Minicom Advanced Systems Smart CAT5 manual Introduction, Features, System components

SMART CAT5 SWITCH – 108/116

2. Introduction

Access and control multiple multi-platform computers from one Keyboard Video Mouse (KVM) console with the Smart CAT5 Switch (Smart CAT5) system. The Smart CAT5 comes in 108 and 116 models. Connect up to 8 computers to the 108 model, and up to 16 to the 116 model.

The Smart CAT5 is based on Minicom’s innovative RoC technology in which each computer/ server is directly connected to the switch via RIC on Cable (RoC) using standard CAT5 cable at a distance of up to 30m/99ft in a star configuration. The system also works with Minicom’s RICCs using standard CAT5 cable up to 10m/33ft. The system can contain a mixture of RoCs and RICCs. No external power is needed at the remote RoC/RICCs.

2.1Features

∙Hot-Swap - disconnect and reconnect computers without rebooting

∙Scan-mode operation with variable time interval

∙1U Rack mountable

∙Operate the system using an On Screen Display (OSD) or Control software or front panel push buttons or keyboard hotkeys

∙Create multi-level cascade arrangements. For example by cascading the Smart CAT5 116, connect up to up to 256 computers in the system

∙The computers can be placed up to 10m/33ft from the Smart CAT5

∙Multi-platform — supports PS/2, SUN, and USB computers/servers

2.2System components

The Smart CAT5 system consists of:

∙Smart CAT5 Switch 108 or 116

∙Remote Interface Connection cables (RICCs) – PS/2, SUN, USB

∙RICC on Cable (RoCs) - PS/2, USB

∙CAT5 cables (1.5m provided)

∙RS232 Serial cable

∙Rack mounts for the Smart CAT5 and the RoC/RICCs

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