Black Box RemotePort User manual

Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port
Fiber Remote Port
USB-4 Port
Remote Unit
Fiber Remote Port
USB-4 Port
Local Unit
FEBRUARY 2003
IC243A
CUSTOMER
SUPPORT
INFORMATION
Order toll-free in the U.S.: Call 877-877-BBOX (outside U.S. call 724-746-5500)
FREE technical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax [phone]
Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Drive, Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
Web site: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: [email protected]

1
FCC/IC RFI STATEMENTS, EU DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION AND INDUSTRY CANADA
RADIO-FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENTS
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio-frequency energy, and if not
installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause interference to radio communication. It has been tested
and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device in accordance
with the specifications in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user at his own
expense will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary to correct the
interference.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emission from digital
apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation of Industry Canada. It complies with
ICES-003.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe A prescrites dans le Règlement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique publié par Industrie Canada. Se conforme à ICES-003.
EUROPEAN UNION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This equipment complies with the requirements of the European EMC directive
89/336/EEC by conforming to EN 55022/A1 Class A, EN 55024, EN 61000-3-2,
and EN 61000-3-3.

2
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
NORMAS OFICIALES MEXICANAS (NOM)
ELECTRICAL SAFETY STATEMENT
INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD
1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas antes de
que el aparato eléctrico sea operado.
2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para
referencia futura.
3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de
operación deben ser respetadas.
4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas.
5. El aparato eléctrico no deberá ser usado cerca del agua—por ejemplo, cerca
de la tina de baño, lavabo, sótano mojado o cerca de una alberca, etc..
6. El aparato eléctrico debe ser usado únicamente con carritos o pedestales que
sean recomendados por el fabricante.
7. El aparato eléctrico debe ser montado a la pared o al techo sólo como sea
recomendado por el fabricante.
8. Servicio—El usuario no debe intentar dar servicio al equipo eléctrico más allá
a lo descrito en las instrucciones de operación. Todo otro servicio deberá ser
referido a personal de servicio calificado.
9. El aparato eléctrico debe ser situado de tal manera que su posición no
interfiera su uso. La colocación del aparato eléctrico sobre una cama, sofá,
alfombra o superficie similar puede bloquea la ventilación, no se debe colocar
en libreros o gabinetes que impidan el flujo de aire por los orificios de
ventilación.
10. El equipo eléctrico deber ser situado fuera del alcance de fuentes de calor
como radiadores, registros de calor, estufas u otros aparatos (incluyendo
amplificadores) que producen calor.
11. El aparato eléctrico deberá ser connectado a una fuente de poder sólo del
tipo descrito en el instructivo de operación, o como se indique en el aparato.

3
NOM STATEMENT, TRADEMARKS
12. Precaución debe ser tomada de tal manera que la tierra fisica y la polarización
del equipo no sea eliminada.
13. Los cables de la fuente de poder deben ser guiados de tal manera que no
sean pisados ni pellizcados por objetos colocados sobre o contra ellos,
poniendo particular atención a los contactos y receptáculos donde salen del
aparato.
14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las
recomendaciones del fabricante.
15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las lineas
de energia.
16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del cuando el equipo no sea
usado por un largo periodo de tiempo.
17. Cuidado debe ser tomado de tal manera que objetos liquidos no sean
derramados sobre la cubierta u orificios de ventilación.
18. Servicio por personal calificado deberá ser provisto cuando:
A: El cable de poder o el contacto ha sido dañado; u
B: Objetos han caído o líquido ha sido derramado dentro del aparato; o
C: El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia; o
D: El aparato parece no operar normalmente o muestra un cambio en su
desempeño; o
E: El aparato ha sido tirado o su cubierta ha sido dañada.
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
BLACK BOX and the logo are registered trademarks of Black Box
Corporation.
Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the
trademark owners.

4
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
Contents
Chapter Page
1. Specifications ...................................................................................................... 5
2. Introduction ........................................................................................................ 7
2.1 Overview ....................................................................................................... 7
2.2 USB Connectors .......................................................................................... 8
2.3 Applications ................................................................................................. 8
2.3.1 Connecting a Single Device .............................................................. 9
2.3.2 Connecting Multiple Colocated Devices ......................................... 9
2.3.3 Connecting Devices at Multiple Locations .................................... 10
3. Installation ........................................................................................................ 11
3.1 The Complete Package ............................................................................. 11
3.2 Site Preparation ......................................................................................... 11
3.3 Install the Local Unit ................................................................................ 12
3.4 Install the Remote Unit ............................................................................ 12
3.5 Interconnect the Two Units ..................................................................... 12
3.5.1 With Surface (Exposed) Cabling ................................................... 12
3.5.2 With Premise Cabling ..................................................................... 13
3.6 Check the Installation ............................................................................... 13
4. Troubleshooting ............................................................................................... 14
4.1 Problems, Causes, and Solutions ............................................................. 14
4.2 Calling Black Box ...................................................................................... 16
4.3 Shipping and Packaging ........................................................................... 16

5
CHAPTER 1: Specifications
1. Specifications
Cable Required: Between local and remote units: Duplex 62.5/125-µm
multimode, 50/125-µm multimode, or 9/125-µm single-
mode fiberoptic cable terminated with MT-RJ male
connectors;
Between local unit and attached USB host: USB Type A to
Type B cable (a 2-m/6.5-ft. cable is included);
Between remote unit and attached USB devices: Devices with
hardwired Type A cords plug directly into the remote unit;
otherwise, you’ll need a USB Type A to Type B cable (not
included) for each device
Compliance: CE (EN 55022 Class A, EN 55024, EN 61003-2, EN 61003-3);
FCC Class A, IC Class/classe A;
USB-IF
Transmission: Transparent to users (automatic, no delay)
USB Data Rate: 1.5 or 12 Mbps (passed through) depending on transmission
speeds of attached devices
Maximum
Distance: 500 m (1640 ft.) of multimode or single-mode cable between
local and remote units
Indicators: LEDs on local unit:
Front-mounted: (1) for unit power, (1) for host
communication;
Rear-mounted: (1) for fiber link;
On remote unit:
Front-mounted: (1) for unit power, (4) for device
communication;
Rear-mounted: (1) for fiber link
Connectors: On local unit:
Front-mounted: (1) USB Type B female, (1) 2.1-mm
center-positive barrel jack for power;
Rear-mounted: (1) MT-RJ female;
On remote unit:
Front-mounted: (4) USB Type A female, (1) 2.1-mm
center-positive barrel jack for power;
Rear-mounted: (1) MT-RJ female

6
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
Temperature
Tolerance: 39.2 to 104˚F (4 to 40˚C)
Humidity
Tolerance: 10 to 90% noncondensing
Enclosure: Steel
Power: For each unit: From utility-power (mains) outlet through
detachable input cord and IEC 320 inlet to external
transformer:
Input to transformer: 100 to 240 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz,
autosensing;
Output from transformer: 15 VDC at up to 1 amp;
Output on USB ports (remote unit only): 5 VDC at
500 mA;
Typical consumption:
Local unit: Up to 2 watts;
Remote unit: Up to 12 watts depending on power drawn
by attached USB devices
Size: Each unit: 1.5"H x 4.5"W x 4.2"D (3.8 x 11.4 x 10.7 cm)
Weight: 0.6 lb. (0.3 kg) for each unit

7
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
2. Introduction
2.1 Overview
The Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port overcomes the standard 5-meter (16.4-ft.)
distance limitation for connecting USB peripherals by transmitting USB signals
across fiberoptic cabling. It gives you access to USB devices that don’t have to be at
the same desk you are, or even in the same room or building.
The RemotePort consists of a local unit and a remote unit. The local unit, shown
at top in Figure 2-1, can be connected to a host computer with a standard Type A
to Type B USB cable, a 2-m (6.5-ft.) length of which is included. The remote unit,
shown at bottom in Figure 2-1, can be connected to as many as four USB peripherals
using additional standard Type A to Type B USB cables (not included). Both units
are powered by identical external AC power supplies. You can run up to 500 m
(1640 ft.) of duplex fiberoptic cabling between the units, as shown in Figure 2-2.
This cabling must be terminated with MT-RJ connectors at both ends.
Figure 2-1. The local unit (top) and remote unit (bottom).
Figure 2-2. An installed system.
LED and MT-RJ
connector for local-to-
remote link
LED and barrel
jack for power
Local unit: LED
and USB Type B
connector for host
USB
devices
(only
one
shown)
USB
host
USB cable
(included)
Remote unit’s
power supply
Local unit’s
power supply
Duplex fiber
cable (not
included), up to
500 m (1640 ft.)
USB cables
(not included)
RemotePort
local unit
RemotePort
remote unit
Remote unit: LEDs
and USB Type A
connectors for devices
REAR
FRONT

8
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
2.2 USB Connectors
Figure 2-3 shows the two distinct types of connectors used on standard USB cables
and devices. The Type A connector is used for USB ports on host computers and
hubs, and on the “host end” of USB cables. The Type B connector is used on USB
peripheral devices and on the “device end” of USB cables.
Figure 2-3. USB connectors.
2.3 Applications
The Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port can be used for many different applications,
including extending the distance to one device, extending the distance to multiple
devices at the same location, and extending the distance to devices at multiple
locations When daisychaining USB hubs, the RemotePort USB acts as a single hub
and can occupy any of the (up to) five positions in the USB chain.
NOTE
Each USB chain must not contain more than four standard USB hubs
and one RemotePort USB unit.
Many system configurations are possible when the RemotePort USB is used in
conjunction with conventional USB hubs and devices. However, the three
configurations shown in Figures 2-4 through 2-6 are most common.
USB Type A female
(hub or computer
port)
USB Type B female
(peripheral device
port)
USB Type B male
(plug on cable to
peripheral device)
USB Type A male
(plug on cable to
hub or computer)

9
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
2.3.1 C ONNECTING A
S INGLE D EVICE
Figure 2-4. A dedicated extension connecting a USB surveillance camera.
2.3.2 C ONNECTING M ULTIPLE C OLOCATED D EVICES
Figure 2-5. An extension connecting the devices of
a USB publishing station, all at the same location.
Host computer
Host computer
Local unit
Local unit
Your site’s fiberoptic cabling
Your site’s fiberoptic cabling
Remote
unit
Remote
unit
USB camera
USB color printer
USB B&W printer
USB plotter
USB scanner
Fiberoptic
data outlet
Fiberoptic
data outlet
Fiberoptic
data outlet
Fiberoptic
data outlet

10
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
2.3.3 C ONNECTING
D EVICES AT M ULTIPLE L OCATIONS
Figure 2-6. A pair of dedicated extensions connecting devices at different
locations in a USB electronic conference room.
Host computer with at
least two USB ports
Local unit Local unit
Your
site’s
fiberoptic
cabling
Remote
unit
Remote
unit USB keyboard
at presenter’s
lectern
USB electronic whiteboard
at front of room
Fiberoptic
data outlet
Fiberoptic
data outlet
Fiberoptic
data outlet
Fiberoptic
data outlet

11
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3. Installation
3.1 The Complete Package
Your Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port package should contain these items:
• (1) Local unit.
• (1) Remote unit.
• (2) Identical AC power supplies, (1) for each unit.
• (2) Identical AC input cords, (1) for each power supply.
• (1) Standard 6.6-ft. (2-m) Type A to Type B USB cable.
• This users’ manual.
If anything is missing or damaged, call Black Box Technical Support at
724-746-5500.
3.2 Site Preparation
Before you install the RemotePort, you’ll need to prepare your site:
1. Determine where the host computer will be located, and set up the computer.
2. Determine where you will operate the USB device(s).
3A. If you’ll be using surface (exposed) cabling, make sure you have enough standard
duplex fiberoptic cabling to connect the two locations, that the total length of
the run doesn’t exceed 500 m (1640 ft.), and that the cables that will be
connected directly to the RemotePort units have MT-RJ connectors. Refer to
the Cable Required specification in Chapter 1.
3B. If you’ll be using premise cabling, make sure that standard duplex fiberoptic
cabling is installed between the two locations you want to connect, that there
are fiberoptic data outlets near your desired locations, that the total length of
the run through the walls doesn’t exceed 500 m (1640 ft.), and that the cables
that will be connected directly to the RemotePort units have MT-RJ
connectors. Refer to the Cable Required specification in Chapter 1.
4. Install any software required to operate the USB devices. Refer to the
documentation for these devices as required.

12
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
3.3 Install the Local Unit
1. Place the local unit near the host computer you want to connect.
2. Plug the Type B connector on the included USB cable into the USB (host)
port on the local unit.
3. Plug the power supply’s input cord into a suitable working AC outlet.
4. Plug the power supply’s output cord into the local unit’s power jack.
5. Plug the Type A connector on the included USB cable into one of the USB
ports on the host computer.
3.4 Install the Remote Unit
1. Place the remote unit near the USB peripheral device(s) you want to connect.
2. Connect each USB device to one of the USB (device) ports on the remote
unit. (Cables for this are not included.)
3. Plug the power supply’s input cord into a suitable working AC outlet.
4. Plug the power supply’s output cord into the remote unit’s power jack.
3.5 Interconnect the Two Units
NOTE
For proper operation, use only 62.5/125-µm or 50/125-µm multimode or
9/125-µm single-mode fiberoptic cable to interconnect the local and
remote units. The cabling must be duplex (have two fiber strands per
connection), must be terminated with MT-RJ connectors at both ends,
and must not be longer than 500 m (1640 ft.). For more information, see
the Cable Required specification in Chapter 1.
3.5.1 W ITH S URFACE (E XPOSED ) C ABLING
1. Plug one end of the fiberoptic cabling (not included) into the MT-RJ
connector on the local unit.
2. Plug the other end of the fiberoptic cabling into the MT-RJ connector on the
remote unit.

13
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3.5.2 W ITH
P REMISE C ABLING
1. Plug one end of a fiberoptic patch cord (not included) into the MT-RJ
connector on the local unit.
2. Plug the other end of the patch cord into a fiberoptic data outlet (also called
an “information outlet” or “data port”) near the host computer and local
unit.
3. Plug one end of a second fiberoptic patch cord (also not included) into the
MT-RJ connector on the remote unit.
4. Plug the other end of the second patch cord into a fiberoptic data outlet near
the USB peripheral device(s) and remote unit.
5. If necessary, consult with your site’s cabling maintainers to make sure that the
two locations are patched together properly.
3.6 Check the Installation
To verify that you’ve installed your Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port correctly, make
sure that all of LEDs on the local and remote units are lit except for the device
LEDs on the remote unit that correspond to USB device ports that aren’t being
used. Once these LEDs light, the RemotePort is operating normally (and should
do so continuously without anyone needing to do anything further); the
connected peripheral device(s) are ready to use.

14
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
4. Troubleshooting
4.1 Problems, Causes, and Solutions
Problem: All of the LEDs on the local or remote unit are not lit.
Probable cause: The unit is not receiving power.
Possible solution: Make sure the power supply is securely connected to both the
unit and a working AC outlet.
Problem: The Link LEDs on the local and remote units are not lit.
Probable cause: The connection between the local and remote units is not correct.
Possible solution: Make sure that a standard duplex 50/125-µm or 62.5/125-µm
multimode or 9/125-µm single-mode fiberoptic cable is securely connected to both
the local and remote units, and make sure that each strand of the cable runs from
TX on one end to RX on the other end.
Problem: The host LED on the local unit and the device LEDs on the remote unit
are not lit.
Probable causes: Either the USB link between the local unit and the host
computer is not correct, the computer isn’t functioning, or the computer doesn’t
recognize the RemotePort.
Possible solutions:
1. Make sure that the USB cable between the host computer and local unit is
securely connected.
2. Unplug the local unit’s power supply and then plug it back in.
3. Reset or reboot the computer.
4. If the computer consistently fails to recognize the RemotePort as a “Generic
USB Hub,” call Black Box Technical Support as directed in Section 4.2.

15
CHAPTER 4: Troubleshooting
Problem: The host LED on the local unit is lit, but one or more device LEDs on
the remote unit are not lit.
Probable causes: Either the connection between the remote unit and any USB
device whose LED isn’t lit is not correct, the device or the RemotePort is
malfunctioning, or the USB device is incompatible with the RemotePort.
Possible solutions: Make sure that the USB device is securely connected to the USB
port on the remote unit. If the device LED on the remote unit is still not lit,
disconnect the RemotePort from the computer and connect the USB device
directly to the USB port on the computer.
• If the device doesn’t work when connected directly to the computer, consult the
user documentation for the device.
• If the device does work properly when connected directly to the computer,
disconnect it from the computer and reconnect the RemotePort as before.
Attach a second USB device of a different type to the remote unit. If the
second device works but the first still doesn’t, the first device might be
incompatible. If neither device works, the RemotePort might be
malfunctioning. In either case, call Black Box Technical Support as directed in
Section 4.2.
Problem: The LEDs on the local and remote units are lit, but a USB device does
not work.
Probable causes: Either the USB device or the RemotePort is malfunctioning, or
the USB device is incompatible with the RemotePort.
Possible solutions: Disconnect the RemotePort from the computer and connect
the USB device directly to the USB port on the computer.
• If the device doesn’t work when connected directly to the computer, consult the
user documentation for the device.
• If the device does work properly when connected directly to the computer,
disconnect it from the computer and reconnect the RemotePort as before.
Attach a second USB device of a different type to the remote unit. If the
second device works but the first still doesn’t, the first device might be
incompatible. If neither device works, the RemotePort might be
malfunctioning. In either case, call Black Box Technical Support as directed in
Section 4.2.

16
FIBER REMOTEPORT USB 4-PORT
4.2 Calling Black Box
If you determine that your Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port is malfunctioning, do not
attempt to alter or repair it. It contains no user-serviceable parts. Contact Black Box at
724-746-5500.
Before you do, make a record of the history of the problem. We will be able to
provide more efficient and accurate assistance if you have a complete description,
including:
• the nature and duration of the problem;
• when the problem occurs;
• the components involved in the problem;
• any particular application that, when used, appears to create the problem or
make it worse; and
• the results of any testing you’ve already done.
4.3 Shipping and Packaging
If you need to transport or ship your Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port:
• Package it carefully. We recommend that you use the original container.
• If you are returning the RemotePort or shipping it for repair, make sure you
include everything that came in the original package. Before you ship, contact
Black Box to get a Return Authorization (RA) number.

17
LEGAL INFORMATION
DISCLAIMERS AND NOTICES
The Fiber RemotePort USB 4-Port complies with all USB 1.1 specifications.
However, the manufacturer does not guarantee that it will work with all USB
devices.
The manufacturer expressly disclaims all other merchantability and fitness for a
particular purpose and non-infringement of third-party rights with respect to the
hardware. Under no circumstances will the manufacturer or any of its authorized
agents, suppliers, or licensors be liable for any costs of procurement or substitute
products or services, lost profits, loss of information or data, or any other special,
indirect, consequential, or incidental damages arising in any way out of the sale of,
use of, or inability to use this product, even if the manufacturer or its authorized
agents, suppliers, or licensors have been advised of the possibility of such damages.
In no case shall the liability of the manufacturer or its authorized agents, suppliers,
or licensors exceed the actual purchase price of the product. Because some
jurisdictions don’t allow the exclusion of implied warranties of liability for
incidental, consequential, special, or indirect damages, the above limitation might
not always apply. The above limitations will not apply in case of personal injury
where and to the extent that applicable law requires such liability.

NOTES

1000 Park Drive • Lawrence, PA 15055-1018 • 724-746-5500 • Fax [phone]
© Copyright 2003. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.