Black Box ServSwitch ACU2 01A-R2 User manual

ACU2 01A
ACU2222A-R2
ACU2209A
ACU2228A
2 -R2
November 2009

THE SERVSWITCH™FAMILY
1
Welcome to the ServSwitch™ Family!
Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX® ServSwitch™ Brand CATx KVM Extender
model! We appreciate your business, and we think you’ll appreciate the many ways that your
enhanced keyboard/video/mouse system will save you money, time, and effort.
That’s because our ServSwitch family is all about breaking away from the traditional,
expensive model of computer management. You know, the one-size-fits-all-even-if-it-doesn’t
model that says, “One computer gets one user station, no more, no less.” Why not a single
user station (monitor, keyboard, and mouse) for multiple computers—even computers of
different platforms? Why not a pair of user stations, each of which can control multiple
computers? Why not multiple user stations for the same computer?
With our ServSwitch products, there’s no reason why not. We carry a broad line of robust
solutions for all these applications. Do you have just two PCs, and need an economical
alternative to keeping two monitors, keyboards, and mice on your desk? Or do you need to
share dozens of computers, including a mix of IBM® PC, RS/6000®, Apple® Macintosh®,
Sun Microsystems®, and SGI™ compatibles among multiple users with different access
levels? Does your switch have to sit solidly on a worktable and use regular everyday cables?
Or does it have to be mounted in an equipment rack and use convenient many-to-one cables?
No matter how large or small your setup is, no matter how simple or how complex, we’re
confident we have a ServSwitch system that’s just right for you.
The ServSwitch™ family from Black Box—the one-stop answer for all your KVM-switching
needs!
This manual will tell you all about your new ServSwitch™ Brand CATx KVM Extender,
including how to install, operate, and troubleshoot it. For an introduction to the Extender, see
Chapter 2. The Extender product codes covered in this manual are:
ACU2201A-R2 ACU2209A
ACU2222A-R2 ACU2228A
User Guide Revision: 2.0 (November 2009)

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
2
Copyrights and Trademarks
©2005/2009. All rights reserved. This information may not be reproduced in any manner
without the prior written consent of the manufacturer.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and the manufacturer shall
not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages in
connection with the use of this material.
All trademark and trade names mentioned in this document are acknowledged to be the
property of their respective owners.
Disclaimer
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, the manufacturer
assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither does the manufacturer assume any
liability for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. The
manufacturer reserves the right to change the specifications, functions, or circuitry of the
product without notice.
The manufacturer cannot accept liability for damage due to misuse of the product or due to
any other circumstances outside the manufacturer’s control (whether environmental or
installation related). The manufacturer shall not be responsible for any loss, damage, or injury
arising directly, indirectly, or consequently from the use of this product.
Cautions and Notes
The following symbols are used in this guide:
CAUTION. This indicates an important operating instruction
that should be followed to avoid any potential damage to
hardware or property, loss of data, or personal injury.
NOTE. This indicates important information to help you make the best use of
this product.

FCC/CDC STATEMENTS
3
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
AND CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
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.
Shielded cables must be used with this equipment to maintain compliance with radio
frequency energy emission regulations and ensure a suitably high level of immunity to
electromagnetic disturbances.
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 the Canadian Department of
Communications.
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 le Ministère des Communications du Canada.

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
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EUROPEAN UNION COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
WARNING!
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause
radio interference, in which case the user might be required to take adequate
remedial measures.
This product complies with the following harmonized standards for Information Technology
Equipment: EN55022:2006 (Class A), EN55024:1998 + A1:2001 + A2:2003.
To maintain compliance the use of correctly installed shielded (STP/FTP) interconnection
cable is advised. Only use CPU cables and power supplies provided (or recommended) for
use with this product.
When used in environments that have high levels of electromagnetic interference or excessive
power ground noise, you may experience disturbances to video and/or data transmission. If
this is the case, please refer to the Troubleshooting section of the User Guide for further
information, or contact Technical Support. In electrically noisy environments, the use of
shielded (STP/FTP) rather than unshielded (UTP) interconnection cable is recommended.

NOM STATEMENT
5
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 pedestals 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.
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.

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
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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 objectos 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: Objectos 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.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
7
Safety Precautions and Installation Guidelines
To ensure reliable and safe long-term operation please note the following installation
guidelines:
•Do not use to link between buildings.
•Only use in dry, indoor environments.
•If the building has 3-phase AC power, try to ensure that equipment connected to the
Local and Remote Units is on the same phase.
•Try not to route the CATx link cable alongside power cables.
•The use of shielded CATx cable is recommended to maintain compliance.
•Ensure that the system connected to the Local Unit is connected to power ground.
•Ensure that the monitor connected to the Remote Unit is connected to power ground and
does not use an isolated power supply.
•The Remote Unit and any power supplies can get warm. Do not situate them in an
enclosed space without any airflow.
•Do not place the power supply directly on top of the Remote Unit.
•This product is not suitable for use in isolated medical environments.
To safeguard against personal injury and avoid possible
damage to equipment or property, please observe the
following:
•Only use power supplies originally supplied with the
product or manufacturer-approved replacements. Do not
attempt to dismantle or repair any power supply. Do not
use a power supply if it appears to be defective or has a
damaged case.
•Connect all power supplies to grounded outlets. In each
case, ensure that the ground connection is maintained
from the outlet socket through to the power supply’s AC
power input.
•Do not attempt to modify or repair this product, or make
a connection from the CATx link interface (RJ45) to any
other products, especially telecommunications or
network equipment.

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
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Contents
1.Quick Setup 10
1.1Command Summary 11
2.Overview 12
2.1Introduction 12
2.2Glossary 12
2.3Features 14
2.4Product Range 15
2.5Compatibility 16
2.6How to Use This Guide 18
3.Installation 19
3.1Package Contents 19
3.2Interconnection Cable Requirements 20
3.3Remote Unit Installation 21
3.4Local Unit Installation 23
4.Remote Unit Configuration & Operation 26
4.1Video Configuration Overview 26
4.2Video Adjustments 27
4.3Command Mode 28
4.4Adjusting Video 29
4.5Other Remote Configuration & Operation Options 34
5.Local Unit Operation 37
5.1Overview 37
5.2Dual Access Systems 37
6.Troubleshooting 39
6.1Video 39
6.2Keyboard & Mouse 41
6.3Audio 42
6.4Serial 42
6.5General Questions 43

CONTENTS
9
Appendix A: Example Applications 44
Appendix B: Rack Mount Options 47
Appendix C: Flash Upgrading & External Configuration 48
Appendix D: Advanced CablingIssues(Skew) 49
Appendix E: Audio/Serial Ports 52
Appendix F: Calling Black Box 54
Appendix G: Specifications 55

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
10
1. Quick Setup
This section briefly describes how to install your KVM extender system and optimize the
video signals. Unless you are an experienced user, we recommend that you follow the full
procedures described in the rest of this manual. Refer to the command summary on the next
page when following this procedure.
.
Install system
1. Connect Remote Unit to KVM and audio/serial devices
(if present).
2. Connect Local Unit or Extender hub to CPU.
3. Connect Remote and Local Units with compatible CATx
Interconnect cable.
4. Power up system.
Any Problems? See
Installation and
Troubleshooting
sections.
V
iew Test Card:
ftp://ftp.blackbox.com/connectivity/ServSwitch/
Enter Command Mode on Remote Unit
<Left Control> + <Left Shift> + <F10>
Choose video channel
<1>, <2> or <0> (both)
Apply Assisted EQ
Next: <Left Control> + <Page Up>
Previous: <Left Control> + <Pa
g
e Down>
Reset channel
<Left Control> + <Home>
Correct Skew
Adjust the individual color delays until the test card’s RGB
vertical lines are aligned.
Fine tune LF and HF EQ
Reduce smearing and loss of sharpness.
TFT Users: Set to auto-adjust, or if you are an advanced
user, manually adjust the monitor’s clock and phase.
Exit Command Mode
<ESC>
Configure other channel?
Yes
No
Provides useful
image for adjusting
video.
Obtain approx. EQ
setting. See page 30.
All adjustments apply
to selected channel(s).
See page 30.
See page 31 and, for
a detailed discussion
of skew correction,
see Appendix D.
Optimize video quality.
See page 33.

QUICK SETUP
11
1.1 Command Summary
By using a specific ‘hot’ key sequence, you can put the remote console keyboard into a
Command Mode. From this, you can use various keys and key combinations to tune the video
signal and generally configure the extender system. The following table summarizes the ‘hot’
key command sequences used in system configuration and video tuning.
Command Mode
Enter Command Mode*
Exit Command Mode & Save*
Exit Command Mode Without Save*
<Left Control> + <Left Shift> + <F10>
<ESC>
<Left Control> + <ESC>
Video Channel Selection
Select Channel For Adjustment
Select BOTH Video Channels <1>, <2>
<0>
Assisted EQ
Next Assisted EQ Setting
Previous Assisted EQ Setting
Reset EQ & Delay Values
Reset EQ Values
<Left Control> + <Page Up>
<Left Control> + <Page Down>
<Left Control> + <Home>
<Left Control> + <End>
LF/HF Equalization
Increase LF Equalization (Coarse)
Increase LF Equalization (Fine)
Decrease LF Equalization (Coarse)
Decrease LF Equalization (Fine)
Increase HF Equalization (Coarse)
Increase HF Equalization (Fine)
Decrease HF Equalization (Coarse)
Decrease HF Equalization (Fine)
<L> + <Up Arrow>
<L> + <Right Arrow>
<L> + <Down Arrow>
<L> + <Left Arrow>
<H> + <Up Arrow>
<H> + <Right Arrow>
<H> + <Down Arrow>
<H> + <Left Arrow>
Quick Skew
Toggle RED Delay (19nS)
Toggle GREEN Delay (19nS)
Toggle BLUE Delay (19nS)
<Left Control> + <R>
<Left Control> + <G>
<Left Control> + <B>
Delay (Skew)
Increase RED Delay
Increase GREEN Delay
Increase BLUE Delay
Decrease RED Delay
Decrease GREEN Delay
Decrease BLUE Delay
<R> + <Right Arrow>
<G> + <Right Arrow>
<B> + <Right Arrow>
<R> + <Left Arrow>
<G> + <Left Arrow>
<B> + <Left Arrow>
Reset Commands
Reset Mouse and Keyboard*
Mouse Recovery*
Set Extender To Default State*
<F1>
<F3>
<Left Control> + <F9>
Other Commands
Toggle Private Mode*
Toggle Video Blanking State at other console*
Disable DDC Emulation
Enable DDC Emulation
Transfer DDC from monitor to Local Unit**
<Scroll Lock>
<Left Control> + <Scroll Lock>
<Left Control> + <F2>
<F2>
<Left Control> + <D>
* Commands also available at local console in Dual Access Kits: ACU2209A and ACU2228A (see page 37).
** Available on Remote Units with hardware version 6.3 and above (see page 54).

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
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2. Overview
2.1 Introduction
The ServSwitch™Brand CATx KVM Extender Series enables dual channel high-resolution
video, PS/2 keyboard and mouse, stereo audio, and serial port signals to be communicated up
to 1000ft (300m) over Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher (CATx) cable.
A basic KVM extension system comprises a Local Unit (transmitter) and a Remote Unit
(receiver). The Local Unit connects directly to the computer (or a KVM switch system) using
the supplied cable(s). The user console (keyboard, mouse and monitors) attaches to the
Remote Unit. The Remote and Local Units communicate video and data information along
the connecting CATx cables (see Figure 1).
Within the product range, models are available with combinations of the following:
•Audio transmission: bi-directional stereo audio (16-bit digitized).
•Serial transmission: transparent serial COM port (to 19.2Kbps).
•Dual access: allowing a second user console at the Local Unit.
2.2 Glossary
The following terms are used in this guide:
CATx Any Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher cable.
PSU Power Supply Unit.
KVM Keyboard, Video and Mouse.
Console A keyboard, monitor, and mouse, plus optional serial/audio
devices.
Dual Access A system allowing connection of local and remote user consoles.
Dual Head An extender system that supports two monitors.

OVERVIEW
13
Figure 1 KVM extender system
Local Access
ACU2209A, ACU2228A only.
Audio Transmission
ACU2222A-R2, ACU2228A only
KVM extension over CATx
cables up to 1000ft (300m).
LOCAL Unit
REMOTE Unit
Serial Transmission
ACU2222A-R2, ACU2228A only

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
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2.3 Features
Members of the ServSwitch™Brand CATx KVM Extender Series offer the following
features:
•Support for high video resolution for use with TFT displays:
1600x1200@60Hz over 650ft (200m)
1280x1024@75Hz over 1000ft (300m)
Higher resolutions may be possible over shorter distances.
•Fully integrated skew compensation allows operation with CATx cables by canceling
color shift and enhancing sharpness.
•Independent low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) cable equalization control
ensures optimum video tuning across different cable types.
•All control and video tuning carried out using the remote console keyboard with settings
stored in EEPROM memory.
•Local and Remote Unit firmware and settings flash upgradeable (cable required).
•Emulated DDC (Display Data Channel) on both video channels
Extender Local Unit emulates a universal monitor; ensures compatibility with multi-
head graphics cards
•Transparent DDC (hardware version 6.3 and above)
Remote Unit reads DDC table from attached monitor, transfers and stores data in Local
Unit to support non-standard displays.
•Dual-Head local access
(ACU2209A and ACU2228A only)
•Private Mode on dual-access models allows users to lock out other console. Monitor on
locked console can be enabled or blanked.
(ACU2209A and ACU2228A only)
•Status indicator LEDs on each RJ45 port.
•Small footprint chassis with rack mount options available.
•Surge protection on each RJ45 port.
•Local Units are normally powered directly by the PC (or switch). Connector for optional
5V PSU.
•Transparent serial port (on certain models) enables any serial device to be extended (up
to 19.2K Baud). The serial port may be used to extend one device (requiring
handshaking lines), or up to three simple serial devices (no handshaking).
(ACU2222A-R2 and ACU2228A only)
•Bi-directional stereo audio (16-bit digitized) support on certain models enables high-
quality audio extension.
(ACU2222A-R2 and ACU2228A only)

OVERVIEW
15
2.4 Product Range
There are four products in the range:
Dual Video Channel Kit (Standard)
ACU2201A-R2 Dual Video Channels, PS/2 KB & Mouse
Local Unit + Remote Unit
Dual Video Channel Kit (Audio)
ACU2222A-R2 Dual Video Channels, PS/2 KB & Mouse,
Serial, Stereo Audio
Local Unit + Remote Unit
Dual Video Channel/Dual Access Kit (Standard)
ACU2209A Dual Video Channels, PS/2 KB & Mouse
Local Unit + Remote Unit
Dual Video Channel/Dual Access Kit (Audio)
ACU2228A Dual Video Channels, PS/2 KB & Mouse,
Serial, Stereo Audio
Local Unit + Remote Unit

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
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2.5 Compatibility
Interface Compatibility
•PS/2 Keyboard: Compatible with all standard keyboards. Certain keyboards with
enhanced features may also be supported with custom firmware.
•PS/2 Mouse: Compatible with all standard 2-button, 3-button and wheel mice. To
connect to a PC which does not have a PS/2 mouse port, an active serial converter is
required – Model No: AC244A.
•Audio: Input and output are line-level. Amplified speakers are required. A microphone
may be directly connected to the Remote Unit (optional pre-amplification).
•Serial: Transparent up to 19.2K Baud (38.4K operation may be possible with some
devices). The following serial signals are extended: TX, RX, RTS, CTS, DTR, DSR. In
rare cases, a wiring adaptor may be required to transfer RI and DCD.
•Video: VGA to UXGA. Separate sync, composite sync, or sync-on-green. Maximum
resolution and refresh rates depend on cable length and cable type (see Appendix G:
Specifications, page 55).

OVERVIEW
17
Extender Compatibility
The ServSwitch™Brand CATx KVM Extender Series of CATx KVM extender products
offer enhanced performance while maintaining complete compatibility with existing
ServSwitch™standalone and rack mount CAT5 extenders.
You can use CAT5 and CATx products belonging to the same family in any combination.
However, it is not possible to mix Standard and Audio products within a system except for
video only applications. CATx units are not currently compatible with SUN (ACU1004A,
ACU1005A) or Serial-only products (ACU1002A, ACU1008A, ACUSREM, ACU1006SRA,
ACU1006DSRA).
Standard Family Audio Family
ACU2201A-R2, ACU2209A ACU2222A-R2, ACU2228A
ACU1001A ACU1009A ACU1022A ACU1028A
ACU3001A ACU3009A ACU3022A ACUVREM
ACU1049A ACUMREM ACUWREM ACU1006VRA
ACUREM ACUREMSW ACU1006DVRA ACU1006MRVA
ACU1006RA ACU1006DRA ACU2022A ACU2028A
ACU1012RA ACU1006MRA ACU2222A ACU3222A
ACU2001A ACU2009A ACU3228A ACURA001A
ACU2201A ACUR001A ACURA002A
ACU3201A ACU3209A ACURA004A
ACUR002A ACUR004A ACUMRA02A
ACUMR02A

SERVSWITCH™BRAND CATX KVM EXTENDER FAMILY
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2.6 How to Use This Guide
This guide describes the installation and configuration of the ServSwitch™Brand CATx
KVM Extender Series. Although the connection and operation of the system is relatively
straightforward, you should consider the following before getting started:
Connection & Compatibility
Your Extender Kit contains all the cables required to connect the Local Unit to your PC or
KVM switch. The remote console (keyboard, monitor and mouse) and any audio and serial
equipment connect directly to the Remote Unit.
For information about connection and installation, see Installation, page 19.
Interconnection Cable
You will need CATx (any category 5, 5e, 6 or higher) cable, terminated with RJ45 plugs, to
connect the Local and Remote Units (see Interconnection Cable Requirements, page 20).
Adjusting Video
Video signals become distorted when transmitted over CATx cables. To get the best from
your extender system, it is essential that you adjust the Remote Unit to optimize the video
image quality:
•For experienced users, there is a Quick Setup section at the start of this guide (see page
10).
•For the full procedure, see Remote Unit Configuration & Operation, page 26.
•Refer to Appendix D: Advanced Cabling Issues (Skew), page 49 for a more in depth
discussion of skew correction and advanced cabling issues.