NTI ST-8U-R User manual

ST-xU (Universal KVM Switch)
INSTALLATION / USER GUIDE
MAN064 Rev Date 11/23/2001
VGA
Multi-Scan
Monitor
SUN WORKSTATION SUN WORKSTATION
Macintosh
Macintosh
PS/2 PS/2
PS/2 PS/2
ON
OFF
NETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ST-8U
NTI
12 3 4 5 6 7 8
MODE
SCAN BROAD
CAST COM MAND
REMOTE REMOTE
OUT IN
PC, SUN, or MAC Keyboard / Mouse
NTINTI NETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED Tel:[phone]
Fax:[phone]
1275 Danner Dr
Aurora, OH 44202

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................................................................................................1
MATERIALS...........................................................................................................................................................................................................2
Materials Supplied with this kit:...................................................................................................................................................................2
Materials Not Supplied, but REQUIRED:.................................................................................................................................................2
INSTALLATION.....................................................................................................................................................................................................3
1. LIMITATIONS...........................................................................................................................................................................................7
2. CASCADED INSTALLATION.................................................................................................................................................................8
3. CONFIGURATION OF DIP-SWITCHES 1-6:....................................................................................................................................9
USING THE NTI UNIVERSAL KVM SWITCH............................................................................................................................................9
FRONT PANEL CONTROL..........................................................................................................................................................................9
MODES OF OPERATION...........................................................................................................................................................................10
1. BASIC COMMAND MODE....................................................................................................................................................................10
2. SCAN MODE.............................................................................................................................................................................................11
3. BROADCAST MODE..............................................................................................................................................................................11
4. NORMAL MODE.......................................................................................................................................................................................11
OPTIONAL OSD SECURITY ADMINISTRATION..................................................................................................................................11
USING THE SECURITY FEATURE........................................................................................................................................................12
USER LOGIN MODE....................................................................................................................................................................................12
ADMINISTRATION MODE..........................................................................................................................................................................13
USER NAME LIST.........................................................................................................................................................................................13
SYSTEM ACCESS LIST..............................................................................................................................................................................13
OPTIONAL OSD CONTROL..........................................................................................................................................................................14
OSD COMMAND MODE.............................................................................................................................................................................14
SCAN MODE...................................................................................................................................................................................................15
BROADCAST MODE....................................................................................................................................................................................15
NORMAL MODE.............................................................................................................................................................................................15
EDIT MODE......................................................................................................................................................................................................16
SEARCH MODE.............................................................................................................................................................................................16
MAINTENANCE MODE...............................................................................................................................................................................17
HELP MODE....................................................................................................................................................................................................18
Other Control Options.......................................................................................................................................................................................18
Keyboard Mapping.............................................................................................................................................................................................18
KEYBOARD-TO-COMPUTER TRANSLATION.......................................................................................................................................19
Mouse Click Equivalents..............................................................................................................................................................................19
HOW TO DISABLE OPERATING MODES...............................................................................................................................................19
CONFIGURING THE JUMPER BLOCK.................................................................................................................................................23
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS...................................................................................................................................................................23
TROUBLESHOOTING......................................................................................................................................................................................24
WARRANTY INFORMATION.........................................................................................................................................................................24
COPYRIGHT....................................................................................................................................................................................................24
CHANGES........................................................................................................................................................................................................24

1
INTRODUCTION
The NTI UNIVERSAL KVM Switch connects the user’s keyboard, monitor, and mouse directly to any legacy PC, MAC, or SUN
workstation connected to the switch (up to 32 computers as a single switch or 152 computers when switches are cascaded).
These computers can be file servers, network managers, etc. Through the connection made by the Universal KVM switch, the
user is able to control any one workstation connected to the system. The microprocessor driven circuitry in the NTI Switch allows
all computers to boot simultaneously without keyboard error.
NOTE: A VGA multi-scan monitor must be used with this product unless you have purchased an ST-xU-13W3 which will
also work with a multi-scan PC compatible SUN monitor.
Available Options:
•Switch models are available in 60 or 50 Hz, and 110 or 220V.
•Built-in 13W3 monitor port for SUN multi-scan PC compatible monitors. (Model ST-xU-13W3)
•LCD display (Allows selection and control of computers by name through a display on the front panel of the switch.)(Model
ST-xU-X)
•OSD (On Screen Display Control feature will superimpose operating menus directly onto the monitor for security
administration and control.)(Model ST-xU-O)
•RS232 (Control the system from the serial port of any host computer with an RS232 port.)(Model ST-xU-RS)
SPECIAL NOTE:In order to use models ST-8U-R, ST-8U-RO, ST-4U-R, and ST-4U-RO in conjunction with a wired remote
control, they must be connected as slaves, daisy-chained in a cascaded system (See CASCADING on page 7). The connection
sockets for use in conjunction with a remote control (normally labeled “REMOTE IN” and “REMOTE OUT”), on these models, are
labeled “DAISY IN” and “DAISY OUT”.
See our catalog, visit our website at http://www.nti1.com, or contact an NTI sales representative at 800-742-8324
(800-RGB-TECH) or 330-562-7070 for more details.

2
MATERIALS
Materials Supplied with this kit:
1. NTI UNIVERSAL KVM Switch
Materials Not Supplied, but REQUIRED:
1. A set of 2 cables for each computer being connected to the switch:
PS/2 computer to Switch 1. VEXT-xx-MM for video interface
2. VKTINT-xx-MM for keyboard and mouse interface
OR
SUN computer to Switch 1. VEXT-xx-MM for video interface
2. 13W3M-15HDF (adapter for 13W3 to 15HD)
3. SKTINT-xx-MM for keyboard/mouse interface
OR
MAC computer to Switch 1. VEXT-xx-MM for video interface
2. 15DM-15HDF (adapter for 15D to 15HD)
3. MKTINT-xx-MM for keyboard/mouse interface
2. One of the following cables must be used to connect the keyboard/mouse:
PS/2 keyboard and mouse VKTINT-1
OR
SUN keyboard/mouse None needed. SUN keyboard plugs directly in.
OR
MAC keyboard/mouse MKTINT-1
OPTIONAL:
REXT-xx Extension cable for wired remote (RMT-xx) and / or cascading switches
Legend:xx is the length of the cable in feet.
MM indicates male-to-male connector, and
MF indicates male-to-female connector.
Cables can be purchased from Network Technologies Inc.

3
INSTALLATION
1. Turn OFF power to all computers that will be connected to the NTI Switch before connecting or disconnecting any cables to or
from them.
WARNING! DAMAGE MAY OCCUR TO THE COMPUTER IF POWER IS NOT DISCONNECTED BEFORE CONNECTING OR
DISCONNECTING CABLES.
2. Configure the dip-switches for the type of keyboard and mouse being used (see Fig. 1). The dip-switches on the front panel
must be configured for the platform of the keyboard/mouse that will be used to operate the Universal switch. This action must be
completed prior to powering up the ST-xU. Should it be necessary to replace the keyboard of one platform with a keyboard of
a different platform, the dip-switches will need to be re-configured accordingly. To do this, first power-down the ST-xU by
following the proper power-down sequence. That is, turn the computers OFF first, then the NTI switch. When power has been
turned OFF, replace the keyboard, re-configure the switches and then power up, following the proper power-up sequence. That
is, turn ON power to the NTI Switch first, then to the computers. However, if the keyboard is being replaced with one from the
SAME PLATFORM, it can be hot-swapped without powering-down. Refer to the following diagrams for proper keyboard dip-
switch configuration.
Keyboard Dip-Switch Configuration
3. If the Universal KVM switches are being cascaded together, configure the dip-switches accordingly (see Tables 1 and 2 on
page 8).
4. Connect the monitor to the port labeled MONITOR on the rear of the NTI Switch. (See Fig. 2.)
Fig. 1
VGA
Multi-Scan
Monitor
ON
OFF
NTINETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
12345678
Switch 7 - OFF
Switch 8 - OFF
PS/2 Keyboard & Mouse
ST-8U
VKTINT-1
VGA
Multi-Scan
Monitor
ON
OFF
NTINETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
12345678
MAC Keyboard / Mouse
Switch 7 - OFF
Switch 8 - ON
ST-8U
MKTINT-1
VGA
Multi-Scan
Monitor
ON
OFF
NTINETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
12345678
SUN Keyboard / Mouse
Switch 7 - ON
Switch 8 - OFF
ST-8U
EXISTING SUN
KEYBOARD/MOUSE
CABLE
Fig. 2
VGA
Multi-Scan
Monitor
KEYBD
MONITOR
KEY-4 KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1
VIDEO
PC-4 VIDEO PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO PC-1
(REAR VIEW)

4
5. Connect the keyboard to the port labeled KEYBD on the rear of the NTI Switch following one of the methods detailed below:
A. If using a PS/2 keyboard, attach the 8-pin male end of a VKTINT-1 to the NTI switch at the KEYBD port. The keyboard
will plug into the 6-pin purple female connector with the keyboard symbol on it (see Fig. 3), and the mouse will plug into the 6-pin
green female connector with the mouse symbol on it (see Fig. 4).
B. If using a MAC keyboard/mouse, attach the 8-pin male end of a MKTINT-1 to the NTI switch at the KEYBD port. Attach
the keyboard/mouse assembly to the 4-pin female end of the MKTINT-1.
C. If using a SUN keyboard/mouse, plug the SUN keyboard directly into the KEYBD port.
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
PS/2 Keyboard
KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1 KEYBDKEY-4
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO PC-1 MONITOR
VIDEO
PC-4
VKTINT-1
PS/2
Mouse
6 Pin miniDIN Male
Connector
(GREEN)
(PURPLE)
8 Pin miniDIN Male
Connector Keyboard Symbol Mouse Symbol
Fig. 3 Fig. 4
MAC Keyboard / Mouse
KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1 KEYBDKEY-4
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO
PC-1 MONITOR
VIDEO
PC-4
MKTINT-1
4 Pin miniDIN Male
Connector
8 Pin miniDIN Male
Connector
SUN Keyboard / Mouse
KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1 KEYBDKEY-4
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO PC-1 MONITOR
VIDEO
PC-4
8 Pin miniDIN Male
Connector

5
6. For each computer:
a. Connect the appropriate NTI universal adapter cable (see the chart below) from the keyboard port of the computer to a
keyboard port of the NTI Universal KVM switch (KEY-x). Note the port’s number. (See Fig. 8-10 below.)
b. Connect the appropriate NTI video cable (see the chart below) from the video port of the computer to the video port of the
NTI Universal KVM switch (VIDEO PC-x) with the same port number as the keyboard (see Fig. 8-10 below).
Computer Keyboard Cable Video Cable Video Adapter
PS/2 VKTINT-xx-MM VEXT-xx-MM None needed
MAC MKTINT-xx-MM VEXT-xx-MM 13W3M-15HDF
SUN SKTINT-xx-MM VEXT-xx-MM 15DM-15HDF
NOTE: Make sure the computer is connected to a keyboard port and a video port with the same number. Otherwise, the
commands typed to one computer may show up on the monitor intended for another computer.
Fig. 9
Fig. 10
Fig. 8
KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1 KEYBDKEY-4
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO
PC-1 MONITOR
VIDEO
PC-4
Port assignments ( ST-4U )
PORT 4 PORT 3 PORT 2 PORT 1 PS/2 COMPUTER
VKTINT-xx-MM
VEXT-xx-MM
KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1 KEYBDKEY-4
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO
PC-1 MONITOR
VIDEO
PC-4
PORT 4 PORT 3 PORT 2 PORT 1
MAC COMPUTER
VEXT-xx-MM
15DM-15HDF
KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1 KEYBDKEY-4
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO
PC-1 MONITOR
VIDEO
PC-4
PORT 4 PORT 3 PORT 2 PORT 1
SUN COMPUTER
VEXT-xx-MM
13W3M-15HDF
SKTINT-xx-MM
ATTACH A SECOND COMPUTER TO PORT 2
(SHOWN HERE IS A SUN COMPUTER)
ATTACH A THIRD COMPUTER TO PORT 3
(SHOWN HERE IS A MAC COMPUTER)
ATTACH FIRST COMPUTER TO PORT 1
(SHOWN HERE IS A PS/2 COMPUTER)
MKTINT-xx-MM

6
WARNING! If a serial mouse port is being used on a PC to connect a serial host to an NTI switch, do not use a generic 9D-to-
6mD adapter (Fig. 11) to make connection to the PS/2 cable-- use a VOPEX-IM9D (Fig. 12) to convert the signal from the serial
port to PS/2.
7. Plug the NTI Universal KVM switch into an AC power outlet.
8. Connect the RMT (optional) to the NTI Switch “REMOTE IN” port using the REXT-SR-25 cable supplied with the RMT.
9. Turn ON power to the NTI Universal KVM switch. (If multiple switches are being cascaded as described on page 7, switch
ON power to the slaves first, then the master.) The LED above button 1 on the front panel of the Universal KVM switch
should illuminate. If it doesn’t, see TROUBLESHOOTING.
Note: The NTI Universal KVM switch also supplies power to the optional RMT. See also SPECIAL NOTE above.
10. Turn ON power to any or all computers connected to the NTI Universal KVM switch.
Note: If upon startup the monitor immediately displays a USER LOGIN menu requiring a USER NAME and
PASSWORD, then the Administrator has already setup the system and enabled the OSD Security feature. Contact
the administrator for a login name and password. Then see page 12 for “USER LOGIN MODE” instructions.
Fig. 12
Fig. 11
SPECIAL NOTE: Models ST-8U-R, ST-8U-R0, ST-4U-R, and
ST-4U-RO can only be installed as slaves in conjunction with a
Remote Control (RMT). These models will not support the direct
plug-in of the RMT.
Fig. 13
Do not use
with NTI
products
RMT
NN
TT
II
CPUCONNECTED
RMT-SR
SCAN BCAST CMD 5
1
6
2
7
3
8
4
90
ON
OFF
NETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ST-8U
NTI
12345678
MODE
SCAN BROAD
CAST COM
MAND
REMOTE REMOTE
OUT IN
REMOTE IN
9D Male
6 Pin miniDIN
Male
VOPEX-IM9D
Generic
9D-to 6mD adapter
9D Male
6 Pin miniDIN
Male

7
CASCADING
The Universal KVM switch can be expanded to access up to 152 CPUs by cascading multiple units together. Up to 8 SUN, MAC,
or Universal switches can be connected into another Universal KVM switch’s CPU ports, as shown in Fig. 14. The Universal KVM
switch connected to the monitor and keyboard must be configured as the “MASTER” unit (via dip-switches). Any switches
connected to the “MASTER” must be configured as “SLAVE” units. Refer to Tables 1 and 2 on page 9 for instructions on proper
cascading dip-switch configurations. All 4,8, and 16-port Universal KVM switches are fully configurable for this expansion method.
The only additional hardware required is a set of keyboard, monitor, and RMT extension cables for each “SLAVE UNIT” (see
MATERIALS on page 2).
FROM: TO: VIDEO CABLE VIDEO ADAPTER KEYBOARD CABLE
ST-8U (MASTER) SE-8M13W3-8-A (SLAVE) VEXT-xx-MM* 13W3M-15HDF SKTINT-xx-MM
ST-8U (MASTER) SE-4M15D-8-A (SLAVE) VEXT-xx-MM 15DM-15HDF MKTINT-xx-MM
ST-8U (MASTER) ST-8U (SLAVE) VEXT-xx-MM NOT USED VKTINT-1 + VKTINT-xx-MM
SE-8M13W3-8-A (SLAVE) SUN CPU SUCEXT-xx NOT USED SUKINT-xx-MM
SE-4M15D-8-A (SLAVE) MAC CPU MEXT-xx-MM NOT USED MKINT-xx-MM
ST-8U (SLAVE) PS/2 CPU VEXT-xx-MM NOT USED VKTINT-xx-MM
1. LIMITATIONS
a. Master units can be any size single-user switch (excluding 2-port switches.)
b. All the slave units must be the same size.
c. Slave units can only be 4, 8, or 16-port switches.
d. Up to 8 slave units may be connected to form a maximum system size of 152 ports (1x32-port master + 8x16-port slaves).
e. Slave units must be added to the master unit sequentially, starting at port 1, then port 2, and so on (slave #1 to master’s port
1, slave #2 to master’s port 2, etc.).
NOTE: Port 1 of the Master Unit with Slave Unit #1 connected to it will function and be controlled as ports 1-4 for an ST-4U (1-8
for an ST-8U, etc.), Master Unit Port 2 with Slave Unit #2 connected will function and be controlled as the next sequential port
numbers (5-8 for an ST-4U, 9-16 for an ST-8U, etc.). Consecutive ports on the master used for individual CPU’s will function and
be controlled as the next consecutive port number. (I.e. Ports 3 and 4 of a 4-port master with only two 4-port slaves connected
will function and be controlled as ports 9 and 10 respectively.) See Fig. 15 on pg. 8 for an illustration of this.
f. All units must be powered OFF during configuration and interconnecting.
g. For multi-platform cascaded systems (systems with MAC, SUN, and/or PS/2 CPUs mixed together), each slave unit is “uni-
platform” - that is, slaves can only have CPUs of the same platform connected to them and the cable between the slave and
master unit must support that platform.
h. In order to use models ST-8U-R, ST-8U-RO, ST-4U-R, and ST-4U-RO in conjunction with a wired remote control, they
must be connected as slaves, daisy-chained in a cascaded system. The connection sockets for use in conjunction with a
Remote Control (normally labeled “REMOTE IN” and “REMOTE OUT”), on these models, are labeled “DAISY IN” and
“DAISY OUT.”
ST-8U
(master unit)
VGA
Multi-Scan
Monitor
VEXT-xx-MM
ST-8U
(slave unit)
VEXT-xx-MM
PS/2 CPU
x 1...16
VKTINT-xx-MM
SE-4M15D-8-A
(slave unit)
MEXT-xx-MM
MAC CPU
x 1...16
MKINT-xx-MMSE-8M13W3-8-A
(slave unit)
SUCEXT-xx
SUN CPU
x 1...16
SUKINT-xx-MM
REXT-SR-xx
REXT-SR-xx
REXT-SR-xx
SKTINT-xx-MM
VEXT-xx-MM + 13W3M-15HDF
VEXT-xx-MM
+ 15DM-15HDF
MKTINT-xx-MM
SUN CPU
MAC CPU
VEXT-xx-MM + 13W3M-15HDF
SKTINT-xx-MM
MKTINT-xx-MM
VEXT-xx-MM
+ 15DM-15HDF
VKTINT-1 + VKTINT-xx-MM
* xx –is the length of the cable in feet.
Fig. 14

8
2. CASCADED INSTALLATION
a. Perform steps 1-3 under INSTALLATION (on page 4) for each slave unit.
b. Configure each switch as per tables on page 9 before proceeding.
c. With a VEXT-xx-MM cable, connect slave #1’s “MONITOR” port to the master’s “VIDEO PC-1” port (see Fig. 15 below).
d. With an SKTINT-xx-MM or VKTINT-1/VKTINT-xx-MM pair or MKTINT-xx-MM, connect slave #1’s “KEYBD” port to the
master’s “KEY 1” port (see Fig. 15 below and the chart on page 7).
e. Repeat steps c and d for each additional slave unit, keeping in mind that each slave will connect into the next available
master’s port (i.e. slave #2 to master’s “VIDEO PC-2” and “KEY-2”, etc.).
f. With an RMT extension cable (REXT-SR-xx), connect the master’s “REMOTE OUT” port to slave #1’s “REMOTE IN” port.
g. With another RMT extension cable, connect slave #1’s “REMOTE OUT” port to slave #2’s “REMOTE IN” port. (See Fig. 16
below.)
Note: For slave models ST-8U-R, ST-8U-RO, ST-4U-R, and ST-4U-RO the extension cable will connect to the “DAISY IN”
and “DAISY OUT” ports rather than “REMOTE IN” and “REMOTE OUT”.
h. Repeat step g. until all slave units are connected together.
i. Repeat the installation section of the manual for any CPUs to be connected to the master.
NOTE: If you are using an optional wired remote, it will be connected to the master switch’s “REMOTE IN” port. If you
are not cascading, and you do not use the optional wired remote, then the “REMOTE IN” and “REMOTE OUT” ports will
not be used.
Fig. 15
TO SLAVE 1
"REMOTE IN"
RMT
NN
TT
II
CPU CONNECTED
RMT-SR
SCAN BCAST CMD 5
1
6
2
7
3
8
4
90
ON
OFF
NETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ST-8U
NTI
1234 567 8
MODE
SCAN BROAD
CAST COM MAND
REMOTE REMOTE
OUT IN
REMOTE IN
ON
OFF
NETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ST-8U
NTI
12 3 4 5 6 7 8
MODE
SCAN BROAD
CAST COM
MAND
REMOTE REMOTE
OUT IN
SLAVE #1
MASTER
TO SLAVE 2
"REMOTE IN"
ON
OFF
NETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ST-8U
NTI
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
MODE
SCAN BROAD
CAST COM MAND
REMOTE REMOTE
OUT IN
SLAVE #2
REXT-SR-xx
REXT-SR-xx
REMOTE OUT
REMOTE OUT
KEYBD
MONITOR
KEY-4 KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1
MASTER UNIT (ST-4U)
SLAVE UNIT #2 (ST-4U) SLAVE UNIT #1 (ST-4U)
Basic Cascaded Master-To-Slave Rear Connections
KEYBD
VEXT-xx-MM
VIDEO
PC-4
CPU 1-4
CPU 5
CPU 6
CPU 7
CPU 8
FOR CONNECTION OF CPUS 5-8
FOR CONNECTION OF CPUS 1-4
CONNECT SLAVES FOR CASCADED
CPU CONNECTIONS
If you connect additional 4-PORT slaves
to VIDEO PC & KEY ports 3 & 4,
they will function and be controlled as
CPU ports 9-12 & 13-16 respectively.
- OR-
If you just connect individual CPUs
to ports 3 & 4, they will function and
be controlled as CPU ports 9 & 10
respectively.
MONITOR
KEY-4 KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO PC-1
KEYBD
VIDEO
PC-4
CPU 1
CPU 2
CPU 3
CPU 4
MONITOR
KEY-4 KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO PC-1
CPU 5-8
VIDEO
PC-4 VIDEO PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO PC-1
VKTINT-1
VKTINT-xx-MM
VKTINT-1
VKTINT-xx-MM
VEXT-xx-MM
Fig. 16

9
j. Power ON each of the slaves connected.
k. Power ON the master switch.
l. Power ON each of the CPUs.
3. CONFIGURATION OF DIP-SWITCHES 1-6:
All units are configured using switches 1 thru 6 of the 8-position dip-switch (located on the front of each unit) according to Tables 1
and 2. (Switches 7 and 8 are configured for the keyboard on page 3.)
Front Panel Configuration Switches
Table 1 * (default settings)
Switch 1 5 6
STAND-ALONE SWITCH OFF* OFF* OFF*
SLAVE ON OFF OFF
MASTER W/4-PORT SLAVES OFF OFF ON
MASTER W/8-PORT SLAVES OFF ON OFF
MASTER W/16-PORT SLAVES OFF ON ON
Table 2 * (default settings) Master & Slave dip switch 2-4 Settings
234Master with- Slave Setting
OFF* OFF* OFF* No Slave Attached N/A
OFF OFF OFF 1 Slave attached Slave Unit #1
OFF OFF ON 2 Slaves attached Slave Unit #2
OFF ON OFF 3 Slaves attached Slave Unit #3
OFF ON ON 4 Slaves attached Slave Unit #4
ON OFF OFF 5 Slaves attached Slave Unit #5
ON OFF ON 6 Slaves attached Slave Unit #6
ON ON OFF 7 Slaves attached Slave Unit #7
ON ON ON 8 Slaves attached Slave Unit #8
USING THE NTI UNIVERSAL KVM SWITCH
Control over the computers attached to the NTI Universal KVM switch is achieved through operation of the Universal KVM switch.
Once the Universal KVM switch is properly connected, the Universal KVM switch will enable a connection to be made between the
computers attached to its VIDEO-PC-x and KEY-x ports and the keyboard, monitor, and mouse attached to the MONITOR and
KEYBD ports. The lights on the control panel of the Universal KVM switch will illuminate depending on which port (and
subsequent associated computer) is being connected to the keyboard, monitor, and mouse. The choice of which computer a
keyboard, monitor, and mouse will be connected to is determined by controlling the Universal KVM switch either through the front
control panel on the Universal KVM switch, by keyboard control, or by optional methods such as Wired Remote Control, RS232,
Infrared, or an On Screen Display. An LCD display can also be added to enable selection and control of computers by name.
FRONT PANEL CONTROL
There is a touch-switch and LED on the front panel of the Universal KVM switch for each computer the switch will connect
the keyboard, monitor, and mouse to. Pressing any touch-switch on the front panel of the Universal KVM switch will connect the
selected computer to the keyboard, monitor, and mouse.
Holding down any front panel touch-switch for more than 2 seconds will cause the Universal KVM switch to cycle through all
modes of operation including COMMAND, SCAN, BROADCAST, and NORMAL (described on pages 10 and 11). The three LEDs
on the front panel indicate which mode is selected. Release the touch-switch when the LEDs indicate the desired mode. When
no LEDs are illuminated the user is in Normal Mode controlling directly the computer to which the user is connected through the
Universal KVM switch.
8-POSITION
DIP-SWITCH
About Table 2:
These switch settings are used by the slave(s) to
establish its identity (i.e. location in the group) to
the master.
In a master, the same switches are used to
configure the master for how many slaves are
attached to it.
ON
OFF
NETWORK
TECHNOLOGIES
INCORPORATED
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ST-8U
NTI
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
MODE
SCAN BROAD
CAST COM MAND
REMOTE REMOTE
OUT IN
ON
OFF
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Fig. 17

10
KEYBOARD CONTROL
Keyboard control of the Universal KVM switch can be achieved through either •Basic Command Mode, or •OSD
Command Mode (OSD is purchased as a separate option). Basic Command Mode is operated strictly by using keyboard
commands as instructed on page 10. Basic Command Mode is only applicable if the OSD option is not built into the switch.
OSD Command Mode is operated using the keyboard and mouse in conjunction with On Screen Display (OSD) menus
superimposed onto the monitor. If OSD is built in, use the menus as instructed on page 14.
By pressing <Ctrl> + ` (accent key), the user can enter Command Mode (either Basic, or OSD). Once in Command Mode,
typing a series of commands will cause the Universal KVM switch to connect the user to any one computer connected to the
switch. Pressing the <Esc> key will exit Command Mode.
MODES OF OPERATION
1. BASIC COMMAND MODE
In order to control the Universal KVM switch with the keyboard connected, Command Mode must be enabled. To enter Command
Mode from the keyboard:
Press
NOTE: IF THE OSD (ON SCREEN DISPLAY) FEATURE HAS BEEN INSTALLED, PROCEED
DIRECTLY TO “OPTIONAL OSD CONTROL” ON PAGE 14. If not, continue on this page.
When the COMMAND LED is ON, all 3 status lights on the keyboard will illuminate to indicate that Command Mode is enabled
and the following functions are available:
Command Functions
Function: Keystroke:
Increment Port 1
Decrement Port1
Toggle Scan Mode
ON and OFF (the SCAN
LED will also toggle ON
and OFF)
Toggle Broadcast
Mode ON and OFF (the
BROADCAST LED will
also toggle ON and OFF.
Sets scan time-out
period for each port.
Selects a specific
port
Reset the currently
selected host computer
Exit Command Mode
1If the “SCAN” LED is illuminated, pressing →or ←will cause the switch to select the next active port.
S
R H
-(REQUIRES OPTIONAL HARDWARE)
B
`
+
Ctrl ~(ACCENT
KEY)
`
P- - (Pxx would be P01, P02, etc.)
(0-9)
x (0-9)
x
CHORDED SEQUENCE- PRESS CONSECUTIVELY
AND KEEP KEYS PRESSED UNTIL ALL ARE PRESSED.+
-PRESS CONSECUTIVELY
or PRESS EITHER KEY
KEY SYMBOLS LEGEND:
I(select the next higher port
ex. 05 06)
or
Dor (select the next lower port
ex. 02 01)
T- - (xxx from 002 to 255. ie. t002
would set the time-out period
for 2 seconds)
-
(0-2)
x (0-9) x (0-9) x
Esc
Note: The user must exit Command
Mode to type to a computer.
To exit Command Mode, either hold
down any touch-switch on the front
panel for more than 2 seconds, OR
press <ESC>.

11
NOTE: The “port” mentioned in the Command Functions on page 10 refers to the combination of the video (VIDEO PC-x) and
keyboard (KEY-x) of like numbers that a computer is connected to (i.e. the computer that is connected to VIDEO PC-1 and
KEY-1 will be identified as PORT 1 or P01).
Please note: If there is more than one switch controlling a large number of computers (such as that illustrated on page 7 under
“Cascading”), it will be necessary to make note of which port each computer is connected to on each slave KVM switch and which
port each slave KVM switch is connected to on the master KVM switch. Then, in order of the first port on the master, the ports on
the slaves would be numbered (i.e. with multiple ST-4U’s the master port 1 computers would be 01-04, master port 2 computers
would be 05-08, etc. with multiple ST-8U’s they would be 01-08, 09-16, etc.) and a connection to the computers from the
keyboard would be achieved by typing the appropriate port number. (See Fig. 15 on page 8.) No programming of the Universal
KVM switch is necessary to achieve this control. When cascading, if not all of the ports are used on each slave attached to your
system, THE PORT NUMBER(S) ASSOCIATED WITH THE UNUSED PORT(S) WILL NOT BE ACCESSIBLE when trying to
control the switches connected to the system. (I.e. if ports 7 and 8 are not used on the first slave and an attempt is made to
connect to ports 7 or 8 while in Command Mode, the Universal KVM switch will ignore the attempt. )
2. SCAN MODE
When in Scan Mode the switch scans to each port with a CPU powered-ON. (The SCAN LED on the front panel will illuminate and
remain ON while in Scan Mode. ) The port with the CPU powered-ON remains active while in use until it becomes idle for the
configured dwell time (default time is 5 seconds) before switching to the next powered-ON CPU port. See Command Mode section
above for configuring the scan dwell time.
NOTE: The keyboard and mouse must remain idle for the full scan dwell time before the switch selects the next active
port.
3. BROADCAST MODE
(use with extreme caution)
Broadcast Mode allows the user to send keystrokes to all active computers simultaneously (even those computers the user cannot
connect to due to lack of security access). Broadcast Mode is indicated by the illumination of the BROADCAST LED on the front
panel. The BROADCAST LED will remain illuminated while in Broadcast Mode. However, Broadcast Mode has some critical
requirements:
a. BROADCAST LED must be OFF when booting any attached computers.
b. BROADCAST LED must be ON and COMMAND LED must be OFF for keystrokes to reach attached computers.
c. Broadcast Mode is not supported by any ports that have MAC CPUs attached
4. NORMAL MODE
When all of the Universal KVM switch LEDs are OFF the user is in Normal Mode, controlling the computer to which the user is
connected through the Universal KVM switch.
OPTIONAL OSD SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
The security features of the optional OSD Control allow an administrator to restrict access to the Universal KVM switch using a set
of eight user names, and to control access to individual computers separately for each user. Security can be activated from the
Maintenance Mode menu (page 17) with a successful administrator login for verification purposes. Furthermore, the administrator
can set a maximum idle time value after which the current user will be logged out and the login screen displayed. This time out
does not function while the OSD is active. The current security status, idle time out, and scan dwell time are all saved and will be
restored whenever power to the switch is cycled OFF, then ON.
Fig. 18
KEY-3 KEY-2 KEY-1 KEYBDKEY-4
VIDEO
PC-3 VIDEO PC-2 VIDEO
PC-1 MONITOR
VIDEO
PC-4
Port assignments ( ST-4U )
PORT 4 PORT 3 PORT 2 PORT 1

12
USING THE SECURITY FEATURE
If the OSD feature is built into the NTI switch, when entering the Command Mode from the keyboard using the <Ctrl> + <`>
(accent key) the On Screen Display menu will automatically appear on the monitor in addition to illuminating the Command Mode
indicator LED on the KVM switch. This provides a visual way to control the NTI Universal KVM switch using the keyboard,
monitor, and mouse.
The administrator , when setting the Universal KVM switch up for the first time, may want to proceed directly to the
ADMINISTRATION Mode by typing <CTRL> + M , then A, and then Y.
The factory settings are:
•default user name = ADMINISTRATOR
•default password = ADMINISTRATOR
Once logged-in, follow the instructions on page 13 for setting up users and changing the password. Once the password is setup,
if it is lost or forgotten, the administrator will have to contact NTI for assistance on clearing the password and set it up again.
Within the ADMINISTRATION Mode the administrator can setup each of the users and the limitations of their use of the individual
CPUs on the system.
When a standard user powers up the system a security screen may appear as setup by the administrator. The user will
need to login to the system by following the instructions below for the USER LOGIN. If the user does not know the appropriate
user name and password (setup by the administrator), contact the system administrator for this information. Once logged-in a
user can follow the Command Functions described on page 14 to control the system of computers within the limitations as
determined by the administrator.
USER LOGIN MODE
User Login Mode requires a user to login with a user name and password from the list created by the administrator. Access to
the computer system will not be allowed until a user has logged in. This mode will also disable use of the front panel of the
Universal KVM switch until the user has logged in.
Function: Keystroke:
Adds a character to the
user name/password
Removes previous character
from the user name/password
Submit user name/password
Exit User Login Mode and return
to previous mode. This function
is only available if security is
not currently active.
Esc
Enter
A-Z
0-9 (Type any alphabetical or numeric character)
Backspace

13
ADDITIONAL MODES AVAILABLE WITH SECURITY:
The three modes that follow are only available if the administrator is logged in.
ADMINISTRATION MODE
Administration Mode allows the administrator to use the following functions:
Function: Keystroke:
Change the administrator’s
password
Enter User Name List Mode
Disable security
Selects the idle time in minutes
Exit Administration Mode and
return to previous mode
USER NAME LIST
The User Name List displays the list of users and provides control for adding new users, changing or assigning user passwords,
and changing access rights for any given user. User names may be up to 12 characters long, may not contain spaces, and are
not case sensitive. Passwords may be up to 15 characters long, may not contain spaces, and are case sensitive.
Function: Keystroke:
Edit the highlighted user’s
System Access rights
Enter Edit Mode to add/change/
remove users
Change the highlighted user’s
password
Exit the USER NAME LIST and
return to previous mode
SYSTEM ACCESS LIST
The System Access List displays a list of numbers representing the ports so the administrator can change access rights to the
ports for the selected user. The user’s name is displayed at the top of the access list. The mouse is used to change access rights
by clicking on a given number to toggle a port’s status. A user that has access to a port can connect to that port and control the
accessed computer connected to that port when in Normal Mode.
Function: Keystroke:
Save the changes to the access
list and return to previous mode
Exit the System access list without
saving and return to previous mode.
Esc
T--(xxx from 000 to 255. ie. t002
would set the time-out period
for 2 seconds. 000 will disable it)
-
(0-2)
x (0-9) x (0-9) x
Esc
E
Ctrl +
A
Ctrl +
P
Ctrl +
Esc
Enter
S
C
U

14
OPTIONAL OSD CONTROL
INTRODUCTION
The NTI optional On Screen Display (OSD) allows a user to name the computers connected to the Universal KVM switch and
connect to them using that name from a single keyboard and mouse. The OSD is positioned on the user's monitor, displaying 8
computer names at a time. The screen can be used for switching as well as editing the computers’ names. Through the OSD
menu, the user can operate the Universal KVM switch to have the switch cycle through 3 extended modes of operation:
COMMAND, SCAN, and BROADCAST. Three LEDs on the front panel indicate when these modes are enabled.
OSD COMMAND MODE
If the OSD option is installed, when entering the Command Mode from the keyboard using the <Ctrl> + <`> (accent key),
the On Screen Display menu will automatically appear on the monitor in addition to illuminating the indicator LEDs on the KVM
switch. This provides a visual way to control the NTI Universal KVM switch using the keyboard, monitor, and mouse.
The list below describes the Command functions available from the keyboard within the OSD mode of control after entering into
Command Mode and while the COMMAND LED is ON:
Function: Keystroke:
Select the previous port
Select the next port
Enable/disable Scan Mode
Enable/disable Broadcast Mode
Enter Edit Mode
Enter Maintenance Mode
Display Help Menu (available with
every control mode)
Sets scan time-out on
each port
Selects a specific port
Selects the first port on the switch
S
Ctrl +
E
Ctrl +
M
Ctrl +
F1
T--(xxx from 002 to 255. ie. t002
would set the time-out period
for 2 seconds)
-
(0-2)
x (0-9) x (0-9) x
Ctrl +
Home
B
Ctrl +
P--(Pxx would be P01, P02, etc.)
(0-9)
x (0-9) x
Ctrl +

15
COMMAND MODE (Cont’d)
Function: Keystroke:
Selects the last port on the switch
Enters Search Mode and adds a character
to search string and selects the CPU’s
name that matches best.
Switch to a selected port
Exit keyboard Command Mode
The mouse can also be used to control Command Mode. The mouse cursor can be moved to the Scan, Help, and Exit fields
where the user can then click on the left mouse button to perform that function. Ports listed on the screen can be selected by
moving the cursor onto that port and clicking. Clicking twice on a selected port will switch to that port and exit Command Mode.
To change the displayed ports on the screen simply click on the up and down arrows located to the right of the port names
displayed.
SCAN MODE
When in Scan Mode the switch scans to each port with a CPU powered-ON. (The SCAN LED on the front panel will illuminate and
remain ON while in Scan Mode. ) The port with the CPU powered-ON remains active while in use until it becomes idle for the
configured dwell time (default time-out period is 5 seconds) before switching to the next powered-ON CPU port. See Command
Mode section above for configuring the scan dwell time.
NOTE: The keyboard and mouse must remain idle for the full scan dwell time before the switch selects the next active
port.
BROADCAST MODE
(use with extreme caution)
Broadcast Mode allows the operator to send keystrokes to all active computers simultaneously (even those computers the user
cannot connect to due to lack of security access ). Broadcast Mode is indicated by the illumination of the BROADCAST LED on
the front panel. The BROADCAST LED will remain ON while in Broadcast Mode. However, Broadcast Mode has some critical
requirements:
1. BROADCAST LED must be OFF when booting any attached computers.
2. BROADCAST LED must be ON and COMMAND LED must be OFF for keystrokes to reach attached computers.
Broadcast Mode is not supported by any ports that have MAC CPUs attached.
NORMAL MODE
When all of the Universal KVM switch LEDs are OFF the user is in Normal Mode, controlling the computer to which the user is
connected through the Universal KVM switch.
End
Enter
A-Z
0-9 (Type any alphabetical or numeric character)
Esc
Note: The user must exit Command
Mode to type to a computer.
To exit Command Mode, either hold
down any touch-switch on the front
panel for more than 2 seconds, OR
press <ESC>.

16
EDIT MODE
Edit Mode allows the user to modify the names of the CPUs connected to the switch. Names of CPUs can be up to 12 characters
in length. When in Edit Mode, multiple keystroke combinations are not valid (<SHIFT>+P, <CTRL>+P, <ALT>+ P, and P will all
type a “P” to the display - lower case letters cannot be typed). After changes have been made the user will be prompted by the
menu to save the changes. Answer "Y" to save changes and answer "N" to continue using previously entered port names.
Function: Keystroke:
Move cursor one position
to the right
Move cursor one position
to the left
Previous port
Next port
Selects the first port on
the switch
Selects the last port on
the switch
Toggles between insert
and overstrike
Erase current character
Erase previous character
When finished making changes in Edit Mode, press <Enter> and a prompt will appear to press either <Y> to save the changes or
<N> to continue making changes without saving the changes just made. If the <ESC> key is pressed instead of <Enter>, all
changes made will be ignored and the display will return to the previous menu.
SEARCH MODE
Search Mode allows the user to enter and maneuver through a list of CPU names. The best matching CPU name is selected. The
list of CPUs may also be searched for a specific (or similar) name. The following commands are valid when the search option has
been invoked from Command Mode.
Function: Keystroke:
Erase previous character
in search name
Move cursor one position to
the right in search name
Move cursor one position to
the left in search name
Select previous port
Select next port
Home
End
Insert (The character either gets inserted and the remainder of the name
gets shifted to the right, OR the current character gets overwritten.)
Delete
Backspace
Backspace

17
Search Mode (Cont’d)
Function: Keystroke:
Add a character to the search
string and select the best
matching CPU name
Exit Search Mode, return to
Command Mode
Switch to selected port
MAINTENANCE MODE
Maintenance Mode allows a user to customize the On Screen Display to their requirements
Function: Keystroke:
Reset all of the port names
Toggle between numeric and
alphabetic listing of ports
Move On Screen Display (OSD)
window up on monitor
Move OSD window down on
monitor
Move OSD window to the right
Move OSD window to the left
Make OSD window taller
Make OSD window shorter
Change user password.
(Present only when a standard
user is logged in.)
Log current user out and return
to User Login Mode.
Activate security features.
Present only when security is
available but not active.
Enter Administration Mode.
Option present only when Administrator
is logged in.
A-Z
0-9 (Type any alphabetical or numeric character)
Esc
Enter
R
L
T
S
P
Q
ANOTE: If activating security features, the user will be
prompted for a “Y” (yes) or “N” (no) to confirm the menu
choice, at which point the user will be asked for a
username and password before continuing. Only the
administrator can activate the security features.

18
Maintenance Mode (Cont’d)
Function: Keystroke:
Save OSD window parameters
for the port
Return to Command Mode
HELP MODE
This mode displays a list of commands with a short explanation of their function. These lists are organized in pages for each
mode (i.e. COMMAND, EDIT, SEARCH, and HELP). The following options allow the user to quickly obtain information on any
command.
Function: Keystroke:
View the previous page of help
if available
View the next page of help
if available
Exit HELP and return to previous
mode
Other Control Options
There are other ways to control the NTI Universal Multi-Platform KVM switch, depending upon which options you have
purchased with your unit, including a Wired Remote Control, an Infrared Control, an RS232 Option, Infrared Control, or with the
help of an LCD display with the software built right into the NTI switch. If you have purchased one or more of these options with
your switch, instructions for that special option should have been included with this manual. If you have not purchased one of
these options, refer to your NTI products catalog, our website at http://www.nti1.com, or contact your NTI sales representative for
more details by calling 330-562-7070, or 800-742-8324 (800-RGB-TECH).
SPECIAL NOTE: Models ST-8U-R, ST-8U-RO, ST-4U-R, and ST-4U-RO must be connected as slaves when used in
conjunction with a wired remote control. They can be daisy-chained in a cascaded system (See CASCADING on page 7). The
connection sockets for use in conjunction with a Remote Control (normally labeled “REMOTE IN” and “REMOTE OUT”), in these
models, are labeled “DAISY IN” and “DAISY OUT.”
Keyboard Mapping
The keyboard configuration of each computer is saved in the NTI Universal KVM Switch. For example, if the computer attached to
Port 4 had CAPS LOCK and NUM LOCK selected the last time that computer was accessed, then they will automatically be set
when Port 4 is accessed again.
Esc
Enter
Esc
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