Black Box ServSwitch Wizard SW651A User manual

MARCH 2001
SW651A
SW652A
FREE tech support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax [phone].
Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Dr., Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
World-Wide Web: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: [email protected]
© Copyright 2001. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.
Customer Support Information:

MARCH 2001
SW651A-K
SW652A-K
Addendum for ServSwitch™ Wizard Kits
The ServSwitch™ Wizard Kits were accidentally left out of your ServSwitch Wizard
manual dated March 2001. They include the matching Wizard chassis plus two
(SW651A-K) or four (SW652A-K) of each of these accessories:
• Premium KVM CPU Cables. These are identical to the cables identified in
your manual as “ServSwitch Duo CPU-Extension Cables” (product code
EHN409). You can use these Premium KVM CPU Cables to attach your CPUs
to the Wizard, or for any other purpose your manual specifies for the
ServSwitch Duo CPU-Extension Cables.
• 6-pin mini-DIN female to 5-pin DIN male PC/AT®keyboard-port adapters
(available separately as product code FA212) for connecting CPUs with
PC/AT type keyboard ports.
• 6-pin mini-DIN female to DB9 female RS-232 serial mouse-port adapters
(available separately as product code FA314) for connecting CPUs with serial
mouse ports.
We apologize for the omission.
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]
© Copyright 2001. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.
BLACK BOX and the logo are registered trademarks, and ServSwitch and ServSwitch Wizard are trademarks, of Black Box Corporation.
PC/AT is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

1
THE SERVSWITCH™ FAMILY
Welcome to the ServSwitchTM Family!
Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX®ServSwitch™Brand KVM switch! We
appreciate your business, and we think you’ll appreciate the many ways that your
new ServSwitch keyboard/video/mouse switch 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™ Wizard, including how
to install, operate, and troubleshoot it. For an introduction to the ServSwitch
Wizard, see Chapter 2. The ServSwitch Wizard product codes covered in this
manual are:
SW651A
SW652A
This manual also includes information about the Remote-Control Module
accessory, whose product codes are:
KV6REM
KV6REM-25
KV6REM-50
KV6REM-75

2
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
BLACK BOX and the logo are registered trademarks, and ServSwitch and
ServSwitch Wizard are trademarks, of Black Box Corporation.
Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
Compaq and Alpha are registered trademarks of Compaq Computer Corporation.
Hewlett-Packard, HP, and Vectra are registered trademarks of Hewlett-Packard.
IBM, PC/AT, PS/2, RS/6000, and ThinkPad are registered trademarks, and
PC/XT is a trademark, of International Business Machines Corporation.
Microsoft, IntelliMouse, MS-DOS, Windows, and Windows NT are registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries.
Sun Microsystems is a registered trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the
United States and other countries.
Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the
trademark owners.

3
FCC/IC STATEMENTS
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 J 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 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.

4
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
EUROPEAN UNION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B
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 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, the user is encouraged to
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.
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.

5
NOM STATEMENT
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.

6
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
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.

7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
Chapter Page
1. Specifications ............................................................................................. 9
2. Introduction ............................................................................................. 11
2.1 Features and Benefits ....................................................................... 11
2.2 The Complete Package ..................................................................... 12
2.3 The ServSwitch Wizard Illustrated ................................................... 13
2.4 Safety Concerns ................................................................................. 14
3. Installation ................................................................................................ 15
3.1 What You Will Need .......................................................................... 15
3.2 Placement .......................................................................................... 16
3.3 Connecting Your Equipment ........................................................... 16
3.3.1 Systems with a Single Wizard .................................................. 17
3.3.2 Cascaded Wizard Systems for More Than Four CPUs .......... 18
3.3.3 Synchronized Wizard Systems for CPUs with
Multiple Video Outputs ..................................................... 20
3.3.4 ServSwitch Duo Cables, ServSwitch Extenders, and
PC/AT Adapters ................................................................. 22
3.4 Powering the Wizard ......................................................................... 24
4. Configuration ........................................................................................... 25
4.1 Configuring Your PCs ....................................................................... 25
4.2 Configuring the ServSwitch Wizard ................................................. 26
4.2.1 Entering Configuration Mode ............................................. 26
4.2.2 Setting the Screen-Saver Timeout ....................................... 27
4.2.3 Autoscanning: Setting the Scan Mode and Pause Time ..... 28
4.2.4 Enforcing Mouse Speed ....................................................... 30
4.2.5 Setting the Cascade-Query Code ......................................... 30
4.2.6 Setting Mouse-Mode Reporting and
Enabling/Disabling Mouse Switching ............................ 31
4.2.7 Choosing Active Ports or All Ports for
Keyboard-Tab and Mouse Switching .............................. 32
4.2.8 Setting the Hotkey Sequence ............................................... 33
4.2.9 Viewing the Firmware Revision, Restoring Mouse
Function, or Resetting to Factory Defaults ..................... 34
4.2.10 Setting the Password ............................................................. 35
4.2.11 Exiting Configuration Mode ................................................ 35

8
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
Contents (continued)
Chapter Page
5. Operation ................................................................................................. 36
5.1 Power Status .................................................................................... 36
5.2 The Front-Panel Pushbutton and the Remote-Control Module .. 37
5.3 The Status Display .......................................................................... 38
5.4 Things to Keep in Mind About the Keyboards and Mice ............ 39
5.5 Keyboard Control: Hotkey Commands ......................................... 40
5.6 Mouse Control ................................................................................ 42
5.7 Re-Enabling a Disconnected PS/2 Mouse .................................... 43
5.8 Hot-Plugging Devices Into the ServSwitch Wizard and
Re-Enabling Disconnected CPU PS/2 Mouse Ports ................ 43
5.9 RS-232 Control ................................................................................ 45
5.10 Operating Cascaded ServSwitch Wizards ...................................... 45
5.11 Operating Synchronized ServSwitch Wizards ............................... 47
5.12 Performing a Warm Reset .............................................................. 47
5.13 Upgrading the Wizard’s Firmware ................................................ 48
6. Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 50
6.1 Things to Try ..................................................................................... 50
6.2 Calling Black Box .............................................................................. 52
6.3 Shipping and Packaging ................................................................... 52
Appendix: Cable Guidelines .......................................................................... 53
A.1 Cabling from the Keyboard, Monitor, and Mouse to the
ServSwitch Wizard ......................................................................... 53
A.2 Cabling from the ServSwitch Wizard to the CPUs .......................... 53
A.3 Cabling Attached to the OPTIONS Port ......................................... 56

9
CHAPTER 1: Specifications
1. Specifications
Compliance — CE (EN55022 Class B); FCC Part 15 Subpart J Class A,
IC Class/classe A
Standards — VGA, SVGA, XGA, XGA-2, SXGA, or UXGA video;
supports VESA DDC, DDC1, and DDC2 signaling
Interfaces — Video: VGA;
Keyboard and mouse: IBM PS/2 compatible;
Expansion port: Proprietary variant of EIA/TIA RS-232
Resolution — Up to 1600 x 1280 noninterlaced at up to 100 Hz
Protocol — RS-232: Asynchronous
Data Format — RS-232: 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit
Data Rate — RS-232: 1200 bps
Flow Control — RS-232: None
Maximum
Distance — 2 m (6 ft.) if interface-powered or 10 m (30 ft.) if AC-
powered to any attached keyboard, monitor, and
mouse;
5 m (15 ft.) if interface-powered or 30 m (100 ft.) if AC-
powered to any attached CPU or cascaded Wizard
User Controls — Keyboard commands;
Mouse-click functions;
(1) Front-mounted pushbutton for channel change and
configuration mode;
(1) Bottom-mounted 8-position DIP switch for reset and
firmware upgrade
Indicator — (1) Front-mounted 7-segment status display

10
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
Connectors — All rear-mounted:
User port:
(1) HD15 female for monitor attachment,
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female for keyboard and mouse
attachment;
CPU ports ([2] on SW651A, [4] on SW652A):
(1) HD15 female for video-port attachment,
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female for keyboard- and mouse-
port attachment;
(1) Multipurpose DB15 female (see Section A.3 of the
Appendix);
(1) Barrel jack for power
MTBF — 500,000 hours (based on the historical reliability of
similarly designed and manufactured products)
Maximum
Altitude — 10,000 ft. (3048 m)
Temperature
Tolerance — 32 to 104˚F (0 to 40˚C)
Humidity
Tolerance — 5 to 60% noncondensing
Enclosure — Steel, aluminum, and plastic
Power — Either:
• 5 VDC at up to 500 mA from the keyboard interfaces
of the attached computers, or
• From the optional power supply PS649 (not
included):
Input: 100 to 240 VAC at 50 to 60 Hz from utility-
power outlet, through detachable power cord and
IEC 320 male inlet, to external transformer;
Output: 5 VDC at up to 1 A;
Consumption: 5 watts maximum
Size — 1.8"H (1U) x 10.3"W x 5.9"D (4.6 x 26.2 x 15 cm)
Weight — 2.2 lb. (1 kg)

11
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
2. Introduction
The ServSwitch™ Wizard is a high-performance keyboard-, monitor-, and mouse-
sharing device that supports a wide range of IBM®PC compatible hardware and
software platforms, including some high-end IBM PS/2®compatible computers
(IBM RS/6000®, Compaq®Alpha®, and SGI™).
2.1 Features and Benefits
Here are some of the useful features of the ServSwitch Wizard and some of the
ways those features benefit you:
• Control multiple computer CPUs from a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse.
• Continuous keyboard and mouse emulation on all ports ensures problem-free
computer bootup. And because all ports are simultaneously active, all attached
CPUs can be booted at the same time.
• Can usually draw all the power it needs from the attached CPUs. For
demanding applications with cascading and/or high-end video, an optional
power supply (product code PS649) is available.
• Intelligent switching: You can scan/switch between all ports or just the active
ones.
• Flash-upgradable for easy on-site firmware upgrades.
• Supports high-bandwidth monitors, at resolutions up to 1600 x 1280 pixels and
refresh rates up to 100 Hz, with low distortion.
• Video channels support Display Data Channel (DDC/DDC1/DDC2) signaling.
• Can be cascaded to control a large number of CPUs.
• Can be paired to control CPUs with dual video outputs.
• Password security prevents unauthorized use.
• Local channel switching using its front-panel pushbutton, a keyboard hotkey
sequence, or a 3-button mouse.
• Remote channel switching through its RS-232 serial port, using its convenient
optional Remote-Control Module or some other device.
• Automatically restores keyboard and mouse states when channel is changed.

12
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
• Mixed PC/AT®and PS/2 keyboards and PS/2 and RS-232 mice supported as
standard.
• Supports keyboard modes 1, 2, and 3, as well as both “prompt” and “stream”
mouse modes, for maximum compatibility.
• Support for Microsoft®IntelliMouse™ and many other “wheel mice.”
• Mouse-restoration functions that make it possible to hot-plug certain systems.
• Supports IBM ThinkPad®notebooks and their “Y” cables.
• Also supports IBM RS/6000®, Compaq®Alpha®, and SGI™ computers.
• Compatible with all popular operating systems for the IBM PC.
• Includes screen-blank, autoscan, and variable-hotkey options.
• Metal enclosure for good shielding and video quality.
• Front-panel Power and Activity LEDs.
• Can be soft-reset if problems occur.
2.2 The Complete Package
The only other thing that comes with the ServSwitch Wizard (product codes
SW651A for the 2-port model and SW652A for the 4-port model) is this manual.
(We don’t include a power supply because most applications don’t require one. If
you need a power supply for the Wizard, it can be purchased separately as product
code PS649.)
The only other things that come with the Wizard’s optional Remote-Control
Module (the KV6REM series of product codes—see Section 5.2) are Velcro®
mounting strips.

13
CHAPTER 2: Introduction
2.3 The ServSwitch Wizard Illustrated
Figure 2-1. The ServSwitch Wizard’s front panel.
Fig. 2-2. The ServSwitch Wizard’s rear panel (SW652A shown).
Figure 2-3. The Remote-Control Module (KV6REM), an optional accessory.
The bottom panel of the ServSwitch Wizard isn’t shown here, but there’s an
8-position DIP switch mounted on it. You’ll use this switch if you ever do a “warm
reset” of the Wizard (see Section 5.12) or upgrade the Wizard’s firmware (see
Section 5.13).
SW652A
Display shows
status and
mouse/keyboard
data activity
Display shows status and
mouse/keyboard data activity
Button for
changing
channels and
entering
configuration
mode
Button for
changing
channels and
entering
configuration
mode
Control-port
monitor connector
CPU-port video
connectors (blue)
Control
port
Connector
for
optional
power
supply
Control-port
mouse connector
Control-port keyboard
connector
Expansion port for
Remote-Control Module,
RS-232 control, multi-
video synchronization,
and firmware upgrades
CPU ports 1 through 4 (ports 3 and 4
are present on 4-port model only)
CPU-port mouse
connectors (green)
CPU-port keyboard
connectors (purple)

14
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
2.4 Safety Concerns
As you prepare to install the ServSwitch Wizard, please keep these things in mind:
• The Wizard is for use in dry, oil-free indoor environments only.
•Donot attempt to fix the Wizard yourself.
• Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the Wizard, its optional power
supply, and any other accessories.
• If you are using the Wizard’s optional power supply:
–Warning: The Wizard’s power-supply transformer contains no user-
serviceable parts, but it does contain “live” parts capable of delivering
hazardous electric shocks—do not attempt to dismantle it!
– Make sure that the total current rating of the devices plugged into the AC
outlet that’s supplying the Wizard is not greater than the outlet’s rated
current capacity.
– If you use an extension cord with the power supply, make sure that the total
current rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord is not greater
than the cord’s rated current capacity.
–Donot continue to use the Wizard’s power supply if its transformer case
becomes damaged, cracked, or broken, or if you suspect that the power
supply isn’t operating properly.
– If the Wizard’s power supply stops working, replace it only with a
manufacturer-approved power supply of the same type.

15
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3. Installation
3.1 What You Will Need
You’ll need these things to be in place before you can install your ServSwitch
Wizard:
• Cables to connect the ServSwitch Wizard to the keyboard, video, and mouse
ports of each of your computers. If you’ll be installing synchronized or
cascaded Wizards, you’ll also need cables to attach the Wizards to each other.
Cable specifications are given in the Appendix. (You don’t need to connect a
mouse cable if you are not using the mouse.)
• A monitor with a standard VGA (HD15) connector that will work when
connected directly to each of your computers. The ServSwitch Wizard supports
low- and high-resolution monitors.
• A standard PC/AT or PS/2 style keyboard. (If you’re using an AT keyboard
with a 5-pin DIN connector, you’ll need a standard AT to PS/2 keyboard
adapter—product code FA212—to connect it to the ServSwitch Wizard.)
• A PS/2 style two- or three-button Microsoft®or Logitech™ compatible mouse
or a Microsoft IntelliMouse®or IntelliMouse Explorer compatible mouse. If
you want to use the mouse to switch channels on the ServSwitch Wizard, you’ll
need a three-button mouse or an IntelliMouse. (The Wizard supports other
IntelliMouse compatible “Internet mice”—fitted with a wheel or other
scrolling control, and sometimes additional buttons—including several models
by Logitech and Genius™.)
All of the mouse connections from ServSwitch Wizard to the attached
computers support either PS/2 mouse ports or RS-232 serial mouse ports. The
Wizard automatically converts PS/2 mouse data and commands to serial-
mouse data and commands, but you’ll still need the appropriate adapter—
product code FA314—to connect the Wizard to a PC with a serial mouse port.
See Section A.2 in the Appendix.
The Wizard will operate without a mouse connected if you don’t want to
use one.
• A suitable mouse driver for your PCs. Supported types are:
- PS/2 or RS-232 two-button mouse driver by any manufacturer.
- Microsoft mouse drivers, including those for the IntelliMouse.
- Logitech mouse drivers, including those for two-button, three-button, and
wheel mice.

16
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
3.2 Placement
The ServSwitch Wizard should be placed on a desktop or shelf near your monitor
and peripherals. You can use the optional Remote-Control Module if you want to
put a Wizard farther from your monitor and peripherals.
3.3 Connecting Your Equipment
NOTES
When you connect devices to Wizards’ “control ports” and “CPU ports,”
refer to Figure 2-2 in Section 2.3 to see where these ports are.
Any unused CPU-port or control-port connectors on a ServSwitch
Wizard can be left vacant.
Most ServSwitch Wizard applications will involve a keyboard, monitor, mouse, and
two to four computer CPUs attached to a single Wizard. If that describes what you
want to do, follow the procedure in Section 3.3.1.
If you want to switch between more than four CPUs, you’ll need multiple
cascaded Wizards to connect them together. Follow the procedure in Section 3.3.2.
If your CPUs have multiple video outputs, you will need multiple synchronized
Wizards to switch between the CPUs. Follow the procedure in Section 3.3.3.
NOTE
It is theoretically possible to install a synchronized cascade, but we
don’t recommend doing this. If you need to switch between large
numbers of computers with multiple video outputs, we strongly suggest
that you consider a KVM-switching system designed to handle such
applications, such as our ServSwitch™ Multi.
As described in Sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.3, you might want to use ServSwitch
Duo User-Extension Cables or CPU-Extension Cables to connect your equipment,
or even ServSwitch Brand KVM extenders if the distances involved are long
enough. And to connect PC/AT style equipment, you’ll need adapters. These
cables, extenders, and adapters are described in Section 3.3.4.

17
CHAPTER 3: Installation
3.3.1 S YSTEMS WITH A S INGLE W IZARD
Make sure that the Wizard is unplugged and powered down. If possible, turn off
and unplug all of the devices that you want to attach to it. (If you have to “hot-
plug” any powered computers into the Wizard, see Section 5.8.)
Connect your user equipment (keyboard, PS/2 mouse, and monitor) to the
appropriate “control port” connectors on the Wizard’s rear panel. If you have had
to place the Wizard farther from the user equipment than the equipment’s native
cables will reach—up to an additional distance of 30 ft. (9.1 m)—you can plug the
native cables into ServSwitch Duo User-Extension Cable. If you need to place your
user equipment farther away than that, you’ll need to use one of our ServSwitch
brand KVM extenders.
Next, connect each computer CPU to the Wizard by running cabling from the
CPU’s keyboard, mouse, and video ports to the matching connectors in one of the
Wizard’s “CPU ports.” This cabling can be either separate male-to-male keyboard-,
mouse-, and video-extension cables, or our three-in-one ServSwitch Duo CPU-
Extension Cable. If you need to run farther than 100 ft. (30.5 m) to a CPU, you’ll
need to use one of our ServSwitch brand KVM extenders.
A complete system using a single Wizard is shown in Figure 3-1.
Figure 3-1. System using a single ServSwitch Wizard (SW652A shown).
CPU
Extension
cabling
User-station
monitor
User-station keyboard
and mouse
ServSwitch Wizard

18
SERVSWITCH™ WIZARD
3.3.2 C ASCADED W IZARD S YSTEMS FOR M ORE T HAN F OUR CPU S
Multiple ServSwitch Wizards can be cascaded (connected together in a one-to-
many scheme) in order to increase the maximum number of available CPU ports
in your KVM-switching system. (Note that each Wizard in a cascade must be
powered through a power supply and not from the keyboard interface.) This can
be particularly useful where clusters of computers are located some distance from
each other, because each Wizard acts as a kind of signal booster or repeater and
can be long distances away from the other Wizards in the system.
You can include ServSwitch Wizard LPs, ServSwitch Wizard Pros, and ServSwitch
Duos in ServSwitch Wizard cascades. We don’t recommend including Duos,
however, unless a single ServSwitch Duo is the master switch for your cascade. This
is because users attached to two or more Duos in the same cascade might see the
same CPUs as having different CPU numbers, and might have to use different
commands to access them.
Make sure that your “master” ServSwitch Wizard—the chassis that your monitor,
keyboard, and mouse will be attached to—is unplugged and powered down. If
possible, turn off and unplug all of the devices that you want to attach to this
Wizard. (If you have to “hot-plug” any powered computers into your Wizard
system, see Section 5.8.)
Connect your user equipment (keyboard, PS/2 mouse, and monitor) to the
appropriate “control port” connectors on the master Wizard’s rear panel. If you
have had to place the Wizard farther from the user equipment than the
equipment’s native cables will reach—up to an additional distance of 30 ft.
(9.1 m)—you can plug the native cables into ServSwitch Duo User-Extension
Cable. If you need to place your user equipment farther away than that, you’ll need
to use one of our ServSwitch brand KVM extenders.
Now connect a layer of as many as four “subsidiary” Wizards to your master
Wizard by running cabling from the subsidiary Wizards’ control ports to the master
Wizard’s “CPU ports.” This cabling can be either separate male-to-male keyboard-,
mouse-, and video-extension cables, or our three-in-one ServSwitch Duo CPU-
Extension Cable. If you need to run farther than 100 ft. (30.5 m) between master and
subsidiary Wizards, you’ll need to use one of our ServSwitch brand KVM extenders.
You can extend your cascade to a third layer by repeating the process and
attaching additional subsidiary Wizards to the subsidiary Wizards already attached
to your master Wizard chassis. Though it’s theoretically possible to cascade Wizards
to four, five, or more layers, we recommend that you limit your setup to three,
because the addresses you need to enter to switch CPU channels become
ridiculously long. If you need to connect that many computers, use a more
powerful KVM switch such as our ServSwitch™ Affinity or ServSwitch Multi.