Black Box Understanding RS-232 Control and Cascading for M-Duo
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SERVSWITCH DUO™

5.12 RS-232 Control

There is yet one more way to select channels on the ServSwitch Duo: through its RS-232 serial port. (This is a proprietarily pinned DB15 connector; see Section A.3 of the Appendix for more information.) The normal use of this connector is as the attachment point for the Switch’s optional Remote-Control Module, but by using an adapter you can connect a different RS-232 device to it. To select a channel through this port, the data rate and format of the sending device must be set to 1200 bps, 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit. No handshaking (flow control) is used by the ServSwitch Duo.

Simply send the ASCII character for the channel which needs to be selected: ASCII “1” (31 hex, 49 decimal) will select channel 1, ASCII “2” (32 hex,

50 decimal) will select channel 2, and so on. You can select ports 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 by sending the ASCII characters “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” “E,” “F,” and “G” respectively.

5.13 Cascading ServSwitch Duos

Multiple ServSwitch Duos can be cascaded (connected together in a one-to-many scheme) in order to increase the maximum number of available CPU ports in your KVM-switching system. This can be particularly useful where clusters of computers are located some distance from each other, because each Switch unit acts as a kind of signal booster or repeater and can be as much as 100 feet (30 m) away from the other Switches in the system. To select channels in cascaded systems, you will need to either send hotkey commands from the master Switch’s keyboard (see the “{Hotkeys} + {Channel Address}” paragraph in Section 5.7) or select your desired channel from the Switch’s on-screen menu (see Section 5.8). Most people find using the menu more convenient, because scrolling through and selecting computer names from the menu is usually much easier than trying to remember and type in channel addresses.

Though it’s theoreticallly possible to cascade ServSwitch Duos to four, five, or more “layers,” we recommend that you limit your setup to three, because the channel addresses for CPU ports on Switches beyond the third layer are too long to be entered in the menu.

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Contents July KV6104SA KV6108SA KV6112FA KV6116FA Welcome to the ServSwitchTM FamilyServswitch DUO FCC/IC Statements European Union Declaration of Conformity NOM Statement Servswitch DUO Contents Servswitch DUO Interfaces SpecificationsMtbf Introduction Features and Benefits of the ServSwitch DuoComplete ServSwitch Duo Package Rear panel of the 4- and 8-port ServSwitch Duo models ServSwitch Duo IllustratedRear panel of the 12- and 16-port ServSwitch Duo models Safety Concerns What You Will Need InstallationConnecting Your Devices Rackmounting the ServSwitch Duo OptionalServSwitch Duo cables Keyboard connector Pin mini-DIN PS/2 to Serial Mouse Connecting PowerConfiguring the ServSwitch Duo ConfigurationConfiguring your PCs Configuration Autoscanning Setting the Scan Mode and Pause Time Setting the Switchover Timeout Servswitch DUO Setting the Hotkey Sequence Setting the Appearance of the ON-SCREEN Display Setting the Password Status LEDs Power StatusOperation Operation Display Shows Meaning Status DisplayThings To Keep in Mind About the Keyboards and Mice Using the Dual Control Ports a and BKeyboard Control Hotkey Commands Operation To select channel NT Server B 356 On-Screen Menu ControlAdding a Computer to the Menu List Selecting a Computer on the Menu List Re-Enabling a Disconnected PS/2 Mouse Mouse ControlType of mouse Driver type Probable 12 RS-232 Control Cascading ServSwitch DuosOperation A typical cascade of two ServSwitch Duos Things To Try TroubleshootingServswitch DUO Troubleshooting Shipping and Packaging Calling Black BoxCabling ServSwitch Duo to PCs Appendix Cable and Connector GuidelinesCabling Keyboard, Monitor, and Mouse to ServSwitch Duo Male Female Expansion Port Disclaimers

KV6104SA specifications

The Black Box KV6104SA is a state-of-the-art KVM switch that is designed to streamline the management of multiple computers from a single console. This particular model supports up to four computers, enabling users to control several systems efficiently without the need for multiple keyboards, mice, and monitors.

One of the standout features of the KV6104SA is its high-resolution support, with the ability to deliver video resolutions of up to 1920x1200 at 60Hz. This ensures that users experience crisp and clear video output, making it suitable for a variety of applications, including design work, video editing, and general computing tasks. The device also supports DVI-D connections, allowing for digital video output that minimizes signal degradation.

In addition to its impressive video capabilities, the Black Box KV6104SA is equipped with various connection options that enhance its versatility. The switch features multiple USB ports for connecting peripherals, such as keyboards and mice, and supports both PC and Mac systems. This cross-platform compatibility allows users to integrate the KVM switch into diverse IT environments seamlessly.

The KV6104SA incorporates advanced switching technology, enabling fast and reliable channel switching. Users can switch between connected computers using convenient hotkeys or through a front-panel push button, ensuring quick access to different systems without interrupting their workflow. This is particularly beneficial for IT professionals and users who frequently need to monitor and control various machines.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the KV6104SA is its robust build quality, designed to withstand constant use in demanding environments. With a compact design, it can be easily integrated into existing setups without taking up excessive space. Additionally, the device is engineered with features that promote energy efficiency, helping organizations reduce their environmental impact.

Security is also a priority for the KV6104SA, as it features built-in protection against unauthorized access. This ensures that sensitive data remains secure while still allowing authorized personnel to manage systems effectively.

In conclusion, the Black Box KV6104SA KVM switch is a highly effective solution for managing multiple computers while providing exceptional video quality, versatile connectivity, and user-friendly operation. Its design and features make it an ideal choice for professionals and organizations looking to enhance their productivity and workflow management in today's digital landscape.
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