CHAPTER 6: Keyboard Commands

use the mouse but don’t disable the mouse either, take these precautions:

If you never actually use the mouse with the CPU (as would probably be the case if, for example, the CPU were a Novell® NetWare® file server), either don’t plug the mouse strand of the CPU Cable into the CPU’s mouse port, or don’t load a mouse driver at all. If you do use the mouse, are running Windows 3.x, and sometimes exit to DOS, make sure you load a DOS mouse driver before running Windows.

If you’ve loaded a DOS mouse driver and are going to use an application such as NetWare that disables the PS/2 mouse, first REM out any statements in your startup files (AUTOEXEC.BAT, etc.) that load the mouse driver, then reboot the computer to remove the mouse driver from memory. (Having the mouse driver unload itself doesn’t do the job.)

6.12 Reset/Enable Mouse in Windows NT and UNIX: [Ctrl] O

This is the best command for recovering a non-working mouse if the selected CPU is running Windows NT or any variant of UNIX. When you press and release left [Ctrl], then press and release the letter [O] key, the Matrix ServSwitch sends “reset codes” to the PS/2 mouse port of the currently selected CPU. This will cause the CPU to reinitialize its Windows NT or UNIX mouse driver, which will reset or re- enable the mouse.

If the selected CPU has gotten into a state in which it doesn’t recognize the “wheel” on a Microsoft IntelliMouse or other supported wheel-type PS/2 mouse, you can also use this command to force the CPU’s mouse driver from non-wheel to wheel mode.

6.13 Send Null Byte to PS/2 Type Mouse: [Ctrl] N

PS/2 type mice send control data to CPUs in three- or four-byte increments. Sometimes, because of electronic transients, unusual power-up effects, or plugging and unplugging of cables from live equipment, the currently selected CPU in a Matrix ServSwitch system can lose one or two bytes of this control information and get “out of sync” with the shared mouse. In this situation, the mouse might seem to refuse to move the pointer or cursor, open windows for no reason, or exhibit other strange behavior. To get the CPU back in sync, send this command (press and release left [Ctrl], then press and release the letter [N] key) to tell the Switch to send a “null byte” to the CPU’s PS/2 mouse port. This has no other effect than getting the CPU “caught up.”

If the mouse still isn’t right after you issue this command, the CPU must have been two or three bytes out of sync. Issuing the command up to two more times should do the trick.

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Black Box ServSwitch manual Reset/Enable Mouse in Windows NT and Unix Ctrl O, Send Null Byte to PS/2 Type Mouse Ctrl N

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.