Avocent DSR SWITCH - Installation and maintenance instructions

DSR® SWITCH
Installer/User Guide

European Union Notification
WARNING: This is a class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause
radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
USA Notification
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential
area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct
the interference at his/her own expense.
Canadian Notification
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Japanese Notification
Korean Notification

DSR® Switch
Installer/User Guide
Avocent, the Avocent logo, The Power of Being There, DSR, DSView 3,
Dambrackas Video Compression and OSCAR are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Avocent Corporation or its affiliates in the U.S. and other
countries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
© 2009 Avocent Corporation. 590-686-616H

Instructions
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
Dangerous Voltage
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous
voltage within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.
Power On
This symbol indicates the principal on/off switch is in the on position.
Power Off
This symbol indicates the principal on/off switch is in the off position.
Protective Grounding Terminal
This symbol indicates a terminal which must be connected to earth ground prior to
making any other connections to the equipment.

T A B L E  OF  C O N T E N T S
Product Overview 1
Features and Benefits 1
Reduce cable bulk 1
Control of virtual media and smart card-capable appliances (select models) 2
Access the DSR switch via a standard TCP/IP network 2
DSView® 3 software plug-in 2
Installation 5
DSR Switch Connectivity 5
Installation Overview 5
Getting started 7
Setting up your network 8
Rack Mounting a DSR Switch 8
Rack mounting safety considerations 8
Connecting the DSR Switch Hardware 10
Configuring the DSR Switch 12
Setting up the built-in web server 12
Setting up the DSView 3 software 12
Connecting to the on-board web interface through a firewall 12
Verifying the Connections 14
DSR switch 14
IQ and serial IQ modules 14
Adjusting Mouse Settings on Target Devices 15
Local Port Operation 17
Basic Operations 17
Viewing and selecting ports and target devices 17
Selecting a target device 17
Soft switching 18
Viewing the status of your DSR switching system 18
Navigating the OSCAR interface 19
Main Dialog Box Functions 20
iii

Setting virtual media options 21
Managing a KVM session 23
Setup Dialog Box Functions 23
Changing the display behavior 24
Controlling the status flag 26
Selecting target devices for broadcasting 27
Selecting target devices for Scan mode 29
Setting local port Screen Saver options 30
Setting the keyboard country code 32
Configuring network settings 33
Configuring the DSView 3 server IP address 35
Assigning device types 35
Assigning target device names 37
Commands Dialog Box Functions 38
Enabling or disabling Broadcasting 39
Enabling or disabling Scan mode 40
Viewing and disconnecting user connections 40
Displaying version information 42
Resetting your PS/2 keyboard and mouse 43
Sending a ping request 44
Web Interface Operations 47
Overview of the DSR Switch On-Board Web Interface 47
Viewing and Selecting Ports and Target Devices 48
The DSR Explorer Window 49
Using the side navigation bar 50
Using the top option bar 50
Launching a KVM Session 51
Managing the DSR Switch On-Board Web Interface 52
Upgrading IQ modules 52
Managing USB speed 52
iv DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide

Rebooting the appliance 53
Managing local accounts 53
Access levels 53
Preemption levels 54
Configuring Virtual Media 55
Virtual media session settings 55
Managing Device Properties 57
Viewing and changing appliance configuration information 57
Power Controlling Target Devices 58
Configuring LDAP 59
LDAP Overview parameters 59
LDAP Search parameters 61
LDAP Query parameters 62
Appliance and Target Device Query Modes 64
Setting up Active Directory for performing queries 67
The Video Viewer 69
The Video Viewer Window 69
Launching a KVM Session 70
Session time-out 70
Video Viewer Window Features 70
Changing the toolbar 72
Setting the window size 72
Adjusting the view 73
Adjusting color depth 74
Additional video adjustment 74
Target video settings 76
Contrast and brightness 76
Detection thresholds 76
Block Noise Threshold and Pixel Noise Threshold 77
Automatic video adjustment 77
Table of Contents v

Refresh Image 77
Video Test Pattern 77
Adjusting mouse options 78
Cursor type 78
Mouse scaling 80
Vendor-specific video settings 80
Mouse alignment and synchronization 80
Avocent Mouse Sync 81
Using Virtual Media 82
Requirements 82
Sharing and preemption considerations 82
Virtual Media dialog box 83
Opening a virtual media session 83
Closing a virtual media session 86
Using Smart Cards 86
Using Keyboard Pass-through 87
Using Macros 88
Saving the View 88
Closing a Video Viewer Window Session 89
Terminal Operations 91
The Console Menu 91
Network Configuration 91
Other Console Main Menu Options 93
Security Configuration 93
Firmware Management 94
Enable Debug Messages 94
Restore Factory Defaults 94
Reset Appliance 94
Exit 95
Appendix A: Flash Upgrades 97
vi DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide

Appendix B: Using the DSR Remote Operations Software 100
Appendix C: Using Serial IQ Modules 109
Appendix D: UTP Cabling 114
Appendix E: Cable Pinout Information 117
Appendix F: Technical Specifications 119
Appendix G: Sun Advanced Key Emulation 133
Appendix H: Technical Support 135
Table of Contents vii

viii DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide

Product Overview
1
1
Features and Benefits
Avocent DSR®switches combine analog and digital technology to provide flexible, centralized
control of data center servers and virtual media, and to facilitate the OA&M (operations,
activation and maintenance) of remote branch offices where trained operators may be unavailable.
The DSR switches provide enterprise customers with a significant reduction of cable volume,
secure remote access and flexible target device management from anywhere at anytime.
The DSR KVM switch family has several available options depending on the model:
• a rack mountable keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) switch, configurable for analog (local)
or digital (remote) connectivity
• video resolutions supported up to 1280 x 1024 for remote users
• enhanced video quality of up to 1600 x 1200 available to local users via the video port
• optional support for managing intelligent power devices
• virtual media capability accessed through USB ports
• accessibility to target devices across 10/100 or 1000BaseT (some models) LAN port(s)
• a MODEM port that supports V.34, V.90 or V.92-compatible modems that may be used to
access the switch when an Ethernet connection is not available
The IP-based DSR switches give you flexible target device management control from anywhere
in the world.
Reduce cable bulk
With server densities continually increasing, cable bulk remains a major concern for network
administrators. The DSR switches significantly reduce KVM cable volume in the rack by
utilizing the innovative IQ module and single, industry-standard Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)
cabling. This allows a higher server density while providing greater airflow and cooling capacity.

The IQ module is powered directly from the target device and provides Keep Alive
functionality when the switch is not powered.
The serial IQ module is a DCE device that provides the primary interface between a serial
device and a DSR switch. It provides VT100 terminal emulation, break suppression and port
history in a compact, convenient module.
Control of virtual media and smart card-capable appliances (select models)
The virtual media enabled DSR switches allow you to view, move or copy data located on
virtual media to and from any target device. Manage remote systems more efficiently by
allowing operating system installation, operating system recovery, hard drive recovery or
duplication, BIOS updating and target device backup.
The smart card enabled DSR switches allow you to use smart cards in conjunction with your
DSR switch system. Smart cards are pocket-sized cards that store and process information. Smart
cards such as the Common Access Card (CAC) can be used to store identification and
authentication to enable access to computers, networks and secure rooms or buildings.
Virtual media and smart card readers can be connected directly to the switch using USB ports
located on the switch. In addition, virtual media and smart card readers may be connected to
any remote workstation that is running DSView 3 software and is connected to the DSR switch
using an Ethernet connection.
NOTE: Virtual media and smart card support are available on the DSR x03x switch models. To open a virtual media
session with a target device, you must first connect the target device to a virtual media enabled switch using a virtual
media capable DSAVIQ-USB2, DSAVIQ-PS/2M or DSRIQ-VMC module. For a smart card, you must first connect
the target device to a smart card enabled switch using a smart card capable DSRIQ-VMC module.
Access the DSR switch via a standard TCP/IP network
The Avocent DSR switches provide agentless remote control and access. No special software or
drivers are required on the attached, or client, servers.
NOTE: The client server connects to the server housing the DSView 3 software using an Internet browser. For
modem access, you must install DSR Remote Operations software included on the DSView 3 software CD-ROM
(see the DSView 3 Installer/User Guide for more information).
Users access the DSR switch and all attached systems via Ethernet or using a V.34, V.90 or
V.92 modem from a client server. Client servers can be located anywhere a valid network
connection exists.
DSView®3 software plug-in
The DSView 3 software may be used with the DSR switch to allow IT administrators to
remotely access, monitor and control target devices on multiple platforms through a single,
2DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide

web-based user interface. For more information, see the DSView 3 Installer/User Guide.
Figure 1.1: Example DSR 2035/8035 Switch Configuration
Table 1.1: Descriptions for Figure 1.1
Number Description Number Description
1CAT 5 Connection 6Telephone Network
2KVM Connection to the Switch 7Ethernet
3Remote IP Connection 8DSView 3 Software Server
4DSR Switch 9Analog User (OSCAR®Graphical User Interface)
5Modem 10 Digital User (Computer with Internet browser)
Chapter 1: Product Overview 3

4DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide

Installation
2
5
DSR Switch Connectivity
A DSR switching system transmits keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) information between
operators and target devices attached to the switch over a network using either an Ethernet or
modem connection.
The DSR switch uses TCP/IP for communication over Ethernet. Although 10BaseT Ethernet may
be used, Avocent recommends a dedicated, switched 100BaseT or 1000BaseT network for
switches that support it.
The DSR switch uses the Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) for communication over a V.34, V.90 or
V.92 modem. You can perform KVM switching tasks by using the on-board web interface, the
DSR Remote Operations software or the DSView 3 software.
For more information on the DSView 3 software, visit www.avocent.com or see the DSView 3
Installer/User Guide.
Installation Overview
The general procedure for setting up and installing a DSR switch is as follows:
• Unpack the switch and verify that all components are present and in good condition.
• Make all hardware connections between the power source, switch, target devices, optional
power control device(s), the Ethernet and the optional modem connection.
• Turn on the power and verify that all connections are working.
• Configure the DSR switch’s IP address using the console menu interface or DSView 3
software. See the DSView 3 Installer/User Guide for more information.
• Use the on-board web interface or DSView 3 software to configure the DSR switch. See the
DSView 3 Installer/User Guide for more information.
• Make the appropriate mouse setting adjustments.

Figure 2.1 illustrates a basic configuration for the DSR switch, using the DSR 8035 model for
the example. Descriptions follow in Table 2.1.
Figure 2.1: Basic DSR Switch Configuration (DSR 8035 Switch Shown)
6DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide

Table 2.1: Descriptions for Figure 2.1
Number Description Number Description
1Digital User 8Power Cord
2Telephone
Network 9Ports 1-32
3Network 10 Local USB Connections
4Modem 11 Power Control Device*
5Analog User 12 Target Devices 1-32
6External Virtual
Media 13 IQ Modules (PS/2, USB**, VMC***, Sun and serial adaptors are available)
7DSR 8035 Switch
*If you are using a PM Intelligent Power Distribution Unit (IPDU), use the provided adapter.**To open a virtual
media session with a target device, the target device must first be connected to the switch using a virtual media-
capable IQ module (USB2 or USB2L).***To use a smart card reader with a target device, the target device must
first be connected to the switch using a smart card capable IQ module (VMC).
Getting started
Before installing your DSR switch, refer to the following lists to ensure you have all items that
shipped with the DSR switch, as well as other items necessary for proper installation.
NOTE: While it is possible to use two DSR switches in a cascaded configuration, it can cause function conflicts and
limit the advanced features of the switch. As a result, Avocent does not recommend this configuration.
Supplied with the DSR switch
• Local country power cord(s)
NOTE: DSR switches equipped with dual power supplies (DSR 2035DAC/8035DAC models) are supplied with two
power cords. All other DSR switch models come with one power cord.
• Rack mounting brackets (depending on switch model)
• Rack Mounting Bracket Quick Installation Guide (depending on switch model)
• DSR Switch Quick Installation Guide
• Either of the following:
• Two ribbon cables with RJ-45 connectors at each end
One RJ-45 to DB-9 (male) adaptor for the modem connection
Chapter 2: Installation 7

One RJ-45 to DB-9 (female) adaptor for the SETUP, CONSOLE or 10101 port
-or-
• One null modem cable
Additional items needed
• One IQ module per target device or serial IQ module per serial device
• One UTP patch cable per IQ module (4-pair UTP, up to 50 meters)
• UTP patch cable(s) for network connectivity (4-pair UTP, up to 50 meters)
• One USB2 or USB2L IQ module per target device for virtual media sessions
• (Optional) DSView 3 software
• (Optional) V.34, V.90 or V.92-compatible modem and cables
• (Optional) power control device(s)
Setting up your network
The DSR switching system uses IP addresses to uniquely identify the switch and the target
devices. The DSR switch family supports both Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
and static IP addressing. Avocent recommends that IP addresses be reserved for each switch and
that they remain static while the switches are connected to the network.
For additional information on setting up the DSR switch using the DSView 3 software, and for
information on how the DSR switch uses TCP/IP, see the DSView 3 Installer/User Guide.
Rack Mounting a DSR Switch
A rack mounting kit is supplied with each DSR switch. You may either place the DSR switch
on the rack shelf or mount the switch directly into an Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA)
standard rack.
Most DSR switches may be rack mounted in a 1U configuration. The DSR switch family does
not support a 0U configuration.
Rack mounting safety considerations
• Rack Loading - Overloading or uneven loading of racks may result in shelf or rack failure,
causing damage to equipment and possible personal injury. Stabilize racks in a permanent
location before loading begins. Mount components beginning at the bottom of the rack,
then work to the top. Do not exceed your rack load rating.
8DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide

• Power Considerations - Connect only to the power source specified on the unit. When
multiple electrical components are installed in a rack, ensure that the total component
power ratings do not exceed circuit capabilities. Overloaded power sources and extension
cords present fire and shock hazards.
• Elevated Ambient Temperature: If installed in a closed rack assembly, the operating
temperature of the rack environment may be greater than room ambient. Use care not to
exceed the rated maximum ambient temperature of the switch.
• Reduced Air Flow: Install the equipment in the rack so that the amount of airflow required
for safe operation of the equipment is not compromised.
• Reliable Earthing: Maintain reliable earthing of rack mounted equipment. Pay particular
attention to supply connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit (for
example, use of power strips).
To install the rack mounting bracket:
NOTE: This procedure applies to most DSR switch models. Please refer to your Rack Mounting Bracket Quick
Installation Guide for more instructions.
1. Remove the two rack mounting screws from each side of the DSR switch.
2. Place the rack mounting brackets next to the switch as illustrated in Figure 2.2.
3. Insert the screws supplied with the rack mounting kit through the holes of the brackets and
into the DSR switch. Tighten the screws securely.
Install the DSR switch into the rack using the approved method of the rack manufacturer.
Figure 2.2: DSR Switch Mounting Diagram
Chapter 2: Installation 9

Connecting the DSR Switch Hardware
To connect and turn on your DSR switch:
NOTE: To avoid potential video and/or keyboard problems when using Avocent products: If the
building has 3-phase AC power, ensure that the computer and monitor are on the same phase. For best results,
they should be on the same circuit.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to your equipment:
- Do not disable the power grounding plug. The grounding plug is an important safety feature.
- Plug the power cord into a grounded (earthed) outlet that is easily accessible at all times.
- Disconnect the power from the product by unplugging the power cord from either the electrical outlet or the
product. The AC inlet is the main disconnect for removing power to this product. For products that have
more than one AC inlet, to remove power completely, all AC line cords must be disconnected.
- This product has no user serviceable parts inside the product enclosure. Do not open or remove product
cover.
1. Plug your VGA monitor and either PS/2 or, if your DSR switch model supports USB, USB
keyboard and mouse cables into the appropriately labeled ports. You must install both a
keyboard and mouse on the local ports or the keyboard will not initialize properly.
2. Plug a compatible IQ module into the appropriate ports on the back of the target device.
3. Choose an available numbered port on the rear of your DSR switch. Plug one end of a UTP
patch cable (4-pair, up to 50 meters) into the selected port and plug the other end into the
RJ-45 connector of the IQ module. Repeat this procedure for all target devices that are to
be connected to the DSR switch.
NOTE: When connecting a Sun IQ module, you must use a multi-sync monitor in the local port to accommodate Sun
computers that support both VGA and sync-on-green or composite sync.
4. Plug a UTP patch cable from your Ethernet network into the LAN port on the back of your
DSR switch. Network users will access the DSR switch through this port. Repeat this step
if your switch supports multiple LAN ports.
5. (Optional) The DSR switch can also be accessed using an ITU V.92, V.90 or
V.34-compatible modem. To connect it, plug one end of either ribbon cable or the null
modem cable (whichever is included with your model of DSR switch) into the MODEM
port on the back of your DSR switch. Plug the other end into the modem. An RJ-45 to
DB9 (female) adaptor is provided should it be necessary.
NOTE: Using a modem connection instead of a LAN connection will limit the performance capability of your DSR
switch.
10 DSR® Switch Installer/User Guide