Black Box SERVSWITCH PANTHER KV1108A User manual

ServSwitch Panther
JUNE 2004
KV1108A
KV1116A
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]
Mail address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Drive, Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
Web site: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: [email protected]
CUSTOME
R
SUPPORT
INFORMATION

SERVSWITCH TM FAMILY
1
Welcome to the ServSwitchTM Family!
Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX® ServSwitch Panther! We appreciate your
business, and we think you’ll appreciate the many ways that your new ServSwitch
Panther 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 PC’s, 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 TM 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 set-up is,
no matter how simple or how complex, we are confident we have a ServSwitch system
that’s just right for you.
The ServSwitch TM family from BLACK BOX, the one-stop answer for all your KVM
switching needs!
This manual will tell you about your new ServSwitch Panther, including how to install,
operate, and troubleshoot it.
For an introduction to the ServSwitch Panther, see chapter 1.
The ServSwitch Panther product codes covered in this manual are:
KV1108A KV1116A
This manual also includes information about the Server Access Modules:
KV1120A KV1121A

FCC INFORMATION
22
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.
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.
Trademarks
All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

NOM STATEMENT
3
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.

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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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 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.

COMPLIANCE STATEMENTS
5
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, may cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio and television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, you can correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
1. Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
2. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
3. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
4. Consult the supplier or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
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 standard EN 55024.
Japanese Compliance Statement
CB TEST CERTIFICATE
This product was tested and found to be in conformity with:
IEC 60950 (2001) for Interference by Information Technology Equipment aimed at
preventing radio interference in such residential areas. When used near a radio or TV
receiver, it may become the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct
handling.

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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Contents
Chapter.................................................................................................................. page
1. Introduction...........................................................................................8
1.1 Features ........................................................................................................ 8
1.2 Compatibility................................................................................................ 8
2. Complete package................................................................................9
2.1 Additional items needed............................................................................... 9
3. Installation...........................................................................................10
3.1 The ServSwitch Panther system configuration .......................................... 10
3.2 The ServSwitch Panther models ................................................................ 10
3.3 Pre-installation guidelines .......................................................................... 11
3.4 Connecting the ServSwitch Panther system............................................... 11
3.5 The SAMs .................................................................................................. 12
3.5.1 Connecting a PS/2 SAM ........................................................................... 12
3.5.2 Connecting a USB SAM ........................................................................... 12
3.6 Connecting the CAT5 cables...................................................................... 13
3.7 Connecting the KVM console.................................................................... 13
3.8 Connecting the power supply..................................................................... 13
3.9 Resetting the Switch................................................................................... 13
3.10 Avoiding general rack mounting problems................................................ 14
3.10.1 Elevated operating ambient temperature................................................. 14
3.10.2 Reduced airflow ...................................................................................... 14
3.10.3 Mechanical loading ................................................................................. 14
3.10.4 Circuit overloading.................................................................................. 14
3.11 Rack mounting the ServSwitch Panther..................................................... 14
3.12 Cascading ServSwitch Panthers ................................................................. 15
4. Operating the system.........................................................................16
4.1 The keyboard hotkeys ................................................................................ 16
4.2 The OSD .................................................................................................... 16
4.3 Navigating the OSD ................................................................................... 17
4.4 Selecting a computer .................................................................................. 17
4.5 The OSD settings (F2) ............................................................................... 17
4.6 The General settings................................................................................... 17
4.7 Security ...................................................................................................... 18
4.7.1 Administrator (Status A) ........................................................................... 18
4.7.2 Supervisor (Status S)................................................................................. 18
4.7.3 User (Status U).......................................................................................... 18
4.7.4 Activating password protection..................................................................19

CONTENTS
7
4.8 Changing the OSD hotkey ......................................................................... 19
4.9 Autoskip ..................................................................................................... 19
4.10 Serial port ................................................................................................... 20
4.11 Changing the Keyboard language .............................................................. 20
4.12 Editing the Switch name ............................................................................ 20
4.13 F7 Defaults ................................................................................................. 20
4.14 The Ports settings ....................................................................................... 21
4.15 Editing the computer name ........................................................................ 21
4.16 Keyboard (KB)........................................................................................... 21
4.17 Adding/changing a hotkey (HKEY)........................................................... 22
4.18 The Time settings ....................................................................................... 22
4.19 Scan (SCN) - Label (LBL) - Time out (T/O) ............................................. 22
4.20 Users........................................................................................................... 23
4.21 Security ...................................................................................................... 24
4.22 The OSD HELP window – F1 ................................................................... 24
4.23 Scanning computers– F4 ............................................................................ 25
4.24 Tuning – F5................................................................................................ 25
4.25 Moving the label – F6 ................................................................................ 26
5. Troubleshooting .................................................................................27
5.1 Calling Black Box ...................................................................................... 27
5.2 Shipping and Packaging............................................................................. 27
6. Upgrading the firmware .....................................................................28
6.1 System requirements for the ServSwitch Panther Update software ........... 28
6.2 Connect the ServSwitch Panther System ................................................... 28
6.3 Installing the software ................................................................................ 28
6.4 Connecting the Flash Upgrade cable.......................................................... 28
6.5 Starting and configuring the ServSwitch Panther Update.......................... 29
6.6 Verifying the version numbers................................................................... 30
6.6.1 The OSD version number.......................................................................... 31
6.6.2 The ServSwitch Panther version number.................................................. 31
6.6.3 Verifying the SAM version number.......................................................... 31
6.7 Updating the firmware ............................................................................... 31
6.7.1 Communication Error................................................................................ 32
6.7.2 Electricity failure....................................................................................... 33
6.8 Reset........................................................................................................... 33
6.8.1 Resetting the Switch or SAM units ........................................................... 33
7. Technical specifications ....................................................................34

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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1.Introduction
Access and control multiple multi-platform computers from one Keyboard Video
Mouse (KVM) console with the ServSwitch Panther system. The ServSwitch Panther
comes in 8 and 16 port models. Connect up to 8 computers to the 8 port model, and up
to 16 to the 16 port model.
1.1 Features
• Hot-Swap - disconnect and reconnect computers without rebooting
• Scan-mode operation with variable time interval
• 1U Rack mountable
• Operate the system using an On Screen Display (OSD) or front panel push buttons
or keyboard hotkeys
• Create multi-level cascade arrangements. For example by cascading the
ServSwitch Panther 16 Port model, connect up to up to 256 computers in the
system
• The computers can be placed up to 33ft/10m from the ServSwitch Panther
• Multi-platform — supports PS/2 and USB computers/servers
1.2 Compatibility
The ServSwitch Panther is compatible with:
• PS/2 and USB computers/servers
• VGA, SVGA, or XGA monitors
• DOS, Windows (3X, 9X, 2000, NT4, ME, XP, 2003 Server) LINUX, UNIX,
QNX, SGI, FreeBSD, BeOS, Open VMS, Novell 3.12-6, Alpha UNIX and HP
UX

2. Complete package
9
2.Complete package
The ServSwitch Panther system comes with:
• ServSwitch Panther 8 Port (KV1108A) or 16 port (KV1116A)
• Flash Upgrade cable (KV11UP)
• USA and European power cords
• Rack mount kit for the ServSwitch Panther (KV11RM)
2.1 Additional items needed
1 Server Access Module (SAM) and CAT5 cabling per attached server or switch.
The SAMs come in two different models:
• SAM PS/2 (KV1120A) for PS/2 servers
• SAM USB (KV1121A) for USB servers

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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10
3.Installation
3.1 The ServSwitch Panther system configuration
Figure 1 illustrates the basic configuration of the ServSwitch Panther system.
Computer 1
ServSwitch
Panther
Computer 16
SAM SAM
POWER
100-250 VAC 50/60 Hz 12345678
10 11 12 13 14 15 169
COMPUTER
Figure 1 The ServSwitch Panther system configuration
3.2 The ServSwitch Panther models
Figure 2 illustrates the front panel of the ServSwitch Panther 16 port model. The 8 port
model is the same but with only 8 columns of LEDs.
Figure 2 ServSwitch Panther front panel

3. Installation
11
The figure below illustrates the rear panel of the ServSwitch Panther 16 port unit. The
8 port model is the same but with only 8 Computer ports.
POWER
100-250 VAC 50/60 Hz 12345678
10 11 12 13 14 15 169
COMPUTER
Figure 3 ServSwitch Panther 16 port rear panel
3.3 Pre-installation guidelines
• Switch off all computers
• Place cables away from fluorescent lights, air conditioners, and machines that are
likely to generate electrical noise
• Ensure that the maximum distance between each computer and the ServSwitch
Panther, does not exceed 33ft/10m
3.4 Connecting the ServSwitch Panther system
Connect each computer to the ServSwitch Panther system using the appropriate SAM
and CAT5 cables. Figure 4 illustrates the ServSwitch Panther system connections with
the appropriate SAM connected to a PS/2 and USB computer/server.
Keybd Mouse 100T
VideoSerial A
Parallel
PCI 33Mx32b
PCI 33Mx32b
PCI 33Mx32 b
PCI 33Mx32b
Serial B
NetSer ver tc21 00
SCSI
SD
P110
PS/2 SAM
USB SAM
CAT5 cable
Up to 10M / 33ft CAT5 cables
POWER
100-250 VAC 50/60 Hz 12345 678
10 11 12 13 14 15 169
COMPUTER
ServSwitch Panther
USB SAM
Figure 4 ServSwitch Panther system connections

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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12
3.5 The SAMs
The SAMs draw their power from the computer’s keyboard port (SAM PS/2) or from
the USB port (SAM USB).
3.5.1 Connecting a PS/2 SAM
Figure 5 illustrates the SAM.
To connect the PS/2 SAM:
1. Connect the Screen connector to the computer’s Video card.
2. Connect the Keyboard connector to the computer’s Keyboard port.
3. Connect the Mouse connector to the computer’s Mouse port.
To computer’s
keyboard port
CAT5 cable to ServSwitch
Panther Computer port
To computer’s
mouse port
To computer’s
Video card
Keybd
Mouse 100T
VideoSerial A
Parallel
PCI 33Mx32b
PCI 33Mx32b
PCI 33Mx32b
PCI 33Mx32b
Serial B
NetServer tc2100
SCSI
SAM
Figure 5 PS/2 SAM
3.5.2 Connecting a USB SAM
The SAM USB supports Windows 2000 and later, and SGI. Figure 6 illustrates the
USB SAM and its connections.
To connect the USB SAM:
1. Connect the Screen connector to the computer’s Video card.
2. Connect the USB connector to the computer’s USB port.

3. Installation
13
To USB Port
To Video Card
CAT5 cable to ServSwitch
Panther Computer port
SAM
Figure 6 USB SAM
3.6 Connecting the CAT5 cables
1. Connect one connector to the SAMs RJ45 port.
2. Connect the other connector to one of the ServSwitch Panther’s Computer ports.
3. Follow the above 2 steps for each computer.
3.7 Connecting the KVM console
To connect a KVM console to the ServSwitch Panther:
1. Connect the monitor’s connector to the ServSwitch Panther’s Monitor port.
2. Connect the keyboard’s connector to the ServSwitch Panther’s Keyboard port.
3. Connect the mouse’s connector to the ServSwitch Panther’s Mouse port.
3.8 Connecting the power supply
1. Connect the ServSwitch Panther to the power supply using the Power cable
provided. Use only power cord supplied with the unit.
2. Switch on the computers.
3.9 Resetting the Switch
To reset the Switch press the 2 front panel Select buttons simultaneously. The SAMs
are unaffected by this reset.
Resetting can also be performed through the software – explained later.

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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14
3.10 Avoiding general rack mounting problems
3.10.1 Elevated operating ambient temperature
The operating ambient temperature of the rack environment may be greater than the
room ambient when installing into a closed or multi-unit rack assembly. So install the
equipment in an environment compatible with the maximum rated ambient
temperature.
3.10.2 Reduced airflow
Install the equipment in a rack in such a way that the amount of airflow required for
safe operation is not compromised.
3.10.3 Mechanical loading
Mount the equipment in the rack in such a way that a hazardous condition is not
achieved due to uneven mechanical loading.
3.10.4 Circuit overloading
When connecting the equipment to the supply circuit, consider the effect that
overloading of circuits might have on over-current protection and supply wiring.
Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained. Give attention to
supply connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit (e.g. use of
power strips).
3.11 Rack mounting the ServSwitch Panther
Length of the screws used for connection of the bracket to the ServSwitch Panther unit
shall not exceed 5 mm.
Use the L-shaped brackets and screws provided to mount the ServSwitch Panther on a
server rack as illustrated below.
Insert
screws to
connect to
rack
Insert screws to connect
to Switch side panel
POWER
100-250 VAC 50/60 Hz 12345678
10 11 12 13 14 15 169
COMPUTER
Figure 7 Connecting the L-shaped bracket

3. Installation
15
3.12 Cascading ServSwitch Panthers
To cascade 2 or more ServSwitch Panthers follow the connections as illustrated in the
figure below.
Setting the different OSD display hotkeys is explained on page 19 below.
POWER
100-250 V AC 50/60 Hz 12345678
10 11 12 13 14 15 169
COMPUTER
POWER
100-250 VAC 50/60 Hz 123456 78
10 11 12 13 14 15 1 69
COMPUTER
BlackBOX
POWER
100-250 VAC 50/60 Hz 12345678
10 11 12 13 14 15 169
COMPUTER
SD
P110
Keybd
Mouse 100T
VideoSerial A
Parallel
Serial B
Keybd
Mouse 100T
VideoSerial A
Parallel
Serial B
Keybd
Mouse 100T
VideoSerial A
Parallel
Serial B
Keybd
Mouse 100T
VideoSerialA
Parallel
Serial B
Keybd
Mouse 100T
VideoSerialA
Parallel
Serial B
BlackBOX
Keybd
Mouse 100T
VideoSerialA
Parallel
Serial B
12345678
To SAMs
To SAMs
To SAMs
ServSwitch Panther
ServSwitch Panther
KVM
Console
ServSwitch Panther
Set Switch
Hotkey to
Shift-Shift
Set Switch
Hotkey to
Ctrl-Ctrl
Set Switch
Hotkey to
Ctrl-Ctrl
BlackBOX BlackBOX
BlackBOX
BlackBOXBlackBOX
BlackBOX
Figure 8 Cascading ServSwitch Panthers

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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16
4.Operating the system
Switch between the connected computers by either
• The front panel Select buttons
• Keyboard hotkeys
• The OSD (On Screen Display)
The OSD is also the place to adjust various settings as explained below.
When switching computers the illuminated LED of the top bank indicates which
computer is currently selected.
4.1 The keyboard hotkeys
To switch to the next computer forwards press Shift then, +. Release Shift, before
pressing +.
To switch to the next computer backwards press Shift then, -. Release Shift, before
pressing -.
Note
With a US English keyboard you can use the +key of the alphanumeric section or of the numeric
keypad. With a Non-US English keyboard only use the +key of the numeric keypad.
4.2 The OSD
To display the OSD:
Press Shift twice. The OSD Main window appears. See Figure 9. Lines with blue text
show active computers. Lines with grey text show inactive computers.
The Type column indicates whether a computer “C” or another switch “S” is
connected to the port.
Port number
appears here
Instruction
keys
C=computer
S=switch
Figure 9 The OSD Main window

4. Operating the system
17
4.3 Navigating the OSD
To navigate up and down use the Up and Down arrow keys.
To jump from one column to the next (when relevant) use the Tab key.
To exit the OSD or return to a previous window within the OSD press Esc.
4.4 Selecting a computer
To select a computer:
1. Navigate to the desired computer line.
2. Press Enter. The selected computer is accessed. A confirmation label appears
showing which computer is accessed.
Note
When the OSD is displayed you cannot select computers using the front panel Select buttons or
the keyboard hotkeys.
4.5 The OSD settings (F2)
Press F2. The OSD Settings window appears see Figure 10.
Figure 10 The Settings window
Note
When the OSD is password protected (explained below) only the Administrator has access to the
F2 settings window.
4.6 The General settings
With the blue line on the word GENERAL, press Enter. The General settings window
appears see Figure 11.

SERVSWITCH PANTHER
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18
Figure 11 The General Settings window
From this window you can do the following:
4.7 Security
The OSD comes with an advanced password security system that contains 3 different
security levels. Each security level has different access rights to the system.
These levels are as follows:
4.7.1 Administrator (Status A)
The Administrator can:
• Set and modify all Passwords and security profiles
• Fully access any computer
• Use all OSD functions
4.7.2 Supervisor (Status S)
The Supervisor can:
• Fully access any computer
• Access the following OSD functions only –F4 Scan, F5 Tune and F6 Moving
the Confirmation label.
4.7.3 User (Status U)
There are 6 different Users in the ServSwitch Panther system. Each User has a Profile
set by the Administrator that defines the access level to different computers. There are
3 different access levels, these are explained on page 23.