NTI RACKMUX Console Drawer with UNIMUX Switch

USING THE RACKMUX

Once the RACKMUX is properly connected, the UNIMUX switch will enable a connection to be made between the attached CPUs and the monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

The UNIMUX switch can be controlled by two methods:

keyboard control through Command Mode

mouse clicks from within some menus of Command Mode

Keyboard Control

Keyboard control of the UNIMUX switch is achieved using Command Mode - operated using the keyboard and mouse in conjunction with OSD menus superimposed onto the monitor.

By pressing <Ctrl> + < ` > (accent key), the user can enter Command Mode. Once in Command Mode, typing a series of commands will cause the UNIMUX switch to connect the user to any one CPU connected to the switch. Pressing the <Esc> key will exit Command Mode. The following instruction describes how to use the menus to operate the UNIMUX switch.

OSD CONTROL

OSD superimposes a menu system on the user’s video screen with a list of all connected CPUs. OSD allows CPUs to be named (with up to 12-character names). OSD then allows selection of CPUs by that name. Connected CPUs can be listed by name or by port number. OSD Search Mode enables the user to type in the first few characters of the CPU's name and the OSD will locate it. Help screens assist with all OSD functions.

Security Option

The security option of the OSD Control enables an administrator to control access to CPU ports for each user. Up to 63 users can be created. These users have controlled access to any CPU. Only the administrator can activate or deactivate the security features. Security can be activated from the Maintenance Mode menu (page 17) with a successful administrator login for verification purposes. Furthermore, the administrator can set a maximum idle time value after which the current user will be logged out and the login screen displayed. This time out does not function while the OSD is active. The current security status, idle time out, and scan dwell time are all saved and will be restored whenever power to the switch is cycled OFF, then ON.

If the security option is enabled, when the RACKMUX is powered up the user will be prompted for a username and password to continue. If the security option is not enabled the monitor will display the desktop image for the connected CPU and the user can continue with normal operation of the connected CPU.

Enabling the Security Feature

To enable the security feature the administrator must first enter Command Mode from the keyboard using the sequence <Ctrl> + <`> (accent key). The OSD menu will automatically appear on the monitor. This provides a visual way to control the UNIMUX switch using the keyboard and mouse.

The administrator , when setting the UNIMUX switch up for the first time, may want to proceed directly to the ADMINISTRATION Mode by typing <CTRL> +<M> , then <A>, and then <Y>.

The factory settings are:

user name = ADMINISTRATOR

password = ADMINISTRATOR

Note: The user name for the administrator cannot be changed from "ADMINISTRATOR".

6

Page 10
Image 10
Network Technologies RACKMUX-UW15-4USB, RACKMUX-UW15-8USB, RACKMUX-UW17-4USB, RACKMUX-UW17-8USB Using the Rackmux

RACKMUX-UW15-4USB, RACKMUX-UW15-8USB, RACKMUX-UW17-4USB, RACKMUX-UW17-8USB specifications

Network Technologies has developed a series of innovative products designed to enhance connectivity and functionality for various applications. Among these are the RACKMUX-UW15-4USB, RACKMUX-UW15-8USB, RACKMUX-UW17-4USB, and RACKMUX-UW17-8USB models. These devices serve as high-performance USB extenders and multiplexers suitable for enabling USB peripherals to connect over long distances while maintaining efficiency and integrity.

One of the key features of the RACKMUX series is their ability to extend USB connections up to 300 feet over standard Cat5e or Cat6 cable. This capability is crucial in environments where traditional USB cabling would be impractical, such as in large data centers or remote server farms. The RACKMUX devices support USB 2.0 speeds, allowing for a maximum data transfer rate of 480 Mbps. This ensures that users can seamlessly connect various USB devices, from keyboards and mice to printers and external drives, without sacrificing performance.

The RACKMUX-UW15 models, available in both 4 and 8 USB port configurations, are designed with a compact form factor ideal for rackmount applications. They provide a straightforward and efficient solution for managing multiple USB connections in a single rack space. The 4USB version is perfect for setups requiring fewer devices, while the 8USB version accommodates more extensive requirements, supporting simultaneous connections with minimal interference.

In contrast, the RACKMUX-UW17 variants offer a broader range of interfaces, allowing users to manage up to 4 or 8 USB connections, which is beneficial when dealing with various devices across different platforms. They are equipped with enhanced power management features, ensuring that each connected device receives the appropriate power it requires to function optimally.

Another important characteristic of the RACKMUX series is their plug-and-play functionality. This facilitates quick and easy installations without the need for complex software configuration or specialized knowledge. Users can simply connect their devices and start utilizing them immediately, thus saving valuable time and resources.

Overall, the RACKMUX-UW15-4USB, RACKMUX-UW15-8USB, RACKMUX-UW17-4USB, and RACKMUX-UW17-8USB models by Network Technologies offer superior performance and versatility. They are designed to meet the growing demands for reliable USB connectivity in modern environments, making them an essential addition to any infrastructure requiring reliable, high-speed USB connections across extended distances.