Hawking CS164 User manual

CS164/CS168
4/8-Port
KVM Rack-Mount Switch

FCC Warning
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the regulations for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
this user’s guide, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in
a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct
the interference at his/her own expense.
CE Mark Warning
This is a Class B product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in which
case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
VCCI Mark Warning
LIMITED WARRANTY
Hawking Technology guarantees that every CS164/CS168 KVM Switch is free from physical defects in
material and workmanship under normal use for two (2) years from the date of purchase. If the product
proves defective during this two-year warranty period, call Hawking Customer Service in order to obtain a
Return Authorization number. Warranty is for repair or replacement only. Hawking Technology does not
issue any refunds. BE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE. RETURN REQUESTS
CANNOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT PROOF OF PURCHASE. When returning a product, mark the
Return Authorization number clearly on the outside of the package and include your original proof of
purchase.
IN NO EVENT SHALL HAWKING TECHNOLOGY’S LIABILTY EXCEED THE PRICE PAID FOR
THE PRODUCT FROM DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THE PRODUCT, ITS ACCOMPANYING SOFTWARE
OR ITS DOCUMENTATION. Hawking Technology makes no warranty or representation, expressed,
implied or statutory, with respect to its products or the contents or use of this documentation and all
accompanying software, and specifically disclaims its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for
any particular purpose. Hawking Technology reserves the right to revise or update its products, software,
or documentation without obligation to notify any individual or entity. Please direct all inquiries to:
[email protected].

The complete CS164 package consists of:
i One 4-Port CS164 KVM Rack-Mount Switch
i One User’s Manual
i One AC to DC Power Adapter
i One Rack Mount Kit
The complete CS168 package consists of:
i One 8-Port CS168 KVM Rack-Mount Switch
i One User’s Manual
i One AC to DC Power Adapter
i One Rack Mount Kit
Check to make sure that the unit was not damaged during shipping. If you encounter a
problem, contact your dealer.
Please read this manual thoroughly, and follow the installation and operation procedures
carefully to prevent any damage to the CS164/CS168 unit, and/or any of the devices
connected to it.
¤Copyright 2003 Hawking Technologies, Inc.
All brand names and trademarks are the registered property of their respective owners.
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Overview…………………………………………………………………………….…….3
Features……………………………………………………………………………..……..4
Hardware Requirements………………………………….………………………………..5
Console…………………………………………………………………………..……...5
PC………………………………………………………………………………………5
Cables…………………………………………………………………………………...5
Introduction……………………………………………………………………………….6
Front View……………………………………………………………………………...6
Rear View………………………………………………………………………………6
Installation……………………………………………………………………………....7-8
Operation……………………………………………………………………………….…9
Port Selection……………….…………………………………………………………..9
Manual Navigation…………..……………………………………...……………..……9
HotKey Navigation…………………….……………………………………………..…9
Auto Scan Mode……………………………………………………………………....10
Appendix………………………………………………………………………………...11
LED Status……………………………………………………………………………11
Troubleshooting…………………………………………………………..……….11-12
Specifications…………………………………………………………………………13
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The CS164/CS168 4/8-Port KVM 19” Rack-Mount Switch is a control unit that allows
access to multiple computers or servers from a single console (keyboard, monitor and
mouse). Before the development of the CS164/CS168, the only way to control multiple
computer configurations from a single console was through a complex and costly
network system. Now, with the CS164/CS168, you can easily access multiple computers
in a cost effective manner.
The CS164 unit can control up to 4 PCs, all from a single console, while the CS168 can
control up to 8 PCs.
Setup is fast and easy. All that is required is for the user to plug the cables into the
appropriate ports. There is no software to configure, so there is no need to get involved
in complex installation routines or to be concerned with incompatibility problems. Since
the CS164/CS168 intercepts keyboard input directly, it works on any hardware platform
and with all operating systems.
The CS164/CS168 provides two convenient methods to access any PC connected to the
system: (1) using the push button port selection switch located on top of the unit's panel;
(2) entering HotKey combinations from the keyboard. In addition, a powerful Auto Scan
Control feature allows you to auto scan and monitor the activities of all operating PCs on
the installation one by one.
There is no better way to save time and money. By allowing a single console to manage
all the attached PCs, the CS164/CS168 eliminates the expense of purchasing a separate
keyboard, monitor, and mouse for each PC, and saves all the extra space as well. It also
eliminates the inconvenience and unnecessary effort involved in constantly moving
around from one PC to another.
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i Sturdy 19” rack-mount design
i No Software Required - PC Selection via “Select” button on the Switch, HotKey
combinations
i Supports DOS, Win3.X, Win95/98/98SE/2000/XP, WinNT, Netware, Unix, Linux.
i Auto Scan Mode for Monitoring Selected PCs
i PS/2 and Serial Mouse Emulation Provided For System Bootup
i Console's PS/2 Mouse Controls All Connected PCs
i PS/2 Compatible Mouse Support - Microsoft Intellimouse, Intellimouse Explorer,
Logitech Net Mouse or any other fully compatible MS mouse.
i Superior Video Quality; 1920 x 1440
i LED Display For Easy Status Monitoring
i Audible signal for port switching confirmation
i Restorable keyboard status when switching PC’s
i Hot Pluggable - Add or Remove PCs for Maintenance Without Powering Down the
Switch
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Console
i A VGA monitor with the highest resolution that you will be using on any PC in the
installation
i A PS/2 Style Mouse
i A PS/2 Style Keyboard
PC
The following equipment must be installed on each PC that is to be connected to the
system:
i A VGA card.
i Either a 6-pin mini-DIN (PS/2 style), or DB-9 (standard serial) mouse port.
i Either a 6-pin mini-DIN (PS/2 Style) keyboard port with +5V DC on pin 4 and ground
on pin 3, or a 5-pin DIN (AT Style) keyboard port with +5V DC on pin 5 and ground
on pin 4.*
* See the note under Cables in the next section.
Cables
Depending on how many PC’s you wish to configure, the following cables will be
required:
i 4 (CS164) HDB 15-pin male to male VGA Cables. (8 for the CS168)
i 4 (CS164) PS/2 cables, male to male, for Keyboards. (8 for the CS168)
i 4 (CS164) PS/2 cables, male to male, for the Mouse. (8 for the CS168)
Note:
1. If your PC uses a standard AT style keyboard socket you will need to
purchase a PS/2-to-AT keyboard adapter in order to plug the cable into the
computer’s keyboard port.
2. If your PC uses a standard 9-pin serial port for the mouse, you will need to
purchase a PS/2-to-Serial mouse adapter in order to plug the cable into the
computer's serial port.
3. Because of the wiring and pin assignments, you cannot use a Serial-to-PS/2
adapter at the end that plugs into the CS164/CS168. Therefore, attempting to
use a standard serial extender cable with adapters at both ends will fail.
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Front Panel & Rear Panel of CS164:
Front Panel & Rear Panel of CS168:
1. Port LEDs:
Pressing the appropriate “Select” button switches access between
The PCs. The selected LED lights indicate which port is the active one.
2. Sounds:
The switch will beep when switching ports.
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Before you begin, please make sure that all of the devices that you are going to connect to
have power turned off.
Installation
To set up your CS164/CS168, please follow the steps below:
1. Install the switch in a relatively cool and dry location; see the “Technical
Specifications” section for the acceptable operating tecmperature and humidity
ranges. The installation location must be free from vibrations, dust, direct
exposure to sunlight and strong electromagnetic field generators, such as motors.
Install the switch on a sturdy, level surface that is capable of supporting the
weight of the switch. A standard EIA 19” equipment rack is sufficient as well.
To mount the switch on a rack, install the included mounting brackets to the sides
of the switch. Secure them with the provided screws and then mount the switch to
the rack with the hardware provided by the rack manufacturer.
2. Plug the cables from your keyboard, mouse and monitor into the Console Ports.
Use the proper connector cable sets (as described in the Hardware Requirements
section), to connect the monitor, keyboard and mouse ports of the PCs to the
CS164/CS168 4/8-port KVM Rack Mount Switch.
3. Plug the power adapter into an AC power source, then plug the cable into the
CS164/CS168 Power Jack.
4. Turn on the power of the PCs.
Note: Do not attempt to switch the PC port or run the HotKeys while the computers are
booting up.
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Installation Diagram (CS164 Shown)
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Port Selection
Controlling all the PCs connected to your CS164/CS168 from a single console couldn’t
be easier. You can access any PC on the chain using two methods: Manual or HotKey.
Manual
Simply press the appropriate “Select” button located on the front of the CS164/CS168
to switch between computers. The GREEN LED lights indicate the port that is
currently in use. The RED LED lights indicate the computers that are turned on and
have power.
HotKey Navigation
HotKey navigation allows you to conveniently access connected PCs directly from the
keyboard, instead of having to manually select by pressing the “Select” button on the
CS164/CS168 switch. To select a port with the HotKey method, do the following:
1. Press and release the [Scroll Lock] key twice within 2 seconds and press:
(a) “Up-Arrow” to select the previous channel,
(b) “Down Arrow” to select the next channel
(c) [S] key to set the KVM switch into Auto Scan Mode.
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Auto Scan Mode
The CS164/CS168 Auto Scan feature automatically switches between the 4 or 8 PCs at
adjustable time intervals so that you can monitor their activity without having to take
the trouble of switching yourself. To invoke the Auto Scan Mode, key in the
following Hot Key combination:
[Scroll Lock] + [Scroll Lock] + [S] + “1-9” (to designate the scan time in seconds)
Reminder: Press and release the [Scroll Lock] key twice within 2 seconds.
Once scanning begins, it continues until you press any other key to exit Auto Scan
Mode. The port that was currently active at the time when scanning stopped remains
active.
Last/Next Mode
The Last/Next feature is provided to enable you to quickly switch back and forth
between computers in order to monitor them manually, instead of using Auto Scan
Mode. This method lets you dwell on a particular port for as long or as little as you
like – as opposed to Auto Scan Mode, which switches after a fixed interval.
1. Press [Scroll Lock] + [Scroll Lock] + “Up Arrow”
2. Press [Scroll Lock] + [Scroll Lock] + “Down Arrow”
OR
Selecting PC Ports using numbers
This feature allows the user to quickly select a given computer by:
1. Press [Scroll Lock] + [Scroll Lock] + “1-4” or “1-8”
(depending on which switch you have, CS164/CS168)
Resetting the KVM 4/8-Port-Rack Mount Switch
1. Press [Scroll Lock] + [Scroll Lock] + [End]
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Activity/Green LED Meaning
Off Port is not selected
On (Steady) Port is connected to an active PC
Flashing (On and Off
equal)
Port is connected to an active PC and is being accessed
in Auto Scan mode.
Troubleshooting
Note: If you are experiencing difficulties, first make sure that there are no problems with
the cables, and that they are all properly connected.
Symptom Possible Cause Action
Erratic Behavior
Unit not receiving
enough power under
self-powered
operation.
Use the Power Adapter that was supplied
with the unit to provide external power.
Keyboard needs to be
reset
Unplug the Keyboard from the Console
Keyboard Port, then plug it back in.
CS164/168 needs to
be reset
Turn off the PCs and wait for five
seconds. Turn them back on.
Keyboard Not
Responding*
CS164/168 is in Auto
Scan Mode or
Last/Next Mode
Press the [Spacebar] to exit Auto Scan or
Last/Next Mode.
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Mouse needs to be
reset
Unplug the Mouse from the Console
Mouse Port, then plug it back in.
CS164/168 needs to
be reset
Turn off the PCs and wait for five
seconds. Turn them back on.
Mouse in unsupported
mode
The CS164/168 supports most mice with
PS/2, including Microsoft Intellimouse,
Logitech Net Mouse, etc.
If the problem persists, change the mouse
and/or mouse driver. Try a regular mouse
with a generic mouse driver (like the ones
that comes with the operating system).
Mouse Not
Responding**
Mouse not detected
When switching from one port to another,
the best scan time setting is 5 secs. or
more. The VGA monitor usually takes at
least 2 seconds to switch.
Resolution and/or
Bandwidth set too
high
Select a lower resolution and/or
bandwidth.
Video Problems
Poor cable quality
We strongly recommend that you use
premium cables. Using high quality
cables should eliminate possible video
problems.
* The 4/8-Port KVM Rack-Mount Switch is designed to work with PS/2
keyboards. Older XT (84-key) and some older AT keyboards (those with the
function keys on the side), will not work.
** Some Notebook computers, notably the IBM Thinkpad and Toshiba Tecra,
have trouble working with the CS164/168 when their mice and keyboard ports are
used simultaneously. To avoid this problem, only connect the mouse port or the
keyboard port to the CS164/168 unit. If you connect the mouse port, you will
need to use the notebook’s keyboard when you switch to make the notebook the
active computer.
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Specifications
Model No. CS 164 CS168
PC Ports 4 8
Console Port 1 1
PC Port Connector
(All Females)
PS/2 Keyboard mini Din 6-pin
PS/2 Mouse mini Din 6-pin
VGA HDDB 15-pin
Console Port
Connector
(All Females)
PS/2 Keyboard mini Din 6-pin
PS/2 Mouse mini Din 6-pin
VGA HDDB 15-pin
Daisy Chain Port
Connector
No
PC Selection Hotkey, Push Button
LED Lamp Eight Red LED’s, Eight Green LED’s
Scan Intervals 5-99 Seconds
Keyboard Emulation PS/2
Mouse Emulation PS/2
VGA Resolution 1920 x 1440
Bandwidth 200MHz
Housing Metal
Power Adapter DC 12V 1A or DC 9V “500mA”
Operation Temp. 0 ~ 40 C
Storage Temp. -20 ~ 60 C
Humidity 0 ~ 80%, Non Condensing
Size 19” RackMount / 1RU 19” RackMount / 1RU
Weight (kg) 1.5kg 2.2kg
Dimension (cm) 8.5”(L) X 4”(W) X 1.8”
(H)
16.1”(L) X 6.5”(W) X
1.8”(H)
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