End Scan Ctrl | Black Box ServSwitch guide

CHAPTER 6: Keyboard Commands

6.16 End Scan: [Ctrl] X

You can use this command (press and release left [Ctrl], then press and release the letter [X] key) to stop a scan in progress. You will be connected to the computer whose video you were viewing when the scan ended; you will have the level of access to that computer that your user profile’s connection mode allows (see Sections 4.6 and 5.4). Alternatively, you can end a scan by entering a Select Computer command (see Section 6.4).

You can also use [Ctrl] X to pass a keyboard command through to an attached ServSwitch family KVM switch. See Section 6.17.

6.17 Pass This Command Through: [Ctrl] X or [Ctrl] [Tab]

Although doing so sometimes causes port-numbering difficulties, it is possible to connect certain other types of ServSwitch family KVM switches to the Matrix ServSwitch’s CPU ports or user ports. Some of these other switches use a set of keyboard commands that’s very similar to the Matrix ServSwitch’s, but the switch that’s closer to the user will normally absorb commands sent to it without passing them through. For example, if you select a ServSwitch™ Ultra attached to CPU port 12 on a Matrix ServSwitch, and you want to switch to CPU port 3 on the Ultra, you can’t just type in left-[Ctrl] 3 [Enter], because the Matrix Switch will switch to its CPU 3 port.

This is where the Matrix ServSwitch’s pass-through command—shared by most of the compatible ServSwitch family KVM switches—comes in. Using the same example, you can select CPU port 3 on the ServSwitch Ultra by typing in [Ctrl] X 3 [Enter] or [Ctrl] [Tab] 3 [Enter] within the space of two seconds. Here’s how it works: The Matrix Switch receives the [Ctrl] character and passes it through to the attached switch, which will wait for two seconds to receive a valid command character (and, in the meantime, passes the [Ctrl] character through to the next device in line). The Matrix Switch then receives the X or [Tab] character, recognizes it as a valid command character that completes a (nonfunctional) command, and absorbs it. The Matrix Switch regards the number 3 and the [Enter] character that follow as data characters and passes them through. The ServSwitch Ultra, however, sees the 3 and [Enter] as completing the [Ctrl] 3 [Enter] port-selection command, absorbs those characters, and switches to its CPU 3.

In general, the format of this command is a single left-[Ctrl] character, as many X’s or [Tab] characters as there are layers of switches to “skip,” and the character(s) that would normally follow [Ctrl] to form a complete command. More examples: [Ctrl] X S causes one KVM switch attached to another to start scanning; [Ctrl] X X stops that scan; [Ctrl] [Tab] + causes an attached KVM switch to switch to its next CPU port; and [Ctrl] X X [F12] brings up the menu of an attached KVM switch’s attached switch.

ServSwitch specifications

The Black Box SRX ServSwitch is an innovative KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch that offers robust solutions for managing multiple computers from a single workstation. This device stands out in environments ranging from data centers to broadcasting studios, where efficient control over multiple systems is crucial.

One of the key features of the SRX ServSwitch is its high-resolution video support. It can handle video resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz, ensuring that users can enjoy sharp and clear visuals without lag. This level of performance is essential for professionals who rely on precise graphics for tasks such as video editing and design work.

The SRX ServSwitch employs advanced USB technology, allowing for seamless connectivity with various peripherals. It supports USB 2.0 devices, which means users can connect printers, external drives, and other devices without worrying about compatibility issues. Additionally, the switch allows for USB device sharing, enabling multiple computers to access the same peripherals efficiently.

Security is a significant concern in today’s IT environments, and the Black Box SRX ServSwitch addresses this through its advanced security features. It includes support for secure booting and end-to-end encryption, ensuring that data remains protected when switching between systems. This makes it suitable for environments that handle sensitive information, such as financial institutions or healthcare facilities.

The design of the SRX ServSwitch is another standout characteristic. With its easy-to-use interface, users can quickly switch between connected systems using hotkey commands or the push-button interface. This usability improves productivity since users can manage multiple systems without the hassle of different keyboards and mice.

Furthermore, the SRX ServSwitch is built to be scalable, allowing for the addition of more channels as needed. This flexibility means that organizations can adapt their KVM switch setup as their operational needs grow. It supports both local and remote management, offering organizations the ability to control systems from various locations seamlessly.

The build quality of the Black Box SRX ServSwitch is robust, designed to handle the rigors of continuous use in demanding environments. It is compatible with various operating systems, ensuring that users can integrate it into their existing setups without significant reconfiguration.

In summary, the Black Box SRX ServSwitch offers a comprehensive solution for KVM management, characterized by high-resolution video support, USB compatibility, security features, easy usability, scalability, and durability. It is a valuable investment for organizations seeking an efficient way to manage multiple systems centrally.