Black Box ACX1004, ACX1008 User Manual

Black Box Deutschland GmbH

Ludwigstrasse 45 b
85399 Hallbergmoos

[e-mail]
www.blackbox.de

Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]

User Manual

Edition: 2011-01-19

ServSwitch TC

Model:
ACX1004
ACX1008

ServSwitch TC

2 2011-10-04

Copyright

© 2011. 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.

Trademarks

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 during preparation of this manual,
the manufacturer assumes no liability for errors or omissions. Neither does
the manufacturer assume any liability for damages resulting from the use
of the information contained herein.

The manufacturer reserves the right to change specifications, functions, or
circuitry of the product without notice.

The manufacturer cannot accept liability for damage 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 liable for any loss, damage, or injury arising directly, indirectly,
incidentally, or consequently from the use of this product.

Contents

2011-10-04 3

Contents

1 About This Manual ....................................................................... 5

1.1 Scope .................................................................................. 5

1.2 Validity ................................................................................ 5

1.3 Cautions and Notes ............................................................ 5

2 Safety Instructions ....................................................................... 6

3 Description ................................................................................... 7

3.1 Application .......................................................................... 7

3.2 System Overview ................................................................ 7

3.3 Product Range .................................................................... 9

3.4 Upgrade Kits ....................................................................... 9

3.5 Accessories ......................................................................... 9

3.6 Device Views .................................................................... 10

3.6.1 Model ACX1004 .................................................. 10

3.6.2 Model ACX1008 .................................................. 11

3.7 Status LEDs ...................................................................... 12

4 Installation .................................................................................. 14

4.1 Package Contents ............................................................. 14

4.2 System Setup .................................................................... 14

4.3 Example Applications ........................................................ 15

5 Configuration .............................................................................. 17

5.1 Command Mode ............................................................... 17

5.2 External Display (optional) ................................................ 18

5.3 External Control (optional) ................................................ 18

6 Operation .................................................................................... 19

6.1 Switching a Source ........................................................... 19

6.1.1 Switching via Keyboard ....................................... 19

6.1.2 External Switching (optional) ............................... 19

ServSwitch TC

4 2011-10-04

7 Specifications ............................................................................. 20

7.1 Interfaces .......................................................................... 20

7.1.1 USB-HID ............................................................. 20

7.1.2 RJ10 / 4P4C ........................................................ 21

7.2 Supported Peripherals ...................................................... 21

7.2.1 USB-HID Devices ............................................... 21

7.3 Connector Pinouts ............................................................ 22

7.4 Power Supply .................................................................... 23

7.5 Environmental Conditions ................................................. 23

7.6 Size ................................................................................... 23

7.7 Shipping Weight ................................................................ 23

8 Troubleshooting ......................................................................... 24

8.1 USB-HID ........................................................................... 24

9 Technical Support ...................................................................... 25

9.1 Support Checklist .............................................................. 25

9.2 Shipping Checklist ............................................................ 25

10 Regulatory and Standards Compliance ................................... 26

10.1 CE Declaration Of Conformity ........................................... 26

10.2 North American Regulatory Compliance ........................... 27

10.3 WEEE ............................................................................... 27

10.4 RoHS ................................................................................ 27

11 Glossary ...................................................................................... 28

About This Manual

2011-10-04 5

1 About This Manual

1.1 Scope

This manual describes how to install your ServSwitch TC, how to operate
it and how to perform trouble shooting.

1.2 Validity

This manual is valid for all devices listed on the front page. The product
code is printed on the base of the devices.

1.3 Cautions and Notes

The following symbols are used in this manual:
This symbol indicates an important operating instruction that should be

followed to avoid any potential damage to hardware or property, loss of
data, or personal injury.

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

ServSwitch TC

6 2011-10-04

2 Safety Instructions

To ensure reliable and safe long-term operation of your ServSwitch TC
please note the following guidelines:

Installation

 Only use in dry, indoor environments.
 The ServSwitch TC and the power supply units can get warm. Do not

situate them in an enclosed space without any airflow.

 Do not place the power supply directly on top of the device.
 Do not obscure ventilation holes.
 Only use power supplies originally supplied with the product or

manufacturer-approved replacements. 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 connect the link interface to any other equipment, particularly

network or telecommunications equipment.

 Take any required ESD precautions.

Repair

 Do not attempt to open or repair a power supply unit.
 Do not attempt to open or repair the ServSwitch TC. There are no

user serviceable parts inside.

 Please contact your dealer or manufacturer if there is a fault.

Description

2011-10-04 7

3 Description

3.1 Application

The ServSwitch TC is used to handle several sources (computer, CPU,
KVM Extender CON Units) and several monitors with one keyboard and
mouse set only.

The ServSwitch TC is especially suitable for use with KVM switches and
KVM extenders of the ServSwitch TC family.

3.2 System Overview

The ServSwitch TC is connected to the sources (computer, CPU,
KVM extender CON Units) by using the included cables.

Keyboard and mouse are also connected to the device.

ServSwitch TC

8 2011-10-04

1

2 3

1 Sources (computer, CPU, KVM Extender CON Units)
2 ServSwitch TC
3 Keyboard, mouse

See Chapter 4.3, Page 15 for installation examples.

Description

2011-10-04 9

3.3 Product Range

Model Description

ACX1004 ServSwitch TC 4 Port
ACX1008 ServSwitch TC 8 Port

3.4 Upgrade Kits

Model Description

ACS2209A-RMK 19"/1U rack mount kit to mount up to 2 devices
ACS4001A-DRM Mounting plate to mount by snap on

3.5 Accessories

Model Description

ACS1009A-4A International power supply 100..240VAC /5VDC / 4 A
ACXSPL12 DVI-D splitter cable

ServSwitch TC

10 2011-10-04

3.6 Device Views

3.6.1 Model ACX1004

1

2

3

4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Rear View

1 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 1)
2 To CPU 1: USB-HID
3 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 2)
4 To CPU 2: USB-HID
5 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 3)
6 To CPU 3: USB-HID
7 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 4)
8 To CPU 4: USB-HID
9 Connect to USB-HID devices 1
10 Connect to USB-HID devices 2
11 Service port
12 Connect to 5VDC power supply

Description

2011-10-04 11

3.6.2 Model ACX1008

1

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

2

3

4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Rear View

1 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 1)
2 To CPU 1: USB-HID
3 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 2)
4 To CPU 2: USB-HID
5 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 3)
6 To CPU 3: USB-HID
7 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 4)
8 To CPU 4: USB-HID
9 Connect to USB-HID devices 1
10 Connect to USB-HID devices 2
11 Service port
12 Connect to 5VDC power supply
13 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 5)
14 To CPU 5: USB-HID
15 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 6)
16 To CPU 6: USB-HID
17 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 7)
18 To CPU 7: USB-HID
19 Connect to RJ10 / 4P4C (Port 8)
20 To CPU 8: USB-HID

ServSwitch TC

12 2011-10-04

3.7 Status LEDs

The ServSwitch TC is fitted with a multi color LED on both sides for
indication of connection status:

12

Front View

Pos. LED Status Description

1

Status

(green)

Off Device not ready
On Device ready

2

Power

(red)

Off Power supply not available
On Power supply available

Description

2011-10-04 13

1

6 7 8 9

2

3

4

5

Rear View

Pos. LED Status Description

1

USB Status

CPU 1 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 1
On Connection to CPU 1

2

USB Status

CPU 2 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 2
On Connection to CPU 2

3

USB Status

CPU 3 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 3
On Connection to CPU 3

4

USB Status

CPU 4 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 4
On Connection CPU 4

5

Power

(red)

Off Device not ready
On Device ready

6

USB Status

CPU 5 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 5
On Connection to CPU 5

7

USB Status

CPU 6 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 6
On Connection to CPU 6

8

USB Status

CPU 7 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 7
On Connection to CPU 7

9

USB Status

CPU 8 (green)

Off No connection to CPU 8
On Connection to CPU 8

ServSwitch TC

14 2011-10-04

4 Installation

4.1 Package Contents

Your extender package contains the following items:

 5VDC international power supply unit
 German power cord
 Quick Setup
 4x USB cable (1.8 m, type A to type B)

Additional content for ACX1008:

 4x USB cable (1.8 m, type A to type B)

If anything is missing, contact your dealer.

4.2 System Setup

First time users are recommended to setup the system with the CPU Unit
and the CON Unit in the same room as a test setup. This will allow you to
identify and solve any cabling problems, and experiment with your system
more conveniently.

1. S witch off all devices.

2. Connect the USB cables to the CPUs (CON Units) and to the
ServSwitch TC.

3. Con nect mouse and keyboard to the ServSwitch TC.

4. Connect the 5VDC power supply with the ServSwitch TC.

5. Power up the system.

Installation

2011-10-04 15

4.3 Example Applications

This section illustrates typical installations of the ServSwitch TC:

1

32 4

ServSwitch TC (Direct CPU connection)

1 Source (computer, CPU)
2 Switch button (see Chapter 5.3, Page 18)
3 ServSwitch TC
4 Keyboard, mouse

ServSwitch TC

16 2011-10-04

21

43 5

ServSwitch TC (In combination with ServSwitch DKM)

1 ServSwitch DKM
2 CON Units
3 Monitor LEDs (see Chapter 5.2, Page 18)
4 ServSwitch TC
5 Keyboard, mouse

Configuration

2011-10-04 17

5 Configuration

5.1 Command Mode

The ServSwitch TC has a Command Mode that allows several functions
via keyboard command during normal use.

To enter Command Mode use a 'Hot Key' sequence and to exit Command
Mode, press <Esc>. While in Command Mode, the LEDs Shift and Scroll
on the console keyboard will flash.

In Command Mode normal keyboard and mouse operation will cease.
Only selected keyboard commands are available.

The following table lists the keyboard commands to enter and to exit
Command Mode and to change the 'Hot Key' sequence:

Function Keyboard Command

Enter Command Mode
(default)

2x <Right Shift> (or 'Hot Key')

Exit Command Mode <Esc>
Change 'Hot Key' sequence

<Left Ctrl> + <Left Shift> + <c>,
<'Hot Key' Code>, <Enter>

<Key> + <Key> Press keys simultaneously
<Key>, <Key> Press keys successively
2x <Key> Press key quickly, twice in a row

(similar to a mouse double-click)
The 'Hot Key' sequence to enter Command Mode can be changed. The

following table lists the 'Hot Key' Codes for the available key sequences:

'Hot Key' Code 'Hot Key'

1 <Left Ctrl> + <Left Shift> + <i>
2 2x <Scroll>
3 2x <Left Shift>
4 2x <Left Ctrl>
5 2x <Left Alt>
6 2x <Right Shift>
7 2x <Right Ctrl>
8 2x <Right Alt>

ServSwitch TC

18 2011-10-04

In a KVM switch configuration, choose different 'Hot Keys' for the
KVM Extender and the ServSwitch TC ServSwitch TC.

5.2 External Display (optional)

The ServSwitch TC has a RJ10 interface at each USB-HID port for CPUs
(see Chapter 7.1.2, Page 21). It provides the current status of the port,
e.g. for control of a status LED.

5.3 External Control (optional)

The ServSwitch TC has a RJ10 interface at each USB-HID port for CPUs
(see Chapter 7.1.2, Page 21). The current switching status can be
changed by a potential-free contact, e.g. by a button.

Operation

2011-10-04 19

6 Operation

6.1 Switching a Source

6.1.1 Switching via Keyboard

From your console, you can switch via keyboard sequence bet ween
different monitors.

1. Open Command Mode with the 'Hot Key' (see Chapter 5.1, Page 17).

2. Enter the number of the spec ific source or monitor and confirm with
<Enter>.

At the same time Command Mode is closed and the keyboard LEDs
return to previous status.

Keyboard and mouse are connected to the specified source or
monitor.

6.1.2 External Switching (optional)

Optionally, you can connect a button with a RJ10 interface to switch to the
respective source or monitor.

The RJ10 interface is separately available for each USB-HID port with
CPU connection.

ServSwitch TC

20 2011-10-04

7 Specifications

7.1 Interfaces

7.1.1 USB-HID

Our devices with an USB-HID interface support a maximum of two devices
compliant with the USB-HID protocol. Each USB-HID port provides a
maximum current of 100 mA.

Keyboard

Compatible with most USB keyboards. Certain keyboards with additional
functions may require custom firmware to operate. Keyboards with an
integral USB Hub (Mac keyboards e.g.) are also supported.

Mouse

Compatible with most 2-button, 3-button and scroll mice.

Other USB-HID devices

The proprietary USB emulation also supports certain other USB-HID
devices, such as specific touch screens, graphic tablets, barcode
scanners or special keyboards. Support cannot be guaranteed, however,
for every USB-HID device.

Only two USB-HID devices are supported concurrently, such as keyboard
and mouse or keyboard and touch screen. A hub is allowed, but it does
not increase the number of HID devices allowed.

To support other USB 'non-HID' devices, such as scanners, web cams or
memory devices, choose our devices with transparent USB support.

Specifications

2011-10-04 21

7.1.2 RJ10 / 4P4C

This interface is used to establish a customer specific communication with
the ServSwitch TC.

External Status LED

For control of an external Status LED to show the status of the respective
port, please proceed as follows:

Connect the anode of your LED with pin 1 and the cathode with pin 2. Use
a suitable series resistor that you connect in series. The interface supplies

3.3 V output voltage with 15 mA max.

External Button

To control a port by an external button, please proceed as follows:
Use an NC (normally closed) contact as a switch. This contact has to

short-circuit pin 3 and pin 4 for switching.

7.2 Supported Peripherals

7.2.1 USB-HID Devices

The ServSwitch TC will support most USB-HID devices, including the vast
majority of keyboards and mice currently on the market. Many other kinds
of HID device such as bar-code scanners and touch screens may also be
compatible

It is not possible to guarantee support for all available USB-HID devices.
In certain cases, custom firmware may be required.

USB-HID (and other) devices that are not supported as standard will
normally operate with our devices featuring transparent USB support.

Please note that concurrent operation of more than two USB-HID devices
is not possible even if you use a USB hub.

ServSwitch TC

22 2011-10-04

7.3 Connector Pinouts

Connector USB Type B

Picture Pin Signal Color

132

4

1 VCC (+5VDC) Red
2 Data – White
3 Data + Green
4 GND Black

Connector USB Type A

Picture Pin Signal Color

1

3

2

4

1 VCC (+5VDC) Red
2 Data – White
3 Data + Green
4 GND Black

Connector Mini USB Type B

Picture Pin Signal Color

....5

1

1 VCC (+5VDC) Red
2 Data – White
3 Data + Green
4 n.c. –
5 GND Black

RJ10 / 4P4C

Picture Pin Signal

1..4

1

LED +

2

LED –

3

Dry Contact

4

GND

Specifications

2011-10-04 23

Power Supply

Picture Pin Signal

Inside VCC (+5VDC)

Outside GND

7.4 Power Supply

Voltage

5 VDC

Power Requirement

 ACX1004: max. 500 mA
 ACX1008: max. 700 mA

7.5 Environmental Conditions

Operating Temperature

41 to 113°F (5 to 45°C)

Storage Temperature

–13 to 140°F (–25 to 60°C)

Relative Humidity

Max. 80% non-condensing

7.6 Size

ServSwitch TC

209 x 143 x 42 mm (8.2" x 5.6" x 1.7")

Shipping Box 280 x 180 x 130 mm (11.0" x 7.1" x 5.1")

7.7 Shipping Weight

ServSwitch TC

0.6 kg (1.3 lb)

Shipping Box

1.1 kg (2.4 lb)

ServSwitch TC

24 2011-10-04

8 Troubleshooting

8.1 USB-HID

Diagnosis

Possible Reason Measure

Keyboard LEDs
Shift and Scroll
are flashing

Keyboard in Command
Mode

 Press <Esc> to leave Command

Mode.

USB device
without function

No USB-HID device  Connect USB-HID device.
USB-HID device is not

supported

 Check compatibility.
 Contact dealer if necessary.

Technical Support

2011-10-04 25

9 Technical Support

Prior to contacting support please ensure you have read this manual, and
then installed and set-up your ServSwitch TC as recommended.

9.1 Support Checklist

To efficiently handle your request it is necessary to complete our checklist
for support and problem cases (Blackbox Tech Support). Keep the
following information available before you call:

 Company, name, phone number and email
 Type and serial number of the device (see bottom of device)
 Date and number of sales receipt, name of dealer if necessary
 Issue date of the existing manual
 Nature, circumstances and duration of the problem
 Involved components (such as graphic source/CPU, OS, graphic

card, monitor, USB-HID/USB 2.0 devices, interconnect cable)
including manufacturer and model number

 Results from any testing you have done

9.2 Shipping Checklist

1. To return your device, contact your dealer to obtain a RMA number
(Return-Material-Authorization).

2. Package your devices carefully, preferably using the original box.
Add all pieces which you received originally.

3. Note your RMA number visibly on your shipment.

Devices that are sent in without a RMA number cannot be accepted. The
shipment will be sent back without being opened, postage unpaid.

ServSwitch TC

26 2011-10-04

10 Regulatory and Standards Compliance

10.1 CE Declaration Of Conformity

The products listed below in the form as delivered comply with the
provisions of the following European Directives:

2004/108/EG Council Directive on the approximation of the laws of
the Member States relating to electromagnetic
compatibility

CE Marking 2009
Product list:
ACX1004, ACX1008

The products comply with the following harmonized standards for
Information Technology Equipment:

EN 55022: 09/2006 (Class A)
IEC 61000-4-2: 02/2001
IEC 61000-4-3: 05/2006
IEC 61000-4-4: 12/2004
IEC 61000-4-5: 11/2006

This declaration certifies the conformity to the specified directives but
contains no assurance of properties. The safety instructions and
installation guidelines noted in this manual shall be considered in detail.
The length of the attached CPU or CON cables must not exceed 3 m. The
use of suggested interconnect cables is mandatory.

Use in a Domestic Environment

This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may
cause radio interference in which case the user may be required to take
adequate measures.

Regulatory and Standards Compliance

2011-10-04 27

10.2 North American Regulatory Compliance

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

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Shielded cables must be used with this equipment to maintain compliance
with radio frequency energy emission regulations and ensure a suitably
high level of immunity to electromagnetic disturbances.

All power supplies are certified to the relevant major international safety
standards.

10.3 WEEE

The manufacturer complies with the EC Directive 2002/96/EG on the
prevention of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).

The device labels carry a respective marking.

10.4 RoHS

This device complies with the EC Directive 2002/95/EG on the Restriction
of the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic
equipment (RoHS).

The device labels carry a respective marking.

ServSwitch TC

28 2011-10-04

11 Glossary

The following terms are commonly used in this guide or in video an d KVM
technology:

Term Explanation

Cat X Any Cat 5e (Cat 6, Cat 7) cable
CGA

The Color Graphics Adapter (CGA) is an old analog
graphic standard with up to 16 displayable colors and
a maximum resolution of 640x400 pixels.

Component
Video

The Component Video (YPbPr) is a high-quality
video standard that consists of three independently
and separately transmittable video signals, the
luminance signal and two color difference signals.

Composite Video

The Composite Video is also called FBAS and it is
part of the PAL TV standard.

CON Unit

Component of a ServSwitch TC or Media Extender to
connect to the console (monitor(s), keyboard and
mouse; optionally also with USB 2.0 devices)

CPU Unit

Component of a ServSwitch TC or Media Extender to
connect to a source (computer, CPU)

DDC

The Display Data Channel (DDC) is a serial
communication interface between monitor and
source (computer, CPU. It allows a data exchange
via monitor cable and an automatic installation and
configuration of a monitor driver by the operating
system.

Dual Access

A system to operate a source (computer, CPU) from

two consoles
Dual-Head A system with two video connections
Dual-Link

A DVI-D interface for resolutions up to 2560x2048 by

signal transmission of up to 330 MPixel/s (24-bit)
DVI

Digital video standard, introduced by the Digital

Display Working Group (http://www.ddwg.org

). Single
Link and Dual Link standard are distinguished. The
signals have TMDS level.

DVI-I

A combined signal (digital and analog) that allows
running a VGA monitor at a DVI-I port – in contrast to
DVI-D (see DVI).

Fiber Single-mode or multi-mode fiber cables

Glossary

2011-10-04 29

Term Explanation

EGA

The Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA) is an old
analog graphic standard, introduced by IBM in 1984.
A D-Sub 9 connector is used for connection.

FBAS

The analog color video baseband signal (FBAS) is
also called Composite Video and it is part of the PAL
TV standard.

Console Keyboard, mouse and monitor
KVM Keyboard, video and mouse
Mini-XLR

Industrial standard for electrical plug connections
(3 pole) for the transmission of digital audio and
control signals

Multi-mode

62.5µ multi-mode fiber cable or 50µ multi-mode fiber
cable

OSD

The On-Screen-Display is used to display information
or to operate a device.

Quad-Head A system with four video connections
RCA (Cinch)

A not standardized plug connection for transmission
of electrical audio and video signals, especially with
coaxial cables

SFP

SFPs (Small Form Factor Pluggable) are pluggable
interface modules for Gigabit connections. SFP
modules are available for Cat X and fiber
interconnect cables.

Single-Head A system with one video connection
Single Link

A DVI-D interface for resolutions up to 1920x1200 by
signal transmission of up to 165 MPixel/s (24-bit).

Alternative frequencies are Full HD (1080p), 2K HD
(2048x1080) and 2048x1152.

Single-mode 9µ single-mode fiber cable
S-Video (Y/C)

The S-Video (Y/C) is a video format transmitting
luminance and chrominance signals separately.
Thereby it has a higher quality standard than FBAS.

TOSLINK

Standardized fiber connection system for digital
transmission of audio signals (F05 plug connection)

Triple-Head A system with three video connections

ServSwitch TC

30 2011-10-04

Term Explanation

USB-HID

USB-HID devices (Human Interface Device) allow for
data input.

There is no need for a special driver during
installation; "New USB-HID device found" is reported.

Typical HID devices include keyboards, mice,
graphics tablets and touch screens. Storage, video
and audio devices are not HID.

VGA

Video Graphics Array (VGA) is a computer graphics
standard with a typical resolution of 640x480 pixels
and up to 262,144 colors. It can be seen as a
follower of the graphics standards MDA, CGA and
EGA.