Black Box ServSelect III User manual

Doc. No. 590-598-501BApril;
April 2007
CustomerSupport Information:
ForFREETechnical Support 24 hours a day, 7days a week, call 724-746-5500 orfax 724-746-0746
Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Dr., Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
World-WideWeb: www.blackbox.com • Email: [email protected]
© Copyright 2007. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.
KV21008A-R2
KV22008A-R2
KV22016A-R2
KV21008E-R2
KV22008E-R2
KV22016E-R2
KV21008A
KV22008A
KV22016A
KV21008E
KV22008E
KV22016E

1
SERVSELECTTM III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
Welcome to the ServSwitch™Family!
Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX®ServSelect™III! We appreciate your business,
and we think you’ll appreciate the many ways that your new ServSelect III will save you
money, time, and effort.
That’s because the 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 work table 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 ServSelect III, including how to install,
operate, and troubleshoot it. For an introduction to the ServSelect III, see Chapter 2. The
ServSelect III product codes covered in this manual are:
This manual also includes information about the ServSelct III cables and Server Access
Modules (SAMs), which have their own manuals or installation guides.
ServSelect III cables SAMs
EHN21000PS2-0007 KV123A
EHN21000PS2-0010 KV125A
EHN21000PS2-0015 KV126A
EHN21000USB-0007 KV127A
EHN21000USB-0010
EHN21000USB-0015
KV21008A-R2 KV21008E-R2 KV21008A KV21008E
KV22008A-R2 KV22008E-R2 KV22008A KV22008E
KV22016A-R2 KV22016E-R2 KV22016A KV22016E

SERVSELECTTM III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
2
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.
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.
EUROPEAN UNION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
computing device in accordance with the specifications in the European standard
EN55022. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio-frequency energy, and
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, might cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception.
However, there is no guarantee that harmful interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment on and off, you can correct the
interference with one or more of the following measures:
a. Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
b. Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
c. Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
d. Consult the supplier or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

3
COMPLIANCE STATEMENTS
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 equipment has also been found to comply with
European standards EN50082 and EN60950.
Japanese Compliance Statement
Other Agency Approvals
USA (UL, FCC)
Canada (cUL, ICES-003)
European Union (CE)
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
BLACK BOX® and the logo are registered trademarks, and ServSwitch, ServSelect, and
ServSelect IP are trademarks of BLACK BOX Corporation.
Apple, Mac, and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
IBM, PS/2, and RS/6000 are registered trademarks of International Business
Machines Corporation.
Microsoft, HyperTerminal, Windows, Windows NT, and Windows XP are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Sun and Sun Microsystems are registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the
United States and other countries.
UL is a registered trademark of Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of
the trademark owners.

SERVSELECTTM III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
4

TABLE OF CONTENTS
5
Table of Contents
1. Specifications...................................................................................................7
2. Product Overview.............................................................................................9
2.1 Features and Benefits.....................................................................................................9
2.2 Safety Precautions........................................................................................................11
3. Installation......................................................................................................13
3.1 Getting Started.............................................................................................................13
3.2 Rack Mounting Your ServSelect III Switch................................................................13
3.3 Installing the ServSelect III Switch .............................................................................14
3.4 Connecting Users.........................................................................................................16
3.5 Cascading ServSelect III Switches..............................................................................16
3.6 Adding Legacy Switches.............................................................................................17
3.7 Setting Up Your ServSelect III Switching System......................................................19
4. Basic Operations............................................................................................21
4.1 Controlling Your System at the Analog Ports .............................................................21
4.2 Viewing and Selecting Ports and Servers....................................................................21
4.3 Navigating the OSD Interface......................................................................................23
4.4 Configuring OSD Interface Menus..............................................................................25
4.5 Displaying Version Information..................................................................................36
4.6 Scanning Your System.................................................................................................38
4.7 Running System Diagnostics.......................................................................................39
4.8 Broadcasting to Servers...............................................................................................42
4.9 Changing Your Switch Mode ......................................................................................44
5. Advanced Operations....................................................................................45
5.1 Using Administrator Privileges ...................................................................................45
Appendix A: Flash Upgrades............................................................................49
Appendix B: Sun Advanced Key Emulation....................................................53

SERVSELECT III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
6

CHAPTER 1: SPECIFICATIONS
7
1. Specifications
During the course of this product’s lifetime, modifications might be made to its hardware
or firmware that could cause these specifications to change without notice.
ServSelect III Product Specifications
Agency Approvals
UL, FCC Class A, cUL, ICES Class A, CE, VCCI
Class A
Safety certifications and EMC certifications for this
product are obtained under one or more of the
following designations: CMN (Certification Model
Number), MPN (Manufacturer’s Part Number) or
Sales Level Model designation. The designation
that is referenced in the EMC and/or safety reports
and certificates are printed on the label applied to
this product.
Mechanical
Height x Width x Depth: 1.75 x 17.00 x 11.00 in 1U form factor
(4.45 x 43.18 x 27.94 cm )
Weight: 8 lbs (3.6 kg) without cables
Environmental/Power
Power consumption: 12.5 W
AC-input power: max 40 W
Heat dissipation: 92 BTU/Hr
Humidity: 20-80% non-condensing operating
5-95% non-condensing nonoperating
Operating temperature: 50°F to 122°F; 10°C to 50°C
Storage temperature: -4°F to 140 F; -20°C to 60°C
AC-inputvoltagerating: 100-240 VAC Autosensing
AC-inputcurrentrating: 0.5 A
AC-input cable:
18 AWG three-wire cable, with a three-lead IEC-
320 receptacle on the power supply end and a
country or region dependent plug on the power
resource end
AC frequency: 50/60 HZ

SERVSELECT IIITM INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
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Airflow: 8 cfm
Server ports
Number 8 or 16
Types PS/2, Sun, USB and serial SAMs or PS/2 and
USB ServSelect III cables
Connectors RJ-45
Sync Types Separate horizontal and vertical
Plug and Play DDC2B
Video Resolution Analog Port Maximum 1280 x 1024 @ 75 Hz
Update Port
Number 1
Type Serial RS-232
Connector DB9 Male
Analog Port Sets
Number 1 or 2
Type PS/2, USB, VGA and ACI
Connectors PS/2 miniDIN, 15 pin D, RJ-45, USB Type A
ServSelect III Product Specifications

CHAPTER 2: PRODUCT OVERVIEW
9
2. Product Overview
2.1 Features and Benefits
The ServSelect® III family of switches integrate field-proven analog keyboard, video and
mouse (KVM) switching technology with advanced cable management, flexible access for
two simultaneous users and a patented, easy-to-use interface. The ServSelect III family of
KVM switches conveniently supports all major server platforms, and features powerful
on-screen management for easy system configuration and server selection. The ServSelect
III family of KVM switches also feature user peripheral ports for PS/2 and USB keyboards
and mice.
Server Access Module
A benefit of the ServSelect III switches are the Server Access Modules (SAM). The SAM
with CAT 5 design dramatically reduces cable clutter, while providing optimal resolution
and video settings. The built-in memory of the SAM simplifies configuration by assigning
and retaining unique server names and Electronic ID (EID) numbers for each attached
server. The SAM is powered directly from the server and provides Keep Alive
functionality even if the ServSelect III is not powered.
Each ServSelect III has either eight or 16 server ports for connecting SAMs. Utilizing a
SAM, you can attach additional switches to expand your ServSelect III switching system.
This flexibility allows you to add capacity as your data center grows. Reduced cost Server
Access Cables (SACs) are also available.
Multiplatform support
The SAMs available with the ServSelect III support PS/2, Sun™, USB and serial server
environments. Using the On Screen Display (OSD) in conjunction with these modules
allows you to switch easily across platforms.
Two-User Share Mode
The ServSelect III switches feature a Share Mode function that allows two users to
gain access to a primary server. The user configurable time-out feature allows
you to determine the amount of time (up to 600 seconds) for the target to remain
idle before the other user can take control of the target.
On Screen Display
ServSelect III uses an OSD, which features intuitive menus to configure your switching
system and select computers. Computers can be identified by unique name, EID or port
number, allowing you to assign unique server names.
Security
The OSD allows you to protect your system with a screen saver password. After a user-
defined time, the screen saver mode engages and access is prohibited until the appropriate
password is entered to reactivate the system.

SERVSELECT III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
10
Operation modes
The OSD provides convenient operation modes for easy system administration of the
ServSelect III family of switches. These modes (broadcast, scan, switch and share) allow
you to manage your switching activities. Chapter 3 explains these modes in detail.
Video
The ServSelect III provides optimal resolution for analog VGA, SVGA and XGA video.
Achieve resolutions of up to 1280 x 1024 with a 10 foot cable and up to 800 x 600 with a
50 foot cable. Resolutions will vary depending upon the length of cable separating your
switch and servers.
Plug and Play
The ServSelect III also supports Display Data Channel (DDC) Plug and Play, which
automates configuration of the monitorand is compliant with the VESA DDC2B standard.
Flash upgradable
Upgrade your firmware at any time through a simple update utility to ensure that your
ServSelect III switching system is always running the most current version available. Both
the ServSelect III and the SAMs are Flash upgradable. See Appendix A for more
information.
NOTE:
ServSelect III cables are not firmware upgradable.
Cascading expansion
The ServSelect III provides support for up to 16 directly attached servers and can
conveniently scale to support more. You can expand your system using cascadable
BLACK BOX products such as other ServSelect switches. This extra “cascade” of units
allows you to attach up to 256 servers in one system. See Chapter 3 for more information.
NOTE:
KV21008A, KV21008E,KV21008A-R2, KV21008E-R2, KV22008A, KV22008E, KV22008A-R2 and
KV22008E-R2 only support eight directly attached servers.
ServSelect III cables
The ServSelect III also features ServSelect III cables designed to provide the same ease of
use as the SAM. Available in three different lengths, ServSelect III cables are RJ45 style
cables that provide a reduced cost alternative to SAMs. ServSelect III cables support PS/2
and USB connectivity. ServSelect III cables are not upgradeable.

CHAPTER 2: PRODUCT OVERVIEW
11
Figure 2-1. Example of a ServSelect III Configuration
2.2 Safety Precautions
To avoid potential video and/or keyboard problems when using BLACK BOX products:
•Ιf the building has 3-phase AC power, ensure that the computers and monitors are on
the same phase. For best results, they should be on the same circuit.
• Use only BLACK BOX-supplied cable to connect computers and KVM switches.
To avoid potentially fatal shock hazard and possible damage to equipment, please observe
the following precautions:
• Do not use a 2-wire extension cord in any BLACK BOX product configuration.
• Test AC outlets at the computer and monitor for proper polarity
and grounding.
• Use only with grounded outlets at both the computer and monitor. When using a
backup Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), power the computer, the monitor and
the ServSelect III off the supply.
NOTE:
The AC inlet is the main disconnect.
SAMs or
ServSelect III
cables
Analog
Connection
Rack of Servers
ServSelect III
(KV22016A-R2 Shown)
Analog
Connection
Critical server

SERVSELECT III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
12
Rackmount safety considerations
• Elevated Ambient Temperature: If installed in a closed rack assembly, the operation
temperature of the rack environment may be greater than room ambient. Use care not
to exceed the rated maximum ambient temperature of the unit.
• Reduced Air Flow: Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such that the
amount of airflow required for safe operation of the equipment is not compromised.
• Mechanical Loading: Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be such that a
hazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven mechanical loading.
• Circuit Overloading: Consideration should be given to the connection of the
equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that overloading of circuits might have
on overcurrent protection and supply wiring. Consider equipment nameplate ratings
for maximum current.
• Reliable Earthing: Reliable earthing of rackmounted equipment should be
maintained. Pay particular attention to supply connections other than direct
connections to the branch circuit (for example, use of power strips).

CHAPTER 3: INSTALLATION
13
3. Installation
3.1 Getting Started
Before installing your ServSelect III switch, refer to the following list to ensure you have
all items that shipped with the appliance as well as other items necessary for proper
installation.
Supplied with the ServSelect III switch
• Power cord
• One null modem serial cable
• Rackmounting kit
• ServSelect III Installer/User Guide
• ServSelect III Quick Installation Guide
• ServSelect III Cable Quick Installation Guide
Additional items needed
One SAC or SAM and UTP cabling per attached server or switch
3.2 Rack Mounting Your ServSelect III Switch
Your ServSelect III switch may be rackmounted using the brackets supplied in your
rackmounting kit. Before installing the switch and other components in the rack cabinet (if
not already installed), stabilize the rack in a permanent location. Install your equipment
starting at the bottom of the rack cabinet, then work to the top.
Figure 3-1. ServSelect III Switch Horizontal Installation
CAUTION:
Rack Loading - Overloading or uneven loading of racks may result in shelf or rack failure, causing
damage to equipment and possible personal injury. Do not exceed your rack load rating.
To install the 1U switch mounting bracket:
1. Remove the first two screws on each side of the switch.
2. Line up the holes in the “long side” of the kit’s side brackets with the screw holes in
the switch.
3. With a Phillips screwdriver, fasten the mounting brackets to the switch using two
screws on each side.

SERVSELECT III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
14
4. Attach four cage nuts or clip nuts to the rackmounting flange of the rack cabinet so
that the nut is positioned on the inside of the rack.
NOTE:
Nuts are not included with the rackmount kit.
5. Mount the switch assembly to the rack cabinet by matching the holes in the “short
side” of each bracket to an appropriate set of matching holes on your rack cabinet.
6. Next, insert the combination hex head screws through the slots in the bracket and the
holes in the mounting rail, then into the cage nuts or clip nuts.
3.3 Installing the ServSelect III Switch
Plug the supplied power cord into the back of the appliance and then into an appropriate
power source. Figure 3.2 illustrates one possible configuration for your ServSelect III switch.
CAUTION:
To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to your equipment -
- Do not disable the power cord 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 unit by unplugging the power cord from either the electrical outlet or the unit.

CHAPTER 3: INSTALLATION
15
Figure 3-2. Basic ServSelect III Switch Configuration
To connect a server using a SAM:
1. Locate the SAMs for your ServSelect III switch.
2. Attach the appropriatelycolor-coded cable ends to the keyboard, monitor and mouse ports
on the first server you will be connecting to the appliance.
3. Attach one end of a CAT 5 cable to the RJ45 connector on the SAM.
4. Connect the other end of the CAT 5 cable to the desired port on the back of your
ServSelect III switch.
5. Repeat steps 2 through 4 for each server you wish to attach.
Analog User B
Configuration Port
(for updating firmware) ServSelect III Switch
(KV22016A Shown)
Servers 3-16
SAM
Analog User A
Server 1

SERVSELECT III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
16
NOTE: When connecting a Sun SAM, you must use a multi-sync monitor to accommodate Sun computers
that support both VGA and sync-on-green or composite sync.
To connect a server using a SAC:
1. Locate a SAC for the server you wish to connect.
2. Attach the appropriately color-coded cable ends of the SAC to the keyboard, monitor
and mouse ports on the server you will be connecting to the switch.
3. Attach the other end of the SAC to the desired port on the back of your
ServSelect III switch.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 for each server you wish to attach.
3.4 Connecting Users
To connect local peripherals:
1. Select the keyboard, monitor and mouse to be connected to local analog user A.
2. Locate the port set labeled A on the back of the appliance. Connect these peripherals
to their respective ports.
3. Bundle and label the cables for easy identification.
4. Repeat these steps for user B, if desired.
3.5 Cascading ServSelect III Switches
You can cascade multiple ServSelect III switches to enable one or two users to connect to
as many as 256 servers. In a cascaded system, each server port on the main ServSelect III
switch will connect to the user port on each cascaded ServSelect III switch. Each cascaded
switch can then be connected to a server with a SAM or SAC. The example shown in
Figure 3.3 shows one ServSelect III switch cascaded under the main switch, enabling the
connection of up to 15 primary servers and 16 secondary servers. Using this configuration,
you could cascade 16 ServSelect III switches under the main switch, enabling the
connection of up to 256 servers. Only one level of tiering is supported in this type of
configuration, which means you cannot cascade any additional legacy switches or another
ServSelect III switch.
In this configuration, the local port OSD interface is disabled in switches cascaded below
the main ServSelect III switch.
To cascade multiple ServSelect III switches:
1. Connect the cascaded ServSelect III switch to each server as described in the previ-
ous Installing the ServSelect III Switch section.
2. Connect the local peripherals to analog user A and/or B of the main switch as
described in To connect local peripherals.
3. Attach one end of the CAT 5 cabling that will run between your main and cascaded
ServSelect III switch to the RJ45 server port on the main ServSelect III switch.
4. Attach the other end of the CAT 5 cable to one of the RJ45 user ports on the cascaded
ServSelect III switch.

CHAPTER 3: INSTALLATION
17
NOTE:
The system will automatically “merge” the two switches together as one. All servers connected to the
cascaded ServSelect III switch will display on themain ServSelect III switch server list inthe OSD interface.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for all additional (secondary) cascaded ServSelect III switches
you wish to attach.
Figure 3-3. ServSelect III Switch Configuration with a Cascaded Switch
3.6 Adding Legacy Switches
You can add legacy switches to the ServSelect III switching system for easy integration
into your existing configuration. In a cascaded system, each user port will accommodate
up to 24 servers.
Analog User B
ServSelect III Switch
User Ports
15 Primary
Servers
ServSelect III Switch (cascaded)
16 Secondary
Servers
Analog User A
RJ45 Server
Port

SERVSELECT III INSTALLER/USER GUIDE
18
Figure 3-4. ServSelect III Switch Configuration with Legacy KVM Switches
To add a legacy KVM switch:
1. Mount the primary KVM switch into your rack cabinet.
2. Connect one end of a CAT 5 cable to an available port on the back of your ServSelect
III switch.
3. Attach the keyboard, monitor and mouse connectors of the SAM to a user port on
your cascaded switch.
4. Attach the other end of the CAT 5 cabling to the RJ45 connector on the SAM.
5. Connect the servers to your cascaded switch according to the instructions included
with the switch.
6. Power cycle the cascaded switch to enable its local user port to recognize the SAM.
7. Repeat steps 2 to 6 for all cascaded switches you wish to attach to your system.
NOTE:
A ServSelect III can also be used as a secondary switch in the configuration shown in Figure 3-4.
To connect local peripherals:
1. Select the keyboard, monitor and mouse to be connected to local user A.
2. Locate the port set labeled A on the back of the switch. Connect these peripherals to
their respective ports.
ServSelect III
SAM
Server 2
Server 1
SAM
PS/2, USB, Sun and serial
cables are available