Black Box KV5002MA-R2, KV5004SA-R2, KV5008SA-R2, KV5012FA-R2, KV5016FA-R2 User Manual
...
1
THE SERVSWITCH™ FAMILY
Welcome to the ServSwitch
TM
Family!
Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX®ServSwitch™Brand KVM switch! We
appreciate your business, and we think you’ll appreciate the many ways that your
new ServSwitch keyboard/video/mouse switch will save you money, time, and
effort.
That’s because our ServSwitch family is all about breaking away from the
traditional, expensive model of computer management. You know, the one-sizefits-all-even-if-it-doesn’t model that says, “One computer gets one user station, no
more, no less.” Why not a single user station (monitor, keyboard, and mouse) for
multiple computers—even computers of different platforms? Why not a pair of
user stations, each of which can control multiple computers? Why not multiple
user stations for the same computer?
With our ServSwitch products, there’s no reason why not. We carry a broad line
of robust solutions for all these applications. Do you have just two PCs, and need
an economical alternative to keeping two monitors, keyboards, and mice on your
desk? Or do you need to share dozens of computers, including a mix of IBM
®
PC,
RS/6000
®
, Apple®Macintosh®, Sun Microsystems®, and SGI®compatibles among
multiple users with different access levels? Does your switch have to sit solidly on a
worktable and use regular everyday cables? Or does it have to be mounted in an
equipment rack and use convenient many-to-one cables? No matter how large or
small your setup is, no matter how simple or how complex, we’re confident we
have a ServSwitch system that’s just right for you.
The ServSwitch
™
family from Black Box—the one-stop answer for all your KVM-
switching needs!
*
This manual will tell you all about your new ServSwitch™ Ultra unit, including
how to install, operate, and troubleshoot it. For an introduction to the ServSwitch
Ultra, see Chapter 2. The ServSwitch Ultra product codes covered in this manual are:
KV5002MA-R2 KV5008FA-R2
KV5004SA-R2 KV5012FA-R2
KV5008SA-R2 KV5016FA-R2
This manual also includes information about the accessories with these product
codes (each comes with its own installation guide if ordered separately):
KV5000C RMK23S
RMK19M RMK23F
RMK19S RMK24M
RMK19F RMK24S
RMK23M RMK24F
2
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
BLACK BOX and the logo are registered trademarks, ServSwitch, ServSwitch
Ultra, Matrix ServSwitch, and ServManager are trademarks, of Black Box
Corporation.
Apple, Mac, and Macintosh are registered trademarks, and Apple Desktop Bus and
ADB are trademarks, of Apple Computer, Inc.
ProComm is a registered trademark of DATASTORM TECHNOLOGIES, INC.™
Compaq and Alpha are registered trademarks, and DEC is a trademark, of
Compaq Computer Corporation.
HP is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard.
IBM, PC/AT, PS/2, RS/6000, and ThinkPad are registered trademarks, and
PC/XT is a trademark, of International Business Machines Corporation.
Helvetica and Times are registered trademarks of Linotype Company.
Logitech is a trademark of Logitech, Inc.
Microsoft, Windows, HyperTerminal, and IntelliMouse are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries.
SGI is a registered trademark of Silicon Graphics, Inc.
Sony is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
Sun and Sun Microsystems are registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in
the United States and other countries.
UL is a registered trademark of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
UNIX is a registered trademark of UNIX System Laboratories, Inc.
Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the
trademark owners.
3
FCC/IC STATEMENTS
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION AND INDUSTRY CANADA
RADIO-FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENTS
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not
installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause interference to radio communication. It has been tested
and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device in accordance
with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user at his own
expense will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary to correct the
interference.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emission from digital
apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation of Industry Canada.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe A prescrites dans le Règlement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique publié par Industrie Canada.
4
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
NORMAS OFICIALES MEXICANAS (NOM)
ELECTRICAL SAFETY STATEMENT
INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD
1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas antes de
que el aparato eléctrico sea operado.
2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para
referencia futura.
3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de
operación deben ser respetadas.
4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas.
5. El aparato eléctrico no deberá ser usado cerca del agua—por ejemplo, cerca
de la tina de baño, lavabo, sótano mojado o cerca de una alberca, etc..
6. El aparato eléctrico debe ser usado únicamente con carritos o pedestales que
sean recomendados por el fabricante.
7. El aparato eléctrico debe ser montado a la pared o al techo sólo como sea
recomendado por el fabricante.
8. Servicio—El usuario no debe intentar dar servicio al equipo eléctrico más allá
a lo descrito en las instrucciones de operación. Todo otro servicio deberá ser
referido a personal de servicio calificado.
9. El aparato eléctrico debe ser situado de tal manera que su posición no
interfiera su uso. La colocación del aparato eléctrico sobre una cama, sofá,
alfombra o superficie similar puede bloquea la ventilación, no se debe colocar
en libreros o gabinetes que impidan el flujo de aire por los orificios de
ventilación.
10. El equipo eléctrico deber ser situado fuera del alcance de fuentes de calor
como radiadores, registros de calor, estufas u otros aparatos (incluyendo
amplificadores) que producen calor.
11. El aparato eléctrico deberá ser connectado a una fuente de poder sólo del
tipo descrito en el instructivo de operación, o como se indique en el aparato.
5
NOM STATEMENT
12. Precaución debe ser tomada de tal manera que la tierra fisica y la polarización
del equipo no sea eliminada.
13. Los cables de la fuente de poder deben ser guiados de tal manera que no
sean pisados ni pellizcados por objetos colocados sobre o contra ellos,
poniendo particular atención a los contactos y receptáculos donde salen del
aparato.
14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las
recomendaciones del fabricante.
15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las lineas
de energia.
16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del cuando el equipo no sea
usado por un largo periodo de tiempo.
17. Cuidado debe ser tomado de tal manera que objectos liquidos no sean
derramados sobre la cubierta u orificios de ventilación.
18. Servicio por personal calificado deberá ser provisto cuando:
A: El cable de poder o el contacto ha sido dañado; u
B: Objectos han caído o líquido ha sido derramado dentro del aparato; o
C: El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia; o
D: El aparato parece no operar normalmente o muestra un cambio en su
desempeño; o
E: El aparato ha sido tirado o su cubierta ha sido dañada.
6
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
Contents
Chapter Page
1. Specifications ........................................................................................... 10
2. Introduction ............................................................................................. 14
2.1 The Complete Package ..................................................................... 14
2.2 Operating Features ........................................................................... 14
2.3 The Front Panel ................................................................................ 16
2.4 The Rear Panel .................................................................................. 18
2.5 Cable Requirements ......................................................................... 20
2.6 Equipment Requirements ................................................................ 20
3. Installation ................................................................................................ 21
3.1 Quick Setup Guide ........................................................................... 21
3.2 Installation Procedure ...................................................................... 22
3.2.1 Rackmounting (Optional) .................................................... 22
3.2.2 Connecting the Keyboard, Monitor, and Mouse ................ 22
3.2.3 Connecting CPUs .................................................................. 23
3.2.4 Connecting Submasters (Optional) ..................................... 24
3.2.5 Powering Up the System ....................................................... 25
3.2.5.A Initial Steps .............................................................. 25
3.2.5.B Remaining Steps If All CPUs Are Sun Models ....... 25
3.2.5.C
Remaining Steps If Any CPUs Aren’t Sun Models
... 26
3.2.6
Changing the Keyboard Setting of Windows NT 4.0 CPUs
... 27
3.2.7 Switching from the Keyboard ............................................... 27
3.3 Cascading in ServSwitch Systems ..................................................... 28
3.3.1 Cable Requirements for Expansion ..................................... 29
3.3.2 Installing a Cascade ............................................................... 29
4. Operation: Hardware and Keyboard Commands .................................. 34
4.1
Guidelines for Using the ServSwitch Ultra with Your Equipment
... 34
4.1.1 CPUs ....................................................................................... 34
4.1.2 Mouse and Keyboard ............................................................ 35
4.1.3 Monitor .................................................................................. 38
4.2 Keyboard-Command Summary ........................................................ 41
4.3 The Commands in Detail ................................................................. 43
4.3.1 Selecting a Port from the Shared Keyboard ......................... 43
4.3.2 Switching to the Next or Previous Port ................................ 43
4.3.3 Scan Mode ............................................................................. 44
4.3.4 Keep Settings ......................................................................... 44
4.3.5 Set Screen-Saver Interval ...................................................... 44
4.3.6 Transpose Command and Alt Keys ...................................... 45
4.3.7 Reset ....................................................................................... 45
4.3.8 Send Null Byte (PS/2 Type Mice Only) .............................. 46
7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter Page
4. Operation: Hardware and Commands (continued)
4.3 The Commands in Detail (continued)
4.3.9 Identify ROM ......................................................................... 47
4.3.10 Send [Stop] ........................................................................... 47
4.3.11 Display Label ......................................................................... 47
4.3.12 Activate On-Screen Menus ................................................... 48
4.3.13 Activate Select Window ......................................................... 48
4.3.14 Log Out .................................................................................. 48
4.4 Using the RS-232 Port ....................................................................... 49
4.4.1 Connecting Equipment to the Port ..................................... 49
4.4.2 Switching Ports Remotely (Optional) .................................. 50
4.4.3 Upgrading the Firmware (Flash Memory) .......................... 51
4.4.3.A Upgrading the Firmware with
Terminal-Emulation Software ............................. 51
4.4.3.B Upgrading the Firmware with
the DOS COPY Command ................................. 54
5. Operation: On-Screen Display ................................................................ 56
5.1 Overview ............................................................................................ 56
5.1.1 The Main Menu ..................................................................... 56
5.1.2 Navigating the Configuration Pages .................................... 57
5.1.3 Saving Changes Made with the On-Screen Display ............. 57
5.2 The “Configure System” Page .......................................................... 58
5.2.1 Configure System: Keyboard ................................................ 58
5.2.2 Configure System: Mouse ..................................................... 59
5.2.3 Configure System: Maximum Computers ........................... 61
5.2.4 Configure System: Expansion Units .................................... 62
5.2.5 Configure System: Expansion Width ................................... 62
5.2.6 Configure System: Scan Mode .............................................. 63
5.2.7 Configure System: Scan Time .............................................. 63
5.2.8 Configure System: Power-On Scan ....................................... 63
5.2.9 Configure System: Typematic Rate ....................................... 63
5.2.10 Configure System: Typematic Delay .................................... 64
5.3 The “Configure Computers” Page ................................................... 65
5.3.1 Configure Computers: Computer Name ............................. 66
5.3.2 Configure Computers: Keyboard ......................................... 67
5.3.3 Configure Computers: Mouse .............................................. 68
5.4 The “Configure Overlay” Page ......................................................... 69
5.4.1 Configure Overlay: Miscellaneous ....................................... 69
5.4.1.A Color Scheme .......................................................... 69
5.4.1.B Resolution ................................................................ 70
5.4.1.C Screen Saver ............................................................. 70
5.4.1.D Screen-Saver Time ................................................... 71
8
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
Contents (continued)
Chapter Page
5. Operation: On-Screen Display (continued)
5.4 The “Configure Overlay” Page (continued)
5.4.2 Configure Overlay: Computer Select Window .................... 71
5.4.2.A Background Color and Text Color ........................ 71
5.4.2.B Position ..................................................................... 71
5.4.3 Configure Overlay: Computer Label ................................... 72
5.4.3.A Background Color and Text Color ........................ 72
5.4.3.B Position ..................................................................... 72
5.4.3.C Show Computer Number ........................................ 72
5.4.3.D Fade Out .................................................................. 73
5.4.3.E Font ........................................................................... 73
5.5 The “Configure Security” Page ........................................................ 74
5.5.1 The Configuration Password ................................................ 74
5.5.2 The Access Password ............................................................. 74
5.5.3 The Access Timeout .............................................................. 75
5.5.4 Setting the Passwords ............................................................ 75
5.6 The “Computer Select Window” ...................................................... 76
6. Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 77
6.1 Restoring Factory-Default Settings ................................................... 77
6.2 Common Problems ........................................................................... 78
6.2.1 CPU Doesn’t Boot ................................................................. 78
6.2.2 Can’t Switch Ports from Keyboard ....................................... 79
6.2.3 Typed Characters Wrong or Missing ................................... 79
6.2.4 Can’t Switch or Scan to Certain Ports .................................. 79
6.2.5 ServSwitch Ultra Scans or Switches to Empty Ports ............ 80
6.2.6 Mouse Driver Doesn’t Load (IBM PC Type Mice Only) .... 80
6.2.7 Can’t Access Mouse Functions (IBM PC Type
Mice Only) .......................................................................... 80
6.2.8 PS/2 Mouse Gets Out of Sync .............................................. 80
6.2.9 Mouse Doesn’t Move Pointer/Cursor ................................. 81
6.2.10 Display is Fuzzy ...................................................................... 81
6.2.11 Video Not Synchronized or Wrong Color ........................... 81
6.2.12 Can’t Access High-Resolution Mode .................................... 82
6.2.13 On-Screen Display Not Synchronized .................................. 82
6.2.14 CPUs Lock Up When Windows 3.x Loaded ........................ 82
6.2.15 ServSwitch Ultra Doesn’t Work with Docking Station ........ 82
6.2.17 ServSwitch Ultra Doesn’t Work with
Dongle-Protected Software ................................................ 83
6.2.18 ServSwitch Ultra Doesn’t Work with IBM ThinkPad .......... 83
6.2.19 Lost Password ............................................................................83
6.3 Calling Black Box .............................................................................. 84
6.4 Shipping and Packaging .................................................................. 84
9
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Appendix Page
Appendix A: NVRAM Factory Defaults ......................................................... 85
A.1 Keyboard-Command Settings ........................................................... 85
A.2 On-Screen Configuration Settings ................................................... 86
Appendix B: Cable Product Codes ................................................................ 88
Appendix C: Pinout of RS-232 Port ............................................................... 91
Appendix D: The LK461 Keyboard ............................................................... 92
Appendix E: Rackmounting Your ServSwitch Ultra ..................................... 93
10
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
1. Specifications
Hardware
Required — Monitor that supports your computers’ highest video
standard; in multiplatform applications, should be a
multisync model capable of forming video from either
composite sync or separate horizontal and vertical sync
signals (see Section 4.1.1)
Compliance — CE, FCC Part 15 Subpart J Class A, IC Class/classe A
Standards — With original Serv cabling: VGA (color or monochrome/
page white) video;
With original Serv cabling (minimal) or coaxial cabling
(recommended): SVGA and Mac video;
With coaxial cabling: XGA (color or monochrome), Sun,
RS/6000, and SGI video
Interfaces — RS-232 port: EIA/TIA RS-232 proprietarily pinned on
RJ-12 (“6-wire RJ-11”) connector, DTE;
CPU and MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE ports:
Proprietary composite of:
• IBM AT, IBM PS/2, Sun, or ADB keyboard;
• RS-232, PS/2, Sun, or ADB mouse; and
• Video (standards listed above)
Resolution — With original Serv cabling: Up to 1024 x 768
noninterlaced;
With coaxial cabling: Up to 1600 x 1280 noninterlaced;
Refer to Section 4.1.3
Refresh Rate — Up to 100 Hz
Protocol — RS-232: Asynchronous
Data Format — RS-232: 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity (fixed)
Data Rate — RS-232: 9600 or (for firmware update only) 57,600 bps
11
CHAPTER 1: Specifications
Maximum
Distance — Depending on the CPU, monitor, and video resolution
(see Section 4.1.3), either:
20 ft. (6.1 m) of original Serv cable from any
ServSwitch Ultra to any device attached to it, with
not more than 40 ft. (12.2 m) of total original Serv
cable between any CPU and any user station; or
20 ft. (6.1 m) of coaxial cable—possibly as much as
100 ft. (30.5 m), depending on CPUs—from any
ServSwitch Ultra to any device attached to it;
Also, 50 ft. (15.2 m) of serial cable from the RS-232 port
of any ServSwitch Ultra to a computer’s serial port
User Controls — All models:
Keyboard commands;
On-screen menus;
KV5002MA-R2:
(3) Front-mounted pushbuttons:
“ON/OFF” (power), “+” (switch to next port), and
“–” (switch to previous port);
All models except KV5002MA-R2:
(2) Front-mounted pushbuttons:
“” (switch to next port) and “” (switch to
previous port);
(1) Rear-mounted rocker switch for power
Indicators — All front-mounted LEDs;
All models: (1) for ServSwitch Ultra unit: POWER;
KV5002MA-R2: (4) for CPUs: (2) SELECT, (2) POWER;
KV5004SA-R2: (8) for CPUs: (4) SELECT, (4) POWER;
KV5008SA-R2, KV5008FA-R2:
(16) for CPUs: (8) SELECT, (8) POWER;
KV5012FA-R2: (24) for CPUs: (12) SELECT,
(12) POWER;
KV5016FA-R2: (32) for CPUs: (16) SELECT,
(16) POWER
12
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
Connectors — All rear-mounted;
(1) RJ-12 (“6-wire RJ-11”) female: RS-232;
(1) DB25 female: MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE;
(1) Power inlet:
KV5002MA-R2: 5-pin DIN female;
All other models: IEC 320 male;
DB25 female CPU ports:
KV5002MA-R2: (2);
KV5004SA-R2: (4);
KV5008SA-R2, KV5008FA-R2: (8);
KV5012FA-R2: (12);
KV5016FA-R2: (16)
Power — KV5002MA-R2:
From wallmount external power supply (type may vary,
refer to labeling on transformer):
Either:
Input: 90 to 260 VAC at 50 or 60 Hz, 65 to 130 mA;
Output: +8 VDC at 1.5 A, –8 VDC at 375 mA;
or:
Input: 90 to 264 VAC at 47 to 63 Hz, 78 to 156 mA;
Output: +12 VDC at 1 A, –12 VDC at 0.5 A;
Consumption: Up to 15 VA (15 watts);
All other models;
From AC outlet through included power cord and
IEC 320 male inlet to UL®, CUL, and TÜV approved
internal transformer:
Input: 100 to 240 VAC at 50 or 60 Hz, 450 mA;
Output: +5 VDC at 1.5 A, +12 VDC at 1 A;
Consumption: Up to 19.5 VA (19.5 watts)
Maximum
Altitude— 10,000 ft. (3048 m)
Temperature
Tolerance— 32 to 131˚F (0 to 55˚C)
Humidity
Tolerance— 5 to 80% noncondensing
Enclosure — Steel
13
CHAPTER 1: Specifications
Size — KV5002MA-R2:
1.8" (1U) H x 8.8"W x 4.8"D (4.5 x 22.5 x 12.4 cm);
KV5004SA-R2, KV5008SA-R2:
1.8" (1U) H x 16.8"W x 4.8"D (4.5 x 42.5 x 12.4 cm);
KV5008FA-R2, KV5012FA-R2, KV5016FA-R2:
3.5" (2U) H x 16.8"W x 4.8"D (8.9 x 42.5 x 12.4 cm)
Weight — KV5002MA-R2: 2 lb. (0.9 kg);
KV5004SA-R2: 3 lb. (1.4 kg);
KV5008SA-R2: 4 lb. (1.8 kg);
KV5008FA-R2: 5 lb. (2.3 kg);
KV5012FA-R2, KV5016FA-R2: 6 lb. (2.7 kg)
14
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
2. Introduction
Thank you for choosing a ServSwitch Ultra™. Designed with your needs in mind,
your new Switch will simplify your job by helping you organize your multiplecomputer application. With your Switch, you can use one keyboard, monitor, and
mouse to access a number of computers compatible with any of a number of
hardware platforms—including IBM
®
PC and RS/6000®, Apple®Macintosh®, Sun
Microsystems
®
, and SGI®—so you can significantly reduce your equipment
overhead and end keyboard and monitor clutter.
This chapter describes everything that comes with the Switch, the external and
operating features of the Switch, and the cabling you’ll need for the Switch.
2.1 The Complete Package
Your ServSwitch Ultra package includes the Switch unit, its power supply, a
modular cable and adapter for connecting one of the unit’s RS-232 ports to a
remote PC, and this manual. If you didn’t receive everything, or if anything arrived
damaged, contact Black Box.
2.2 Operating Features
Some of the useful features of the ServSwitch Ultra:
• Microprocessor-controlled keyboard and mouse switching.
• On-screen menu system for configuration and operation.
• You can access up to 256 CPUs with one keyboard, monitor, and mouse. (This
would require the maximum cascaded system of seventeen 16-port Serv units.)
• You can select the desired CPU using the on-screen display, keyboard, front
panel, or RS-232 port.
• Front-panel LEDs show the selected CPU and its power-on state.
• Supports IBM PC and RS/6000, Apple
®
Macintosh®, and Sun Microsystems
®
compatible computers, as well as current SGI compatible computers.
• Supports all modes of PS/2
®
and PC/AT®compatible keyboards, as well as
ADB
®
(Apple Desktop Bus®) and Sun®keyboards.
• Mouse can be PS/2
®
, Microsoft®serial, PC Mouse®(Mouse Systems®) serial,
serial 8-bit, ADB, or Sun type (although the mouse type must match the
keyboard type).
15
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
• Supports SVGA, color or monochrome XGA or VGA, Apple, Sun, RS/6000,
and SGI video at resolutions up to 1280 x 1024 noninterlaced (although all
video types except VGA and Apple low-res require coaxial or special
cables).Note that in a multiplatform environment, you will need a multisync
monitor capable of syncing to the output of all your CPUs’ video cards and of
supporting their highest resolutions; refer to Section 4.1. Also note that you’ll
need a Mac
®
Adapter for ServSwitch for each CPU that outputs Apple video at
resolutions over 640 x 480; see the Note on page 23.
• The units remember and restore Num Lock, Caps Lock, Scroll Lock, and
keyboard mode for each CPU.
• Screen-save function can turn off video after 1 to 999 seconds of inactivity.
• Scan function can sequence between CPUs every 1 to 15 seconds.
• You can program the keyboard’s typematic rate and delay.
• Custom settings for each CPU can be saved in nonvolatile memory.
• The units have flash memory, so you can upgrade their firmware through their
RS-232 ports.
• Rackmount kits are available.
• Full-size 8- and 12-port units can be expanded up to 16 ports by installing
4-Port Expansion Boards. Please contact Black Box Tech Support if you ever
want us to do this for you.
16
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
2.3 The Front Panel
The front panels of the ServSwitch Ultra feature two or three pushbutton switches
and several LED indicators. To familiarize yourself with these controls and
indicators, refer to Figures 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 below and the descriptions that follow
on the next page.
Figure 2-1. The front panel of a KV5x04M model (mini)
4 to 1 ServSwitch Ultra.
Figure 2-2. The front panel of a KV5x08S model (slimline)
8 to 1 ServSwitch Ultra.
Figure 2-3. The front panel of a KV5x16F model (full-size)
16 to 1 ServSwitch Ultra.
5
6 7
8
Power
1
2 3
4
9
10 11
12
13
14 15
16
5
6 7
8
Power
1
2 3
4
POWER
ON/OFF
SELECT POWER1SELECT SELECT SELECTPOWER POWER POWER
234
17
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
Panel Label Description
POWER (left) Main Power LED: Lights to indicate that unit is powered ON.
ON/OFF 2-port units only: Press this button to turn the ServSwitch ON
or OFF.
[Numbered] CPU Status LEDs: Numbered pairs of LEDs indicate the
status of the CPU or submaster (cascaded) Serv device
connected to the corresponding port on the rear panel:
SELECT or [unlabeled left] (red)
Lights if the corresponding port is the currently selected port.
POWER or [unlabeled right] (green)
Lights if the device on the corresponding port is powered ON.
NOTE
The mini-model chassis has 4 each of the Select and
[CPU] Power LED slots. The slimline-model chassis
has 8 each of these slots, and the full-size chassis has
16 each of them. The extra LED slots in the chassis of
the 2-port mini, 4-port slim, and the 8- and 12-port fullsize models are left blank, but are protected by
material mounted inside the chassis.
– or Previous Port Button: Press this button to manually switch the
shared monitor, keyboard, and mouse from the currently
selected computer to the previous one in sequence.
+ or Next Port Button: Press this button to manually switch the
shared monitor, keyboard, and mouse from the currently
selected computer to the next one in sequence.
18
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
2.4 The Rear Panel
All cable connections are made at the rear panel of the ServSwitch Ultra, as
illustrated in Figures 2-4 and 2-5 and described below.
Figure 2-4. The rear panel of a 2 to 1 ServSwitch Ultra (KV5002MA-R2).
Figure 2-5. The rear panel of a 16 to 1 ServSwitch (SW725A-R4).
Panel Label Conn. Description
Connect your computers to these ports with “CPU
Adapter Cables.” At the ServSwitch Ultra end these
cables have a DB25 male connector; at the other
ends, they have appropriate connectors to plug into
your CPUs’ video, keyboard, and mouse ports. These
cables take the signals that would normally pass
between the CPUs’ ports and the monitor, keyboard,
and mouse, and carry them between the CPUs’ ports
and the Switch instead.
You could also connect “submaster” Serv type
switches to these ports using “ServSwitch-toServSwitch Expansion Cables.” These cables have
DB25 male connectors at both ends; at the submaster
end, they should be plugged into a MONITOR/
KEYBOARD/MOUSE port. Refer to Sections 2.5 and
3.2.4.
DB25 FCPU N
[N = a number
from 1 to
either 2, 4, 8,
12, or 16,
depending on
which model
you have]
RS-232
POWER
MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE
CPU 13 CPU 14CPU 15 CPU 16
CPU 9CPU 12CPU 11 CPU 10
CPU 5 CPU 6CPU 7 CPU 8
CPU 2CPU 1CPU 4CPU 3
CPU1 CPU2 MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE RS-232
POWER
17VAC CT
CPU3 CPU4
19
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
Panel Label Connector Description
or Control
Connect the ServSwitch Ultra’s power cord or
power-supply cord here. The power supply is
autosensing; it will accept input voltages from
90 to 264 VAC (2-port units [external
transformer]) or 100 to 240 VAC (other models
[internal transformer]).
2-port:
5-pin
DIN M
Others:
IEC 320 M
POWER
[Inlet]
Flipping this switch turns the ServSwitch Ultra
ON and OFF when the power cord is plugged
into the unit and into a working outlet.
Rocker
switch
POWER
[Switch], all
except 2-port
If you connect a more distant computer or
terminal to this RS-232 serial port, you’ll be able
to send switching commands to the ServSwitch
Ultra from a secondary location. You would also
connect a computer to this port to upgrade the
Switch’s firmware. Refer to Section 4.4.
RJ-12 FRS-232
Connect the shared monitor, keyboard, and
mouse to this port using an “MKM Adapter
Cable.” At the ServSwitch Ultra end, this cable
has a DB25 male connector; at the other ends,
it has appropriate connectors to plug into your
monitor, keyboard, and mouse cables. Only one
MKM Adapter Cable is needed. See Section 2.5.
DB25 FMONITOR/
KEYBOARD/
MOUSE
For each submaster you plan to connect, you
must have an Expansion Cable; you must have
an Adapter Cable for each CPU you plan to
connect. See Section 2.5.
NOTE
The 2-port (mini) chassis has 4 CPU N
connector slots; the slimline-model
chassis has 8 of these slots, and the
full-size chassis has 16 of them. The
extra connector slots in the chassis of
the 2-port, 4-port slim, and 8- and
12-port full-size models are left blank,
but are protected by material mounted
inside the chassis.
DB25 FCPU N
(continued)
20
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
2.5 Cable Requirements
Many switches of this type have what seems like ten million connectors on their
rear panels: one for each CPU’s video cable, one for each keyboard cable, and a
third for each mouse cable. The potential for tangling or mismatching cables is
high.
By contrast, you can connect the ServSwitch Ultra to your CPUs with one CPU
Cable (also called a “CPU Adapter Cable”) for each CPU. This single cable reaches
the CPU’s video-output, keyboard, and mouse ports.
Likewise, to connect “submaster” (slave) Serv type switches, you need one
“ServSwitch-to-ServSwitch Expansion Cable” for each subsidiary unit.
Lastly, you can connect the ServSwitch Ultra to the shared monitor, keyboard
and mouse with a single User Cable (also called an “MKM Adapter Cable”).
The exact variety or varieties of these cables that you’ll need will depend on the
equipment you are connecting for your application. Refer to Appendix B for the
available types of these cables and the corresponding product codes. Also refer to
Chapter 1 or the Caution notice on page 23 for information about maximum
cabling distances.
NOTES
SVGA (over longer distances), XGA, and high-resolution Mac video
place special demands on cabling that the regular CPU Cables and User
Cables typically cannot meet. For these applications, you should use
coaxial cables that can carry video signals not only farther but also at
higher resolutions. See Appendix B and the Caution notice on page 23.
You’ll also need a “Mac Adapter for ServSwitch” for each Mac CPU
outputting high-res (greater than 640 x 480) video; see the Note on
page 23.
2.6 Equipment Requirements
If the CPUs you will be controlling through your ServSwitch Ultra are not all of the
same type—especially if your CPUs represent completely different hardware
platforms (IBM, Mac, etc.)—you will have to be careful to choose a common
monitor, keyboard, and mouse that adequately support all of the CPUs. For full
details, see Section 4.1.
21
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3. Installation
3.1 Quick Setup Guide
Figure 3-1, below, shows a basic example of connecting a CPU, a submaster, a
keyboard, a monitor, and a mouse to the ServSwitch unit. IBM PC equipment is
shown, but the basic principles will be similar for all equipment types. Connectors
will vary depending on the types of equipment you are installing.
Figure 3-1. Basic system setup for a slimline 8-port unit.
RS-232
POWER
MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE
CPU 5 CPU 6CPU 7 CPU 8
CPU 2CPU 1CPU 4CPU 3
RS-232
POWER
MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE
CPU 5 CPU 6CPU 7 CPU 8
CPU 2CPU 1CPU 4CPU 3
Power
cord
CPU Cable
User Cable
ServSwitch-to-ServSwitch Expansion Cable
SLIMLINE 8-PORT SERVSWITCH ULTRA (KV5008SA-R2)
Slimline 8-Port ServSwitch
(KV3108SA-R4) submaster
To mouse port
To video port
To keybd port
Mouse
Keyboard
Monitor
6-wire
modular
cable to
remote PC
22
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
3.2 Installation Procedure
This section provides complete instructions for the hardware setup of a single
ServSwitch Ultra. (For detailed instructions on the capabilities and concerns
involved in installing a cascaded Switch system, see Section 3.3; to make
troubleshooting
the installation easier, we recommend that you check the master
and each submaster
as it is installed, rather than installing all units, then checking
the entire cascade.) For an illustrated example of the elements of a basic setup, see
Figure 3-1 on the previous page.
3.2.1 R
ACKMOUNTING (OPTIONAL)
If you want to mount the ServSwitch Ultra in a rack, you will need a ServSwitch
Rackmounting Kit. For the 2-port mini model (KV5002MA-R2), our product code
for a 19", 23", or 24" Kit is RMK19M, RMK23M, or RMK24M respectively. For the
slimline models, our product code for a 19", 23", or 24" Kit is RMK19B, RMK23B,
or RMK24B respectively. For the full-size models, our product code for a 19", 23",
or 24" Kit is RMK19C, RMK23C, or RMK24C respectively. See Appendix E for more
information.
3.2.2 C
ONNECTING THE MONITOR, KEYBOARD, AND MOUSE
A User Cable (also called a Monitor/Keyboard/Mouse [“MKM”] Adapter Cable)
connects your monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the Switch. Because various styles
of electrical connectors are used by different classes of equipment, we supply this
cable in various styles to match (see Appendix B). This cable also comes in the
different lengths supported by different applications (see Section 4.1.3,
Appendix B, and the Caution notice on the next page).
CAUTION!
Make very sure that the monitor, keyboard, and mouse you plan to use
can meet the demands of your application—see Section 4.1. Also, note
that the ServSwitch Ultra doesn’t support keyboard-line dongles.
1. After you verify that the Switch is turned OFF, plug the DB25 male connector
of the User Cable into the port labeled MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE on
the Switch’s rear panel.
2. If your user-station equipment is IBM type, plug the cables from your shared
monitor, keyboard, and mouse into the corresponding connectors on the other
ends of the User Cable. If your equipment is Mac or Sun type,
plug the mouse
cable into the keyboard, and plug the monitor and keyboard
cables into the
corresponding connectors on the other ends of the User Cable.
23
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3.2.3 C
ONNECTING
CPU
S
CPU Cables run from the ServSwitch to the keyboard port, mouse port, and videooutput port of each CPU you want to directly attach to it. Different types of this
cable fit the connectors on different computers (see Appendix B). This cable also
comes in the different lengths supported by different applications (see
Section 4.1.3).
CAUTION!
Avoid routing cable near fluorescent lights, air-conditioning
compressors, or machines that may create electrical noise. Total length
of original Serv cable from the ServSwitch Ultra to any attached device
(keyboard, monitor, mouse, CPU, or submaster) should not exceed 20 ft.
(6.1 m); total length of original Serv cabling from any CPU to any
keyboard, monitor, and mouse shouldn’t exceed 40 ft. (12.2 m). For
typical equipment and
video resolutions, length of coaxial cable should
not exceed 20 ft. (6.1 m)
from a ServSwitch Ultra to any attached device.
However, we do provide coaxial cable in lengths up to 100 ft. (30.5 m),
because some CPUs can drive and receive keyboard and mouse signals
at greater distances than others. To go even farther, you might want to
use Station Extenders or CAT5 KVM Extenders (see Appendix B) if your
common keyboard and mouse are IBM type.
1. After you verify that the Switch is turned off and unplugged, plug the DB25
male connector of the first CPU’s CPU Adapter Cable into the lowestnumbered CPU port on the Switch’s rear panel that isn’t going to be
occupied by a submaster Serv type switch. Use consecutively higher-numbered
ports for the rest of the CPUs. For example, if you planned to put three
submasters and three CPUs on an 8-port master Switch, you would put the
submasters on ports CPU 1 through CPU 3 (see Section 3.2.4), and you would
plug the three CPUs into ports CPU 4 through CPU 6.
2. Plug the CPU Adapter Cable’s video-, keyboard-, and (on IBM type cables)
mouse-port connectors into the corresponding ports on the CPU. The CPU
should be OFF when you do this; the Switch will automatically adjust to the
CPU’s keyboard mode when you power up the CPU. Avoid plugging CPUs
into the ServSwitch Ultra if they are already ON; if you accidentally do so, see
Section 5.3.2 to make sure the Switch is set for the proper keyboard mode.)
NOTE
You’ll need to attach a Mac Adapter for ServSwitch (our product code
KV99MA) between the video strand of the CPU Adapter Cable and the
video-output port of any Macintosh CPU that outputs video in a format
other than VGA (640 x 480). This is because the video circuitry of Mac
CPUs often needs to see “ID bits” from the attached monitor, which the
ServSwitch Ultra doesn’t supply but the Mac Adapter does.
(continued on next page)
24
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
CAUTION!
Do not attach docking stations for older models of the ThinkPad®or
other portable computers to the ServSwitch Ultra. T
he Switch currently
supports only “stream mode” (continuous) mouse data, but older
ThinkPad models have to see “prompt mode” (burst-on-request) mouse
data. Some newer docking stations and some newer ThinkPad models
might work with the Switch, but determining whether a particular unit will
do so will probably require trial and error.
3.2.4 C
ONNECTINGSUBMASTERS(OPTIONAL
)
To connect a submaster Serv type switch (ServSwitch Ultra, regular ServSwitch,
etc.) to a master ServSwitch Ultra, run a ServSwitch-to-ServSwitch Expansion Cable
(our product code EHN055 for original cable or EHN274 for [recommended]
coaxial cable) from one of the master Switch’s CPU ports to (one of) the
submaster’s MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE port(s). Connect the first
submaster to the master Switch’s CPU 1 port and use consecutively highernumbered ports (CPU 2, CPU 3, and so on) for the rest of the submasters. If you
are connecting each of
several submaster Matrix ServSwitches to two master
ServSwitch Ultras (see Section 3.3),
connect the CPU ports of one master to the
submasters’ MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE A ports,
and the CPU ports of the
other master to the submasters’ MONITOR/KEYBOARD/MOUSE B ports.
Before installing an advanced configuration, please call Black Box and discuss
your application with a technician.
25
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3.2.5 P
OWERINGUP THESYSTEM
3.2.5.A Initial Steps
1A. 2-port model (KV5002MA-R2): Making sure that the connected CPUs and any
connected submasters are OFF (powered down), take the output cord of the
ServSwitch Ultra’s power supply and plug its 5-pin DIN male connector into
the power jack on the rear panel of the Switch. Plug the power supply’s input
cord into a working outlet.
1B. Other models: Making sure that the connected CPUs and any connected
submasters are OFF (powered down), take the ServSwitch Ultra’s power cord
and plug its IEC 320 female connector into the power inlet on the rear panel
of the Switch. Plug its other end into a working outlet.
2. To power up the ServSwitch Ultra, push the ON/OFF button on its front
panel (if
it’s a 2-port unit) or move the ON/OFF switch on its rear panel to the
“|” (ON)
position (if it’s another type of unit). The Switch should boot
normally, but
if the unit’s firmware has become corrupted—probably as the
result of a firmware
upgrade going wrong—it will display this message on the
attached monitor:
Kernel is bad, load new kernel through serial port
If you see this, you will need to download correct firmware to the unit as
described in Section 4.4.3, starting at the point at which the unit is ready to
receive the file at 9600 baud (9600 bps). (In this case, you must download the
file at 9600 bps.)
3.2.5.B Remaining Steps If All CPUs Are Sun Models
If all of your CPUs are Sun models, you need to proceed with the steps in this section
in order to avoid video problems. If any of your CPUs are not Sun models, use the
alternative steps in Section 3.5.2.C on the next page.
3. Before you power up any CPUs, try to change the Switch’s keyboard output
on all of its CPU ports from IBM PS/2 type to Sun type. If your Switch’s
firmware is a recent enough version, a “universal Sun keyboard mode”
command will be active until you set a password for the Switch. Press and
release the [Control] key on your Sun keyboard, then type the letter [M]
followed by the numbers [5] and [0], then press and release [Enter]. This
should cause all of your CPU ports to switch to Sun keyboard-mode output.
Now use the Switch’s front-panel LEDs and pushbuttons to select one of
your Sun CPUs (see Section 2.3) and power up that CPU. It should boot
properly and output video. If it doesn’t, power it back down, unplug the
keyboard strand of the CPU cable from the CPU’s keyboard port, plug a Sun
keyboard into that keyboard port, and power the CPU back up; this will
definitely give you video. Once the CPU boots with video active, remove the
26
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
keyboard and reattach the keyboard strand of the CPU cable; you can now
use the Switch’s on-screen menu system (see Section 5.1) to change the
keyboard settings of the all of your CPU ports to “Sun” (see Section 5.3).
4. Power up the rest of the directly connected CPUs and any connected
submasters one by one, giving each one time to boot completely before
turning ON the next one. (Issue a Keep Settings command after initial
bootup, so that the Switch saves its keyboard settings to nonvolatile memory.)
5. Power up any CPUs connected to submasters one by one, giving each CPU
time to boot completely before turning ON the next one.
3.2.5.C Remaining Steps If Any CPUs Aren’t Sun Models
If not all of your CPUs are Sun models—that is, if at least one of your CPUs is a PC,
Mac, etc.—proceed with the steps in this section. If all of your CPUs are Sun models,
use the alternative steps in Section 3.5.2.B on the previous page.
3. Power up any directly connected non Sun CPUs and any connected
submasters one by one, giving each one time to boot completely before
turning ON the next one. When the non Sun CPUs are powered up after the
ServSwitch Ultra, the Switch emulates all keyboard and mouse functions for
automatic bootup. (You might want to issue a Keep Settings command after
initial bootup, so that the Switch saves the mode settings it has autodetected
to nonvolatile memory.)
4. Power up any non Sun CPUs connected to submasters one by one, giving
each CPU time to boot completely before turning ON the next one.
5. If there are any Sun CPUs in your system: Switch to a CPU port that has a powered
non Sun CPU attached to it (see Section 3.2.7). Bring up the Switch’s on-
screen menu system (see Section 5.1) and change the keyboard settings of the
CPU ports with Sun CPUs attached to them to “Sun” (see Section 5.3). Power
up all of the Sun CPUs one by one, giving each CPU time to boot completely
before turning ON the next one.
27
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3.2.6 C
HANGING THEKEYBOARDSETTING OFWINDOWS
NT 4.0 CPU
S
If any CPUs attached to your ServSwitch Ultra are running Microsoft
Windows NT 4.0, you must change the keyboard setting in their Control Panel from
the default, “Microsoft Enhanced Keyboard,” to “Standard 101/102 or Microsoft
Natural Keyboard.” Your ServSwitch system will not work with these CPUs unless their
keyboard settings are changed. To do this, take these steps:
1. Click on the icon for “My Computer” (or whatever you’ve named the
computer itself).
2. Click on “Control Panels.”
3. Click on “Keyboard.”
4. Click on the “General” tab.
5. In the Keyboard Type field, scroll from the “Enhanced” setting to the
“Standard” setting.
For more information, consult your Windows NT manual.
3.2.7 S
WITCHING FROM THE
K
EYBOARD
Your ServSwitch Ultra is now ready for operation using its default settings. To take
full advantage of the Switch’s features, refer to Chapter 4, which gives detailed
information about each of the ServSwitch Ultra commands, describing each
command’s function and keystroke sequence. For your convenience, this info is
summarized in Section 4.2. To begin switching immediately, however, just press
and release your keyboard’s left Control key ([Ctrl] or [control]), then—within
the next two seconds—type in your desired port number with the regular number
keys (not the numeric keypad). (This procedure is slightly more complicated if
there are more than nine CPUs in your Switch system; refer to Section 4.3.1.)
28
SERVSWITCH™ ULTRA
3.3 Cascading in ServSwitch Ultra Systems
In a normal cascaded ServSwitch Ultra system, the shared monitor(s), keyboard(s),
and mouse (mice) are directly attached to one or more “master” ServSwitch Ultras,
while all the CPUs are indirectly attached through “submasters” (subsidiary
ServSwitch Ultras, regular ServSwitches, ServManagers, etc.) that provide port
expansion but may or may not perform any control functions of their own. When
you cascade in this way, you can expand your system to include up to 256 ports
(sixteen 16-port submasters on a 16-port master unit).
CAUTION!
To avoid platform- and peripheral-mismatch problems, take these
precautions:
1. In any application involving CPUs belonging to different platforms,
we recommend that you use multiplatform masters and submasters.
2. If you own any of the older Apple only or Sun only ServSwitches
we used to sell, don’t try to add them to your cascade. They do not
support cascading.
3. If you attach any PC-only submasters to a multiplatform master,
make sure you attach only IBM PC compatible CPUs to those
submasters.
4. If you use any PC-only masters, we recommend that you use only
PC-only submasters. If you must use any ServManager or ServSwitch
Ultra submasters, make sure that you have those submasters set for the
keyboard and mouse type you’re using with [Ctrl] Mxx [Enter], and make
sure that those settings are saved in the submasters’ NVRAM with
[Ctrl] K.
5. All of the CPUs attached to any PC-only submaster must use the
same type of keyboard and mouse.
You can add submasters to your ServSwitch Ultra system as you need them. For
each submaster you add to the system, you add as many ports as are on that
submaster, minus the one port on each master “above” it that’s now occupied.
Refer to Figure 3-2 on page 30:
• Connecting one 4-port submaster Serv unit to a 4-port master ServSwitch Ultra
(top view) gives you a total of 7 ports: 4 on the submaster and another 3 (4
minus the one that the submaster is attached to) on the master.
• Connecting four 4-port submaster Serv units to a 4-port master ServSwitch
Ultra (bottom view) gives you a total of 16 ports, 4 on each submaster. (All 4
ports on the master are now occupied.)
When you use Matrix ServSwitches as submasters, the setup is a little more
complicated. Refer to Figure 3-3 on page 31: Connecting two 4-port Matrix
ServSwitch submasters to an 8-port ServSwitch Ultra master gives you a total of
14 ports on that master. (Each of the masters in Figure 3-3 can access 14 ports, but
while both masters share CPUs 1 through 8, CPUs 9 through 14 on either master
29
CHAPTER 3: Installation
can only be accessed by the monitors, keyboards, and mice on that master. Note
that when we say that CPUs 1 through 8 are “shared,” we mean that they can be
accessed by either master at different times, not by both masters simultaneously.)
Adding a third 4-port submaster unit would give you a total of 17 ports, and so on.
(To reach all of the CPUs in cascaded systems like this, you must set Maximum
computers, Width, and Units properly on the master unit; see Sections 5.2.3
through 5.2.5.)
3.3.1 C
ABLEREQUIREMENTS FOREXPANSION
To connect submaster units to a ServSwitch Ultra, you’ll need one ServSwitch-toServSwitch Expansion Cable for each submaster unit. You will also need a CPU
Adapter Cable for each CPU you will be connecting to the submaster’s CPU ports.
(Remember that one MKM Adapter Cable is required to connect the master unit
to your keyboard, monitor, and mouse.) See Sections 3.2.2 through 3.2.4.
3.3.2 I
NSTALLING ACASCADE
Laying out your ServSwitch Ultra system prior to installation will make the installation
process go more smoothly. It will also help you to keep the port-selection numbers
you’ll use in keyboard commands in a rational sequence. Figure 3-2 on the next
page illustrates the proper layout and numbering of your submasters and CPUs.
Keep these restrictions in mind when you design your ServSwitch system:
• If you use original Serv Adapter Cables and Expansion Cables, the distance
from any ServSwitch Ultra to any attached device should not exceed 20 ft.
(6.1 m); the total length of original Serv cabling from any CPU to any monitor,
keyboard, and mouse should not exceed 40 ft. (12.2 m). Depending on your
application, these distances might be less; see Section 4.1.3.
• If you use coaxial Adapter Cables and Expansion Cables, the maximum
distance from the
ServSwitch Ultra to any attached device should not exceed
20 ft. (6.1 m)
with typical monitors and video resolutions, but see the Caution
notice on page 23. Depending on your application, this distance might vary;
see Section 4.1.3.
• The total number of CPU ports accessible by any ServSwitch Ultra master unit
must not exceed 256.
• Do not use older (“-R2” product code or earlier) mini (SW721 or SW722)
model regular ServSwitches as submasters in your ServSwitch Ultra system.
Their cascading logic and command language is different from that of all
other Serv type units.
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