Black Box Switch ACS235A User Manual

JANUARY 2001  
Remote  
Unit  
FIBER KVM  
EXTENDER  
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Po  
2
1
B
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ACS235A  
ACS236A  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY  
This is to certify that, when installed and used according to the instructions in this  
manual together with the specified cables, the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM  
Extender is shielded against the generation of radio interference in accordance  
with the application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC, as well as these standards:  
EN 55022: 1989 class B  
EN 50082-1: 1993  
IEC 801-2: 1991 - 4kV CD/8kV AD  
IEC 801-3: 1984 - 3V/m  
IEC 801-4: 1988 - 4kV power-supply lines  
- 2kV data lines  
The Extender was tested in a typical configuration.  
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL  
BLACK BOX and the  
logo are registered trademarks, and ServSwitch is a  
trademark, of Black Box Corporation.  
Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.  
®
ST is a registered trademark of AT&T .  
IBM, PC/AT, and PS/2 are registered trademarks of International Business  
Machines Corporation.  
Sun and Sun Microsystems are registered trademarks 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.  
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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.  
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.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
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.  
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NOM STATEMENT  
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.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Contents  
Chapter  
Page  
1. Specifications ............................................................................................. 8  
2. Introduction ............................................................................................. 11  
2.1 Overview ............................................................................................ 11  
2.2 The Complete Package ..................................................................... 12  
3. Configuring the ACS235A ....................................................................... 13  
3.1 Configuring for RGB Video ............................................................. 13  
3.1.1 VGA vs. RGB Signaling ........................................................... 13  
3.1.2 VGA Video Card to RGB Monitor  
(VGA to RGB Conversion) ................................................ 13  
3.1.3 RGB Video Source to RGB Monitor ...................................... 14  
3.1.4 RGB Video Source to VGA Monitor  
(RGB to VGA Conversion) ................................................ 14  
3.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional) .................... 16  
3.2.1 The VGA/RGB Jumpers (JP6, JP10, and JP11) ..................... 17  
3.2.2 VGA-to-RGB Sync-Generation Jumper JP2 ............................ 18  
3.2.3 Local Gain-Control Jumper JP3 .............................................. 18  
3.2.4 Core-Diameter Jumper JP5 ..................................................... 18  
3.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional) ................ 19  
3.3.1 The Sync-on-Color Jumpers (JP1, JP2, and JP3) ................... 20  
3.3.2 Remote Gain-Control Jumper Bank JP8 ................................ 21  
3.3.3 VSYNC Enable/Disable Jumper JP9 ...................................... 22  
3.3.4 SYNC-Polarity Jumper JP12 .................................................... 22  
4. Configuring the ACS236A ....................................................................... 23  
4.1 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional) .................... 23  
4.1.1 The Video-Handling Jumpers JP2 and JP10 .......................... 24  
4.1.2 Local Gain-Control Jumper JP3 .............................................. 25  
4.1.3 Core-Diameter Jumper JP5 ..................................................... 25  
4.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional) ................ 26  
4.3.1 Remote Gain-Control Jumper Bank JP8 ................................ 27  
4.3.2 VSYNC Enable/Disable Jumper JP9 ...................................... 28  
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TABLE OF CONTENTS  
Chapter  
Page  
5. Installation ................................................................................................ 29  
5.1 Guidelines and Limitations for Attaching Equipment ................... 29  
5.1.1 CPU .......................................................................................... 30  
5.1.2 VGA Monitor ........................................................................... 30  
5.1.3 RGB Monitor or Legacy Sun Monitor ................................... 30  
5.1.4 Keyboard and Mouse .............................................................. 31  
5.1.5 Parallel Printer (Optional with ACS235A) ............................ 31  
5.1.6 Serial Device (Optional with ACS236A) ................................ 31  
5.2 Connecting a CPU or KVM Switch to the Local Module ............... 32  
5.3 Connecting User Equipment or a KVM Switch to the  
Remote Module ........................................................................... 34  
5.4 Running Fiber Cable Between the Local and Remote Modules .... 36  
5.5 Connecting Power to the Local and Remote Modules ................... 37  
5.6 Powering Up the Rest of the System ................................................ 37  
6. Operation ................................................................................................. 38  
6.1 Interpreting the Remote Module’s 7-Segment Display .................. 38  
6.2 Making Video Adjustments with the  
Remote Module’s User Controls ................................................. 40  
7. Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 41  
7.1 Things to Try First ............................................................................. 41  
7.2 Calling Black Box .............................................................................. 42  
7.3 Shipping and Packaging ................................................................... 42  
Appendix A: Pinouts ....................................................................................... 43  
A.1 Connectors on Both Models ..............................................................43  
A.1.1 The VGA Video Connectors ................................................... 43  
A.1.2 The Power Connector ............................................................. 43  
A.2 Connectors on the ACS235A ............................................................ 44  
A.2.1 The PS/2 Keyboard Connector ............................................. 44  
A.2.2 The PS/2 Mouse Connector .................................................. 44  
A.2.3 The Parallel Printer Connectors ............................................ 45  
A.3 Connectors on the ACS236A ............................................................ 46  
A.3.1 The Sun Video Connectors .................................................... 46  
A.3.2 The Sun Keyboard/Mouse Connector .................................. 46  
A.3.3 The Serial Connectors ............................................................ 47  
Appendix B: Rackmounting the Extender .................................................... 48  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
1. Specifications  
Cable  
Required —  
62.5/125-µm or 50/125-µm multimode fiberoptic breakout  
cable with at least five strands (not included)  
Compliance —  
Interfaces —  
CE (EN 55022, 50082-1); FCC Class A, IC Class/classe A  
Both ACS235A and ACS236A:  
Extension: Multimode fiberoptic;  
ACS235A:  
Video: VGA, SVGA, XGA, XGA-2, or RGB (RGB must be  
patched to an HD15 connector); Plug-and-Play not  
supported for monitors;  
Keyboard and mouse: IBM PS/2 compatible;  
Printer: IBM PC parallel (Centronics compatible);  
ACS236A:  
Video: Either legacy Sun type or VGA, SVGA, XGA,  
XGA-2, or RGB (RGB must be patched to an HD15  
connector); Plug-and-Play not supported for monitors;  
Keyboard and mouse: Sun type;  
Serial device: EIA/TIA RS-232 (ITU V.24/V.28) pinned  
according to TIA-574 (PC serial-port compatible)  
Resolution —  
Up to 1280 x 1024  
Refresh Rate — Up to 75 Hz  
Keyboard Current  
Consumption — Up to 100 mA  
Data Rate —  
ACS235A’s parallel interface: Transparent to data rates up  
to 20,000 cps;  
ACS236A’s serial interface: Transparent to data rates up to  
38,400 bps  
Optical  
Wavelength —  
850 nm  
Optical Power — Into 62.5-µm cable: Typically 88 microwatts;  
Into 50-µm cable: Typically 40 microwatts  
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CHAPTER 1: Specifications  
Maximum  
Optical Loss — 5 dB  
Maximum  
Distance —  
1000 m (3281 ft.) between Extender’s Local and Remote  
Modules  
User Controls — Both ACS235A and ACS236A, rear-mounted on the  
Remote Module:  
(2) Rear-mounted dials for contrast and brightness;  
(3) Rear-mounted trimpots for adjusting color-signal  
gain;  
ACS235A:  
(12) Internal jumper sets for configuration options:  
(6) inside Local Module, (6) inside Remote Module;  
ACS236A:  
(7) Internal jumper sets for configuration options:  
(4) inside Local Module, (3) inside Remote Module  
Indicators —  
(1) Front-mounted 7-segment LED display;  
(2) Rear-mounted LEDs for power  
Connectors —  
Both ACS235A and ACS236A, on both the Local and  
Remote Modules:  
(5) Rear-mounted ST female for Module-to-Module link;  
(1) Front-mounted 6-pin DIN female for power;  
ACS235A:  
Front-mounted on Local Module:  
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female:  
(1) for CPU’s keyboard port,  
(1) for CPU’s mouse port;  
(1) HD15 male for CPU’s video port;  
(1) DB25 male for CPU’s parallel port;  
Front-mounted on Remote Module:  
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female:  
(1) for keyboard,  
(1) for mouse;  
(1) HD15 female for monitor;  
(1) DB25 female for parallel printer;  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Connectors  
(continued) —  
ACS236A:  
Front-mounted on Local Module:  
(1) 8-pin mini-DIN female for CPU’s keyboard and  
mouse ports;  
(1) HD15 male for CPU’s video port (if it’s VGA type);  
(1) 13W3 male for CPU’s video port (if it’s legacy Sun  
type);  
(1) DB9 female for CPU’s serial port;  
Front-mounted on Remote Module:  
(1) 8-pin mini-DIN female for keyboard and mouse;  
(1) 13W3 female for monitor (if it’s legacy Sun type);  
(1) HD15 female for monitor (if it’s VGA or multisync  
type);  
(1) DB9 male for serial device  
Temperature  
Tolerance —  
Operating: 50 to 113˚F (10 to 45˚C);  
Storage: 23 to 131˚F (–5 to +55˚C)  
Humidity  
Tolerance —  
Up to 80% noncondensing  
Power —  
From utility-power (mains) outlet, through external  
transformer:  
Input: 100 to 240 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz, autosensing, at up to  
0.7 amps;  
Output: +12 VDC at 2.1 amps;  
Consumption:  
Local Module: Approx. 8 watts;  
Remote Module without keyboard: Approx. 8 watts;  
Remote Module with keyboard: Approx. 9 watts  
Size —  
Each Module: 2.2"H x 6.3"W x 7.5"D (5.6 x 16 x 19.1 cm)  
Weight —  
Net for each Module: 2 lb. (0.9 kg);  
Shipping (both Modules plus accessories): At least 7.7 lb.  
(3.5 kg)  
10  
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CHAPTER 2: Introduction  
2. Introduction  
2.1 Overview  
The purpose of the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender is to greatly extend  
®
®
the distance between a Sun or IBM PC compatible computer CPU and the  
keyboard, mouse, monitor, and serial or parallel peripheral that the computer  
operator will be using, especially in electrically noisy environments. Normal  
keyboard-, video-, and mouse-extension cables (and extenders that use normal  
cabling) can only go so far, and electromagnetic noise can limit their distance and  
reliability. But with a fiberoptic system like the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM  
Extender, these concerns are a thing of the past. You can leave the computer CPU  
in a secured cabinet or data center while you operate it from a convenient location  
up to 1000 m (3281 ft.) away.  
There are two models of the Extender. The PC version (product code ACS235A)  
extends KVM distance for IBM PC compatible computers. The Sun version  
®
(product code ACS236A) extends KVM distance for Sun Microsystems computers.  
Each model consists of two main components: a Local Module that you’ll attach  
the computer’s CPU to, and a Remote Module that you’ll attach the user  
®
equipment to. (With the ACS235A, the “user equipment” will be an IBM PS/2  
compatible keyboard and mouse, VGA type monitor, and an optional IBM PC  
®
compatible or Centronics compatible parallel printer. With the ACS236A, it will  
be a Sun compatible keyboard and mouse, VGA or legacy Sun monitor, and an  
optional serial device.) You’ll connect the two units with a five-strand fiberoptic  
breakout cable. With this Extender, you’ll get high monitor resolution, optical  
isolation, and color fidelity, even in electrically rough surroundings.  
The Extender units automatically adapt to the correct transfer rates for all of  
your data; you won’t need to manually set these rates. There is one setting you  
might need to make after you start operating the units: The Extenders’  
amplification might need to be adjusted if you use very long fiberoptic cables. (The  
controls for this are located on the Remote Module—refer to Section 6.2.) And  
even this adjustment is easy to “eyeball” by watching the picture on the monitor  
screen.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
2.2 The Complete Package  
Before you do anything else with it, verify that you received everything you should  
have with your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender. These components come  
with both models of the Extender:  
• The Extender’s Local Module.  
• The Extender’s Remote Module.  
• (2) power supplies, one for each Module.  
• (2) power cords, one for each power supply (equivalent to our product code  
EPWR08).  
• (1) set of eight adhesive feet.  
• This manual.  
The ACS235A also comes with these components:  
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) keyboard/video/mouse CPU-extension cable with an HD15  
female video connector and 6-pin mini-DIN keyboard and mouse connectors  
(equivalent to our product code EHN235-0010).  
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) DB25 male to DB25 female IBM PC parallel (Centronics  
compatible) extension cable (equivalent to our product code BC00705).  
®
• (1) 6-in. (15.2-cm) PC/AT keyboard-port adapter (6-pin mini-DIN female to  
5-pin DIN male, equivalent to our product code FA222).  
• (1) RS-232 serial mouse-port adapter (6-pin mini-DIN female to DB9 female,  
equivalent to our product code AC244A).  
The ACS236A also comes with this cable:  
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) keyboard/video/mouse CPU-extension cable with an HD15  
female video connector and an 8-pin mini-DIN keyboard/mouse connector  
(equivalent to our product code EHN236-0010).  
If anything is missing, contact Black Box right away. If the package has been  
damaged, contact both Black Box and the shipping carrier.  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3. Configuring the ACS235A  
This chapter describes how to configure the PC model of the ServSwitch™ Brand  
Fiber KVM Extender (ACS235A). If your Extender is the Sun model (ACS236A),  
see Chapter 4.  
3.1 Configuring for RGB Video  
In normal configuration at delivery time, the Extender units are configured to  
carry video from a VGA source to a VGA monitor. But if you’d like to attach RGB  
equipment (either an RGB source or an RGB monitor or both) to your Extender  
system, this section discusses how you might need to set the units’ configuration  
jumpers. (See Table 3-1 on page 15 for a full layout of this.) Of course, RGB video  
can come in a variety of signal forms and combinations. If after reading the rest of  
this section you’re not sure how to get your RGB application working (or even  
whether it can be done), call Black Box for technical support.  
NOTE  
In any application involving RGB video, if the picture on your monitor  
looks OK with AGC ON, leave the Local Module’s JP3 jumper and the  
Remote Module’s JP8 jumpers in their factory settings. Otherwise,  
remove JP3 at the Local Module and move JP8 at the Remote Module to  
turn AGC OFF. You will then have to adjust the gain of the Extenders’  
video signal manually. See Sections 3.2.3 and 3.3.2.  
3.1.1 VGA VS. RGB SIGNALING  
VGA uses two video-synchronization signals, HSYNC (horizontal sync) and VSYNC  
(vertical sync). In its factory-default settings, the Extender’s Local Module receives  
these signals from the CPU and overlays them on the color signals for transmission  
to the Remote Module: HSYNC on green, VSYNC on blue, and SYNCPOL (the  
combined HSYNC and VSYNC polarity information) on red. But most RGB  
applications use a single CSYNC (composite sync) signal overlaid on the green  
color signal instead, so for such applications you’ll need to have the Local Module  
substitute this signal for HSYNC, as well as create its own SYNCPOL information  
for use by the Remote Module. Then you might have to set the Remote Module to  
process these signals properly at the other end.  
3.1.2 VGA VIDEO CARD TO RGB MONITOR (VGA TO RGB CONVERSION)  
To connect a CPU that outputs VGA video to an RGB monitor, remove the Local  
Module’s JP2 jumper (so that it generates the CSYNC signal needed by the RGB  
monitor), but leave the JP6, JP10, and JP11 jumpers in their factory-default  
settings (see Sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2). At the Remote Module, install jumpers at  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
the JP1, JP2, and JP3 locations to deactivate the decoupling diodes (so that the  
Remote Module leaves the sync signals on the color signals), and remove the  
jumpers at JP9 and JP12 to disable VSYNC and force the sync polarity signals  
negative (see Sections 3.3.1, 3.3.3, and 3.3.4).  
CAUTION!  
You can only connect an RGB monitor to a VGA source if the monitor is  
able to process the source’s synchronization frequency; for example,  
the monitor of a graphic workstation with horizontal bandwidth of 40 to  
90 kHz probably won’t work with a VGA graphics adapter that has a  
resolution of 640 x 480 = 31.5 kHz.  
3.1.3 RGB VIDEO SOURCE TO RGB MONITOR  
To connect an RGB video source to an RGB monitor, set the Local Module’s JP6,  
JP10, and JP11 jumpers all to the “RGB settings” (the ones opposite the factory  
defaults; see Section 3.2.1). At the Remote Module, install jumpers at the JP1, JP2,  
and JP3 locations to deactivate the decoupling diodes (so that the Remote Module  
leaves the sync signals on the color signals; see Section 3.3.1).  
3.1.4 RGB VIDEO SOURCE TO VGA MONITOR (RGB TO VGA CONVERSION)  
To connect an RGB video source to a VGA monitor, set the Local Module’s JP6,  
JP10, and JP11 jumpers all to the “RGB settings” (the ones opposite the factory  
defaults), but leave jumper JP2 in its factory setting so that HSYNC, not CSYNC, is  
transmitted on the HSYNC lead. Remove the Remote Module’s JP12 jumper in  
order to force polarity negative. See Sections 3.2.1 and 3.3.4. In this application,  
the Remote Module also functions as a sync stripper: It strips the sync signals from  
the color signals, separates them, and presents them as normal TTL signals to the  
VGA monitor.  
IMPORTANT NOTES  
You can only connect a VGA monitor to an RGB video source if the  
monitor is able to process the source’s synchronization frequency; for  
example, a multisync monitor with horizontal bandwidth of 30 to 90 kHz  
probably won’t work with a WF470 graphics adapter that uses a  
frequency of 15.625 kHz.  
The Extender can not generate the special VGA-standard phase  
relation required by some types of dual-scan monitors (LCD panels, etc.).  
Be aware that, because of the way some RGB cards output sync  
signals, it is possible that, despite how the jumpers are set in your Local  
Module, your monitor will still receive CSYNC on its HSYNC lead as well  
as VSYNC on its VSYNC lead. Some VGA monitors have no problem  
with this, but others will suffer from distorted displays. If your monitor is  
affected by this distortion, you can suppress the VSYNC signal by  
removing the Remote Module’s JP9 jumper; the monitor should work  
fine using CSYNC only. See Section 3.3.3.  
®
Siemens users: The Extender can process CP581 signals, but this  
requires special cabling. Call Black Box for technical support.  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
Table 3-1. Jumper Settings  
For all of these applications, to use AGC you must leave JP3 in the Local Module installed and  
keep the JP8 jumpers in the Remote Module on the left-hand posts. To operate without AGC,  
remove JP3 in the Local Module installed, move the JP8 jumpers in the Remote Module to the  
right-hand posts, and use the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials as necessary (see  
Sections 3.2.3, 3.3.2, and 5.2).  
Standard VGA  
Source to Std.  
VGA Monitor  
Standard VGA  
Source to  
RGB Monitor  
RGB Source  
to Standard  
VGA Monitor  
RGB Source  
to  
RGB Monitor  
LOCAL  
MODULE  
JUMPERS:  
JP2  
JP6  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
JP10  
JP11  
Installed on  
left-hand  
posts  
Installed on  
left-hand  
posts  
Installed on  
right-hand  
posts  
Installed on  
right-hand  
posts  
PINS 13 & 14  
(HS, VS)  
Connected  
Connected  
Open  
Open  
FROM CPU  
REMOTE-  
MODULE  
JUMPERS:  
JP1, 2, 3  
Removed  
Installed  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
Open  
Removed  
Installed  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
Open  
JP9  
JP12  
Installed  
Removed  
Connected  
PINS 13 & 14  
(HS, VS)  
Connected  
TO MONITOR  
USE RM’S  
CONTROLS?  
Contrast  
If necessary  
No  
If necessary  
If necessary  
If necessary  
No  
If necessary  
If necessary  
Brightness  
15  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional)  
There are six user-settable jumpers inside the Local Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• Whether the Local Module transmits VGA (default) or RGB video signals to  
the Remote Module, and if RGB, which signals and how (jumpers JP6, JP10,  
and JP11).  
• Whether the Local Module transmits HSYNC (default) or CSYNC to the  
Remote Module (jumper JP2).  
• Whether the Local Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper JP3).  
• Whether the Local Module expects to transmit into 62.5/125-µm (default) or  
50/125-µm fiber (jumper JP5).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Local Module—being  
sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the  
upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in  
Figure 3-1.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in Sections 3.2.1, 3.2.2,  
3.2.3, and/or 3.2.4, and then close the unit back up.  
JP6  
JP10  
JP2  
JP3  
JP11  
JP5  
A
A
Figure 3-1. The locations of the ACS235A Local Module’s jumpers.  
16  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3.2.1 THE VGA/RGB JUMPERS (JP6, JP10, AND JP11)  
If you’ll be using a VGA monitor in your Extender system, leave these jumpers set  
as they are (in their factory-default positions). But if you need to use an RGB  
monitor instead, take these steps (refer to Figure 3-2):  
• Install a jumper on JP6 if you want the Extender to add the HSYNC  
(horizontal sync) polarity signal to the red color signal.  
• Install a jumper on JP10 if you want the Extender to add the VSYNC (vertical  
sync) polarity signal to the red color signal.  
JP11 is the main VGA vs. RGB control. To select RGB on the local side (if your  
computer is transmitting RGB video), move the jumper from the left-hand  
posts to the right-hand posts, as shown below.  
VGA Signals  
(Factory Defaults)  
RGB Signals  
JP6  
Installed  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
JP10  
JP11  
Jumper on left-  
hand posts  
Jumper on right-  
hand posts  
Figure 3-2. Setting the VGA/RGB jumpers.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.2.2 VGA-TO-RGB SYNC-GENERATION JUMPER JP2  
For most applications you should leave this jumper installed. However, if you are  
using the Extender to connect a VGA video card or other VGA source to an RGB  
monitor, remove this jumper as shown in Figure 3-3. (This causes the Local  
Module to generate a CSYNC signal for transmission to the Remote Module.)  
Use existing sync  
(factory default)  
VGA to RGB  
(create CSYNC)  
JP2  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-3. Setting VGA-to-RGB jumper JP2.  
3.2.3 LOCAL GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER JP3  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumper ON the JP3 jumper posts. (We recommend this factory-default setting.)  
But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 5.2), remove the jumper  
from these posts as shown in Figure 3-4. (Whichever way you set this jumper, make  
sure that jumper JP8 in the Remote Module is set the same way.)  
With AGC  
Without AGC  
(factory default)  
JP3  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-4. Setting gain-control jumper JP3.  
3.2.4 CORE-DIAMETER JUMPER JP5  
If you’ll be using fiberoptic cable with a 62.5/125-µm diameter in your Extender  
system, leave the JP5 jumper posts empty. (This is the factory-default setting.) But  
if you’ll be using 50/125-µm-diameter cable, install a jumper on these posts as  
shown in Figure 3-5. The Extender does not work with fiber cables of any other  
diameter.  
62.5/125-µm  
50/125-µm  
(factory default)  
JP5  
Removed  
Installed  
Figure 3-5. Setting core-diameter jumper JP5.  
18  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional)  
There are six user-settable jumpers inside the Remote Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• Whether the Remote Module strips the sync signals from the color signals  
(default) or leaves them in (jumpers JP1, JP2, and JP3).  
• Whether the Remote Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper bank JP8).  
• Whether the Remote Module passes a separate VSYNC signal to the monitor  
(default) or disconnects it (jumper JP9).  
• Whether the Remote Module uses the SYNC polarities transmitted from the  
local side (default) or forces both HSYNC and VSYNC to negative polarity  
(jumper JP12).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Remote Module—  
being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by  
unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard  
are shown in Figure 3-6.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in  
Sections 3.3.1, 3.3.2, 3.3.3, and/or 3.3.4, and then close the unit back up.  
JP1, 2,3  
JP8  
JP9  
JP11  
JP12  
K
A
Figure 3-6. The locations of the ACS235A Remote Module’s jumpers.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.3.1 THE SYNC-ON-COLOR JUMPERS (JP1, JP2, AND JP3)  
The Local Module of the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender adds  
synchronization signals to the color signals for transmission across the fiber link. If  
you are using a VGA monitor (which is probably not equipped to handle sync on  
color), you will want the Remote Module to use its decoupling diodes to strip this  
sync information from the color signals, so you will leave the jumper posts at  
locations JP1, JP2, and JP3 empty (the default setting) so that these diodes will be  
active. But if you are using an RGB monitor (which is probably designed to receive  
sync on color), you will want the Remote Module to leave the sync signals  
combined with the color signals, so you should install jumpers at JP1, JP2, and JP3  
to deactivate the decoupling diodes, as shown in Figure 3-7.  
CAUTION!  
The on-screen image might be displayed at a different size or screen  
location at the remote site than it is when the monitor is attached  
directly to the PC’s CPU. This difference can be fixed or at least  
minimized by using the monitor’s display-size and -placement controls.  
Screen images that appear normal except for their size or placement can  
not be made “right” by installing these jumpers!  
Diode active, sync stripped  
(factory default)  
Diode inactive, sync on color  
JP1  
JP2  
JP3  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-7. The sync-on-color jumpers and diodes.  
20  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3.3.2 REMOTE GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER BANK JP8  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumpers ON the right-hand posts of each of the three pairs of JP8 jumper posts, as  
shown below. (This is the factory-default setting as well as the recommended  
setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 6.2), move the  
jumper to the left-hand posts of each of the three JP8 jumper-post pairs, as shown in  
Figure 3-8.  
When you have AGC selected, the Remote Module ignores the gain-control  
screwdials on its rear panel and automatically adjusts the gain of each of the three  
color signals, which is possible because each of the signals has the same white  
reference value (0.7 Vpp) that the Module can use for comparison. If the colors of  
the picture on your monitor still seem a little off, you can tweak them with the  
Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls, in addition to any color  
controls on the monitor itself.  
When AGC is turned off, the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials become  
activated, and you can use them to control the gain of the corresponding colors.  
(Be aware that when you’re in this mode, chromatic aberrations can affect your  
display.) Adjust the gain and check your adjustments by either watching the  
monitor or, to get best results, by using an oscilloscope. See Section 6.2. As always,  
you can also use the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls. We don’t  
recommend that you turn AGC off unless you have a color problem that you can’t  
seem to solve by any other means.  
Whichever way you set these jumpers, make sure that jumper JP3 in the Local  
Module is set the same way.  
With AGC (factory default)  
Without AGC  
J8  
Jumpers on right-hand posts  
Jumpers on left-hand posts  
Figure 3-8. Setting gain-control jumper bank JP8.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.3.3 VSYNC ENABLE/DISABLE JUMPER JP9  
It is possible to use the Extender to connect a VGA monitor to a computer that  
outputs RGB video that superimposes CSYNC on the green signal. In this situation,  
depending on the computer, the Remote Module might express only CSYNC  
(composite sync) on the HSYNC lead of its VGA connector, or it might express  
both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC (vertical sync) on the VSYNC lead. If your  
VGA monitor works fine even with both signals coming through, leave jumper JP9  
installed (the factory-default setting). But if your VGA monitor’s picture becomes  
distorted if the monitor receives both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC on VSYNC,  
remove jumper JP9 as shown in Figure 3-9; this causes the Remote Module to  
suppress the VSYNC signal so that only CSYNC is expressed. Most VGA monitors,  
including most of those that have problems when they receive both signals, work  
well using the CSYNC signal alone.  
CSYNC and VSYNC  
(factory default)  
CSYNC only,  
VSYNC disabled  
JP9  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-9. Setting VSYNC jumper JP9.  
3.3.4 SYNC-POLARITY JUMPER JP12  
With jumper JP12 installed (the factory-default setting), the Remote Module  
restores the video SYNC signals to their original polarity as the Local Module  
received them. Sometimes, however, you might want the Remote Module to force  
both HSYNC and VSYNC to negative polarity, so that the clock is measured on the  
falling edges of the signals. If you do, remove jumper JP12, as shown in Figure 3-10.  
(Be careful—this jumper is right next to the reserved jumper labeled JP11; do not  
change the setting of JP11.)  
Use existing polarity  
(factory default)  
Force negative  
sync polarity  
JP12  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-10. Setting SYNC-polarity jumper JP12.  
22  
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CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A  
4. Configuring the ACS236A  
This chapter describes how to configure the Sun model of the ServSwitch™ Brand  
Fiber KVM Extender (ACS236A). If your Extender is the PC model (ACS235A),  
see Chapter 3.  
4.1 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional)  
There are four user-settable jumpers inside the Local Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• How the Local Module handles video: VGA input to VGA output (default),  
VGA input to legacy Sun output, or Sun input to either VGA or Sun output  
(jumpers JP2 and JP10).  
• Whether the Local Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper JP3).  
• Whether the Local Module expects to transmit into 62.5/125-µm (default) or  
50/125-µm fiber (jumper JP5).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Local Module—being  
sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the  
upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in  
Figure 4-1 on the next page.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in  
Sections 4.1.1, 4.1.2, and/or 4.1.3, and then close the unit back up.  
23  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Figure 4-1. The locations of the ACS236A Local Module’s jumpers.  
4.1.1 THE VIDEO-HANDLING JUMPERS JP2 AND JP10  
Jumpers JP2 and JP10 in the Local Module control how the Extender handles  
video signals, depending on whether the computer outputs VGA signals to the  
Extender’s HD15 connectors or legacy Sun signals to the Extender’s 13W3  
connectors, as well as what type of signal input the monitor accepts. Refer to  
Figure 4-2 on the next page:  
• If the computer attached to the Local Module outputs VGA video, and the  
monitor attached to the Remote Module accepts VGA input, leave jumpers JP2  
and JP10 in their default settings: JP2 installed, JP10 empty.  
• If the computer outputs VGA and the monitor accepts Sun input, leave jumper  
JP10 in its default empty setting, but remove jumper JP2. In this setting,  
automatic gain control (AGC) isn’t possible, so you’ll have to turn it off at both  
the Local and Remote Modules (see Sections 4.1.2 and 4.2.1) and set the gain  
manually (see Section 6.2).  
If the computer outputs Sun video, regardless of what the monitor accepts, leave  
jumper JP2 in its default installed setting, but also install a jumper on JP10. You  
might also need to set jumper JP9 in the Remote Module (see Section 4.2.2).  
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CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A  
VGA in, VGA out  
(factory default)  
VGA in, Sun out  
Sun in,  
Sun or VGA out  
JP2  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Installed  
JP10  
Installed  
Installed  
Figure 4-2. Setting video-handling jumpers JP2 and JP10.  
4.1.2 LOCAL GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER JP3  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumper ON the JP3 jumper posts. (We recommend this factory-default setting.)  
But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 5.2), remove the jumper  
from these posts, as shown in Figure 4-3. (Whichever way you set this jumper, make  
sure that jumper JP8 in the Remote Module is set the same way.)  
With AGC  
Without AGC  
(factory default)  
JP3  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 4-3. Setting gain-control jumper JP3.  
4.1.3 CORE-DIAMETER JUMPER JP5  
If you’ll be using fiberoptic cable with a 62.5/125-µm diameter in your Extender  
system, leave the JP5 jumper posts empty. (This is the factory-default setting.) But  
if you’ll be using 50/125-µm-diameter cable, install a jumper on these posts, as  
shown in Figure 4-4. The Extender does not work with fiber cables of any other  
diameter.  
62.5/125-µm  
50/125-µm  
(factory default)  
JP5  
Removed  
Installed  
Figure 4-4. Setting core-diameter jumper JP5.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
4.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional)  
There are two user-settable jumpers inside the Remote Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• Whether the Remote Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper bank JP8).  
• Whether the Remote Module passes a separate VSYNC signal to the monitor  
(default) or disconnects it (jumper JP9).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Remote Module—  
being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by  
unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard  
are shown in Figure 4-5.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in  
Sections 4.2.1 and/or 4.2.2, and then close the unit back up.  
Figure 4-5. The locations of the ACS236A Remote Module’s jumpers.  
26  
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CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A  
4.2.1 REMOTE GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER BANK JP8  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumpers ON the right-hand posts of each of the three pairs of JP8 jumper posts, as  
shown below. (This is the factory-default setting as well as the recommended  
setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 6.2), which is  
necessary with VGA input and Sun output (see Section 4.1.1), move the jumper to  
the left-hand posts of each of the three JP8 jumper-post pairs, as shown in  
Figure 4-6.  
When you have AGC selected, the Remote Module ignores the gain-control  
screwdials on its rear panel and automatically adjusts the gain of each of the three  
color signals, which is possible because each of the signals has the same white  
reference value (0.7 Vpp) that the Module can use for comparison. If the colors of  
the picture on your monitor still seem a little off, you can tweak them with the  
Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls, in addition to any color  
controls on the monitor itself.  
When AGC is turned off, the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials become  
activated, and you can use them to control the gain of the corresponding colors.  
(Be aware that when you’re in this mode, chromatic aberrations can affect your  
display.) Adjust the gain and check your adjustments by either watching the  
monitor or, to get best results, by using an oscilloscope. See Section 6.2. As always,  
you can also use the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls. We don’t  
recommend that you turn AGC off unless (a) you are using VGA input with Sun  
output, or (b) you have a color problem that you can’t seem to solve by any other  
means.  
Whichever way you set these jumpers, make sure that jumper JP3 in the Local  
Module is set the same way.  
With AGC (factory default)  
Without AGC  
J8  
Jumpers on right-hand posts  
Jumpers on left-hand posts  
Figure 4-6. Setting gain-control jumper bank JP8.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
4.2.2 VSYNC ENABLE/DISABLE JUMPER JP9  
It is possible to use the Extender to connect a VGA monitor to a legacy Sun  
computer that outputs Sun video with CSYNC superimposed on the green signal.  
(If you do this, make sure that jumpers JP2 and JP10 in the Local Module are both  
installed; see Section 4.1.1.)  
In this situation, depending on the computer, the Remote Module might  
express only CSYNC (composite sync) on the HSYNC lead of its VGA connector, or  
it might express both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC (vertical sync) on the VSYNC  
lead. If your VGA monitor works fine even with both signals coming through, leave  
jumper JP9 installed (the factory-default setting). But if your VGA monitor’s  
picture becomes distorted if the monitor receives both CSYNC on HSYNC and  
VSYNC on VSYNC, remove jumper JP9 as shown in Figure 4-7. This causes the  
Remote Module to suppress the VSYNC signal so that only CSYNC is expressed.  
Most VGA monitors, including most of those that have problems when they receive  
both signals, work well using the CSYNC signal alone.  
CSYNC and VSYNC  
(factory default)  
CSYNC only,  
VSYNC disabled  
JP9  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 4-7. Setting VSYNC jumper JP9.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
5. Installation  
5.1 Guidelines and Limitations for Attaching Equipment  
This section discusses a few things you need to keep in mind about the types of  
devices you can attach to a ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender. As you read  
the rest of this section, you might want to refer to Figure 5-1, which shows how the  
Extenders handle the various signals they carry. For pinouts of the Extender’s  
connectors, see Appendix A.  
PC  
ACS235A  
VGA/RGB  
R
G
B
R
G
B
R
R
G
B
VGA/RGB  
keyboard  
mouse  
SYNC polarity  
G
B
VSYNC  
HSYNC  
HS  
VS  
HS/VS  
VS  
SYNCPOL  
HSYNC-  
Stripper  
VSYNC-  
Stripper  
keyboard  
X
Y
X
parallel/  
serial  
serial/  
parallel  
mouse  
Y
serial/  
parallel  
parallel/  
serial  
printer  
printer  
8…28V/DC  
8…28V/DC  
DC  
DC  
DC  
DC  
NOTE: You can make either a VGA or a Sun video  
connection to the ACS236A, not both at once.  
ACS236A  
VGA  
VGA  
R
R
G
B
G
B
HS/VS  
VS  
13W3  
13W3  
Keyboard/  
Mouse  
Keyboard/  
Mouse  
RS-232/  
(V.24)  
RS-232  
(V.24)  
8…28V/DC  
8…28V/DC  
Figure 5-1. Schematics of signal processing in ACS235A (top) and  
ACS236A (bottom) Extender systems.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.1.1 CPU  
The ACS235A Extender supports IBM PC compatible desktop CPUs; it does not  
support laptops. A CPU must have these kinds of interfaces to work fully with the  
ACS235A Extender:  
Video: VGA, SVGA, XGA, or XGA-2. (Also supports most CPUs that output RGB.)  
Keyboard: IBM PS/2 style (6-pin mini-DIN). (With the included keyboard-port  
adapter, will also support CPUs with PC/AT [5-pin DIN] keyboard ports.)  
Mouse: IBM PS/2 style (6-pin mini-DIN). (With the included mouse-port  
adapter, will also support CPUs with RS-232 serial [DB9] mouse ports.)  
Parallel (optional): IBM PC style (Centronics compatible). This interface has  
strict limitations; see Section 5.1.5.  
The ACS236A Extender supports most Sun compatible CPUs that output VGA  
video on an HD15 connector or legacy Sun Video on a 13W3 connector.  
5.1.2 VGA MONITOR  
The VGA red, green, and blue color signals are analog values in the range of 0 to  
0.8 Vpp. The signals have no DC offset; this means that the black level meets  
ground (that is, that the zero-signal [black] voltage level of the color leads is  
equivalent to the voltage level of the color-ground leads). The horizontal and  
vertical synchronization signals are TTL signals with various polarities, depending  
on the selected monitor resolution (for example, text-only, 640 x 480, 800 x 600,  
etc.). For transmission across the fiber cable, the SYNC signals are added to the  
color-signals and separated again at the receiver.  
CAUTION!  
If you use a “Plug and Play” monitor, you will have to configure the  
video settings manually.  
5.1.3 RGB MONITOR OR LEGACY SUN MONITOR  
The RGB red, green, and blue color signals are analog values in the range of 0 to  
0.8 Vpp. The composite (horizontal + vertical) synchronization signal is usually  
added to the green signal, although some devices also add synchronization or  
other information to the red and/or blue signals. Normally the color signals have a  
DC offset, or at least the green/SYNC signal does; this means that DC voltage is  
added to the lead so that even when there’s no color signal present (when the  
screen is black), the color lead with the DC offset has higher voltage than the  
ground lead. These signals must be clamped at the remote end, for linear  
amplification in stages that follow.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
5.1.4 KEYBOARD AND MOUSE  
The ACS235A Extender’s keyboard and mouse interfaces are standard PS/2 type  
interfaces, so you can attach just about any standard PS/2 compatible keyboard  
and mouse to the Extender. Do not attach serial mice or bus mice to the Extender;  
they will not work. You can attach a PC/AT style keyboard with a 5-pin DIN  
connector to the Extender by using a keyboard adapter, available separately as  
product code FA211.  
The ACS236A Extender’s keyboard and mouse interface is a standard Sun type  
interface, so you can attach just about any standard Sun compatible keyboard and  
mouse to the Extender. The Extender is transparent to Sun keyboard type and  
keyboard language.  
5.1.5 PARALLEL PRINTER (OPTIONAL WITH ACS235A)  
The ACS235A Extender’s printer interface is an IBM PC style (Centronics  
compatible) parallel interface, so you can attach any basic parallel printer (IBM PC  
or Centronics type) to the Extender.  
CAUTION!  
®
This is a printer interface only. It cannot be used to attach Zip drives  
and other parallel devices, nor can it be used for parallel file transfer  
®
using utilities such as Laplink .  
®
The Extender also doesn’t support the newer IEEE 1284 or Bitronics  
signaling (and the transmission delay would cause timeout problems for  
these protocols anyway), so don’t try to establish bidirectional,  
Extended Capabilities Port (ECP), or Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP)  
communication with an attached parallel printer.  
Lastly, you should be aware that the latest version of the standard  
®
®
parallel-printer device driver from Hewlett-Packard (HP ) will not work  
with printers attached to a CPU across an Extender link. If you have  
problems with your printer driver, contact your printer dealer or HP  
support.  
5.1.6 SERIAL DEVICE (OPTIONAL WITH ACS236A)  
The ACS236A Extender’s serial interface is an EIA/TIA RS-232 serial interface,  
pinned according to TIA-574 on DB9 connectors just like the serial ports of an  
IBM PC compatible computer. The serial port on the Local Module is a DCE and  
the serial port on the Remote Module is a DTE. The Extender supports the TD,  
RD, RTS, CTS, DSR, and DTR signals. This means that you can attach just about  
any serial device to this port that you would directly attach to a PC’s serial port,  
including a printer, plotter, scanner, or touchscreen. Keep in mind, though, that  
the maximum data rate that the Extender can transmit across the fiber link is  
38,400 bps.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.2 Connecting a CPU or KVM Switch to the Local Module  
NOTE  
In the universal directions in this section and in Section 5.3, we’ll  
sometimes refer to separate keyboard and mouse connections even  
though there will only be one keyboard/mouse connection when the Sun  
Extender (ACS236A) is involved.  
Your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender comes with a KVM-extension cable  
that you can use to connect a computer CPU or ServSwitch family KVM switch to  
the Extender’s Local Module:  
• The extension cable that comes with the ACS235A is a three-strand cable. The  
two outside strands carry keyboard and mouse data, and have 6-pin mini-DIN  
male connectors at both ends. The central strand carries video data; it has an  
HD15 female connector at the Extender end and an HD15 male connector at  
the other end.  
• The extension cable that comes with the ACS236A is a two-strand cable. The  
outside strand carries keyboard and mouse data, and has 8-pin mini-DIN male  
connectors at both ends. The central strand carries video data; it has an HD15  
female connector at the Extender end and an HD15 male connector at the  
other end. (If you’re using the ACS236A with a legacy Sun CPU that outputs  
Sun video on a 13W3 connector, you’ll need a Sun video-extension cable such  
as product code EVMVDT02-MF to take the place of the included cable’s video  
strand. Important note: Do not use a standard HD15-to-13W3 “Sun video  
adapter” or “Sun video adapter cable” to patch the included cable’s video  
strand to the CPU! These are not pinned correctly for use with the Extender!)  
Take these steps (making sure the CPU or KVM switch is turned OFF):  
1A. ACS235A: Take the end of the included KVM-extension cable with the female  
video connector and plug its connectors into the matching connectors on the  
front panel of the Extender’s Local Module. Attach the cable’s video strand to  
the Module’s HD15 male connector, the cable’s keyboard strand to the 6-pin  
mini-DIN female connector on the Module labeled with the picture of a  
keyboard, and the cable’s mouse strand to the 6-pin mini-DIN female  
connector on the Module labeled with the picture of a mouse.  
1B. ACS236A: Take the female end of the included KVM-extension cable’s video  
strand, or of your Sun video-extension cable, and plug it into the matching  
male video connector (HD15 for VGA, 13W3 for Sun video) on the front  
panel of the Extender’s Local Module. (Do not plug video cables into both  
video connectors at the same time!) Plug the keyboard/mouse strand of the  
included KVM-extension cable into the Local Module’s 8-pin mini-DIN  
female keyboard/mouse connector.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
2. Take the connectors at the other end of the cable and plug them into the  
equipment you want to attach. ACS235A only: Be very careful not to get the  
cable’s keyboard and mouse strands backwards.  
If you’re attaching a CPU or a KVM switch with separate user-side connectors: Plug  
the included cable’s connectors into the CPU’s or switch’s video, keyboard,  
and mouse ports.  
If you’re attaching a KVM switch with a single, composite user-side connector:  
These types of switches are used with monitor/keyboard/mouse  
“breakout” cables that patch from the single composite connector to  
multiple connectors; connect one of these to the switch’s monitor/  
keyboard/mouse/(etc.) port. Then plug the connectors of the Extender’s  
KVM-extension cable into the matching monitor, keyboard, and mouse  
connectors on the breakout cable. (Alternatively, if the breakout cable is  
long enough, you can run it directly to the switch’s monitor, keyboard, and  
mouse ports.)  
NOTE FOR ACS235A  
If the CPU, switch, or breakout cable doesn’t have a PS/2 style (6-pin  
mini-DIN female) keyboard interface, but does have a PC/AT style  
(5-pin DIN female) keyboard interface, connect the keyboard-port  
adapter included with the Extender between that interface and the  
KVM-extension cable’s keyboard-port connector. If the CPU, switch,  
or breakout cable doesn’t have a PS/2 style (6-pin mini-DIN female)  
mouse interface, but does have a PC/AT style RS-232 serial (DB9  
female) mouse interface, connect the mouse-port adapter included  
with the Extender between that interface and the KVM-extension  
cable’s mouse-port connector.  
3A. ACS235A: If you’re going to be using a parallel printer at the remote site: The  
included parallel-extension cable has only one strand; it has a DB25 male  
connector at one end and a DB25 female at the other. Plug the male end into  
the CPU’s parallel port—or the parallel-printer port of your KVM switch if it  
has one—and the female end into the Local Module’s DB25 male printer  
port (labeled with the picture of a printer).  
3B. ACS236A: If you’re going to be transmitting serial data across the fiber link: We don’t  
include a serial-extension cable with the Extender because (a) applications  
requiring serial extension will be rare and (b) the necessary type of extension  
cable will vary depending on what type of equipment you’re attaching. Please  
call Black Box Tech Support for assistance in selecting any serial cables and  
adapters you’ll need. Keep in mind that in order to be attached to the Local  
Module’s DB9 female port (which is pinned as a DCE), a serial cable must  
have a DB9 male connector.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.3 Connecting User Equipment or a KVM Switch to the Remote Module  
NOTE FOR ACS236A  
Do not plug monitors, switches, etc., into both of the Remote Module’s  
video connectors at the same time.  
Take these steps to attach your user equipment directly to the Extender’s Remote  
Module:  
1. Plug the monitor into the Remote Module’s HD15 or 13W3 female video port  
(labeled with the picture of a monitor). If you’re using an RGB monitor with  
the ACS235A, run an HD15-to-multiple-BNC video-adapter cable between the  
Module and the monitor.  
2. Plug the keyboard into the 6-pin or 8-pin mini-DIN female keyboard port on  
the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture of a keyboard).  
ACS235A: Use a keyboard adapter such as FA211 if the keyboard is a PC/AT  
type with a 5-pin DIN connector on its cable.  
3. ACS235A: Plug the PS/2 mouse into the 6-pin mini-DIN female mouse port  
on the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture of a mouse). (The  
mouse must be PS/2 type.)  
ACS236A: Plug the Sun mouse into the mouse port on your keyboard.  
4A. ACS235A: To attach an optional parallel printer, run a standard parallel cable  
from the printer to the Remote Module’s DB25 female printer port (labeled  
with the picture of a printer).  
4B. ACS236A: To attach an optional serial device, run a serial cable from the  
device to the Remote Module’s DB9 male serial port (pinned as DTE, labeled  
“Serial”). This cable should be the same type that you’d use to attach the  
device to one of the serial ports on an IBM compatible PC.  
Take these steps to attach a KVM switch with separate CPU-side connectors (that is,  
one connector for each interface) to the Extender’s Remote Module:  
1. Run a video-extension cable from the switch’s CPU-video port to the Remote  
Module’s HD15 or 13W3 female video port (labeled with the picture of a  
monitor).  
2. Run a keyboard-extension cable from the switch’s CPU-keyboard port to the  
6-pin or 8-pin mini-DIN female keyboard port on the Remote Module (the  
port labeled with the picture of a keyboard). ACS235A: Use a keyboard  
adapter such as FA212 if the switch has a PC/AT style 5-pin DIN CPU-  
keyboard port.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
3. ACS235A: Run a PS/2 mouse-extension cable from the switch’s PS/2 CPU-  
mouse port to the 6-pin mini-DIN female mouse port on the Remote Module  
(the port labeled with the picture of a mouse). (The switch’s CPU-mouse port  
must be PS/2 type.)  
4A. ACS235A: If the switch has an input-only CPU-parallel port that is pinned  
(and functions) the same way as a parallel printer’s port, you can run a  
parallel cable from this port to the Remote Module’s DB25 female printer  
port (labeled with the picture of a printer).  
4B. ACS236A: If the switch has a serial port, you can run a serial-cable from the  
port to the Remote Module’s DB9 male serial port (pinned as DTE, labeled  
“Serial”). This cable should be the same type that you’d use to attach the  
device to one of the serial ports on an IBM compatible PC.  
Take these steps to attach a KVM switch with single, composite CPU-side  
connectors to the Extender’s Remote Module:  
1. Attach a CPU-video/keyboard/mouse/etc. “breakout” cable to one of the  
switch’s composite CPU ports.  
2. Plug the video strand of this cable into the Remote Module’s HD15 or 13W3  
female video port (labeled with the picture of a monitor).  
3. Plug the keyboard strand of this cable into the 6-pin or 8-pin mini-DIN female  
keyboard port on the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture of a  
keyboard). ACS235A: If the cable’s keyboard strand is 5-pin DIN PC/AT type,  
use a keyboard adapter such as our FA211.  
4. ACS235A: Plug the PS/2 mouse strand of this cable into the 6-pin mini-DIN  
female mouse port on the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture  
of a mouse). (The mouse strand of this cable must be PS/2 type.)  
5A. ACS235A: If the switch supports parallel-interface switching, you can plug the  
parallel strand of the breakout cable into the Remote Module’s DB25 female  
printer port (labeled with the picture of a printer).  
5B. ACS236A: If the KVM switch supports serial-interface switching, you can plug  
the serial strand of the breakout cable into the Remote Module’s DB9 male  
serial port (pinned as DTE, labeled “Serial”).  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.4 Running Fiber Cable Between the Local and Remote Modules  
You’ll need breakout-style fiberoptic cabling with at least five fibers to connect the  
Extender’s Local Module to its Remote Module. What type of cable(s) you use will  
depend on where you’re going to run them:  
Indoors: Use bulk preterminated cable (such as product code EFN1006A-ST  
for six fibers, EFN1008A-ST for eight fibers, etc.—specify length) or cable  
you’ll terminate yourself (such as EFN1006A for six fibers, etc.) for your direct  
indoor runs between Local and Remote Modules.  
Outdoors (Moderate): First use our preterminated ServSwitch Fiber Patch  
Cord (product code EFN235 for ACS235A or EFN236 for ACS236A) to run  
from the Local or Remote Module to the demarc (demarcation point). Then  
use bulk loose-tube outside-plant cable, either the preterminated type (such as  
product code EFN3006A-ST for six fibers, EFN3008A-ST for eight fibers, etc.—  
specify length) or the type you’ll terminate yourself (such as EFN3006A for six  
fibers, etc.) for your direct outdoor runs in mild to moderate conditions  
between Local and Remote Modules.  
Outdoors (Extreme): First use our preterminated ServSwitch Fiber Patch Cord  
(product code EFN235 for ACS235A or EFN236 for ACS236A) to run from the  
Local or Remote Module to the demarc (demarcation point). Then use bulk  
armored outside-plant cable (such as product code EFN4070A-1000 for a  
1000-ft. [304-m] spool of unterminated 6-fiber type or EFN4075A-1000 for  
similar 12-fiber type) for your direct outdoor runs in extreme conditions  
between Local and Remote Modules.  
Connect five of the strands of the cable that will be directly attached to the  
®
Extender Modules to the corresponding ST female connectors on the back of the  
Modules:  
• Red dot “R” strand to red dot “R” port (red color signal);  
• Green dot “G” strand to green dot “G” port (green color signal);  
• Blue dot “B” strand to blue dot “B” port (blue color signal);  
• Black dot “1” strand to black dot “1” port (other signals, one direction)—the  
fourth port from the left on the Local Module, the fifth port from the left on  
the Remote Module; and  
• White dot “2” strand to white dot “2” port (other signals, other direction)—the  
fifth port from the left on the Local Module, the fourth port from the left on  
the Remote Module.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
CAUTION!  
One of the most common errors in cabling the Extender is to attach  
fiber strands “1” and “2” to the Remote Module backwards (strand 1  
to port 2, strand 2 to port 1). Notice that while the fiber ports on the  
Local Module are arranged in left-to-right order as “R,” “G,” “B,” “1,”  
and “2,” the ports on the Remote Module are arranged in the order  
“R,” “G,” “B,” “2,” and “1”.  
5.5 Connecting Power to the Local and Remote Modules  
The ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender comes with a pair of identical  
autosensing power supplies. Take these steps to attach them to your Extender’s  
Local and Remote Modules:  
1. Attach input cords to the IEC 320 male power inlets on the two power  
supplies’ transformers. (This cord will be included for North American  
customers; other customers might have to get a cord appropriate for their  
local outlets.)  
2. Attach the transformers’ output cords to the 6-pin DIN connectors on the  
Local and Remote Modules (the connectors labeled “Power”).  
3. Plug the input cords into a standard utility-power (mains) outlet providing  
between 100 and 240 volts of AC power.  
The Extender units will begin operating immediately; they don’t have ON/OFF  
switches.  
5.6 Powering Up the Rest of the System  
To power up the other devices attached to the Extender units, take these steps:  
1. Plug in and turn ON the monitor.  
2. Plug in and turn ON the CPU. It should boot normally.  
This completes the installation of your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender  
system. It should be ready for continuous operation.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
6. Operation  
The ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender Modules should begin operating as  
soon as they (and all attached devices) are plugged in; the green and red Power  
LEDs on the units’ rear panels should light. (If either LED on a Module fails to  
light, that Module has had an internal failure; contact Black Box Technical  
Support as described in Section 7.2.) While the Extender is ON, the Remote  
Module’s 7-segment display will continuously indicate system status; see  
Section 6.1 for how to interpret the various characters you might see on this  
display. If the color of the picture on your remote monitor doesn’t look right, see  
Section 6.2 for suggestions on how to fix it.  
6.1 Interpreting the Remote Module’s 7-Segment Display  
Here are the various indications you might see on the Remote Module’s display,  
along with what they mean. The numbers “0” through “3” and the blinking dot will  
only appear when AGC is enabled (see Sections 3.2.2 and 3.3.2 or 4.1.3 and 4.2.1).  
If more than one error has occurred, all of the corresponding error codes are  
displayed in a repeating sequence, one each second.  
Zero (AGC enabled only): The “OK” display. No trouble; AGC is not  
currently active.  
Blinking dot (AGC enabled only): The unit is applying AGC to the video  
signal, which is normal, and everything else is OK.  
One (AGC enabled only): Low red. Even applying max AGC, the unit  
can’t equalize the color signals, of which red is at the lowest level.  
There’s trouble with the red transmit diode, fiber, or receive diode.  
Two (AGC enabled only): Low green. Even applying max AGC, the unit  
can’t equalize the color signals, of which green is at the lowest level.  
There’s trouble with the green transmit diode, fiber, or receive diode.  
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CHAPTER 6: Operation  
Three (AGC enabled only): Low blue. Even applying max AGC, the unit  
can’t equalize the color signals, of which blue is at the lowest level.  
There’s trouble with the blue transmit diode, fiber, or receive diode.  
F: Contrast is turned up too high at the Remote Module for AGC to work  
properly. Turn the contrast down using the contrast dial on the Remote  
Module’s rear panel.  
H: HSYNC missing. Either there’s a problem with the green/HSYNC  
fiber or the CPU-side extension cables, or a jumper has been set wrong  
in the ACS235A Local Module—probably JP6 or JP11 (see Section 3.2.1).  
V: VSYNC missing. Either there’s a problem with the blue/VSYNC fiber  
or the CPU-side extension cables, or a jumper has been set wrong in the  
Local Module, probably JP10 or JP11 (see Section 3.2.1 or 4.1.1).  
b: Blank pulse missing. There’s a problem with the green/HSYNC fiber.  
C: Distortion at receiver’s data interface. Either there’s a problem with  
fiber 1, fibers 1 and 2 have been transposed, or there’s an internal error  
in the Local Module.  
A: Distortion at transmitter’s data interface. There’s an internal error in  
the Remote Module.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
6.2 Making Video Adjustments with the Remote Module’s User Controls  
If the image from your computer that’s displayed on the remote monitor is badly  
distorted, this might be the result of a video-signaling problem. Refer to Chapter 3  
(especially Section 3.2.1) or Chapter 4 for ways in which you can modify the way  
the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extenders handle the sync and color signals.  
If the image is not distorted but the colors are off, we first suggest that you try  
tweaking the contrast and brightness dials on the rear panel of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender’s Remote Module. Once you get the image as close as  
you can to how it should look, try adjusting the image with the monitor’s controls.  
If this doesn’t work, you might try disabling the Extenders’ automatic gain  
control (see Sections 3.2.2 and 3.3.2 for the ACS235A PC model or Sections 4.1.2  
and 4.2.1 for the ACS236A Sun model), then using a tiny screwdriver to turn any of  
the three gain-control screwdials with which you can manually control the gain of  
the red, green, and blue color signals. These are also on the rear panel of the  
Remote Module: Each screwdial is just above and to the left of the fiberoptic  
connector carrying the color signal it controls, so the red screwdial is next to the  
red connector, green next to green, and blue next to blue. Be careful if you do  
this; when you make manual adjustments like these, it’s very easy to throw the color  
of your monitor display entirely out of whack.  
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CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting  
7. Troubleshooting  
7.1 Things to Try First  
Here are a few problems that sometimes occur in a ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM  
Extender system, along with possible causes and solutions.  
Problem: I can’t get a picture on my monitor screen.  
Check the LEDs on the rear panels of the Extender units:  
• If they’re lit: Is the monitor plugged in and turned ON? Is it in screen-saver  
mode? Is its cable loose?  
• If they’re dark: Are the Extender units plugged into a working outlet? Is the  
CPU actually plugged in, turned ON, and running? Is the CPU-extension cable  
loose? Is the fiber cable loose? Are any strands of the fiber broken—at the  
remote site, can you see a small red dot when you hold each fiber connector  
up to a white sheet of paper? Is the fiber the right type (50/125-µm or  
62.5/125-µm gradient-index multimode)? (If everything seems like it ought to  
be working, the power supplies of one or both Extender units might be  
damaged.)  
Problem: The picture on my monitor screen rolls uncontrollably.  
The monitor isn’t receiving a synchronization signal. The usual cause of this is  
plugging a color-signal fiber into the wrong port on an Extender unit (the red  
strand into the green port and vice versa, for example).  
Problem: My keyboard, mouse, and printer don’t work.  
Fiber 1 and fiber 2 might be loose or connected backwards at one of the Extender  
units. They might also be broken—at the remote site, can you see a small red dot  
when you hold each fiber connector up to a white sheet of paper? Is the fiber the  
right type (50/125-µm or 62.5/125-µm gradient-index multimode)?  
Problem: My mouse works but my keyboard doesn’t.  
The keyboard probably needs more current than the power supply can provide.  
Attach a keyboard whose power consumption does not exceed 100 mA.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
7.2 Calling Black Box  
If you determine that your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender is  
malfunctioning, do not attempt to alter or repair the unit. It has no user-serviceable  
components. Contact Black Box Technical Support at 724-746-5500.  
Before you do, make a record of the history of the problem. We will be able to  
provide more efficient and accurate assistance if you have a complete description,  
including:  
• the nature and duration of the problem;  
• when the problem occurs;  
• the components involved in the problem—that is, what type of computer, what  
type of keyboard, brand of mouse, make and model of monitor, type and make  
of fiber cable, etc.;  
• any particular application that, when used, appears to create the problem or  
make it worse; and  
• the results of any testing you’ve already done.  
7.3 Shipping and Packaging  
If you need to transport or ship your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender:  
• Package it carefully. We recommend that you use the original container.  
• If you are returning the unit, include everything you received with it. Before  
you ship the unit back to Black Box for repair or return, contact us to get a  
Return Authorization (RA) number.  
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APPENDIX A: Pinouts  
Appendix A: Pinouts  
Here are the pinouts for the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender’s device and  
power connectors.  
A.1 Connectors on Both Models  
A.1.1 THE VGA VIDEO CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
(HD15 male)  
On Remote Module  
(HD15 female)  
1
1
5
5
10  
6
10  
6
11  
15  
15  
11  
Pin  
1
Signal  
Pin  
8
Signal  
Red  
Blue Ground  
Sync Ground  
2
Green  
10  
13  
14  
3
Blue  
Horizontal Sync (HSYNC)  
Vertical Sync (VSYNC)  
6
Red Ground  
Green Ground  
7
(Other pins are not used or not connected.)  
A.1.2 THE POWER CONNECTOR  
On Local and  
Remote  
5
1
Modules  
(6-Pin DIN  
Female)  
6
4
2
3
Pin  
Signal  
Shell  
Shield  
1
2
3
Ground  
+12 VDC  
Ground  
(Other pins are not connected.)  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
A.2 Connectors on the ACS235A  
A.2.1 THE PS/2 KEYBOARD CONNECTOR  
On Local and Remote Modules  
(6-pin mini-DIN female)  
6
5
4
3
2
1
Pin  
1
Signal  
Keyboard Data  
(No Connection)  
Keyboard Ground  
VCC (+5 VDC)  
Keyboard Clock  
(No Connection)  
2
3
4
5
6
A.2.2 THE PS/2 MOUSE CONNECTOR  
On Local and Remote Modules  
(6-pin mini-DIN female)  
6
5
4
3
2
1
Pin  
1
Signal  
Mouse Data  
2
(No Connection)  
Mouse Ground  
VCC (+5 VDC)  
Mouse Clock  
3
4
5
6
(No Connection)  
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APPENDIX A: Pinouts  
A.2.3 THE PARALLEL PRINTER CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
(DB25 male)  
On Remote Module  
(DB25 female)  
13  
13  
1
1
14  
25  
25  
14  
Pin  
1
Signal  
\STROBE  
DATA1  
DATA2  
DATA3  
DATA4  
DATA5  
DATA6  
DATA7  
DATA8  
\ACK  
Direction  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To computer  
To computer  
To computer  
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
BUSY  
PE  
Local Module: (+5V pull-up resistor);  
Remote Module: (No connection)  
14  
15  
(+5V pull-up resistor)  
Local Module: (+5V pull-up resistor);  
Remote Module: (No connection)  
16  
17  
INIT  
To printer  
(No connection)  
GND  
18-25  
N/A  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
A.3 Connectors on the ACS236A  
A.3.1 THE SUN VIDEO CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
(HD15 male)  
On Remote Module  
(HD15 female)  
A1  
1
5
A2  
A3  
A3  
A2  
5
1
A1  
6
10  
10  
6
Pin  
A1  
A2  
A3  
Signal  
Red  
Pin  
4
Signal  
Ground  
Green  
Blue  
5
Composite Sync. (CSYNC)  
Ground  
10  
(Other pins are not connected.)  
A.3.2 THE SUN KEYBOARD/MOUSE CONNECTOR  
On Local and Remote Modules  
(8-pin mini-DIN female)  
8
7 6  
5
4
1
3
2
Pin  
1
Signal  
Ground  
Ground  
2
3
Sun Power ON  
Mouse IN  
4
5
Keyboard OUT  
Keyboard IN  
6
7
Keyboard Power ON  
Sun Power ON  
6
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APPENDIX A: Pinouts  
A.3.3 THE SERIAL CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
On Remote Module  
(DB9 male)  
(DB9 female)  
5
1
1
5
10  
10  
6
6
Pin  
1
Signal  
Direction  
(No connection)  
2
RD (Receive Data)  
TD (Transmit Data)  
Input to Remote, output from Local  
Output from Remote, input to Local  
Output from Remote, input to Local  
N/A  
3
4
DTR (Data Terminal Ready)  
SGND (Signal Ground)  
DSR (Data Set Ready)  
RTS (Request to Send)  
CTS (Clear to Send)  
(No connection)  
5
6
Input to Remote, output from Local  
Output from Remote, input to Local  
Input to Remote, output from Local  
7
8
9
47  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Appendix B:  
Rackmounting the Extender  
If you want to mount one or two ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender Local or  
Remote Modules in a standard 19" equipment rack, you can use the Single-Module  
Rackmount Kit (product code RMK235) or the Dual-Module Rackmount Kit  
(RMK235-2) respectively. The RMK235 kit is shown in Figure B-1:  
Figure B-1. The RMK235 Rackmount Kit.  
Each of these Kits consists of a single rackmounting frame, two handles, four  
Philips-head screws, a hex tool, and four (RMK235) or eight (RMK235-2) hex-head  
screws. To use a Kit to mount an Extender Module, take these steps, referring to  
Figure B-2 on the next page:  
1. Using a Philips-head screwdriver (not included), attach the handles to the  
front of the Kit frame with the four Philips-head screws.  
2. Unscrew and remove two screws from each side of the case of the Module you  
want to mount:  
• If you want the front-panel device connectors—the ones on a Local Module that  
will be attached to the CPU, or the ones on a Remote Module that will be  
attached to the user station—to protrude from the front of the rack, remove  
the screws closest to the front of the Module.  
• If you want the rear-panel fiberoptic connectors to protrude from the front of  
the rack, remove the screws closest to the rear of the Module.  
3. Insert the Module into the Kit frame from behind, through the matching  
hole (or, on the Dual Kit, either matching hole); the end of the Module that  
you removed the screws from in step 2 must go in first. Match up those now-  
vacant screwholes in the sides of the Module with the holes in the two small  
flanges welded to the back of the Kit frame.  
48  
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APPENDIX B: Rackmounting the Extender  
4. Using the included hex tool, screw four of the included hex screws through the  
holes in the flanges and into the Module to secure the Module to the frame.  
5. Dual-Module Kit only: Repeat steps 2 through 4 for the other Module.  
6. Match the mounting holes at the opposite ends of the Kit frame to an  
appropriate set of matching holes on your equipment rack, then attach the  
Module-and-frame assembly to the rack using your own screws, bolts, or cage  
nuts (not included).  
Figure B-2. The rackmount assembly (RMK235 shown).  
49  
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Customer Support Information:  
FREE tech support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax 724-746-0746.  
Mailing address: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Dr., Lawrence, PA 15055-1018  
World-Wide Web: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: [email protected]  
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© Copyright 2001. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.  
THE SERVSWITCH™ FAMILY  
Welcome to the ServSwitchTM Family!  
®
Thank you for purchasing a BLACK BOX ServSwitch Brand KVM-switching  
accessory! 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™ Brand Fiber KVM  
Extender, including how to install, operate, and troubleshoot it. For an  
introduction to the Extender, see Chapter 2. The Extender product codes covered  
in this manual are:  
ACS235A  
ACS236A  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY  
This is to certify that, when installed and used according to the instructions in this  
manual together with the specified cables, the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM  
Extender is shielded against the generation of radio interference in accordance  
with the application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC, as well as these standards:  
EN 55022: 1989 class B  
EN 50082-1: 1993  
IEC 801-2: 1991 - 4kV CD/8kV AD  
IEC 801-3: 1984 - 3V/m  
IEC 801-4: 1988 - 4kV power-supply lines  
- 2kV data lines  
The Extender was tested in a typical configuration.  
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL  
BLACK BOX and the  
logo are registered trademarks, and ServSwitch is a  
trademark, of Black Box Corporation.  
Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.  
®
ST is a registered trademark of AT&T .  
IBM, PC/AT, and PS/2 are registered trademarks of International Business  
Machines Corporation.  
Sun and Sun Microsystems are registered trademarks 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.  
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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.  
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.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
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.  
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NOM STATEMENT  
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.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Contents  
Chapter  
Page  
1. Specifications ............................................................................................. 8  
2. Introduction ............................................................................................. 11  
2.1 Overview ............................................................................................ 11  
2.2 The Complete Package ..................................................................... 12  
3. Configuring the ACS235A ....................................................................... 13  
3.1 Configuring for RGB Video ............................................................. 13  
3.1.1 VGA vs. RGB Signaling ........................................................... 13  
3.1.2 VGA Video Card to RGB Monitor  
(VGA to RGB Conversion) ................................................ 13  
3.1.3 RGB Video Source to RGB Monitor ...................................... 14  
3.1.4 RGB Video Source to VGA Monitor  
(RGB to VGA Conversion) ................................................ 14  
3.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional) .................... 16  
3.2.1 The VGA/RGB Jumpers (JP6, JP10, and JP11) ..................... 17  
3.2.2 VGA-to-RGB Sync-Generation Jumper JP2 ............................ 18  
3.2.3 Local Gain-Control Jumper JP3 .............................................. 18  
3.2.4 Core-Diameter Jumper JP5 ..................................................... 18  
3.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional) ................ 19  
3.3.1 The Sync-on-Color Jumpers (JP1, JP2, and JP3) ................... 20  
3.3.2 Remote Gain-Control Jumper Bank JP8 ................................ 21  
3.3.3 VSYNC Enable/Disable Jumper JP9 ...................................... 22  
3.3.4 SYNC-Polarity Jumper JP12 .................................................... 22  
4. Configuring the ACS236A ....................................................................... 23  
4.1 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional) .................... 23  
4.1.1 The Video-Handling Jumpers JP2 and JP10 .......................... 24  
4.1.2 Local Gain-Control Jumper JP3 .............................................. 25  
4.1.3 Core-Diameter Jumper JP5 ..................................................... 25  
4.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional) ................ 26  
4.3.1 Remote Gain-Control Jumper Bank JP8 ................................ 27  
4.3.2 VSYNC Enable/Disable Jumper JP9 ...................................... 28  
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TABLE OF CONTENTS  
Chapter  
Page  
5. Installation ................................................................................................ 29  
5.1 Guidelines and Limitations for Attaching Equipment ................... 29  
5.1.1 CPU .......................................................................................... 30  
5.1.2 VGA Monitor ........................................................................... 30  
5.1.3 RGB Monitor or Legacy Sun Monitor ................................... 30  
5.1.4 Keyboard and Mouse .............................................................. 31  
5.1.5 Parallel Printer (Optional with ACS235A) ............................ 31  
5.1.6 Serial Device (Optional with ACS236A) ................................ 31  
5.2 Connecting a CPU or KVM Switch to the Local Module ............... 32  
5.3 Connecting User Equipment or a KVM Switch to the  
Remote Module ........................................................................... 34  
5.4 Running Fiber Cable Between the Local and Remote Modules .... 36  
5.5 Connecting Power to the Local and Remote Modules ................... 37  
5.6 Powering Up the Rest of the System ................................................ 37  
6. Operation ................................................................................................. 38  
6.1 Interpreting the Remote Module’s 7-Segment Display .................. 38  
6.2 Making Video Adjustments with the  
Remote Module’s User Controls ................................................. 40  
7. Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 41  
7.1 Things to Try First ............................................................................. 41  
7.2 Calling Black Box .............................................................................. 42  
7.3 Shipping and Packaging ................................................................... 42  
Appendix A: Pinouts ....................................................................................... 43  
A.1 Connectors on Both Models ..............................................................43  
A.1.1 The VGA Video Connectors ................................................... 43  
A.1.2 The Power Connector ............................................................. 43  
A.2 Connectors on the ACS235A ............................................................ 44  
A.2.1 The PS/2 Keyboard Connector ............................................. 44  
A.2.2 The PS/2 Mouse Connector .................................................. 44  
A.2.3 The Parallel Printer Connectors ............................................ 45  
A.3 Connectors on the ACS236A ............................................................ 46  
A.3.1 The Sun Video Connectors .................................................... 46  
A.3.2 The Sun Keyboard/Mouse Connector .................................. 46  
A.3.3 The Serial Connectors ............................................................ 47  
Appendix B: Rackmounting the Extender .................................................... 48  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
1. Specifications  
Cable  
Required —  
62.5/125-µm or 50/125-µm multimode fiberoptic breakout  
cable with at least five strands (not included)  
Compliance —  
Interfaces —  
CE (EN 55022, 50082-1); FCC Class A, IC Class/classe A  
Both ACS235A and ACS236A:  
Extension: Multimode fiberoptic;  
ACS235A:  
Video: VGA, SVGA, XGA, XGA-2, or RGB (RGB must be  
patched to an HD15 connector); Plug-and-Play not  
supported for monitors;  
Keyboard and mouse: IBM PS/2 compatible;  
Printer: IBM PC parallel (Centronics compatible);  
ACS236A:  
Video: Either legacy Sun type or VGA, SVGA, XGA,  
XGA-2, or RGB (RGB must be patched to an HD15  
connector); Plug-and-Play not supported for monitors;  
Keyboard and mouse: Sun type;  
Serial device: EIA/TIA RS-232 (ITU V.24/V.28) pinned  
according to TIA-574 (PC serial-port compatible)  
Resolution —  
Up to 1280 x 1024  
Refresh Rate — Up to 75 Hz  
Keyboard Current  
Consumption — Up to 100 mA  
Data Rate —  
ACS235A’s parallel interface: Transparent to data rates up  
to 20,000 cps;  
ACS236A’s serial interface: Transparent to data rates up to  
38,400 bps  
Optical  
Wavelength —  
850 nm  
Optical Power — Into 62.5-µm cable: Typically 88 microwatts;  
Into 50-µm cable: Typically 40 microwatts  
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CHAPTER 1: Specifications  
Maximum  
Optical Loss — 5 dB  
Maximum  
Distance —  
1000 m (3281 ft.) between Extender’s Local and Remote  
Modules  
User Controls — Both ACS235A and ACS236A, rear-mounted on the  
Remote Module:  
(2) Rear-mounted dials for contrast and brightness;  
(3) Rear-mounted trimpots for adjusting color-signal  
gain;  
ACS235A:  
(12) Internal jumper sets for configuration options:  
(6) inside Local Module, (6) inside Remote Module;  
ACS236A:  
(7) Internal jumper sets for configuration options:  
(4) inside Local Module, (3) inside Remote Module  
Indicators —  
(1) Front-mounted 7-segment LED display;  
(2) Rear-mounted LEDs for power  
Connectors —  
Both ACS235A and ACS236A, on both the Local and  
Remote Modules:  
(5) Rear-mounted ST female for Module-to-Module link;  
(1) Front-mounted 6-pin DIN female for power;  
ACS235A:  
Front-mounted on Local Module:  
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female:  
(1) for CPU’s keyboard port,  
(1) for CPU’s mouse port;  
(1) HD15 male for CPU’s video port;  
(1) DB25 male for CPU’s parallel port;  
Front-mounted on Remote Module:  
(2) 6-pin mini-DIN female:  
(1) for keyboard,  
(1) for mouse;  
(1) HD15 female for monitor;  
(1) DB25 female for parallel printer;  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Connectors  
(continued) —  
ACS236A:  
Front-mounted on Local Module:  
(1) 8-pin mini-DIN female for CPU’s keyboard and  
mouse ports;  
(1) HD15 male for CPU’s video port (if it’s VGA type);  
(1) 13W3 male for CPU’s video port (if it’s legacy Sun  
type);  
(1) DB9 female for CPU’s serial port;  
Front-mounted on Remote Module:  
(1) 8-pin mini-DIN female for keyboard and mouse;  
(1) 13W3 female for monitor (if it’s legacy Sun type);  
(1) HD15 female for monitor (if it’s VGA or multisync  
type);  
(1) DB9 male for serial device  
Temperature  
Tolerance —  
Operating: 50 to 113˚F (10 to 45˚C);  
Storage: 23 to 131˚F (–5 to +55˚C)  
Humidity  
Tolerance —  
Up to 80% noncondensing  
Power —  
From utility-power (mains) outlet, through external  
transformer:  
Input: 100 to 240 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz, autosensing, at up to  
0.7 amps;  
Output: +12 VDC at 2.1 amps;  
Consumption:  
Local Module: Approx. 8 watts;  
Remote Module without keyboard: Approx. 8 watts;  
Remote Module with keyboard: Approx. 9 watts  
Size —  
Each Module: 2.2"H x 6.3"W x 7.5"D (5.6 x 16 x 19.1 cm)  
Weight —  
Net for each Module: 2 lb. (0.9 kg);  
Shipping (both Modules plus accessories): At least 7.7 lb.  
(3.5 kg)  
10  
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CHAPTER 2: Introduction  
2. Introduction  
2.1 Overview  
The purpose of the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender is to greatly extend  
®
®
the distance between a Sun or IBM PC compatible computer CPU and the  
keyboard, mouse, monitor, and serial or parallel peripheral that the computer  
operator will be using, especially in electrically noisy environments. Normal  
keyboard-, video-, and mouse-extension cables (and extenders that use normal  
cabling) can only go so far, and electromagnetic noise can limit their distance and  
reliability. But with a fiberoptic system like the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM  
Extender, these concerns are a thing of the past. You can leave the computer CPU  
in a secured cabinet or data center while you operate it from a convenient location  
up to 1000 m (3281 ft.) away.  
There are two models of the Extender. The PC version (product code ACS235A)  
extends KVM distance for IBM PC compatible computers. The Sun version  
®
(product code ACS236A) extends KVM distance for Sun Microsystems computers.  
Each model consists of two main components: a Local Module that you’ll attach  
the computer’s CPU to, and a Remote Module that you’ll attach the user  
®
equipment to. (With the ACS235A, the “user equipment” will be an IBM PS/2  
compatible keyboard and mouse, VGA type monitor, and an optional IBM PC  
®
compatible or Centronics compatible parallel printer. With the ACS236A, it will  
be a Sun compatible keyboard and mouse, VGA or legacy Sun monitor, and an  
optional serial device.) You’ll connect the two units with a five-strand fiberoptic  
breakout cable. With this Extender, you’ll get high monitor resolution, optical  
isolation, and color fidelity, even in electrically rough surroundings.  
The Extender units automatically adapt to the correct transfer rates for all of  
your data; you won’t need to manually set these rates. There is one setting you  
might need to make after you start operating the units: The Extenders’  
amplification might need to be adjusted if you use very long fiberoptic cables. (The  
controls for this are located on the Remote Module—refer to Section 6.2.) And  
even this adjustment is easy to “eyeball” by watching the picture on the monitor  
screen.  
11  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
2.2 The Complete Package  
Before you do anything else with it, verify that you received everything you should  
have with your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender. These components come  
with both models of the Extender:  
• The Extender’s Local Module.  
• The Extender’s Remote Module.  
• (2) power supplies, one for each Module.  
• (2) power cords, one for each power supply (equivalent to our product code  
EPWR08).  
• (1) set of eight adhesive feet.  
• This manual.  
The ACS235A also comes with these components:  
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) keyboard/video/mouse CPU-extension cable with an HD15  
female video connector and 6-pin mini-DIN keyboard and mouse connectors  
(equivalent to our product code EHN235-0010).  
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) DB25 male to DB25 female IBM PC parallel (Centronics  
compatible) extension cable (equivalent to our product code BC00705).  
®
• (1) 6-in. (15.2-cm) PC/AT keyboard-port adapter (6-pin mini-DIN female to  
5-pin DIN male, equivalent to our product code FA222).  
• (1) RS-232 serial mouse-port adapter (6-pin mini-DIN female to DB9 female,  
equivalent to our product code AC244A).  
The ACS236A also comes with this cable:  
• (1) 10-ft. (3-m) keyboard/video/mouse CPU-extension cable with an HD15  
female video connector and an 8-pin mini-DIN keyboard/mouse connector  
(equivalent to our product code EHN236-0010).  
If anything is missing, contact Black Box right away. If the package has been  
damaged, contact both Black Box and the shipping carrier.  
12  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3. Configuring the ACS235A  
This chapter describes how to configure the PC model of the ServSwitch™ Brand  
Fiber KVM Extender (ACS235A). If your Extender is the Sun model (ACS236A),  
see Chapter 4.  
3.1 Configuring for RGB Video  
In normal configuration at delivery time, the Extender units are configured to  
carry video from a VGA source to a VGA monitor. But if you’d like to attach RGB  
equipment (either an RGB source or an RGB monitor or both) to your Extender  
system, this section discusses how you might need to set the units’ configuration  
jumpers. (See Table 3-1 on page 15 for a full layout of this.) Of course, RGB video  
can come in a variety of signal forms and combinations. If after reading the rest of  
this section you’re not sure how to get your RGB application working (or even  
whether it can be done), call Black Box for technical support.  
NOTE  
In any application involving RGB video, if the picture on your monitor  
looks OK with AGC ON, leave the Local Module’s JP3 jumper and the  
Remote Module’s JP8 jumpers in their factory settings. Otherwise,  
remove JP3 at the Local Module and move JP8 at the Remote Module to  
turn AGC OFF. You will then have to adjust the gain of the Extenders’  
video signal manually. See Sections 3.2.3 and 3.3.2.  
3.1.1 VGA VS. RGB SIGNALING  
VGA uses two video-synchronization signals, HSYNC (horizontal sync) and VSYNC  
(vertical sync). In its factory-default settings, the Extender’s Local Module receives  
these signals from the CPU and overlays them on the color signals for transmission  
to the Remote Module: HSYNC on green, VSYNC on blue, and SYNCPOL (the  
combined HSYNC and VSYNC polarity information) on red. But most RGB  
applications use a single CSYNC (composite sync) signal overlaid on the green  
color signal instead, so for such applications you’ll need to have the Local Module  
substitute this signal for HSYNC, as well as create its own SYNCPOL information  
for use by the Remote Module. Then you might have to set the Remote Module to  
process these signals properly at the other end.  
3.1.2 VGA VIDEO CARD TO RGB MONITOR (VGA TO RGB CONVERSION)  
To connect a CPU that outputs VGA video to an RGB monitor, remove the Local  
Module’s JP2 jumper (so that it generates the CSYNC signal needed by the RGB  
monitor), but leave the JP6, JP10, and JP11 jumpers in their factory-default  
settings (see Sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2). At the Remote Module, install jumpers at  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
the JP1, JP2, and JP3 locations to deactivate the decoupling diodes (so that the  
Remote Module leaves the sync signals on the color signals), and remove the  
jumpers at JP9 and JP12 to disable VSYNC and force the sync polarity signals  
negative (see Sections 3.3.1, 3.3.3, and 3.3.4).  
CAUTION!  
You can only connect an RGB monitor to a VGA source if the monitor is  
able to process the source’s synchronization frequency; for example,  
the monitor of a graphic workstation with horizontal bandwidth of 40 to  
90 kHz probably won’t work with a VGA graphics adapter that has a  
resolution of 640 x 480 = 31.5 kHz.  
3.1.3 RGB VIDEO SOURCE TO RGB MONITOR  
To connect an RGB video source to an RGB monitor, set the Local Module’s JP6,  
JP10, and JP11 jumpers all to the “RGB settings” (the ones opposite the factory  
defaults; see Section 3.2.1). At the Remote Module, install jumpers at the JP1, JP2,  
and JP3 locations to deactivate the decoupling diodes (so that the Remote Module  
leaves the sync signals on the color signals; see Section 3.3.1).  
3.1.4 RGB VIDEO SOURCE TO VGA MONITOR (RGB TO VGA CONVERSION)  
To connect an RGB video source to a VGA monitor, set the Local Module’s JP6,  
JP10, and JP11 jumpers all to the “RGB settings” (the ones opposite the factory  
defaults), but leave jumper JP2 in its factory setting so that HSYNC, not CSYNC, is  
transmitted on the HSYNC lead. Remove the Remote Module’s JP12 jumper in  
order to force polarity negative. See Sections 3.2.1 and 3.3.4. In this application,  
the Remote Module also functions as a sync stripper: It strips the sync signals from  
the color signals, separates them, and presents them as normal TTL signals to the  
VGA monitor.  
IMPORTANT NOTES  
You can only connect a VGA monitor to an RGB video source if the  
monitor is able to process the source’s synchronization frequency; for  
example, a multisync monitor with horizontal bandwidth of 30 to 90 kHz  
probably won’t work with a WF470 graphics adapter that uses a  
frequency of 15.625 kHz.  
The Extender can not generate the special VGA-standard phase  
relation required by some types of dual-scan monitors (LCD panels, etc.).  
Be aware that, because of the way some RGB cards output sync  
signals, it is possible that, despite how the jumpers are set in your Local  
Module, your monitor will still receive CSYNC on its HSYNC lead as well  
as VSYNC on its VSYNC lead. Some VGA monitors have no problem  
with this, but others will suffer from distorted displays. If your monitor is  
affected by this distortion, you can suppress the VSYNC signal by  
removing the Remote Module’s JP9 jumper; the monitor should work  
fine using CSYNC only. See Section 3.3.3.  
®
Siemens users: The Extender can process CP581 signals, but this  
requires special cabling. Call Black Box for technical support.  
14  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
Table 3-1. Jumper Settings  
For all of these applications, to use AGC you must leave JP3 in the Local Module installed and  
keep the JP8 jumpers in the Remote Module on the left-hand posts. To operate without AGC,  
remove JP3 in the Local Module installed, move the JP8 jumpers in the Remote Module to the  
right-hand posts, and use the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials as necessary (see  
Sections 3.2.3, 3.3.2, and 5.2).  
Standard VGA  
Source to Std.  
VGA Monitor  
Standard VGA  
Source to  
RGB Monitor  
RGB Source  
to Standard  
VGA Monitor  
RGB Source  
to  
RGB Monitor  
LOCAL  
MODULE  
JUMPERS:  
JP2  
JP6  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
Installed  
JP10  
JP11  
Installed on  
left-hand  
posts  
Installed on  
left-hand  
posts  
Installed on  
right-hand  
posts  
Installed on  
right-hand  
posts  
PINS 13 & 14  
(HS, VS)  
Connected  
Connected  
Open  
Open  
FROM CPU  
REMOTE-  
MODULE  
JUMPERS:  
JP1, 2, 3  
Removed  
Installed  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
Open  
Removed  
Installed  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
Open  
JP9  
JP12  
Installed  
Removed  
Connected  
PINS 13 & 14  
(HS, VS)  
Connected  
TO MONITOR  
USE RM’S  
CONTROLS?  
Contrast  
If necessary  
No  
If necessary  
If necessary  
If necessary  
No  
If necessary  
If necessary  
Brightness  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional)  
There are six user-settable jumpers inside the Local Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• Whether the Local Module transmits VGA (default) or RGB video signals to  
the Remote Module, and if RGB, which signals and how (jumpers JP6, JP10,  
and JP11).  
• Whether the Local Module transmits HSYNC (default) or CSYNC to the  
Remote Module (jumper JP2).  
• Whether the Local Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper JP3).  
• Whether the Local Module expects to transmit into 62.5/125-µm (default) or  
50/125-µm fiber (jumper JP5).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Local Module—being  
sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the  
upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in  
Figure 3-1.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in Sections 3.2.1, 3.2.2,  
3.2.3, and/or 3.2.4, and then close the unit back up.  
JP6  
JP10  
JP2  
JP3  
JP11  
JP5  
A
A
Figure 3-1. The locations of the ACS235A Local Module’s jumpers.  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3.2.1 THE VGA/RGB JUMPERS (JP6, JP10, AND JP11)  
If you’ll be using a VGA monitor in your Extender system, leave these jumpers set  
as they are (in their factory-default positions). But if you need to use an RGB  
monitor instead, take these steps (refer to Figure 3-2):  
• Install a jumper on JP6 if you want the Extender to add the HSYNC  
(horizontal sync) polarity signal to the red color signal.  
• Install a jumper on JP10 if you want the Extender to add the VSYNC (vertical  
sync) polarity signal to the red color signal.  
JP11 is the main VGA vs. RGB control. To select RGB on the local side (if your  
computer is transmitting RGB video), move the jumper from the left-hand  
posts to the right-hand posts, as shown below.  
VGA Signals  
(Factory Defaults)  
RGB Signals  
JP6  
Installed  
Installed  
Removed  
Removed  
JP10  
JP11  
Jumper on left-  
hand posts  
Jumper on right-  
hand posts  
Figure 3-2. Setting the VGA/RGB jumpers.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.2.2 VGA-TO-RGB SYNC-GENERATION JUMPER JP2  
For most applications you should leave this jumper installed. However, if you are  
using the Extender to connect a VGA video card or other VGA source to an RGB  
monitor, remove this jumper as shown in Figure 3-3. (This causes the Local  
Module to generate a CSYNC signal for transmission to the Remote Module.)  
Use existing sync  
(factory default)  
VGA to RGB  
(create CSYNC)  
JP2  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-3. Setting VGA-to-RGB jumper JP2.  
3.2.3 LOCAL GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER JP3  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumper ON the JP3 jumper posts. (We recommend this factory-default setting.)  
But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 5.2), remove the jumper  
from these posts as shown in Figure 3-4. (Whichever way you set this jumper, make  
sure that jumper JP8 in the Remote Module is set the same way.)  
With AGC  
Without AGC  
(factory default)  
JP3  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-4. Setting gain-control jumper JP3.  
3.2.4 CORE-DIAMETER JUMPER JP5  
If you’ll be using fiberoptic cable with a 62.5/125-µm diameter in your Extender  
system, leave the JP5 jumper posts empty. (This is the factory-default setting.) But  
if you’ll be using 50/125-µm-diameter cable, install a jumper on these posts as  
shown in Figure 3-5. The Extender does not work with fiber cables of any other  
diameter.  
62.5/125-µm  
50/125-µm  
(factory default)  
JP5  
Removed  
Installed  
Figure 3-5. Setting core-diameter jumper JP5.  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3.3 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional)  
There are six user-settable jumpers inside the Remote Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• Whether the Remote Module strips the sync signals from the color signals  
(default) or leaves them in (jumpers JP1, JP2, and JP3).  
• Whether the Remote Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper bank JP8).  
• Whether the Remote Module passes a separate VSYNC signal to the monitor  
(default) or disconnects it (jumper JP9).  
• Whether the Remote Module uses the SYNC polarities transmitted from the  
local side (default) or forces both HSYNC and VSYNC to negative polarity  
(jumper JP12).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Remote Module—  
being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by  
unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard  
are shown in Figure 3-6.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in  
Sections 3.3.1, 3.3.2, 3.3.3, and/or 3.3.4, and then close the unit back up.  
JP1, 2,3  
JP8  
JP9  
JP11  
JP12  
K
A
Figure 3-6. The locations of the ACS235A Remote Module’s jumpers.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.3.1 THE SYNC-ON-COLOR JUMPERS (JP1, JP2, AND JP3)  
The Local Module of the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender adds  
synchronization signals to the color signals for transmission across the fiber link. If  
you are using a VGA monitor (which is probably not equipped to handle sync on  
color), you will want the Remote Module to use its decoupling diodes to strip this  
sync information from the color signals, so you will leave the jumper posts at  
locations JP1, JP2, and JP3 empty (the default setting) so that these diodes will be  
active. But if you are using an RGB monitor (which is probably designed to receive  
sync on color), you will want the Remote Module to leave the sync signals  
combined with the color signals, so you should install jumpers at JP1, JP2, and JP3  
to deactivate the decoupling diodes, as shown in Figure 3-7.  
CAUTION!  
The on-screen image might be displayed at a different size or screen  
location at the remote site than it is when the monitor is attached  
directly to the PC’s CPU. This difference can be fixed or at least  
minimized by using the monitor’s display-size and -placement controls.  
Screen images that appear normal except for their size or placement can  
not be made “right” by installing these jumpers!  
Diode active, sync stripped  
(factory default)  
Diode inactive, sync on color  
JP1  
JP2  
JP3  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-7. The sync-on-color jumpers and diodes.  
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CHAPTER 3: Configuring the ACS235A  
3.3.2 REMOTE GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER BANK JP8  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumpers ON the right-hand posts of each of the three pairs of JP8 jumper posts, as  
shown below. (This is the factory-default setting as well as the recommended  
setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 6.2), move the  
jumper to the left-hand posts of each of the three JP8 jumper-post pairs, as shown in  
Figure 3-8.  
When you have AGC selected, the Remote Module ignores the gain-control  
screwdials on its rear panel and automatically adjusts the gain of each of the three  
color signals, which is possible because each of the signals has the same white  
reference value (0.7 Vpp) that the Module can use for comparison. If the colors of  
the picture on your monitor still seem a little off, you can tweak them with the  
Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls, in addition to any color  
controls on the monitor itself.  
When AGC is turned off, the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials become  
activated, and you can use them to control the gain of the corresponding colors.  
(Be aware that when you’re in this mode, chromatic aberrations can affect your  
display.) Adjust the gain and check your adjustments by either watching the  
monitor or, to get best results, by using an oscilloscope. See Section 6.2. As always,  
you can also use the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls. We don’t  
recommend that you turn AGC off unless you have a color problem that you can’t  
seem to solve by any other means.  
Whichever way you set these jumpers, make sure that jumper JP3 in the Local  
Module is set the same way.  
With AGC (factory default)  
Without AGC  
J8  
Jumpers on right-hand posts  
Jumpers on left-hand posts  
Figure 3-8. Setting gain-control jumper bank JP8.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
3.3.3 VSYNC ENABLE/DISABLE JUMPER JP9  
It is possible to use the Extender to connect a VGA monitor to a computer that  
outputs RGB video that superimposes CSYNC on the green signal. In this situation,  
depending on the computer, the Remote Module might express only CSYNC  
(composite sync) on the HSYNC lead of its VGA connector, or it might express  
both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC (vertical sync) on the VSYNC lead. If your  
VGA monitor works fine even with both signals coming through, leave jumper JP9  
installed (the factory-default setting). But if your VGA monitor’s picture becomes  
distorted if the monitor receives both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC on VSYNC,  
remove jumper JP9 as shown in Figure 3-9; this causes the Remote Module to  
suppress the VSYNC signal so that only CSYNC is expressed. Most VGA monitors,  
including most of those that have problems when they receive both signals, work  
well using the CSYNC signal alone.  
CSYNC and VSYNC  
(factory default)  
CSYNC only,  
VSYNC disabled  
JP9  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-9. Setting VSYNC jumper JP9.  
3.3.4 SYNC-POLARITY JUMPER JP12  
With jumper JP12 installed (the factory-default setting), the Remote Module  
restores the video SYNC signals to their original polarity as the Local Module  
received them. Sometimes, however, you might want the Remote Module to force  
both HSYNC and VSYNC to negative polarity, so that the clock is measured on the  
falling edges of the signals. If you do, remove jumper JP12, as shown in Figure 3-10.  
(Be careful—this jumper is right next to the reserved jumper labeled JP11; do not  
change the setting of JP11.)  
Use existing polarity  
(factory default)  
Force negative  
sync polarity  
JP12  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 3-10. Setting SYNC-polarity jumper JP12.  
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CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A  
4. Configuring the ACS236A  
This chapter describes how to configure the Sun model of the ServSwitch™ Brand  
Fiber KVM Extender (ACS236A). If your Extender is the PC model (ACS235A),  
see Chapter 3.  
4.1 Setting the Jumpers in the Local Module (Optional)  
There are four user-settable jumpers inside the Local Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• How the Local Module handles video: VGA input to VGA output (default),  
VGA input to legacy Sun output, or Sun input to either VGA or Sun output  
(jumpers JP2 and JP10).  
• Whether the Local Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper JP3).  
• Whether the Local Module expects to transmit into 62.5/125-µm (default) or  
50/125-µm fiber (jumper JP5).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Local Module—being  
sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by unscrewing the  
upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard are shown in  
Figure 4-1 on the next page.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in  
Sections 4.1.1, 4.1.2, and/or 4.1.3, and then close the unit back up.  
23  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Figure 4-1. The locations of the ACS236A Local Module’s jumpers.  
4.1.1 THE VIDEO-HANDLING JUMPERS JP2 AND JP10  
Jumpers JP2 and JP10 in the Local Module control how the Extender handles  
video signals, depending on whether the computer outputs VGA signals to the  
Extender’s HD15 connectors or legacy Sun signals to the Extender’s 13W3  
connectors, as well as what type of signal input the monitor accepts. Refer to  
Figure 4-2 on the next page:  
• If the computer attached to the Local Module outputs VGA video, and the  
monitor attached to the Remote Module accepts VGA input, leave jumpers JP2  
and JP10 in their default settings: JP2 installed, JP10 empty.  
• If the computer outputs VGA and the monitor accepts Sun input, leave jumper  
JP10 in its default empty setting, but remove jumper JP2. In this setting,  
automatic gain control (AGC) isn’t possible, so you’ll have to turn it off at both  
the Local and Remote Modules (see Sections 4.1.2 and 4.2.1) and set the gain  
manually (see Section 6.2).  
If the computer outputs Sun video, regardless of what the monitor accepts, leave  
jumper JP2 in its default installed setting, but also install a jumper on JP10. You  
might also need to set jumper JP9 in the Remote Module (see Section 4.2.2).  
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CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A  
VGA in, VGA out  
(factory default)  
VGA in, Sun out  
Sun in,  
Sun or VGA out  
JP2  
Removed  
Removed  
Removed  
Installed  
JP10  
Installed  
Installed  
Figure 4-2. Setting video-handling jumpers JP2 and JP10.  
4.1.2 LOCAL GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER JP3  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumper ON the JP3 jumper posts. (We recommend this factory-default setting.)  
But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 5.2), remove the jumper  
from these posts, as shown in Figure 4-3. (Whichever way you set this jumper, make  
sure that jumper JP8 in the Remote Module is set the same way.)  
With AGC  
Without AGC  
(factory default)  
JP3  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 4-3. Setting gain-control jumper JP3.  
4.1.3 CORE-DIAMETER JUMPER JP5  
If you’ll be using fiberoptic cable with a 62.5/125-µm diameter in your Extender  
system, leave the JP5 jumper posts empty. (This is the factory-default setting.) But  
if you’ll be using 50/125-µm-diameter cable, install a jumper on these posts, as  
shown in Figure 4-4. The Extender does not work with fiber cables of any other  
diameter.  
62.5/125-µm  
50/125-µm  
(factory default)  
JP5  
Removed  
Installed  
Figure 4-4. Setting core-diameter jumper JP5.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
4.2 Setting the Jumpers in the Remote Module (Optional)  
There are two user-settable jumpers inside the Remote Module of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender. They control these options:  
• Whether the Remote Module uses automatic (default) or manual gain control  
(jumper bank JP8).  
• Whether the Remote Module passes a separate VSYNC signal to the monitor  
(default) or disconnects it (jumper JP9).  
If you need to set the unit for a non-default option, open the Remote Module—  
being sure to take all reasonable precautions against static electricity—by  
unscrewing the upper part of its casing. (The jumper locations on the motherboard  
are shown in Figure 4-5.) Then set your desired jumpers as described in  
Sections 4.2.1 and/or 4.2.2, and then close the unit back up.  
Figure 4-5. The locations of the ACS236A Remote Module’s jumpers.  
26  
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CHAPTER 4: Configuring the ACS236A  
4.2.1 REMOTE GAIN-CONTROL JUMPER BANK JP8  
If you’ll be using automatic gain control (AGC) in your Extender system, leave the  
jumpers ON the right-hand posts of each of the three pairs of JP8 jumper posts, as  
shown below. (This is the factory-default setting as well as the recommended  
setting.) But if you’ll be controlling the gain manually (see Section 6.2), which is  
necessary with VGA input and Sun output (see Section 4.1.1), move the jumper to  
the left-hand posts of each of the three JP8 jumper-post pairs, as shown in  
Figure 4-6.  
When you have AGC selected, the Remote Module ignores the gain-control  
screwdials on its rear panel and automatically adjusts the gain of each of the three  
color signals, which is possible because each of the signals has the same white  
reference value (0.7 Vpp) that the Module can use for comparison. If the colors of  
the picture on your monitor still seem a little off, you can tweak them with the  
Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls, in addition to any color  
controls on the monitor itself.  
When AGC is turned off, the Remote Module’s gain-control screwdials become  
activated, and you can use them to control the gain of the corresponding colors.  
(Be aware that when you’re in this mode, chromatic aberrations can affect your  
display.) Adjust the gain and check your adjustments by either watching the  
monitor or, to get best results, by using an oscilloscope. See Section 6.2. As always,  
you can also use the Remote Module’s brightness and contrast controls. We don’t  
recommend that you turn AGC off unless (a) you are using VGA input with Sun  
output, or (b) you have a color problem that you can’t seem to solve by any other  
means.  
Whichever way you set these jumpers, make sure that jumper JP3 in the Local  
Module is set the same way.  
With AGC (factory default)  
Without AGC  
J8  
Jumpers on right-hand posts  
Jumpers on left-hand posts  
Figure 4-6. Setting gain-control jumper bank JP8.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
4.2.2 VSYNC ENABLE/DISABLE JUMPER JP9  
It is possible to use the Extender to connect a VGA monitor to a legacy Sun  
computer that outputs Sun video with CSYNC superimposed on the green signal.  
(If you do this, make sure that jumpers JP2 and JP10 in the Local Module are both  
installed; see Section 4.1.1.)  
In this situation, depending on the computer, the Remote Module might  
express only CSYNC (composite sync) on the HSYNC lead of its VGA connector, or  
it might express both CSYNC on HSYNC and VSYNC (vertical sync) on the VSYNC  
lead. If your VGA monitor works fine even with both signals coming through, leave  
jumper JP9 installed (the factory-default setting). But if your VGA monitor’s  
picture becomes distorted if the monitor receives both CSYNC on HSYNC and  
VSYNC on VSYNC, remove jumper JP9 as shown in Figure 4-7. This causes the  
Remote Module to suppress the VSYNC signal so that only CSYNC is expressed.  
Most VGA monitors, including most of those that have problems when they receive  
both signals, work well using the CSYNC signal alone.  
CSYNC and VSYNC  
(factory default)  
CSYNC only,  
VSYNC disabled  
JP9  
Installed  
Removed  
Figure 4-7. Setting VSYNC jumper JP9.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
5. Installation  
5.1 Guidelines and Limitations for Attaching Equipment  
This section discusses a few things you need to keep in mind about the types of  
devices you can attach to a ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender. As you read  
the rest of this section, you might want to refer to Figure 5-1, which shows how the  
Extenders handle the various signals they carry. For pinouts of the Extender’s  
connectors, see Appendix A.  
PC  
ACS235A  
VGA/RGB  
R
G
B
R
G
B
R
R
G
B
VGA/RGB  
keyboard  
mouse  
SYNC polarity  
G
B
VSYNC  
HSYNC  
HS  
VS  
HS/VS  
VS  
SYNCPOL  
HSYNC-  
Stripper  
VSYNC-  
Stripper  
keyboard  
X
Y
X
parallel/  
serial  
serial/  
parallel  
mouse  
Y
serial/  
parallel  
parallel/  
serial  
printer  
printer  
8…28V/DC  
8…28V/DC  
DC  
DC  
DC  
DC  
NOTE: You can make either a VGA or a Sun video  
connection to the ACS236A, not both at once.  
ACS236A  
VGA  
VGA  
R
R
G
B
G
B
HS/VS  
VS  
13W3  
13W3  
Keyboard/  
Mouse  
Keyboard/  
Mouse  
RS-232/  
(V.24)  
RS-232  
(V.24)  
8…28V/DC  
8…28V/DC  
Figure 5-1. Schematics of signal processing in ACS235A (top) and  
ACS236A (bottom) Extender systems.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.1.1 CPU  
The ACS235A Extender supports IBM PC compatible desktop CPUs; it does not  
support laptops. A CPU must have these kinds of interfaces to work fully with the  
ACS235A Extender:  
Video: VGA, SVGA, XGA, or XGA-2. (Also supports most CPUs that output RGB.)  
Keyboard: IBM PS/2 style (6-pin mini-DIN). (With the included keyboard-port  
adapter, will also support CPUs with PC/AT [5-pin DIN] keyboard ports.)  
Mouse: IBM PS/2 style (6-pin mini-DIN). (With the included mouse-port  
adapter, will also support CPUs with RS-232 serial [DB9] mouse ports.)  
Parallel (optional): IBM PC style (Centronics compatible). This interface has  
strict limitations; see Section 5.1.5.  
The ACS236A Extender supports most Sun compatible CPUs that output VGA  
video on an HD15 connector or legacy Sun Video on a 13W3 connector.  
5.1.2 VGA MONITOR  
The VGA red, green, and blue color signals are analog values in the range of 0 to  
0.8 Vpp. The signals have no DC offset; this means that the black level meets  
ground (that is, that the zero-signal [black] voltage level of the color leads is  
equivalent to the voltage level of the color-ground leads). The horizontal and  
vertical synchronization signals are TTL signals with various polarities, depending  
on the selected monitor resolution (for example, text-only, 640 x 480, 800 x 600,  
etc.). For transmission across the fiber cable, the SYNC signals are added to the  
color-signals and separated again at the receiver.  
CAUTION!  
If you use a “Plug and Play” monitor, you will have to configure the  
video settings manually.  
5.1.3 RGB MONITOR OR LEGACY SUN MONITOR  
The RGB red, green, and blue color signals are analog values in the range of 0 to  
0.8 Vpp. The composite (horizontal + vertical) synchronization signal is usually  
added to the green signal, although some devices also add synchronization or  
other information to the red and/or blue signals. Normally the color signals have a  
DC offset, or at least the green/SYNC signal does; this means that DC voltage is  
added to the lead so that even when there’s no color signal present (when the  
screen is black), the color lead with the DC offset has higher voltage than the  
ground lead. These signals must be clamped at the remote end, for linear  
amplification in stages that follow.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
5.1.4 KEYBOARD AND MOUSE  
The ACS235A Extender’s keyboard and mouse interfaces are standard PS/2 type  
interfaces, so you can attach just about any standard PS/2 compatible keyboard  
and mouse to the Extender. Do not attach serial mice or bus mice to the Extender;  
they will not work. You can attach a PC/AT style keyboard with a 5-pin DIN  
connector to the Extender by using a keyboard adapter, available separately as  
product code FA211.  
The ACS236A Extender’s keyboard and mouse interface is a standard Sun type  
interface, so you can attach just about any standard Sun compatible keyboard and  
mouse to the Extender. The Extender is transparent to Sun keyboard type and  
keyboard language.  
5.1.5 PARALLEL PRINTER (OPTIONAL WITH ACS235A)  
The ACS235A Extender’s printer interface is an IBM PC style (Centronics  
compatible) parallel interface, so you can attach any basic parallel printer (IBM PC  
or Centronics type) to the Extender.  
CAUTION!  
®
This is a printer interface only. It cannot be used to attach Zip drives  
and other parallel devices, nor can it be used for parallel file transfer  
®
using utilities such as Laplink .  
®
The Extender also doesn’t support the newer IEEE 1284 or Bitronics  
signaling (and the transmission delay would cause timeout problems for  
these protocols anyway), so don’t try to establish bidirectional,  
Extended Capabilities Port (ECP), or Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP)  
communication with an attached parallel printer.  
Lastly, you should be aware that the latest version of the standard  
®
®
parallel-printer device driver from Hewlett-Packard (HP ) will not work  
with printers attached to a CPU across an Extender link. If you have  
problems with your printer driver, contact your printer dealer or HP  
support.  
5.1.6 SERIAL DEVICE (OPTIONAL WITH ACS236A)  
The ACS236A Extender’s serial interface is an EIA/TIA RS-232 serial interface,  
pinned according to TIA-574 on DB9 connectors just like the serial ports of an  
IBM PC compatible computer. The serial port on the Local Module is a DCE and  
the serial port on the Remote Module is a DTE. The Extender supports the TD,  
RD, RTS, CTS, DSR, and DTR signals. This means that you can attach just about  
any serial device to this port that you would directly attach to a PC’s serial port,  
including a printer, plotter, scanner, or touchscreen. Keep in mind, though, that  
the maximum data rate that the Extender can transmit across the fiber link is  
38,400 bps.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.2 Connecting a CPU or KVM Switch to the Local Module  
NOTE  
In the universal directions in this section and in Section 5.3, we’ll  
sometimes refer to separate keyboard and mouse connections even  
though there will only be one keyboard/mouse connection when the Sun  
Extender (ACS236A) is involved.  
Your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender comes with a KVM-extension cable  
that you can use to connect a computer CPU or ServSwitch family KVM switch to  
the Extender’s Local Module:  
• The extension cable that comes with the ACS235A is a three-strand cable. The  
two outside strands carry keyboard and mouse data, and have 6-pin mini-DIN  
male connectors at both ends. The central strand carries video data; it has an  
HD15 female connector at the Extender end and an HD15 male connector at  
the other end.  
• The extension cable that comes with the ACS236A is a two-strand cable. The  
outside strand carries keyboard and mouse data, and has 8-pin mini-DIN male  
connectors at both ends. The central strand carries video data; it has an HD15  
female connector at the Extender end and an HD15 male connector at the  
other end. (If you’re using the ACS236A with a legacy Sun CPU that outputs  
Sun video on a 13W3 connector, you’ll need a Sun video-extension cable such  
as product code EVMVDT02-MF to take the place of the included cable’s video  
strand. Important note: Do not use a standard HD15-to-13W3 “Sun video  
adapter” or “Sun video adapter cable” to patch the included cable’s video  
strand to the CPU! These are not pinned correctly for use with the Extender!)  
Take these steps (making sure the CPU or KVM switch is turned OFF):  
1A. ACS235A: Take the end of the included KVM-extension cable with the female  
video connector and plug its connectors into the matching connectors on the  
front panel of the Extender’s Local Module. Attach the cable’s video strand to  
the Module’s HD15 male connector, the cable’s keyboard strand to the 6-pin  
mini-DIN female connector on the Module labeled with the picture of a  
keyboard, and the cable’s mouse strand to the 6-pin mini-DIN female  
connector on the Module labeled with the picture of a mouse.  
1B. ACS236A: Take the female end of the included KVM-extension cable’s video  
strand, or of your Sun video-extension cable, and plug it into the matching  
male video connector (HD15 for VGA, 13W3 for Sun video) on the front  
panel of the Extender’s Local Module. (Do not plug video cables into both  
video connectors at the same time!) Plug the keyboard/mouse strand of the  
included KVM-extension cable into the Local Module’s 8-pin mini-DIN  
female keyboard/mouse connector.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
2. Take the connectors at the other end of the cable and plug them into the  
equipment you want to attach. ACS235A only: Be very careful not to get the  
cable’s keyboard and mouse strands backwards.  
If you’re attaching a CPU or a KVM switch with separate user-side connectors: Plug  
the included cable’s connectors into the CPU’s or switch’s video, keyboard,  
and mouse ports.  
If you’re attaching a KVM switch with a single, composite user-side connector:  
These types of switches are used with monitor/keyboard/mouse  
“breakout” cables that patch from the single composite connector to  
multiple connectors; connect one of these to the switch’s monitor/  
keyboard/mouse/(etc.) port. Then plug the connectors of the Extender’s  
KVM-extension cable into the matching monitor, keyboard, and mouse  
connectors on the breakout cable. (Alternatively, if the breakout cable is  
long enough, you can run it directly to the switch’s monitor, keyboard, and  
mouse ports.)  
NOTE FOR ACS235A  
If the CPU, switch, or breakout cable doesn’t have a PS/2 style (6-pin  
mini-DIN female) keyboard interface, but does have a PC/AT style  
(5-pin DIN female) keyboard interface, connect the keyboard-port  
adapter included with the Extender between that interface and the  
KVM-extension cable’s keyboard-port connector. If the CPU, switch,  
or breakout cable doesn’t have a PS/2 style (6-pin mini-DIN female)  
mouse interface, but does have a PC/AT style RS-232 serial (DB9  
female) mouse interface, connect the mouse-port adapter included  
with the Extender between that interface and the KVM-extension  
cable’s mouse-port connector.  
3A. ACS235A: If you’re going to be using a parallel printer at the remote site: The  
included parallel-extension cable has only one strand; it has a DB25 male  
connector at one end and a DB25 female at the other. Plug the male end into  
the CPU’s parallel port—or the parallel-printer port of your KVM switch if it  
has one—and the female end into the Local Module’s DB25 male printer  
port (labeled with the picture of a printer).  
3B. ACS236A: If you’re going to be transmitting serial data across the fiber link: We don’t  
include a serial-extension cable with the Extender because (a) applications  
requiring serial extension will be rare and (b) the necessary type of extension  
cable will vary depending on what type of equipment you’re attaching. Please  
call Black Box Tech Support for assistance in selecting any serial cables and  
adapters you’ll need. Keep in mind that in order to be attached to the Local  
Module’s DB9 female port (which is pinned as a DCE), a serial cable must  
have a DB9 male connector.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.3 Connecting User Equipment or a KVM Switch to the Remote Module  
NOTE FOR ACS236A  
Do not plug monitors, switches, etc., into both of the Remote Module’s  
video connectors at the same time.  
Take these steps to attach your user equipment directly to the Extender’s Remote  
Module:  
1. Plug the monitor into the Remote Module’s HD15 or 13W3 female video port  
(labeled with the picture of a monitor). If you’re using an RGB monitor with  
the ACS235A, run an HD15-to-multiple-BNC video-adapter cable between the  
Module and the monitor.  
2. Plug the keyboard into the 6-pin or 8-pin mini-DIN female keyboard port on  
the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture of a keyboard).  
ACS235A: Use a keyboard adapter such as FA211 if the keyboard is a PC/AT  
type with a 5-pin DIN connector on its cable.  
3. ACS235A: Plug the PS/2 mouse into the 6-pin mini-DIN female mouse port  
on the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture of a mouse). (The  
mouse must be PS/2 type.)  
ACS236A: Plug the Sun mouse into the mouse port on your keyboard.  
4A. ACS235A: To attach an optional parallel printer, run a standard parallel cable  
from the printer to the Remote Module’s DB25 female printer port (labeled  
with the picture of a printer).  
4B. ACS236A: To attach an optional serial device, run a serial cable from the  
device to the Remote Module’s DB9 male serial port (pinned as DTE, labeled  
“Serial”). This cable should be the same type that you’d use to attach the  
device to one of the serial ports on an IBM compatible PC.  
Take these steps to attach a KVM switch with separate CPU-side connectors (that is,  
one connector for each interface) to the Extender’s Remote Module:  
1. Run a video-extension cable from the switch’s CPU-video port to the Remote  
Module’s HD15 or 13W3 female video port (labeled with the picture of a  
monitor).  
2. Run a keyboard-extension cable from the switch’s CPU-keyboard port to the  
6-pin or 8-pin mini-DIN female keyboard port on the Remote Module (the  
port labeled with the picture of a keyboard). ACS235A: Use a keyboard  
adapter such as FA212 if the switch has a PC/AT style 5-pin DIN CPU-  
keyboard port.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
3. ACS235A: Run a PS/2 mouse-extension cable from the switch’s PS/2 CPU-  
mouse port to the 6-pin mini-DIN female mouse port on the Remote Module  
(the port labeled with the picture of a mouse). (The switch’s CPU-mouse port  
must be PS/2 type.)  
4A. ACS235A: If the switch has an input-only CPU-parallel port that is pinned  
(and functions) the same way as a parallel printer’s port, you can run a  
parallel cable from this port to the Remote Module’s DB25 female printer  
port (labeled with the picture of a printer).  
4B. ACS236A: If the switch has a serial port, you can run a serial-cable from the  
port to the Remote Module’s DB9 male serial port (pinned as DTE, labeled  
“Serial”). This cable should be the same type that you’d use to attach the  
device to one of the serial ports on an IBM compatible PC.  
Take these steps to attach a KVM switch with single, composite CPU-side  
connectors to the Extender’s Remote Module:  
1. Attach a CPU-video/keyboard/mouse/etc. “breakout” cable to one of the  
switch’s composite CPU ports.  
2. Plug the video strand of this cable into the Remote Module’s HD15 or 13W3  
female video port (labeled with the picture of a monitor).  
3. Plug the keyboard strand of this cable into the 6-pin or 8-pin mini-DIN female  
keyboard port on the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture of a  
keyboard). ACS235A: If the cable’s keyboard strand is 5-pin DIN PC/AT type,  
use a keyboard adapter such as our FA211.  
4. ACS235A: Plug the PS/2 mouse strand of this cable into the 6-pin mini-DIN  
female mouse port on the Remote Module (the port labeled with the picture  
of a mouse). (The mouse strand of this cable must be PS/2 type.)  
5A. ACS235A: If the switch supports parallel-interface switching, you can plug the  
parallel strand of the breakout cable into the Remote Module’s DB25 female  
printer port (labeled with the picture of a printer).  
5B. ACS236A: If the KVM switch supports serial-interface switching, you can plug  
the serial strand of the breakout cable into the Remote Module’s DB9 male  
serial port (pinned as DTE, labeled “Serial”).  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
5.4 Running Fiber Cable Between the Local and Remote Modules  
You’ll need breakout-style fiberoptic cabling with at least five fibers to connect the  
Extender’s Local Module to its Remote Module. What type of cable(s) you use will  
depend on where you’re going to run them:  
Indoors: Use bulk preterminated cable (such as product code EFN1006A-ST  
for six fibers, EFN1008A-ST for eight fibers, etc.—specify length) or cable  
you’ll terminate yourself (such as EFN1006A for six fibers, etc.) for your direct  
indoor runs between Local and Remote Modules.  
Outdoors (Moderate): First use our preterminated ServSwitch Fiber Patch  
Cord (product code EFN235 for ACS235A or EFN236 for ACS236A) to run  
from the Local or Remote Module to the demarc (demarcation point). Then  
use bulk loose-tube outside-plant cable, either the preterminated type (such as  
product code EFN3006A-ST for six fibers, EFN3008A-ST for eight fibers, etc.—  
specify length) or the type you’ll terminate yourself (such as EFN3006A for six  
fibers, etc.) for your direct outdoor runs in mild to moderate conditions  
between Local and Remote Modules.  
Outdoors (Extreme): First use our preterminated ServSwitch Fiber Patch Cord  
(product code EFN235 for ACS235A or EFN236 for ACS236A) to run from the  
Local or Remote Module to the demarc (demarcation point). Then use bulk  
armored outside-plant cable (such as product code EFN4070A-1000 for a  
1000-ft. [304-m] spool of unterminated 6-fiber type or EFN4075A-1000 for  
similar 12-fiber type) for your direct outdoor runs in extreme conditions  
between Local and Remote Modules.  
Connect five of the strands of the cable that will be directly attached to the  
®
Extender Modules to the corresponding ST female connectors on the back of the  
Modules:  
• Red dot “R” strand to red dot “R” port (red color signal);  
• Green dot “G” strand to green dot “G” port (green color signal);  
• Blue dot “B” strand to blue dot “B” port (blue color signal);  
• Black dot “1” strand to black dot “1” port (other signals, one direction)—the  
fourth port from the left on the Local Module, the fifth port from the left on  
the Remote Module; and  
• White dot “2” strand to white dot “2” port (other signals, other direction)—the  
fifth port from the left on the Local Module, the fourth port from the left on  
the Remote Module.  
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CHAPTER 5: Installation  
CAUTION!  
One of the most common errors in cabling the Extender is to attach  
fiber strands “1” and “2” to the Remote Module backwards (strand 1  
to port 2, strand 2 to port 1). Notice that while the fiber ports on the  
Local Module are arranged in left-to-right order as “R,” “G,” “B,” “1,”  
and “2,” the ports on the Remote Module are arranged in the order  
“R,” “G,” “B,” “2,” and “1”.  
5.5 Connecting Power to the Local and Remote Modules  
The ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender comes with a pair of identical  
autosensing power supplies. Take these steps to attach them to your Extender’s  
Local and Remote Modules:  
1. Attach input cords to the IEC 320 male power inlets on the two power  
supplies’ transformers. (This cord will be included for North American  
customers; other customers might have to get a cord appropriate for their  
local outlets.)  
2. Attach the transformers’ output cords to the 6-pin DIN connectors on the  
Local and Remote Modules (the connectors labeled “Power”).  
3. Plug the input cords into a standard utility-power (mains) outlet providing  
between 100 and 240 volts of AC power.  
The Extender units will begin operating immediately; they don’t have ON/OFF  
switches.  
5.6 Powering Up the Rest of the System  
To power up the other devices attached to the Extender units, take these steps:  
1. Plug in and turn ON the monitor.  
2. Plug in and turn ON the CPU. It should boot normally.  
This completes the installation of your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender  
system. It should be ready for continuous operation.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
6. Operation  
The ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender Modules should begin operating as  
soon as they (and all attached devices) are plugged in; the green and red Power  
LEDs on the units’ rear panels should light. (If either LED on a Module fails to  
light, that Module has had an internal failure; contact Black Box Technical  
Support as described in Section 7.2.) While the Extender is ON, the Remote  
Module’s 7-segment display will continuously indicate system status; see  
Section 6.1 for how to interpret the various characters you might see on this  
display. If the color of the picture on your remote monitor doesn’t look right, see  
Section 6.2 for suggestions on how to fix it.  
6.1 Interpreting the Remote Module’s 7-Segment Display  
Here are the various indications you might see on the Remote Module’s display,  
along with what they mean. The numbers “0” through “3” and the blinking dot will  
only appear when AGC is enabled (see Sections 3.2.2 and 3.3.2 or 4.1.3 and 4.2.1).  
If more than one error has occurred, all of the corresponding error codes are  
displayed in a repeating sequence, one each second.  
Zero (AGC enabled only): The “OK” display. No trouble; AGC is not  
currently active.  
Blinking dot (AGC enabled only): The unit is applying AGC to the video  
signal, which is normal, and everything else is OK.  
One (AGC enabled only): Low red. Even applying max AGC, the unit  
can’t equalize the color signals, of which red is at the lowest level.  
There’s trouble with the red transmit diode, fiber, or receive diode.  
Two (AGC enabled only): Low green. Even applying max AGC, the unit  
can’t equalize the color signals, of which green is at the lowest level.  
There’s trouble with the green transmit diode, fiber, or receive diode.  
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CHAPTER 6: Operation  
Three (AGC enabled only): Low blue. Even applying max AGC, the unit  
can’t equalize the color signals, of which blue is at the lowest level.  
There’s trouble with the blue transmit diode, fiber, or receive diode.  
F: Contrast is turned up too high at the Remote Module for AGC to work  
properly. Turn the contrast down using the contrast dial on the Remote  
Module’s rear panel.  
H: HSYNC missing. Either there’s a problem with the green/HSYNC  
fiber or the CPU-side extension cables, or a jumper has been set wrong  
in the ACS235A Local Module—probably JP6 or JP11 (see Section 3.2.1).  
V: VSYNC missing. Either there’s a problem with the blue/VSYNC fiber  
or the CPU-side extension cables, or a jumper has been set wrong in the  
Local Module, probably JP10 or JP11 (see Section 3.2.1 or 4.1.1).  
b: Blank pulse missing. There’s a problem with the green/HSYNC fiber.  
C: Distortion at receiver’s data interface. Either there’s a problem with  
fiber 1, fibers 1 and 2 have been transposed, or there’s an internal error  
in the Local Module.  
A: Distortion at transmitter’s data interface. There’s an internal error in  
the Remote Module.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
6.2 Making Video Adjustments with the Remote Module’s User Controls  
If the image from your computer that’s displayed on the remote monitor is badly  
distorted, this might be the result of a video-signaling problem. Refer to Chapter 3  
(especially Section 3.2.1) or Chapter 4 for ways in which you can modify the way  
the ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extenders handle the sync and color signals.  
If the image is not distorted but the colors are off, we first suggest that you try  
tweaking the contrast and brightness dials on the rear panel of the ServSwitch  
Brand Fiber KVM Extender’s Remote Module. Once you get the image as close as  
you can to how it should look, try adjusting the image with the monitor’s controls.  
If this doesn’t work, you might try disabling the Extenders’ automatic gain  
control (see Sections 3.2.2 and 3.3.2 for the ACS235A PC model or Sections 4.1.2  
and 4.2.1 for the ACS236A Sun model), then using a tiny screwdriver to turn any of  
the three gain-control screwdials with which you can manually control the gain of  
the red, green, and blue color signals. These are also on the rear panel of the  
Remote Module: Each screwdial is just above and to the left of the fiberoptic  
connector carrying the color signal it controls, so the red screwdial is next to the  
red connector, green next to green, and blue next to blue. Be careful if you do  
this; when you make manual adjustments like these, it’s very easy to throw the color  
of your monitor display entirely out of whack.  
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CHAPTER 7: Troubleshooting  
7. Troubleshooting  
7.1 Things to Try First  
Here are a few problems that sometimes occur in a ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM  
Extender system, along with possible causes and solutions.  
Problem: I can’t get a picture on my monitor screen.  
Check the LEDs on the rear panels of the Extender units:  
• If they’re lit: Is the monitor plugged in and turned ON? Is it in screen-saver  
mode? Is its cable loose?  
• If they’re dark: Are the Extender units plugged into a working outlet? Is the  
CPU actually plugged in, turned ON, and running? Is the CPU-extension cable  
loose? Is the fiber cable loose? Are any strands of the fiber broken—at the  
remote site, can you see a small red dot when you hold each fiber connector  
up to a white sheet of paper? Is the fiber the right type (50/125-µm or  
62.5/125-µm gradient-index multimode)? (If everything seems like it ought to  
be working, the power supplies of one or both Extender units might be  
damaged.)  
Problem: The picture on my monitor screen rolls uncontrollably.  
The monitor isn’t receiving a synchronization signal. The usual cause of this is  
plugging a color-signal fiber into the wrong port on an Extender unit (the red  
strand into the green port and vice versa, for example).  
Problem: My keyboard, mouse, and printer don’t work.  
Fiber 1 and fiber 2 might be loose or connected backwards at one of the Extender  
units. They might also be broken—at the remote site, can you see a small red dot  
when you hold each fiber connector up to a white sheet of paper? Is the fiber the  
right type (50/125-µm or 62.5/125-µm gradient-index multimode)?  
Problem: My mouse works but my keyboard doesn’t.  
The keyboard probably needs more current than the power supply can provide.  
Attach a keyboard whose power consumption does not exceed 100 mA.  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
7.2 Calling Black Box  
If you determine that your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender is  
malfunctioning, do not attempt to alter or repair the unit. It has no user-serviceable  
components. Contact Black Box Technical Support at 724-746-5500.  
Before you do, make a record of the history of the problem. We will be able to  
provide more efficient and accurate assistance if you have a complete description,  
including:  
• the nature and duration of the problem;  
• when the problem occurs;  
• the components involved in the problem—that is, what type of computer, what  
type of keyboard, brand of mouse, make and model of monitor, type and make  
of fiber cable, etc.;  
• any particular application that, when used, appears to create the problem or  
make it worse; and  
• the results of any testing you’ve already done.  
7.3 Shipping and Packaging  
If you need to transport or ship your ServSwitch Brand Fiber KVM Extender:  
• Package it carefully. We recommend that you use the original container.  
• If you are returning the unit, include everything you received with it. Before  
you ship the unit back to Black Box for repair or return, contact us to get a  
Return Authorization (RA) number.  
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APPENDIX A: Pinouts  
Appendix A: Pinouts  
Here are the pinouts for the ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender’s device and  
power connectors.  
A.1 Connectors on Both Models  
A.1.1 THE VGA VIDEO CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
(HD15 male)  
On Remote Module  
(HD15 female)  
1
1
5
5
10  
6
10  
6
11  
15  
15  
11  
Pin  
1
Signal  
Pin  
8
Signal  
Red  
Blue Ground  
Sync Ground  
2
Green  
10  
13  
14  
3
Blue  
Horizontal Sync (HSYNC)  
Vertical Sync (VSYNC)  
6
Red Ground  
Green Ground  
7
(Other pins are not used or not connected.)  
A.1.2 THE POWER CONNECTOR  
On Local and  
Remote  
5
1
Modules  
(6-Pin DIN  
Female)  
6
4
2
3
Pin  
Signal  
Shell  
Shield  
1
2
3
Ground  
+12 VDC  
Ground  
(Other pins are not connected.)  
43  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
A.2 Connectors on the ACS235A  
A.2.1 THE PS/2 KEYBOARD CONNECTOR  
On Local and Remote Modules  
(6-pin mini-DIN female)  
6
5
4
3
2
1
Pin  
1
Signal  
Keyboard Data  
(No Connection)  
Keyboard Ground  
VCC (+5 VDC)  
Keyboard Clock  
(No Connection)  
2
3
4
5
6
A.2.2 THE PS/2 MOUSE CONNECTOR  
On Local and Remote Modules  
(6-pin mini-DIN female)  
6
5
4
3
2
1
Pin  
1
Signal  
Mouse Data  
2
(No Connection)  
Mouse Ground  
VCC (+5 VDC)  
Mouse Clock  
3
4
5
6
(No Connection)  
44  
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APPENDIX A: Pinouts  
A.2.3 THE PARALLEL PRINTER CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
(DB25 male)  
On Remote Module  
(DB25 female)  
13  
13  
1
1
14  
25  
25  
14  
Pin  
1
Signal  
\STROBE  
DATA1  
DATA2  
DATA3  
DATA4  
DATA5  
DATA6  
DATA7  
DATA8  
\ACK  
Direction  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To printer  
To computer  
To computer  
To computer  
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
BUSY  
PE  
Local Module: (+5V pull-up resistor);  
Remote Module: (No connection)  
14  
15  
(+5V pull-up resistor)  
Local Module: (+5V pull-up resistor);  
Remote Module: (No connection)  
16  
17  
INIT  
To printer  
(No connection)  
GND  
18-25  
N/A  
45  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
A.3 Connectors on the ACS236A  
A.3.1 THE SUN VIDEO CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
(HD15 male)  
On Remote Module  
(HD15 female)  
A1  
1
5
A2  
A3  
A3  
A2  
5
1
A1  
6
10  
10  
6
Pin  
A1  
A2  
A3  
Signal  
Red  
Pin  
4
Signal  
Ground  
Green  
Blue  
5
Composite Sync. (CSYNC)  
Ground  
10  
(Other pins are not connected.)  
A.3.2 THE SUN KEYBOARD/MOUSE CONNECTOR  
On Local and Remote Modules  
(8-pin mini-DIN female)  
8
7 6  
5
4
1
3
2
Pin  
1
Signal  
Ground  
Ground  
2
3
Sun Power ON  
Mouse IN  
4
5
Keyboard OUT  
Keyboard IN  
6
7
Keyboard Power ON  
Sun Power ON  
6
46  
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APPENDIX A: Pinouts  
A.3.3 THE SERIAL CONNECTORS  
On Local Module  
On Remote Module  
(DB9 male)  
(DB9 female)  
5
1
1
5
10  
10  
6
6
Pin  
1
Signal  
Direction  
(No connection)  
2
RD (Receive Data)  
TD (Transmit Data)  
Input to Remote, output from Local  
Output from Remote, input to Local  
Output from Remote, input to Local  
N/A  
3
4
DTR (Data Terminal Ready)  
SGND (Signal Ground)  
DSR (Data Set Ready)  
RTS (Request to Send)  
CTS (Clear to Send)  
(No connection)  
5
6
Input to Remote, output from Local  
Output from Remote, input to Local  
Input to Remote, output from Local  
7
8
9
47  
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SERVSWITCH™ BRAND FIBER KVM EXTENDERS  
Appendix B:  
Rackmounting the Extender  
If you want to mount one or two ServSwitch™ Brand Fiber KVM Extender Local or  
Remote Modules in a standard 19" equipment rack, you can use the Single-Module  
Rackmount Kit (product code RMK235) or the Dual-Module Rackmount Kit  
(RMK235-2) respectively. The RMK235 kit is shown in Figure B-1:  
Figure B-1. The RMK235 Rackmount Kit.  
Each of these Kits consists of a single rackmounting frame, two handles, four  
Philips-head screws, a hex tool, and four (RMK235) or eight (RMK235-2) hex-head  
screws. To use a Kit to mount an Extender Module, take these steps, referring to  
Figure B-2 on the next page:  
1. Using a Philips-head screwdriver (not included), attach the handles to the  
front of the Kit frame with the four Philips-head screws.  
2. Unscrew and remove two screws from each side of the case of the Module you  
want to mount:  
• If you want the front-panel device connectors—the ones on a Local Module that  
will be attached to the CPU, or the ones on a Remote Module that will be  
attached to the user station—to protrude from the front of the rack, remove  
the screws closest to the front of the Module.  
• If you want the rear-panel fiberoptic connectors to protrude from the front of  
the rack, remove the screws closest to the rear of the Module.  
3. Insert the Module into the Kit frame from behind, through the matching  
hole (or, on the Dual Kit, either matching hole); the end of the Module that  
you removed the screws from in step 2 must go in first. Match up those now-  
vacant screwholes in the sides of the Module with the holes in the two small  
flanges welded to the back of the Kit frame.  
48  
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APPENDIX B: Rackmounting the Extender  
4. Using the included hex tool, screw four of the included hex screws through the  
holes in the flanges and into the Module to secure the Module to the frame.  
5. Dual-Module Kit only: Repeat steps 2 through 4 for the other Module.  
6. Match the mounting holes at the opposite ends of the Kit frame to an  
appropriate set of matching holes on your equipment rack, then attach the  
Module-and-frame assembly to the rack using your own screws, bolts, or cage  
nuts (not included).  
Figure B-2. The rackmount assembly (RMK235 shown).  
49  
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NOTES  
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NOTES  
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NOTES  
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