the input video. You can set the device for transparent transmission. In this case,

the Remote unit generates a screen resolution and refresh rate to match that of the
source. You can also specify that the output displays at a fixed screen resolution, regardless of
that of the input signal. You might want to use a fixed resolution if your monitor is not able to
display the generated res olution or, for example , if you have a server farm with many
different CPUs each having a different screen resolution. With a transparent transmission, it
could take a long time to regain a picture on the screen each time you switch to a different
CPU.

Transparent transmission: No modific ation
of resolution/refresh rate, Remote unit
always generates an exact reproduction of
the source signal

Choice of three fixed transmissions at
refresh rate of 60Hz (for LCD/flat screens)
800x600, 1024x768, 1280x1024

Return to main menu
Choice of three fixed transmissions at

refresh rate of 75Hz (for CRT/tube screens)
800x600, 1024x768, 1280x1024

Figure 11 Scale Mode menu

Downscaling is only available with VGA signals. With a DVI input, you can select
downscaling but it will not work – only upscaling has an effect.

34

Brightness/Contrast

Use this menu to adjust the brightness and contrast of the video image, or to adjust

the black level of an LCD display.

Adjust Brightness
Adjust Contrast
Adjust Black level
Return to main menu

Figure 12 Brightness-Contrast menu

Select Colors and Color Temperatures

Use the Colors menu to adjust the color balance of the video image. The menu

provides a number of options including automatic calibration, manual adjustment in

RGB or CMY color space, hue and saturation adjustment and the setup of flesh/skin

tone.

DEVICE CONTROL

Automatic color calibration
Standard RGB color selection
View Color temperature submenu

(see Color Temperature, page 36)

Flesh tone/Skin tone
Set up colors in CMY space – automatically

adjusts settings in RGB space

Hue Saturation Back to main menu

Figure 13 Color menu

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Color Temperature

Use the Color Temperature submenu to set up the color profile in RGB color space

or by using one of five predefined color temperatures. To view this menu, select the

Colors icon from the main menu and then select the Color Temperature icon.

Set up colors in RGB space – automatically
adjusts settings in CMY space

Choice of five color temperature settings:
4200k, 5000k, 6500k, 7500k, 9300k

Back to Color menu

Figure 14 Color Temperature submenu

Image

VGA inputs only

Use the Image menu to adjust the vertical and horizontal screen position and to set

the pixel clock and phase.

Manually adjust the
number of pixels per
line (Pixel clock)

Figure 15 Image menu

36

Automatic detection of the number of pixels
per line and the best phase (best point for
A/D conversion within each pixel) see also
Extender Setup, page 41.

Back to main menu
Manually adjust the vertical screen position
Manually adjust the horizontal screen

position

Manually adjust the best phase (best point for A/D
conversion within each pixel)

Tools

Use the Tools menu to set the position and size of the OSD window, adjust the

sharpness for a fixed resolution setting, set the color depth, reset the Extender

system to its factory default settings or provide a test pattern.

Display a ‘burst’ pattern at the
remote console for monitor setup
(see Monitor Setup, page 42)

Figure 16 Tools menu

DEVICE CONTROL

Set the position of the OSD window (see
OSD, page 37)

Reset Extender to factory default settings
Adjust sharpness (fixed resolution modes

only). When resolution is changed by an
imposed fixed resolution, sharpness can be
affected. Use this option to switch between
three settings for optimum sharpness

Select color depth
(see Color Depth, page 39)

Choose whether to automatically
adjust pixels per line and pixel
phase after a mode change
(see Auto Configuration, page 38)

Back to main menu

OSD

Use the OSD submenu to define the position and size of the OSD window. To view

this menu, select the Tools icon from the main menu and then select the OSD icon.

Manually adjust the horizontal position of
the OSD window

Manually adjust the vertical position of the
OSD window

Back to Tools menu
Toggle the size of the OSD window

between single and double size

Figure 17 OSD submenu

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Auto Configuration

Use the Auto Configuration submenu to define whether the Local unit carries out

automatic detection of the number of pixels per line and the best phase after a mode

change (a change of screen resolution and/or refresh rate at the graphic source).

Using automatic detection (while displaying an appropriate test pattern) ensures an
optimized image but the procedure introduces a delay in the picture appearing on the remote
console screen. If you want the picture to appear as fast as possibl e, and can tolerate a non­optimized image, you may want to disable this feature. Please note that Auto Configuration is
disabled in the default factory settings.

To view the Auto Configuration menu, select the Tools icon from the main menu and then
select the Auto Configuration icon.

Disable Automatic detection of pixels per
line and phase after a mode change

Enable Automatic detection of pixels per
line and phase after a mode change

Back to Tools menu

Figure 18 Auto-Configuration submenu

38

DEVICE CONTROL

Color Depth

Use the Color Depth submenu to select the color depth of the transmitted screen

picture. Transmissions can be in high color mode or low color mode. High color

mode produces a better quality image but results in a lower frame rate (fps). Use
low color mode if you require fast screen changes, for example video applications. Use high
color mode if you need precise images, for example, medical applications. Please see
Appendix D: Video Modes and Frame Rates (page 54) for more information about frame
rates and supported screen resolutions.

Color Depth
Color Mode CATx Fiber

Low 5 bits/color

15 bits total

32768 colors

High 7 bits/color

21 bits total

2.1M colors

To view this menu, select the Tools icon from the main menu and then select the Color Depth
icon.

Select low color mode/higher fps
Select high color mode/lower fps
Back to Tools menu

6 bits/color

18 bits total

262144 colors

8 bits/color
24bits total

16.78M colors

Figure 19 Color Depth submenu

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

5. Monitor Setup

This procedure is designed to correct for discrepancies in the video signal due to
analog/digital video conversion by the Monitor. You do not need to follow this procedure if
you have:

• A CRT monit or connect ed to the Remote unit through the VGA input

• A TFT monitor connected to the Remote unit through the DVI input

In these cases, there is no need to adjust the monitor because the video format is not
converted.

Please make sure that you carry out this procedure before Extender Setup (page 41). If you
are using a TFT monitor at the remote console with a VGA cable, both the Extender AND the
TFT monitor digitize the video data stream and affect video quality. By setting up the TFT
monitor first, you ensure that you are correcting discrepancies due solely to the Extender
system in the Extender Setup procedure.

1. Connect the Extender system and display the regular desktop in the desired screen

resolution. Monitor setup may vary depending on screen resolution and/or refresh rate.

2. Display the OSD utility (see page 29).

3. Select the Tools menu option (see page 37).

4. Select the ‘burst’ pattern option. Your TFT should show fine, 1 pixel wide, black and

white vertical stripes over the entire scre en. The OSD will sta y visible in the middle of
the screen.

5. Depending on the type of TFT, press the ‘AUTO’ Button on the monitor control panel or

select Auto Adjust in the TFT Setup Menu. Refer to the manual supplied with your
monitor for more information.

6. If the vertical stripes are sharp and without jitter or smearing, the adjustment has been

successful. Go to step 8.

7. If the picture quality is not acceptable after the automatic adjust ment, you will have to

manually adjust the pixel clock and pixel phase (in this order). Please follow the
instructions in your monitor’s user manual.

8. Press any key to exit the test pattern display.

9. Exit the OSD.

40

EXTENDER SETUP

6. Extender Setup

6.1 Overview

You need to optimize the video signal across your Extender system if it undergoes one or
more conversions between analog and digital formats. The exact procedure depe nds on your
Extender setup:

Graphics

card

VGA TFT VGA

VGA CRT VGA

VGA TFT DVI

DVI TFT VGA

DVI CRT VGA No setup required

DVI TFT DVI No setup required

Monitor

type

Monitor

Input used

Video Optimization Procedure(s)

TFT adjustment (see Monitor Setup, page 40)
Optimization using OSD

(see Setup Instructions for VGA Input, page 42)

Optimization using OSD
(see Setup Instructions for VGA Input, page 42)

Optimization using OSD
(see Setup Instructions for VGA Input, page 42)

TFT adjustment only
(see Monitor Setup, page 40)

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6.2 Setup Instructions for VGA Input

This procedure is designed to correct for discrepancies in the video signal due to
analog/digital video conversion by the Extender system. You do not need to follow this
procedure if you have a DVI graphics card connected to the Local unit. In this case, the video
signal remains in a digital format through the Extender system.

If you are using a TFT monitor at the remote console with a VGA cable, you should carry out
the Monitor Setup procedure first (see page 40). In this configuration, both the Extender AND
the TFT digitize the video data stream and affect video quality. By setting up the TFT
monitor, you ensure that you are correcting discrepancies due solely to the Extender system in
this procedure. Alternatively, you could replace the TFT monitor with a CRT monitor while
you carry out this procedure. You can then reconnect the TFT monitor and optimize its video
image afterwards.

1. Download the test pattern from our web server:

http://www.blackbox.com/tech_support/ts_upgrades/ts_ss.html

This is a ‘burst-pattern’ (see Figure 20) - a picture with alternating, 1 pixel wide black
and white, vertical stripes.

If you are unable to view the test card, display some black text on a white background.
For example, you could open Notepad, maximize it to full screen, and fill the pa ge with
letter ‘I’s in a 12pt font. Proceed with step 3.

2. Select the burst-pattern graphic as desktop background for the PC:

From the Start menu, choose Settings | Control Panel | Display | Backgrounds.
Search for the downloaded burst file, using ‘Search for’.
Select the tiled display option.
Your desktop should show fine black and white vertical stripes over the entire desktop.

3. Display the OSD (see page 29).

4. Select the Image menu option:

5. Select the first command icon:

Automatic detection of number
of pixels per line and the best phase.

6. Assess the desktop test pattern. If the vertical stripes are sharp and without jitter or

smearing, the adjustment has been successful. Go to step 10.

7. If the picture quality is not acceptable after the automatic adjust ment, you will have to

manually adjust the pixel clock and pixel phase (in this order).

42

EXTENDER SETUP

8. With a poorly adjusted pixel clock you may see one or more vertical areas, where the

lines are smeared (see Figure 20a):

a. Return to the OSD utility and select the menu command:

Manually adjust the number of pixels per line (Pixelclock)

from the Image menu.

b. Adjust the pixel clock value until all stripes have disappeared.
c. Confirm the setting.

9. Problems with the pixel phase will cause horizontal noise, horizontal wave-formed lines,

flicker or smearing with zebra-pattern (see Figure 20b):
a. Fr om the OSD’s Image menu, sele ct the menu command:

Manually adjust the best phase (best point for A/D conversion within each pixel).

b. Modify the phase until all distortions have disappeared.
c. Confirm the setting.

10. If appropriate, reatta ch your TFT monitor and adjust its image according to the

manufacturer’s instructions.

11. Reinstall your preferred desktop background picture.

(a) (b)

Figure 20 Burst test pattern applied to desktop showing problems with

(a) pixel clock setting, (b) pixel phase setting.

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7. Troubleshooting

7.1 Video

There isn’t a picture.

Check the power supply connection at the Local unit. Is the Device Ready (Red

LED) at the Local unit illuminated (see page 26)? If not, the internal power-supply

may be damaged or there may be an internal error.

Check the power supply connection at the remote unit. Is the Device Ready (Red

LED) at the Remote unit illuminated (see page 26)? If not, the internal power-

supply may be damaged or there may be an internal error.

Check that the Interconnection cable is connected at the Local Unit and the Remote

Unit. Is the Link Status LED illuminated (see page 26)? If not, there may be a

problem with the Interconnection cable:

• Fiber types: Check that the fiber optical cable is correctly connected. The

strand connected to the Local Unit’s TX (left-hand connector) must run to the
Remote Unit’s RX (right-hand connector) and vice versa.

• Fiber types: There may be one or more broken fibers. Do NOT look into a

fiber’s end directly while it is connected to a Local or Remote unit! Are the
Link Status LEDs at the Local Unit AND at the Remote Unit illuminated? If
they are flashing, check for broken fibers using a flashlight.

• Fiber types: Are the cables of the recommended fiber type? If you used your

own fiber optical cable (not supplied by Black Box), please ensure that you
have used 50µ or 62.5µ fiber with a multimode device or a 9µ fiber with a
singlemode device. Other fiber-types and poly-fibers are not supported.

• CATx t ypes: Check that you have wired th e cable ‘straight through’. ‘Cross

wired’ cables will not work.

• CATx t ypes: Check that the cable is correctly wired. Use a CATx cable tester

for checking wrong wired or broken strands.

Check that you are using a supported video mode (see Appendix D: Video Modes

and Frame Rates). At the Remote Unit, is the Video Signal LED illuminated (see

page 26)?

Check your total system configuration. Local units digiti ze incoming VGA signals

and must receive perfect SYNC signals: no glitches, spikes or deformed signals are

allowed. Long/wrong or bad cables, or additional components like Splitters or

KVM Switches may deform the SYNC signals.

Also check that the signals (level and signal form) match the VESA Standard

requirements.

44

There is horizontal jitter on the picture.

The pixel clock and/or phase is misaligned: Refer to page 42.

Characters are smeared.

The phase is misaligned: Refer to page 42.

Thin vertical lines are missing.

The phase is misaligned: Refer to page 42.

Colored areas of the screen look like an oil film.

In some circumstances, the Extender’s internal video processor may lose its

firmware. In this case, it is necessary to reset the unit. A power cycle is NOT

sufficient! Please use the OSD to make a Factory Reset (see page 37).

7.2 Keyboard & Mouse

The keyboard or mouse doesn’t work.

Is there a picture? If not, check the solutions suggested in the previous section.

If the picture is OK, check that the model of mouse or keyboard is supported.

TROUBLESHOOTING

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Appendix A: Example Applications

This section illustrates some specific applications using Extender units:

• USB fiber with local access (Figure 21).

• CATx with audio/serial support in dual wide housing (Figure 22).

• Dual Head application with PS2 keyboard/mouse, USB support and audio/serial in

19”/1U (Figure 23).

• 3x Dual Head application in 19”/2U (Figure 24).
For more details, please discuss suitable extension architecture with Technical Support (see

Appendix G: Calling Black Box).

46

ACS253A

-U-xM

ACS253A

-U-xM

CPU
USB and graphics output

USB hub providing local
console mouse and
keyboard connections
Type IC147A

Local Unit

USB and graphics input from
CPU with local console
graphics output

Remote Unit

USB and graphics
output

APPENDIX A: EXAMPLE APPLICATIONS

Local console

USB extension

Remote console

Figure 21 USB extension with local access

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Remote Unit

Local Unit

CPU
PS/2 keyboard and mouse,
graphics and audio/serial output

ACS253A-CT and
ACS253A-AS units in
double width housing
(ACS253A-G2)

Local console

Remote console

Audio/serial extension

Figure 22 CATx application with local access and audio/serial

extension

48

APPENDIX A: EXAMPLE APPLICATIONS

Remote Unit

with dual video

Local Unit

keyboard connections

CPU
USB, graphics and
audio/serial output

USB hub providing local
console mouse and

Local console

ACS253A-xM,
ACS253A-U-xM and
ACS253A-AS units
in 19” 1U rack

Remote console Secondary video USB devices Audio/serial devices

Figure 23 Dual Head application with PS/2, USB and audio/serial

extension

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xM units in

Remote Unit

Local Unit

3 x CPU
PS/2 keyboard/mouse,
dual graphics output

3x ACS253A-xM and 3x
ACS253A-DVI­19” 2U rack

Remote console with
secondary video

Remote console with
secondary video

Figure 24 Multiple dual head application

50

Remote console with
secondary video

APPENDIX B: RACK MOUNT OPTIONS

Appendix B: Rack Mount Options

Extender units can be mounted in a 19” rack using the mounting kit:

ACS253A-Rackmount Kit

This contains the following parts:

Narrow strip

Two small blanking plates

Base plate

M3x5 Screws (14)

Wide blanking plate

Figure 25 Rack Mounting Kit

To mount a unit:

1. Align the holes on the base plate with the vacant screw holes on the base of the extender

unit.

2. Fasten the base of the unit to the plate of the mounting kit using the supplied screws.

3. Close the remaining gaps with blanking plates.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

The kit allows you to mount various combinations of regular and double width housings:

1. One regular unit (using two small plates) 2. Two regular units (using one small plate)

3. Mounting of three regular units 4. Mounting of one double width unit

(using wide plate)

5. Mounting of double width and regular units ( using narrow strip)

52

APPENDIX C: SYSTEM UPGRADE & DUAL ACCESS

Appendix C: System Upgrade & Dual Access

System Update / Onboard Programming

It is occasionally necessary to update the firmware of the system. Normally, this procedure is
carried out in the factory. If you want to update the firmware yourself, contact Technical
Support. You will need a programming cable and software to carry out the update. Please
follow the supplied instructions carefully.

Dual Access

PS2-devices only

Two jumpers located on the keyboard/mouse daughter board in the Remote unit allow you to:

• Change the Inactivity Timeout period between 2s (the default) and 15s. This is the

minimum time of mouse and keyboard inactivity required at one console, before the
Extender system allows the user at the other console to gain control.

The upper jumper switch (labeled TIME) selects the inactivity timeout period. When
closed, the setting is 2 seconds. When open, the setting is 15 seconds.

• Select the method for gaining control. Two choices are available:

• Any keyboard activity or by pressing the left and right mouse buttons simultaneously

(the default), or

• Keyboard activity only.
The lower jumper switch (labeled MOUSE) selects the method of switching between

local and remote consoles. When open, the setting is for any keyboard action or by
pressing the left and right mouse button simultaneously. When closed, the method is set
to keyboard activity only.

Inactivity
Timeout (s) 15 2 2 15

Keyboard/
Mouse action? K&M K K&M K

(factory default)

Time
J2
J3
KeyB

Time
J2
J3
KeyB

Time
J2
J3
KeyB

Time
J2
J3
KeyB

Figure 26 Alternative jumper settings for dual access control

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Appendix D: Video Modes and Frame Rates

The following table shows the video modes supported by the DVI KVM Extender series and
the expected frame rates over fiber and CATx interconnects at both high color (hiCol) and
low color (loCol) settings. The Extenders are able to synchronize video modes that do not
differ by more than 10% from those listed below.

Video Mode

Dos graphic mode 640 350 31.5 70 25 70 70 70 70
Vesa Standard 640 350 37.8 85 31 85 85 85 85
Dos Text Mode 640 400 24.7 56 21 56 56 56 56
Vesa Standard 640 400 31.4 70 25 70 70 70 70
VGA 640 400 37.8 85 31 85 85 43 85
VGA 640 480 31.5 60 25 60 60 60 60
Vesa Standard 640 480 35.0 66.7 31 67 67 67 67
Industry Standard 640 480 37.8 72 31 72 72 36 72
Mac Mode 640 480 37.5 75 32 75 75 38 75
Vesa Standard 640 480 43.2 85 36 85 85 43 85
Vesa Standard 720 400 31.5 70 28 70 70 70 70
Vesa Standard 720 400 37.8 85 35 85 85 43 85
PAL Progressive 720 576 31.2 50 27 50 50 50 50
Vesa Guidelines 800 600 35.1 56 36 56 56 28 56
Vesa Guidelines 800 600 37.8 60 40 60 60 30 60
Vesa Standard 800 600 48.0 72 50 36 72 36 36
Vesa Standard 800 600 46.8 75 49 38 75 38 38
Vesa Standard 800 600 53.6 85 56 43 85 43 43
MAC Mode 832 624 49.7 75 56 38 75 38 38
Vesa Guidelines 1024 768 48.3 60 65 30 30 20 30
Vesa Standard 1024 768 56.4 70 75 35 35 23 35
SUN Mode 1024 768 57.8 72 75 36 36 24 36
Vesa Standard 1024 768 60.0 75 79 38 38 25 38
Vesa Standard 1024 768 68.6 85 94 28 43 21 43
DMTI 185 1152 864 63.8 70 94 23 35 18 23
Vesa Standard 1152 864 63.8 70 101 23 35 18 23
DMTI 185 1152 864 67.5 75 108 25 38 19 25
SUN Mode 1152 900 61.8 66 94 22 33 17 22
Vesa Standard 1280 960 60.0 60 108 20 30 15 20
DMT127A 1280 960 75.0 75 126 25 25 15 25
Vesa Standard 1280 960 85.9 85 148 21 28 17 21
Vesa Standard 1280 1024 63.9 60 108 20 30 15 20
SUN Mode 1280 1024 71.7 66 117 22 33 17 22
SXGA 1280 1024 74.6 70 129 23 23 14 23
SXGA 1280 1024 76.8 72 133 24 24 14 24
Vesa Standard 1280 1024 79.9 75 135 25 25 15 25
Vesa Standard 1280 1024 91.1 85 157 21 28 14 21
SGI 1600 1024 77.6 72 158 18 24 12 18
Vesa Standard 1600 1200 75.0 60 162 15 20 10 15

Visible

Resolution

Pixels Lines Horiz

Clock Rates Frame Rate

Vert.

kHz

Dt Ck

Hz

hiCol loCol hiCol lo

MHz

Fiber

Frame Rate

CATx

Col

54

APPENDIX D: VIDEO MODES AND FRAME RATES

Frame Rates (FPS)

A DVI KVM Extender is not capable of transferring every frame generated by a graphics card
because the net data rate of a Single Link DVI-Interface with 3.9Gbit is much higher than the
available transfer rate of the Extenders.

Transmission follows the following scheme:

• Starting with a recognized VS-Signal, the first frame is digitized (on VGA) and

temporarily stored (DVI+VGA) by the Local unit.

• The data are transmitted, using the available net data rate, to the Remote unit. During

this time, frames generated by the graphic card are discarded without any recognition
(frame dropping).

• When data transfer is complete, the Extender system waits for the next VS-Signal.
Depending on the data volume (affected by the selected screen resolution/refresh rate), the

type of transmission module and the correspondence between the duration of the data transfer
and a multiple of the refresh rate, you should get frame rates in a range of approximately 15
fps up to the actual refresh rate of the graphic card.

The frame rate counts the number of different pictures that are displayed in
one second. The monitor is always driven with the same refresh rate as

generated by the graphics card or selected in the OSD.

The human eye is not able to discern more than 15 fps as single pictures. Your DVI KVM
Extender is therefore suitable for displaying streaming video in the highest resolution. To
gain a higher frame rate, reduce the screen resolution - video normally does not require higher
resolutions.

In higher resolution, the mouse pointer may show broken movement over the
screen because of the reduced frame rate. Use slower mouse movements for
exact positioning.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Appendix E: USB – High Power/Low Power

The USB specification allows low power and high power devices to be attached to, and
powered through, the USB hub. Power consumption may exceed the internal power
capabilities of the Extender if you atta ch more than one high power device to the Remote
Unit hub. In such cases, you are recommended to use the supplied PSU for powering the USB
hub.

The USB specifications allow:

• 1 0 0 mA for low power devices

• 5 0 0mA for high power devices

The ACS253A-U-xx can supply up to 500mA. There is no total power limitation, so
consuming more than 500mA may overload the internal power supply and shutdown the
device. This means, you can attach either:

• 1 to 4 low power units or

• 1 high power unit

If your total USB power consumption exceeds 500mA, you need to connect the supplied PSU
before attaching the devices.

Using the power supply unit, you may attach:

• 1 to 4 high power units or

• 1 to 4 low power units or

• An y combinati on of these

Each port has a regulated power limit of 500mA.

56

APPENDIX F: AUDIO/SERIAL UPGRADE

Appendix F: Audio/Serial Upgrade

The Audio/Serial Upgrade option consists of daughter boards that allow bi-directional stereo
audio and a full-duplex serial data link to be sent across the regular interconnection cable in
addition to keyboard, mouse and VGA/DVI video.

To set up the extender’s audio and serial link, please follow all of the instructions detailed in
this appendix. If you have any questions, contact Technical Support.

Serial Interface - Set Up and Operation

No setting up or user adjustments are required. Please note that on the Dual Access model,
the serial link is always active.

Please bear in mind that the Remote Unit’s serial port is wired as DTE (i.e. the same as that
on a PC). To connect a serial printer (or other DTE rather than DCE device) to the Remote
Unit, you will need a Null-Modem (crossover) cable between the Remote Unit and the
printer.

A serial touch screen may be plugged directly into the Remote Unit.

Serial Interface - Handling Multiple Serial Devices

The extender’s serial interface transmits/receives six signals (3 signals in each direction).
Normally four of these signals are used for hardware han dshaking (in addit ion to TX & RX).
However, because each handshaking line can support signals up to 19,200 Baud it is possible
to configure the serial interface to handle up to three simple 2-wire (Tx/Rx only) serial links.
Select Xon/Xoff software flow control on the remote device and PC.

To do this you will need to construct a custom breakout cable. Please contact technical
support for further information.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Audio Interface - Set Up and Operation

The audio interface is line-level and is designed to take the output from a sound card (or other
line-level) source and be connected to a set of powered speakers at the other end of the link.
Stereo audio may be transmitted either way across the link (simultaneously). No set up is
required unless a microphone is connected to the remote unit.

Connect up the extender as follows:
Take the line-level output from your sound card (green connector) and connect to ‘Line In’ on

the extender.
A set of powered speakers may be connected directl y to ‘Line Out’ at the opposite end of the

link.

Audio Interface - Using a Microphone

A microphone may be plugged into the ‘Line In’ connector on the Remote Unit.
There are two ways of setting up a microphone:

• Th e Local Unit’s ‘Lin e Out’ connection shoul d normall y be wired to the microphone

input (Red) on your sound card. The sound card should then be set up to provide
additional amplification (+20dB). This is the preferred connection method.

• Alt e rnatively, the Remote Unit itself can provide microphone amplification. To set this,

open up the Remote Unit and locate the jumper labeled ‘MIC’ on the daughter board.
Connect this jumper across the pins. The Local Unit’s ‘Line Out’ connection should then
be wired to ‘Line In’ (Blue) on your sound card.

If your microphone is already amplifie d, follow the second method but DO NOT install the
amplification jumper in the Remote Unit.

58

APPENDIX G: CALLING BLACK BOX

Appendix G: Calling Black Box

If you determine that your DVI KVM Extender is malfunctioning, do not attempt to alter or
repair it. It contains no user-serviceable parts. Contact Black Box Technical Support at 724-

746-5500.
Before you do, make a record of the history of the problem. We will be able to provide more

efficient and accurate assistance if you have a complete description, including:

• The firmware-revision level printed on the bottom of the Extender (very important,

especially for keyboard and mouse problems); The DVI KVM extender’s firmware
revision level:

Version Number Format:
Board: xx LO/RE Myyy Pzzz Auuu Gvvvvvv
Transceiver: C/M/S xx Pyy Mzz
Keyboard/Mouse: P/U xx Vyyy

• Th e nature and duration of the problem.

• When the problem occurs.

• Th e components involved in t he problem—that is, what type of computers, what type of

keyboard, brand of mouse, make and model of monitor, type and make of cable, etc.

• Any particular application that, when used, appears to create the problem or make it

worse.

• Th e resu lt s of any testing you’ve alre ady done.
To solve some problems, it might be necessary to upgrade the Extender’s firmware. If this

turns out to be the case for your difficulty, our Technical Support technicia ns will arrange for
you to receive the new firmware and will tell you how to install it.

Shipping and Packaging

If you need to transport or ship your DVI KVM Extender:

• Package it carefully. We recommend that you use the original container.

• If you ar e shipping it for repair, please include the Remote Unit’s external power supply.

If you are returning it, please include everything you received with it. Before you ship
the Extender back to Black Box for repair or return, contact us to get a Return
Authorization (RA) number.

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Appendix H: Specifications

Power Requirements

Voltage
Power required

Voltage
Power required

Interface

(Depending on type of device)

Monitor

Local Access

Keyboard/Mouse
USB
USB-Remote

PSU: 90..240VAC-0.5A-47..63Hz/6VDC-2000 mA
Local Unit: approx. 8W

Remote Unit without keyboard: approx. 8W
Remote Unit with keyboard: approx. 9.5W

PSU: 90..240VAC-0.5A-47..63Hz/5VDC-2400 mA
Remote Unit USB port with multiple high power

devices, bus powered: approx. 10W

VGA (res.: 1600x1200@60Hz, plug&play supported)
all lower resolutions at least with 75Hz

DVI (res.: 1600x1200@60Hz, plug&play supported
max. resolution VGA: 1600x1200, DVI: 1280x1024

output depends on input type VGA or DVI
IBM PS2 (power consumption <100mA)
USB 1.1 compatible (NO CD-Writer!)
4 port Hub - low power (max 100mA each) or 1x high

power (max 500mA) without PSU. - high power (max
500mA each) with additional PSU.

Maximum Length of Interconnection Cable

(Without reboost)

CAT5/5e/6

62.5µm/50µm Multimode

9µm Singlemode

330ft (100m) with solid trunk cable
200ft (60m) with stranded cable

650ft (200m) @62,5µ
1300ft (400m) @50µ

6 ¼ miles (10km)

60

APPENDIX H: SPECIFICATIONS

Optical Elements – Multimode ACS253A-MM, ACS253A-U-MM

Center Wavelength
Total Output Power

Beam Divergence
Required Labels

Transmitter Electro-Optical Characteristics (typical)

Launched power (Average) into
multmode fiber 50µ or 62.5µm
diameter

Receiver Electro-Optical Characteristics (typical)

Sensitivity (Average Power)
Optical budget total

850nm
<400µW

(as defined by IEC: 50mm aperture at 10cm distance)
<70µW

(as defined by FDA: 7mm aperture at 20cm distance)
12°
FDA: Complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11

IEC: 825-1 Class 1 Laser Product

-5 dBm (-9.5dBm minimum)

-20dBm (-17dBm maximum)

-14dBm (-6,5dBm minimum)

Optical Elements – Singlemode ACS253A-SM, ACS253A-U-SM

Center Wavelength
Total Output Power

1300nm
<2000µW

(as defined by IEC: 50mm aperture at 10cm distance)
<180µW

(as defined by FDA: 7mm aperture at 20cm distance)

Beam Divergence
Required Labels

Transmitter Electro-Optical Characteristics (typical)

Launched power (Average) into
singlemode fiber 9µm diameter

Receiver Electro-Optical Characteristics (typical)

Sensitivity (Average Power)
Optical budget total

4°
FDA: Complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11

IEC: 60825-1 Class 1 Laser Product

-3 dBm (-11dBm minimum)

-22dBm (-20dBm maximum)

-18dBm (-8dBm minimum)

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Serial Interface

(Available with Serial/ Audio Upgrade option only)

Serial Speed
Serial Data Format
Flow Control

Up to a maximum of 19,200 Baud
Format Independent
RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR are sent across link

Audio Interface

(Available with Serial/ Audio Upgrade option only)

Description
Transmission Method
Signal Levels
Input Impedance
Local Unit Connectors
Remote Unit Connectors
Microphone Support

Bi-directional stereo audio link
Digitized virtually CD quality audio (16-bit, 38.4KHz)
Line-Level (5 Volts Pk-Pk maximum)
47K
2 x 3.5mm stereo jack socket (Line In & Line Out)
2 x 3.5mm stereo jack socket (Line/Mic In & Line Out)
A microphone may be connected to the Remote Unit.

Pullup resistor provides bias for condenser microphone.
Option to set microphone amplification to +17dB.

Size and Shipping Weight

Remote and Local Unit

Remote/Local Unit: 6.7”x5.2”x1.7” (170x133x44mm)
Weight: 2.2lb (1.0kg) each

Shipping box

Environmental

Operating Temperature
Storage Temperature
Relative Humidity

62

Shipping Box: 18.1”x9.8”x4.7” (460x250x120mm)
Weight: 9.5lb (4.3kg)

50 to 113°F (10 to 45 °C)
23 to 131°F (-5 to 55 °C)
max. 80% non-condensing

APPENDIX I: CONNECTORS AND CABLES

Appendix I: Connectors and Cables

Extender Connector Pinouts

DVI-I Female connector (on all units)

Pin Signal Pin Signal Pin Signal

1 T.M.D.S data 2- 9 T.M.D.S data 1- 17 T.M.D.S data 0­2 T.M.D.S data 2+ 10 T.M.D.S data 1+ 18 T.M.D.S data 0+
3 T.M.D.S data 2 GND 11 T.M.D.S data 1 GND 19 T.M.D.S data 0 GND
4 n.c. 12 n.c. 20 n.c.
5 n.c. 13 n.c. 21 n.c.
6 DDC Input (SCL) 14 +5V Power 22 T.M.D.S clock GND
7 DDC Output(SDA) 15 GND 23 T.M.D.S clock +
8 Analog VSYNC 16 Hot Plug recognition 24 T .M.D.S clock -

C1 Analog Red C3 Analog Blue
C2 Analog Green C5 Analog GND C4 Analo g HYSNC

1 8 C1 C2

17 24 C3 C4

C5

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

Mouse In/Out

6 pin miniDIN female

Pin Signal

1 MOUSE DATA
2 n.c.
3 GND
4 +5V
5 MOUSE CLOCK
6 n.c.

Keyboard In/Out

6 pin miniDIN female

Pin Signal

1 KEYBOARD DATA
2 n.c.
3 GND
4 +5V
5 KEYBOARD CLOCK
6 n.c.

64

Programming

Power

APPENDIX I: CONNECTORS AND CABLES

1 4

Pin Signal

1 TxD (to PC RxD)
2 RxD (from PC TxD)
3 DTR from PC
4 GND

1 2

3 4

Pin Signal

1 GND
2 Earth
3 n.c.
4 +6VDC
Housing Shield

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SERVSWITCH BRAND DVI KVM EXTENDER FAMILY

8C1C2

24

C3

C4

1

17

Adapter Cables

DVI/VGA Adapter

Remote/Local Unit: DVI-I male connector Monitor: HD15 female connector

C5

Pin Signal Pin Signal

6 DDC Input (SCL) 15 DDC Input (SCL)
7 DDC Output(SDA) 12 DDC Output (SDA)
8 Analog VSYNC 14 Ana log VSYNC
C1 Analog Red 1 Analog Red
C2 Analog Green 2 Analog Green
C3 Analog Blue 3 Analog Blue
C4 Analog HYSNC 13 Analog HSYNC
C5 Analog GND 6,7,8 Analo g GND

66

APPENDIX I: CONNECTORS AND CABLES

8C1C2

24

C3

C4

1

17

Local unit VGA/DVI Adapter

CPU Graphics card: HD15 male connector Local Unit: DVI-I male connector

C5

Pin Signal Pin Signal

15 DDC Input (SCL) 6 DDC Input (SCL)
12 DDC Output (SDA) 7 DDC Output(SDA)
14 Analog VSYNC 8 Analog VSYNC
1 Analog Red C1 Analog Red
2 Analog Green C2 Analog Green
3 Analog Blue C3 Analog Blue
13 Analog HSYNC C4 Analog HYSNC
6,7,8 Analog GND C5 Analog GND

67

NOTES