User Guide November 2009 CATx KVM Extender Range Dual Video Channel Kits Model SDBX/S2-1 Model SDBX/SA2-1 Dual Video/Local Access Channel Kits Model SDBX/D2 Model SDBX/DA2
Notices 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. Copyrights and Trademarks ©2005/2009. All rights reserved. This information may not be reproduced in any manner without the prior written consent of the manufacturer.
2 CATx KVM Extender Range Safety Precautions and Installation Guidelines To ensure reliable and safe long-term operation please note the following installation guidelines: • Do not use to link between buildings. • 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 the CATx link cable alongside power cables.
3 Contents Contents 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
4 CATx KVM Extender Range Appendix A: Example Applications 37 Appendix B: Rack Mount Options 40 Appendix C: Flash Upgrading & External Configuration 41 Appendix D: Advanced Cabling Issues (Skew) 42 Appendix E: Audio/Serial Ports: Operation & Multi-Port Configuration 45 Appendix F: Obtaining Technical Support 47 Appendix G: Specifications 48 Appendix H: EU Regulatory Compliance 51 Appendix I: North American Regulatory Compliance 52 Appendix J: Disclaimer 52
Quick Setup 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 the command summary on the next page when following this procedure. Install system . 2. 3. 4. 5. Connect Remote Unit to KVM and audio/serial devices (if present). Connect Local Unit or Extender hub to CPU.
6 CATx KVM Extender Range Command Summary By using a specific ‘hot’ key sequence, you can put the remote console keyboard into a Command Mode. From this, you can use various keys and key combinations to tune the video signal and generally configure the extender system. The following table summarizes the ‘hot’ key command sequences used in system configuration and video tuning.
Overview 2. Overview Introduction The SDBX product range enables dual channel high-resolution video, PS/2 keyboard and mouse, stereo audio, and serial port signals to be communicated up to 300m over Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher (CATx) cable. A basic SDBX extension system comprises a Local Unit (transmitter) and a Remote Unit (receiver). The Local Unit connects directly to the computer (or a KVM switch system) using the supplied cable(s).
8 CATx KVM Extender Range Local Access SDBX/D2, SDBX/DA2 only. LOCAL Unit KVM extension over CATx cables up to 300m.
Overview Features Members of the SDBX CATx KVM Extender Series offer the following features: • Support for high video resolution for use with TFT displays: 1600x1200@60Hz over 200m 1280x1024@75Hz over 300m Higher resolutions may be possible over shorter distances. • Fully integrated skew compensation allows operation with CATx cables by canceling color shift and enhancing sharpness.
10 CATx KVM Extender Range Product Range There are four products in the range: Dual Video Channel Kit (Standard) SDBX/S2-1 Dual Video Channels, PS/2 KB & Mouse Local Unit + Remote Unit Dual Video Channel Kit (Audio) SDBX/SA2-1 Dual Video Channels, PS/2 KB & Mouse, Serial, Stereo Audio Local Unit + Remote Unit Dual Video Channel/Dual Access Kit (Standard) SDBX/D2 Dual Video Channels, PS/2 KB & Mouse Local Unit + Remote Unit Dual Video Channel/Dual Access Kit (Audio) SDBX/DA2 Dual Video Channels, PS/
Overview Extender Compatibility The SDBX range of CATx KVM extender products offer enhanced performance while maintaining complete compatibility with existing SDLink standalone and rack mount CAT5 extenders. You can use SDLink and SDBX products belonging the same family in any combination. However, it is not possible to mix Standard and Audio products within a system except for video only applications. SDBX units are not currently compatible with SDLink SUN or SDLink Serial (no audio) products.
12 CATx KVM Extender Range How to Use This Guide This guide describes the installation and configuration of the SDBX range of KVM extenders. 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 SDBX Extender kit, this will contain all the cables required to connect the Local Unit to your PC or KVM switch.
Installation 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 identify and solve any cabling problems, and experiment with the KVM extender system more conveniently. Package Contents You should receive the following items in your extender package. If anything is missing, please refer to Appendix F: Obtaining Technical Support, page 47. • Extender Remote Unit.
14 CATx KVM Extender Range Interconnection Cable Requirements To connect the Local and Remote Units you will need CATx (any category 5, 5e, 6 or higher) cable terminated with RJ45 plugs. Please note that shielded cable is advised to maintain regulatory EMC compliance. Interconnect cables must be solid-core type. Stranded patch cable will give poor results over longer distances. The pairing of the cable and pinning of its connectors should normally be in accordance with EIA-568B (see page 43).
Installation Remote Unit Installation To install a Remote Unit: 1. Switch off all devices. 2. Connect your keyboard, monitor(s) and mouse to the Remote Unit as shown in Figure 2. 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. If appropriate, connect audio equipment and serial devices.
16 CATx KVM Extender Range SDBX/SA2-1 and SDBX/DA2 only Connect to speakers and microphone. Connect to second monitor. Figure 2 Connect to Primary monitor. Connect to serial device, such as a touch screen. Connect PS/2 keyboard and mouse. Connect supplied 9V PSU. Remote Unit – rear view INTERCONNECT 1 – carries primary video and data signals. Status OFF ON FLASHING INTERCONNECT 2 – carries secondary video signals.
Installation Local Unit Installation To install a Local Unit: 1. It is recommended that the PC and other devices are switched off before connection. 2. 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 4. Ensure that you attach the keyboard and mouse connectors to the correct ports. The keyboard connector is purple; the mouse connector is green.
18 CATx KVM Extender Range Local Console Connections (SDBX/D2 and SDBX/DA2 only) Connect to Local PS/2 keyboard and mouse. Optional connection for 5V PSU (not supplied) Audio/Serial Connections (SDBX/SA2-1 and SDBX/DA2 only) Connect to Local monitors. Connect to audio ports on computer. Connect to computer’s secondary video output. Connect to serial port on computer. Connect to computer’s PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports and primary video output.
Remote Unit Configuration & Operation 4. Remote Unit Configuration & Operation CATx cables are specifically designed for networking applications and not for transmitting analog video. Your CATx KVM extender includes, and requires, advanced technology to enable its use at high screen resolutions. This section describes how to optimize the video signal, configure the Extender system and operate the Remote Unit.
20 CATx KVM Extender Range Video Adjustments SDBX Remote Units feature a number of correction tools to simplify video optimization. This procedure is straightforward and only needs to be carried out once.
Remote Unit Configuration & Operation Command Mode During normal use, the remote console keyboard functions in the usual manner. However, by using a specific ‘hot’ key sequence, you can set the keyboard into a Command Mode. From this, you can use various keys and key combinations to tune the video signal and generally configure the extender system. To enter Command Mode: 1. Ensure that you have installed and powered up the system according to the instructions in the Section 2. 2.
22 CATx KVM Extender Range Adjusting Video Use the following step-by-step procedure to optimize the video image on the remote console: 1. If possible, view the online test card at: http://testcard.kvmextender.info This is an image (see Figure 6) created and used by the manufacturer for video optimization purposes. It is particularly useful for correcting skew. If you are unable to view the test card, display some text in a large font on a white background.
Remote Unit Configuration & Operation 3. Select the video channel you want to configure using one of the following keys (not on the numeric keypad): Channel Command Key Select Channel 1 For Adjustment <1> Select Channel 2 For Adjustment <2> Select BOTH Video Channels <0> (Channel 0) (default) Use Channel 0 to tune both video channels simultaneously.
24 CATx KVM Extender Range 6. Identify the ‘slowest’ color – the colored line furthest to the right.
Remote Unit Configuration & Operation 7. If you are using one or more flat panel monitors in the remote consoles, carry out auto-adjustment as described in the monitor’s documentation. Sometimes manual adjust of clock and/or phase is also required for optimum results and minimization of jitter. 8. Optionally, fine-tune the LF equalization to remove ‘black video smearing’ - black smears to the right of large objects such as window title bars and characters (see Figure 8).
26 CATx KVM Extender Range 10. If you are using one or more flat panel monitors in the remote consoles, carry out auto-adjustment again. 11. Save the settings by pressing the key. Alternatively, to discard any changes and revert to the settings stored in the EEPROM, press + . The Remote Unit automatically exits Command Mode after 30 sec of inactivity and saves all settings, including any changes.
Remote Unit Configuration & Operation Other Remote Configuration & Operation Options The SDBX CATx KVM Extender Series has a number of commands to reset the keyboard and mouse, to reset EQ and Delay values, to restore the factory default configuration, change DDC settings, and to initiate and control a Private mode session (Dual Access models only). Command Key Sequence Reset Mouse and Keyboard Resets the remote console’s keyboard and mouse and then automatically exits Command Mode.
28 CATx KVM Extender Range Private Mode On dual access systems, a user at one console can lock out the other console by triggering a ‘Private Mode’ function. This prevents the other console from being used even if the two-second inactivity timeout period expires. To indicate that the Private Mode session is active, the extender system: • Slowly flashes the Scroll Lock LED on the user’s keyboard. • Illuminates all three LEDs on the other console’s keyboard.
Remote Unit Configuration & Operation Transferring DDC Information This feature is only available on Remote Units with hardware version 6.3 or above. A version code number is printed on the base of each unit; the hardware version number is the first two digits - see page 47). To support non-standard screen settings or other features, it is possible to read and store DDC information into the Local Unit directly from the monitors connected to the Remote Unit.
30 CATx KVM Extender Range 5. Local Unit Operation Overview For more information about serial/audio port operation, see Appendix E: Audio/Serial Ports: Operation & Multi-Port Configuration, page 45. Keyboard and Mouse Emulation Local Units have keyboard and mouse emulation. The attached PC operates normally without requiring a keyboard or mouse to be attached to either the Remote or Local Units (in the case of a dual access system).
Local Unit Operation Local Console Commands After pressing the initial ‘hot’ key sequence on the local keyboard, you can issue a number of commands by pressing additional keys. These commands allow you to control a Private mode session on the local console, reset the keyboard and mouse or restore the Local Unit’s factory default settings.
32 CATx KVM Extender Range 6. Troubleshooting Video The image is not sharp, or is badly smeared. Have you adjusted the video equalization? Follow the instructions on page 19. Check the Interconnect cable between the Remote and Local Units. Is it of the recommended type (see page 13)? Is it intact along its entire length and securely connected at both ends? Is it wired correctly (see page 43)? Ensure that all video connections throughout the system are attached securely.
Troubleshooting The monitor sometimes goes blank for a second or two. Check that the interconnect cable is not routed near power lines or other sources of electrical interference. Use shielded STP/FTP cable instead of UTP cable ensuring that the shield connection is maintained between the extender units. Check system grounding. The Remote Unit has an isolated power supply and relies on obtaining a ground reference through the connected monitor.
34 CATx KVM Extender Range Keyboard & Mouse When I am typing, I get wrong or missing characters on the screen. Your keyboard may be in the wrong mode. Use the appropriate commands to reset the keyboard and mouse as described in the sections covering local and remote operation. The PC comes up with ‘keyboard error’. Press or . If the keyboard now operates correctly, you need to adjust the BIOS setup to disable keyboard testing during booting. The system does not detect a PS/2 mouse.
Troubleshooting I have an enhanced keyboard with extra keys and indicators. Everything works apart from these additional features. As standard, the extender only emulates a generic PS/2 keyboard. To support other keyboards (or cascaded KVM switches), special firmware offering a transparent mode may be required. Please contact Technical Support to discuss your application. Audio The audio is very quiet.
36 CATx KVM Extender Range General Questions Is it possible to use a cable longer than 300m? It might be possible to use a cable of up to 500m at lower resolutions. However, we do not recommend this and cannot guarantee that it will work. Can the extender be daisy chained? In certain circumstances, it is possible to cascade extenders, though we do not recommend doing so. Careful consideration needs to be given to extender setup, and the electrical environment.
Appendix A: Example Applications Appendix A: Example Applications This section illustrates two specific applications using SDBX extender units: • Remote serial touch screens with local access through a KVM switch (Figure 9). • Extender system with second screen for security monitoring (Figure 10). For more specific information about these, or any other complex applications, please discuss suitable extension architecture with Technical Support.
38 CATx KVM Extender Range KVM Switch Local access ports connect to single KVM console through a multi-head KVM switch. 2 x SDBX/DA2 kits Remote Units connect to touch screens.
Appendix A: Example Applications Security System Provides secondary video input. SDBX/S2-1 Local Unit Takes KVM signals from standard PC and secondary video from security system. SDBX/S2-1 Remote Unit Connects to KVM console. Secondary monitor used for security monitoring.
40 CATx KVM Extender Range Appendix B: Rack Mount Options Up to three extender units can be mounted in a 19” rack using the SDBR3 mounting kit The kit contains one rack plate and M3 countersunk mounting screws. To mount a unit: 1. Remove the feet from the extender unit. 2. Align the holes on the base plate with the vacant screw holes on the base of the extender unit. 3. Fasten the base of the unit to the plate of the mounting kit using the supplied screws.
Appendix C: Flash Upgrading & External Configuration Appendix C: Flash Upgrading & External Configuration Each extender unit contains a service port. This can be accessed through the mouse port on a Remote Unit or through the 25-way D-connector on a Local Unit. By attaching an upgrade cable between the appropriate port and the serial port on any PC (or laptop) a unit’s firmware may be upgraded. To operate the configuration port, you need: • A laptop or PC close to the extender unit running Windows.
42 CATx KVM Extender Range Appendix D: Advanced Cabling Issues (Skew) The suggestions made in this Appendix should only be investigated if you cannot obtain satisfactory image quality after configuring the Remote Unit (as described in Section 3). The techniques described here are usually only necessary when you are operating at the highest screen resolution (1600x1200) with long Interconnect cables. Dealing with Severe Skew The SDBX KVM extender provides a maximum skew compensation of 42nS.
Appendix D: Advanced Cabling Issues (Skew) Cable Pinning/Pairing The following table illustrates which RJ45 connector pins the extenders use for various signals. It also details the standard EIA-568B wiring scheme that is recommended for most installations. Looking into the RJ45 socket on a SDBX Remote Unit, Pin 1 is on the right and Pin 8 on the left.
44 CATx KVM Extender Range Optimizing Pairs (General Solution) Measure pair lengths with a LAN cabling tester (TDR) or view pairs by stripping back a small piece of cable and viewing how tightly pairs are twisted. The most tightly twisted pair is the slowest (longest) and the loosest pair the fastest (shortest). You can also check the relative delays using the test card as described on page 19. The table below shows the general solution for optimizing CATx cabling for video in order of pair length.
Appendix E: Audio/Serial Ports: Operation & Multi-Port Configuration Appendix E: Audio/Serial Ports: Operation & MultiPort Configuration This appendix details audio & serial interface operation for those models that have this feature: • SDBX/SA2-1 • SDBX/DA2 These extender products contain daughter boards that allow bi-directional stereo audio and a full-duplex serial data link to be sent across the CATx interconnection cable in addition to PS/2 keyboard, mouse and video.
46 CATx KVM Extender Range 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 setup is required unless a microphone is connected to the Remote Unit.
Appendix F: Obtaining Technical Support Appendix F: Obtaining Technical Support If you have any problems or questions, contact your dealer for technical support. To enable us to provide efficient and effective support, please make a note of the following information before you call: • The KVM extender’s firmware revision level.
48 CATx KVM Extender Range Appendix G: Specifications Video Maximum Resolution 1600x1200@60Hz over 200m 1280x1024@75Hz over 300m Operation at higher resolutions/refresh rates may be possible at shorter distances Video Compatibility Analog VGA to UXGA, RGB VESA DDC Emulated DDC for each video channel Local Unit reports as universal monitor capable of all standard resolutions and refresh rates. DDC information may be disabled, flash-upgraded or read from Remote monitors. Video I/O 0.
Appendix G: Specifications Serial Interface Max Baud Rate Supported 19.2K Baud Serial Data Format Transparent Signals Transferred TX, RX, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR Local Unit Connector DB9 female (DCE) Remote Unit Connector DB9 male (DTE) Audio Interface Description Bi-directional stereo audio link Transmission method Digitized virtually CD quality audio (16-bit, 38.4kHz) Signal levels Line level (4 Volts Pk-Pk maximum) Input Impedance 47kΩ Local Unit Connectors 2x3.
50 CATx KVM Extender Range Size and Shipping Weight SDBX/S2-1 Local Unit: 145x100x29mm Remote Unit: 143x145x29mm Shipping Weight: 1.9kg SDBX/SA2-1 Local Unit: 145x100x44mm (1U) Remote Unit: 143x145x44mm (1U) Shipping Weight: 2.2kg SDBX/D2 Local Unit: 145x100x44mm (1U) Remote Unit: 143x145x29mm Shipping Weight: 2.0kg SDBX/DA2 Local Unit: 145 x100x44mm (1U) Remote Unit: 143x145x44mm (1U) Shipping Weight: 2.
Appendix H: EU Regulatory Compliance Appendix H: EU Regulatory Compliance WARNING! 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. This product complies with the following harmonized standards for Information Technology Equipment: EN55022:2006 (Class A), EN55024:1998 + A1:2001 + A2:2003. To maintain compliance the use of correctly installed shielded (STP/FTP) interconnection cable is advised.
52 CATx KVM Extender Range Appendix I: 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.
