November 2009 ACU6001A ACU6022A ACU6201A ACU6222A
THE SERVSWITCH™ FAMILY Welcome to the ServSwitch™ Family! Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX® ServSwitch™ Brand CATx KVM Extender model! We appreciate your business, and we think you’ll appreciate the many ways that your enhanced keyboard/video/mouse system 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.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Copyrights and Trademarks ©2008/9. All rights reserved. This information may not be reproduced in any manner without the prior written consent of the manufacturer. Information in this document is subject to change without notice and the manufacturer shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages in connection with the use of this material.
FCC/CDC STATEMENTS FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION AND CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS RADIO-FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENTS This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy, and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference to radio communication.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY EUROPEAN UNION COMPLIANCE STATEMENT WARNING! This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in which case the user might be required to take adequate remedial measures. This product complies with the following harmonized standards for Information Technology Equipment: EN55022:2006 (Class A), EN55024:1998 + A1:2001 + A2:2003.
NOM STATEMENT NORMAS OFICIALES MEXICANAS (NOM) ELECTRICAL SAFETY STATEMENT INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD 1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas antes de que el aparato eléctrico sea operado. 2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para referencia futura. 3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de operación deben ser respetadas. 4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas. 5.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las recomendaciones del fabricante. 15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las lineas de energia. 16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del 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.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND INSTALLATION GUIDELINES Safety Precautions and Installation Guidelines To ensure reliable and safe long-term operation please note the following installation guidelines: • Do not 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 interconnection cable alongside power cables.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Contents 1. Quick Setup 1.1 Command Summary 2. Overview 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Introduction Glossary Features Product Range Compatibility How to Use This Guide 3. Installation 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Package Contents Interconnection Cable Requirements Remote Unit Installation Local Unit Installation 4. Remote Unit Configuration & Operation 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.
CONTENTS Appendix A: Example Application 42 Appendix B: Rack Mount Options 43 Appendix C: Flash Upgrading 44 Appendix D: Advanced Cabling Issues (Skew) 48 Appendix E: Audio/Serial Ports 51 Appendix F: Calling Black Box 53 Appendix G: Specifications 54 Appendix H: New Features 57 Enhanced Keyboard & Mouse Support (v2.0) Generic HID Device Support (v2.0) Private Mode (v2.0) Enhanced Elo Touch Screen Support/Calibration (v2.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 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 1. 2. 3. 4. Connect Remote Unit to KVM and audio/serial devices (if present). Connect Local Unit to CPU.
QUICK SETUP 1.1 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 most of the ‘hot’ key command sequences used in system configuration and video tuning.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 2. Overview 2.1 Introduction The ServSwitch™ Brand CATx KVM Extender Series enables high-resolution video, USB keyboard and mouse/HID, stereo audio, and serial port signals to be communicated up to 1000ft (300m) over Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher (CATx) cable. A basic KVM 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).
OVERVIEW CPU Local Video Outputs Local Unit KVM/HID extension over CATx cables up to 1000ft (300m).
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 2.3 Features Members of the ServSwitch™ Brand CATx KVM Extender Series offer the following features: • Support for USB keyboards, mice and certain other HID devices • Support for high video resolution for use with TFT displays: 1600x1200@60Hz over 650ft (200m) 1280x1024@75Hz over 1000ft (300m) Higher resolutions may be possible at shorter distances.
OVERVIEW 2.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 2.5 Compatibility Interface Compatibility • USB Devices: Standard keyboards (including certain models with multimedia keys) Standard wheel mice (including certain models with tilt wheel) Composite keyboard/mouse devices (e.g. wireless devices & KVM switches) PS/2 to USB converters Hubs Other keyboard/mouse type devices such as bar code scanners Several devices of the same type may be attached simultaneously.
OVERVIEW 2.6 How to Use This Guide This guide describes the installation and configuration of the ServSwitch™ Brand CATx KVM Extender Series. Although the connection and operation of the system is relatively straightforward, you should consider the following before getting started: Connection & Compatibility Your Extender Kit contains all the cables required to connect the Local Unit to your PC or KVM switch.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 3. Installation For first-time users, we recommend that you carry out a test placement, confined to a single room, before commencing full installation. This will allow you to identify and solve any cabling problems, and experiment with the KVM extender system more conveniently. 3.1 Package Contents You should receive the following items in your extender package. If anything is missing, please refer to Appendix F to obtain Technical Support.
INSTALLATION 3.2 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 49).
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 3.3 Remote Unit Installation To install a Remote Unit: 1. Switch off all devices. 2. Connect your USB devices and monitor(s) 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.
INSTALLATION ACU6022A and ACU6222A only Connect to speakers and microphone. Connect to second monitor. Connect to serial device, such as a touch screen. Connect to primary monitor. Connect to USB devices. Connect supplied 5V PSU. ACU6201A, ACU6222A only All Remote Units Figure 2 Remote Unit - rear view All Remote Units ACU6201A, ACU6222A only INTERCONNECT 1 – carries primary video, audio and data. INTERCONNECT 2 – carries secondary video signal.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 3.4 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 video/USB cable(s), connect the Local Unit to the CPU as shown in Figure 4. 3. If you want local access to the CPU, connect the video output(s) on the Local Unit to suitable monitors. Connect a USB mouse and a USB keyboard directly to other USB ports on the CPU or a connected hub. 4.
INSTALLATION ACU6022A and ACU6222A only ACU6201A and ACU6222A only Connect to secondary Local monitor. Connect to primary Local monitor. Connect to computer’s secondary video output. Connect to computer’s primary video output. Connect to audio ports on computer. Connect to serial port on computer. Connect to USB port on CPU (or external hub). Connect to 5V PSU (optional).
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY All Models ACU6201A and ACU6222A only INTERCONNECT 1 – carries primary video, audio and data signals. Connect to CATx cable from INTERCONNECT 1 port on Remote Unit. Status INTERCONNECT 2 – carries secondary video signals. Connect to CATx cable from INTERCONNECT 2 port on Remote Unit. Yellow LED* Green LED OFF No data transfer with Remote Unit Local Unit not powered.
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.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 4.2 Video Adjustments 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 4.3 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: 8. Ensure that you have installed and powered up the system according to the instructions in Section 3. 9.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 4.4 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: ftp://ftp.blackbox.com/connectivity/ServSwitch/ 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 2. Enter Command Mode (see Command Mode, page 27) by pressing the following key combination on the remote console’s keyboard: + + 3.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Figure 7 6. LF too low LF too high HF too low HF too high Problems with smearing and sharpness requiring LF and HF adjustment Identify the ‘slowest’ color – the colored line furthest to the right.
REMOTE UNIT CONFIGURATION & OPERATION Slower Red Green In this illustration, Blue is the slowest signal. To optimize the image, Red and Green need to be delayed until they align with Blue. Blue Faster Figure 8 Illustration of skew and appearance on test card Some Cat5e/Cat6 cables require a large green delay. Video quality can be often be vastly improved by using standard crossover patch cables at both ends of the link rather than straight patch cables.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 8. 9. Optionally, fine-tune the LF equalization to remove ‘black video smearing’ - black smears to the right of large objects such as window title bars (see Figure 7).
REMOTE UNIT CONFIGURATION & OPERATION 4.5 Other Remote Configuration & Operation Options The ServSwitch™ Brand CATx KVM Extender Series have a number of configuration commands to setup USB, to reset EQ and Delay values, to restore the factory default configuration, change DDC settings, and to blank monitors (Private Mode). Also refer to Appendix H: New Features, page 57 for details of additional features added in later firmware revisions.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY DDC Emulation Modern graphics cards use VESA DDC (Display Data Channel) to identify the capabilities of connected monitors. Some cards will not operate correctly unless they communicate with a DDC-enabled monitor. By default, the Local Unit emulates a universal monitor (on both channels) and reports that it is capable of all standard screen resolutions and refresh rates (including several widescreen modes).
REMOTE UNIT CONFIGURATION & OPERATION Setting USB keyboard Language ID This is not normally required, but some operating systems (such as Solaris) require a language ID to determine the KB layout. This command will read the ID from the current KB (the one used to enter Command mode) and permanently store it. 1. Enter Command mode (see page 27). 2.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY To register generic devices: 1. Enter Command mode (see page 27). 2. Press the key combination: + The Remote Unit will now exit Command mode whilst the Local Unit re-connects as a device with the transferred descriptors. During this time you will be unable to use USB devices. Should any problems arise after issuing the command, simply USB hot-plug the Local Unit.
TROUBLESHOOTING & FAQ 5. Troubleshooting & FAQ 5.1 Video The image is not sharp, or is badly smeared. Have you adjusted the video equalization? Follow the instructions on page 26. Check the Interconnect cable between the Remote and Local Units. Is it of the recommended type (see page 19)? Is it intact along its entire length and securely connected at both ends? Is it wired correctly (see page 49)? Ensure that all video connections throughout the system are attached securely.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 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. If this is a persistent problem, contact Technical Support. The PC won’t boot into the correct graphics mode. Check that DDC Emulation is enabled (see page 34).
TROUBLESHOOTING & FAQ 5.2 USB Does the extender internally convert to PS/2 when handling keyboard and mouse? No. This is a pure USB (emulation) solution. Converting to PS/2 would restrict the possibilities of supporting other kinds of USB device. Will the extender work with USB KVM switches? The extender will operate with any USB KVM switch that is capable of supporting both a mouse and keyboard composite device on its keyboard console port.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY How many keyboards and mice may be attached? You may attach multiple devices. This is useful for connecting additional peripherals, such as bar code scanners, which act as a standard keyboard or mouse. I am having problems using the extender on a Sun system. Please ensure the latest version of Solaris (with all patches) is installed. 5.3 Audio The audio is very quiet.
TROUBLESHOOTING & FAQ 5.5 General Questions Is it possible to use a cable longer than 1000ft (300m)? It might be possible to use a cable of up to 1650ft (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.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Appendix A: Example Application This section illustrates a non-standard application using CATx KVM Extender units: • Two remote users sharing access to the CPU. For more specific information about this, or any other complex applications, please discuss suitable extension architecture with your Technical Support. Local Console CPU Local Video out Local unit connections Local Unit KVM/HID extension over CATx cables up to 1000ft (300m).
APPENDIX B: RACK MOUNT OPTIONS Appendix B: Rack Mount Options Up to three extender units, in any combination, can be mounted in a 19” rack using the RMK19U-X3 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.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Appendix C: Flash Upgrading & External Configuration The extender’s firmware is fully flash upgradeable. Please consult Appendix H: New FeaturesAppendix H: New Features, page 57 which describes additional functionality introduced in the latest firmware releases. The firmware may be upgraded via USB. In addition, the current extender configuration (video settings) can be saved and restored. Firmware upgrade files should be downloaded online.
APPENDIX C: FLASH UPGRADING Operating Upgrade Mode When in Upgrade Mode you must use a KB/mouse attached directly to the PC. You will see four virtual files listed: BOOT Delete this file to return to normal extender operation. LOC_xx This shows the firmware version in the Local Unit. If the version is reported as ‘LOC_BAD’ the upgrade was not successful – try again REM_xx This shows the firmware version in the Remote Unit.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Upgrading a Remote Unit You need to drag each of the EIGHT the firmware files provided onto the window. Simply highlight them all and drag in one operation.
APPENDIX C: FLASH UPGRADING Upgrading Tips If you have a number of installed units to upgrade you may not need to move them in order to upgrade. Example: To upgrade a number of Local Units installed in a rack you may find it much faster to bring a Remote Unit & USB KB into the same room as the Local Units. To upgrade each Local Unit in turn simply connect a patch cable from the Remote to the Local Unit and then enter the Upgrade Mode entry sequence on the remote KB.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 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 4). The techniques described here are usually only necessary when you are operating at the highest screen resolution (1600x1200) with long Interconnect cables.
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 Remote Unit, Pin 1 is on the right and Pin 8 on the left.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY 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 28.
APPENDIX E: AUDIO/SERIAL PORTS Appendix E: Audio/Serial Ports Operation & Multi-Port Configuration This appendix describes audio & serial interface operation for those models that have this feature: • ACU6022A • ACU6222A 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 data and video.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Audio Interface - Set Up and Operation The audio interface is line-level and is designed to take the output from a sound card (or other line-level) source and be connected to a set of powered speakers at the other end of the link. Stereo audio may be transmitted either way across the link (simultaneously). No setup is required unless a microphone is connected to the Remote Unit.
APPENDIX F: CALLING BLACK BOX Appendix F: Calling Black Box If you determine that your CATx KVM Extender is malfunctioning, do not attempt to alter or repair it. It contains no user-serviceable parts. Contact Black Box Technical Support at 724746-5500. Before you do, make a record of the history of the problem.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Appendix G: Specifications Video Maximum Resolution 1600x1200@60Hz over 650ft (200m) 1280x1024@75Hz over 1000ft (300m) Operation at higher resolutions/refresh rates is 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, or read directly from remote monitors.
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 2 x 3.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Size and Shipping Weight ACU6001A Local Unit: 4.9”x4.5”x1.2” (124x113x30mm) Remote Unit: 5.7”x5.9”x1.2” (144x151x30mm) Shipping Weight: 4.4lb (2.0kg) ACU6201A Local Unit: 4.9”x4.5”x1.7” (124x113x44mm) (1U) Remote Unit: 5.7”x5.9”x1.2” (144x151x30mm) Shipping Weight: 4.9lb (2.2kg) ACU6022A Local Unit: 4.9”x4.5”x1.7” (124x113x44mm) (1U) Remote Unit: 5.7”x5.9”x1.7” (144x151x44mm) (1U) Shipping Weight: 4.9lb (2.2kg) ACU6222A Local Unit: 5.7”x4.5”x1.
APPENDIX H: NEW FEATURES Appendix H: New Features This section describes new features added in the later firmware releases. The label on the base of each Local or Remote Unit shows which firmware version has been factory installed (see Appendix F: Calling Black Box, page 53). Firmware Version Feature Added V2.0 (S20 - Jan 2009) Enhanced Keyboard & Mouse Support Generic HID Device Support Private Mode V2.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Enhanced Keyboard & Mouse Support (v2.0) In previous releases only basic USB keyboards and mice were supported. In v2.0 the HID parser has been extended to handle newer laser mice and combination wireless KB/Mouse devices that often use ‘non-standard’ report formats. Support has also been added for mouse pan/tilt (horizontal scrolling) for those operating systems that support it within their native HID drivers (e.g. Vista). Generic HID Device Support (v2.
APPENDIX H: NEW FEATURES You do not normally need to register keyboard or mouse type devices. If however, you are having problems getting a KB/Mouse to work, you could try registering it in case it has descriptors which are ‘non-standard’. USB devices connected to the Remote Unit cannot be associated with any particular vendor driver. Private Mode (v2.0) In previous releases the only Private Mode option was to blank the monitors connected to the Local Unit. Firmware v2.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY Remote Monitor Blanking in Local Private Mode A further remote command has been added to control whether the remote monitors are blanked in Local Private Mode. The default setting is to blank them. To toggle the remote monitor blank state: 1. Enter Command Mode 2. Press + to toggle the state 3. The setting is saved in EEPROM, and the unit will quit Command Mode. Local Private Mode Inhibit This feature is inhibited by default.
APPENDIX H: NEW FEATURES Enhanced Elo Touch Screen Support/Calibration (v2.3) In Firmware v2.0 Generic HID device support was added. This allowed touch screens (which could operate using OS native HID support) to be used through the extender in a basic mode. However, the extender cannot utilise any vendor driver supplied with a touch screen for calibration/enhanced options etc. Operation in basic mode may not be suitable for all applications.
SERVSWITCH™ BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY • • • • You only need to perform the above operation once. The settings are saved in EEPROM. If you want to connect further touch screens then all touch screens MUST be the same model. You should re-calibrate whenever you register additional (or replacement) generic HID devices. If there were any problems during calibration the extender will quit Command Mode and resume normal operation after the time-out period.
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Customer Support Information: Order toll-free in the U.S.: Call 877-877-BBOX (outside U.S. call 724-746-5500) For FREE Technical Support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, call 724-746-5500 or fax 724-746-0746 Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Dr., Lawrence, PA 15055-1018 World-Wide Web: www.blackbox.com • Email: info@blackbox.com © Copyright 2009. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.
