MATRIX SERVSWITCH™

3.2 Guidelines for Using the Matrix ServSwitch with Your Equipment

3.2.1 CPUS

If you will be attaching IBM PC type computers, use only IBM PC/AT, PS/2, RS/6000®, or 100% compatible machines, or recent SGI® machines. The Matrix ServSwitch does not support IBM PC/XT™ or compatible machines. It also does not support machines that output CGA or EGA video. (Because the basic hardware design used by Apple and Sun has remained largely backward-compatible, the multiplatform Matrix Switches support most Sun machines and—with adapters— Apple machines.)

3.2.2MOUSE AND KEYBOARD

When you power up your Matrix ServSwitch system, make sure that your CPUs, mice, and keyboards are properly cabled to the system. When you boot up your CPUs, the Matrix ServSwitches to which they are connected should already be ON. (You should be able to freely disconnect and reconnect the mouse or keyboard from a Matrix ServSwitch while the Switch is ON, but if you experience problems when you do this, issue the Reset command [CTRL] R—see Section 6.11.)

Though the Matrix ServSwitch can convert any supported keyboard or mouse protocol to any other, this is not enough to overcome all of the vast differences between input devices. If all of your CPUs are of the same type, we recommend that you use the corresponding type of keyboard and mouse. (However, the Switch doesn’t support Apple keyboards or mice, even though you can use adapters to attach Mac CPUs.) If your CPUs are of different types, certain limitations tend to favor the use of certain keyboard and mouse types:

Standard PC keyboards have 101 or 102 keys; PC keyboards designed specifically for modern versions of Microsoft® Windows® have 104 or 105 keys. At this time there is no way for a 101-/102-key keyboard to emulate the functions of the Windows Start ( ) and Windows Application ( ) keys on a 104-/105-key keyboard. And Type 5 Sun keyboards have 118 keys as well as keyclick and beep features. We have mapped several of the Apple and Sun keys to the PC keyboards (see Table 3-1 at the end of this section), but many of the Sun keys simply cannot be mapped to IBM keyboards. Similarly, standard PC mice have two or three buttons. At this time there is no way for a two-button mouse attached to the ServSwitch to emulate a mouse with three buttons.

For these reasons, we recommend that you use Sun Type 5 (not Type 6) keyboards and Sun mice with multiplatform Switches for mixed-platform applications that include Sun CPUs. Use IBM keyboards and mice for PC-only Switches, or with multiplatform Switches to which no Sun CPUs are attached. In

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Black Box ServSwitch manual Cpus

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.