StarTech.com SV441DUSBI User Manual
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Manual Revision: 12/17/2019
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SV441DUSBI
SV841DUSBI
4 / 8-Port Enhanced Digital USB KVM Switch
Over IP with File Transfer
*actual product may vary from photos
Instruction Manual
FCC Compliance Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the receiver
is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Use of Trademarks, Registered Trademarks, and other Protected Names and
Symbols
This manual may make reference to trademarks, registered trademarks, and other
protected names and/or symbols of third-party companies not related in any way to
StarTech.com. Where they occur these references are for illustrative purposes only and do not
represent an endorsement of a product or service by StarTech.com, or an endorsement of the
product(s) to which this manual applies by the third-party company in question. Regardless
of any direct acknowledgement elsewhere in the body of this document, StarTech.com hereby
acknowledges that all trademarks, registered trademarks, service marks, and other protected
names and/or symbols contained in this manual and related documents are the property of
their respective holders.
Instruction Manual
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Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................ 1
Packaging Contents ................................................................................................................................. 1
System Requirements ..............................................................................................................................1
Front View .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Rear View ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
Installation ..............................................................................................4
Device Connection ................................................................................................................................... 4
Initial Power-Up ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Operation ................................................................................................4
Initial IP-OSD Setting ............................................................................................................................... 4
Mouse Setting (optional)........................................................................................................................ 6
Using the Web Interface ........................................................................ 7
The Login Screen .......................................................................................................................................7
Web Interface Introduction ................................................................................................................... 8
Main Menu Selections ............................................................................................................................. 8
File Transfer .................................................................................................................................................. 9
Network Conguration ........................................................................................................................... 11
User Accounts .............................................................................................................................................12
System Identication ............................................................................................................................... 13
Security ......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Compatibility .............................................................................................................................................. 14
SNMP ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
RADIUS .......................................................................................................................................................... 14
Modem .......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Serial Ports ................................................................................................................................................... 15
Time / Date .................................................................................................................................................. 15
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Firmware ....................................................................................................................................................... 15
Status ............................................................................................................................................................. 17
Port Numbers ............................................................................................................................................. 17
Help Menu ................................................................................................................................................... 17
Site Map Menu ........................................................................................................................................... 17
Copyright Menu ......................................................................................................................................... 17
Using the Terminal Interface via Serial Port.......................................18
Accessing the VNC Interface .................................................................18
Web Interface ............................................................................................................................................. 18
Native VNC Client ...................................................................................................................................... 19
SSH Tunnel (with Native VNC client)................................................................................................... 19
Using the VNC Menu .............................................................................. 20
Bribar Feature ............................................................................................................................................. 20
Main Menu ................................................................................................................................................... 21
VirtKeys Menu ............................................................................................................................................ 23
Video Tuning menu .................................................................................................................................. 23
Optimizing video performance ........................................................................................................... 26
Accessing KVM Features .......................................................................27
KVM Switch OSD Operation .................................................................................................................. 27
OSD Operations ......................................................................................................................................... 29
OSD Function Keys ...................................................................................................................................29
Hot Key Commands ................................................................................................................................. 31
Changing Your Conguration ...............................................................................................................32
Using the Modem feature ..................................................................... 33
Background ................................................................................................................................................. 33
Connecting a Modem .............................................................................................................................. 33
Modem conguration ............................................................................................................................. 34
Conguring the Remote Connection ................................................................................................ 35
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Accessing the Web Interface ................................................................................................................. 36
Modem Troubleshooting Guide .......................................................................................................... 37
Serial Remote Control operation ......................................................... 37
Background ................................................................................................................................................. 37
Connecting Serial Remote Control Modules ................................................................................... 38
Remote Login via SSH..............................................................................................................................39
About Security Certicate Warnings .................................................................................................. 40
Installing the New Certicate ............................................................................................................... 41
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................... 42
Supported Protocols .............................................................................. 44
Specications .......................................................................................... 45
Technical Support ..................................................................................46
Warranty Information ............................................................................ 46
Instruction Manual
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Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a StarTech.com IP KVM Switch with USB Console. The
SV441DUSBI / SV841DUSBI revolutionizes remote server management by combining
our industry-leading, third generation Server Remote Control technology with a
proven Enterprise class digital KVM switch.
This IP KVM Switch empowers you to securely manage up to four or eight computers
remotely from almost anywhere using the internet or your local area network (LAN).
Unlike software solutions that require installation and work through your server’s
operating system, the IP KVM Switch gives you BIOS level control and full interaction
with your system’s boot process. Control does not come at the expense of security: SSH
tunneling, SSL encryption, RADIUS authentication, and a congurable rewall are all
included to ensure that your network stays secure. Its standardized 1U rack-mountable
metal chassis allows easy installation in your existing rack or cabinet solution.
Server Remote Control is about more than just servers. Using the Serial Remote
Interface Module (RPORT), you can interact with virtually any device that uses a
RS-232 serial terminal interface like routers, switches, environmental controls, alarm
systems, and more. You can also use StarTech.com’s 8 outlet Remote Power Module
(PCM815SHNA) to power computers and equipment on an o using an interactive
menu.
Packaging Contents
• 1 x 4-port USB KVM switch
• 4 x KVM cables
• 4 x 10ft (3m) KVM cables (SV841DUSBI only)
• 1 x universal power adapter (NA/UK/EU/AU)
• 1 x instruction manual
System Requirements
• 10/100 Mbps compatible TCP/IP network
• RJ45 terminated UTP Ethernet patch cable
• Available AC electrical outlet
• Standard wired USB keyboard and mouse
• VGA enabled monitor
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SV441DUSBI
SV841DUSBI
Front View
1
2
3
4
567
8
1
2 3
4
5 6 78
1. DC Power connector
2. DE-15 VGA connector (Local Console monitor)
3. USB Keyboard/Mouse connector (Local Console)
4. Port Status LED Indicators (see next page for descriptions)
5. Setup button
6. RJ45 Ethernet connector
7. DB9 Serial connector
8. Reset button
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SV441DUSBI
SV841DUSBI
Rear View
1
2
3
1
2
3
1. R-Port connector
2. USB Hub connectors
3. Computer Port connectors
LED Color Description
Green Connected to an active computer system
Red Currently selected Port
Blue Data-Transfer Mode is enabled
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Installation
Device Connection
1. Connect the USB keyboard, mouse, and VGA monitor to the console connectors on
the IP KVM Switch.
2. Connect a Cat5 Ethernet cable to the LAN port.
3. Power up the monitor followed by the IP KVM Switch. The IP-OSD menu should
come up automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to nish the initial setup.
Initial Power-Up
You must power up the IP KVM Switch with a keyboard, mouse, and monitor
connected before turning on any other devices (i.e. Slave KVMs, computers).
Ensure that the devices you are connecting are powered o before connecting them
to the unit.
Operation
Initial IP-OSD Setting
Power on the monitor and the IP KVM Switch. The IP-OSD menu will automatically
appear. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial setup.
Press the <Enter> key to enter the Advanced
Settings Menu. Once the desired settings have
been achieved, press <ESC> to close the Menu.
It is recommended that you change the
password immediately and make a note of it.
*screenshots are for reference only
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Select the “Network Setup Wizard” and press
<Enter> to go to the next menu.
The IP KVM can have its IP address assigned
dynamically, or it can be given a xed IP
address. If you are unaware of the IP address,
obtain it from the network administrator.
Wait for the IP KVM Switch to apply the
setting changes.
Once the settings are saved, press the <Enter> key. The IP address of the IP KVM will be
provided. Press <Enter> to complete the setup process.
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Mouse Setting (optional)
Many operating systems oer a feature called mouse acceleration that allows the user
to adjust the responsiveness of the cursor on the screen to the physical movements
of the mouse. While this is usually a benecial interface enhancement, it can interfere
with the operation of the unit and should be disabled on the managed computers
before a remote session is attempted. Follow the instructions below to disable mouse
acceleration for the operating system installed on each managed computer.
1. Open the Mouse Properties application located in the Control Panel.
2. Under the Motion heading, center the arrow used to modify the pointer speed.
3. Disable the Enhance Pointer Precision setting by unchecking its respective
checkbox.
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Using the Web Interface
The Web interface is the most intuitive way to congure the IP KVM Switch, oering a
Java-based VNC client that can be used to control the host computer from a remote
location, as well as support for any industry-standard HTML Web browser. You can
access the Web interface by opening your Web browser and entering the IP address of
the IP KVM Switch you wish to access/congure. The IP address will be either:
a) The address assigned by your DHCP server as identied in the Initial Setup
section, or
b) A static IP address as congured during the Initial Setup. NOTE: The default static
IP address of the IP KVM is 192.168.1.123
The Login Screen
Before you can access the Web conguration interface, you must enter a username and
password. The default username and password as shipped from the factory is ‘admin’
for the username, with a password of ‘admin’.
NOTE: Before the login screen appears, your web browser may display a warning
about an invalid security certicate. This does not aect the security of your data in any
way. Whenever you are prompted about a certicate security problem by your browser
or the Java VNC client, always choose the option to continue.
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Web Interface Introduction
After the initial login screen, the
screen is divided into several
sections, a number of which will
remain on the screen at all times
while viewing the Web Interface:
Name: At the top of the screen,
the name of the machine being
controlled is displayed
Main Menu: At the left-most side
of each page, the Main Menu
is displayed, allowing users to
choose functions oered by the
Web Interface.
Help area: The right-most
column oers an optional help summary for each page. If you don’t wish to use this
information, it can be closed by clicking the small [x] at the top right (within the Web
Interface). If closed, click on the Help button near the top right of each page to re-
display it.
Please note: The aforementioned sections of the Web Interface will remain on the
screen at all times. Selected categories will be displayed in the center of the screen.
Main Menu Selections
Please note: Some of the following items may not be
present based on assigned user privileges (i.e. non-admin
users will not see any items under the Admin category).
Home: The Home screen oers a Screen Thumbnail view
of the controlled computer, as well as basic le transfer
functions, Monitoring Information, System Identication
and VNC Client options:
Preferences: The Preferences screen oers several
conguration options pertaining to the functionality of the
IP KVM. Here, you are able to customize settings to optimize
overall performance (i.e. Encryption options, VNC options,
display and bandwidth options etc.), according to each
user’s individual preferences. Please save your selections by
clicking the Save Changes button.
Main
Menu
Name
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Snapshots: The Snapshots screen allows you to view and save a screenshot of the
controlled computer in its current state. This screenshot will update periodically
(automatically). Saved image les are stored in PNG format.
Logout: Clicking on Logout will terminate your Web Interface section. To re-initiate the
Web Interface, you will be required to re-enter your username and password.
VNC: To launch or disconnect a Virtual Network connection with the controlled
computer, click on Connect or Disconnect as appropriate.
File Transfer
The IP KVM is able to emulate a virtual USB
disk drive on any connected host. Depending
on conguration, it will appear to the host as
a oppy drive (1.44MB), an 8MB RAM Disk or a
CD-ROM. The host computer does not require
any special drivers or other conguration. You
can transfer les to the virtual disk at any time.
The IP KVM will wait until the host is not using
the disk, and add or remove the les.
When the host computer next looks at the
drive, it will notice the changes. You can read
les from the virtual disk at any time, as long
as the host is not actively writing to the disk.
All of this happens in the background, and
you may treat the virtual disk as a shared drive
without any restrictions.
• Access to the les is performed through the
web interface. Contents of the root directory are shown on the home page. You can
download les as you would any le on the web (right-click and Save target as).
• To upload a le, click Browse, select a le, and then click Upload.
• Files and directories may be deleted using the Delete button situated to their right.
When emulating a oppy disk or RAM Disk, the data is stored in RAM on the IP KVM
itself. In order to emulate a CD-ROM disk drive, a web server is required to provide
the CD-ROM image data. The Web server must be accessible to the unit, which
communicates with it constantly as data is needed.
Floppy mode: Choose the Format as oppy button to switch to oppy mode. Under
Windows, the drive will be identied as a “high density oppy” and will typically be
assigned a drive letter of B:
The capacity is limited to 1.44 megabytes in this mode. The purpose of supporting
oppy mode is to permit the use of oppy-disk images generated by other systems
(e.g. the ash BIOS upgrade process is performed with a special oppy and is bootable,
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emergency repair disks are often oppy-based etc.). You can transfer bits from that
oppy to the IP KVM (use the upload disk image form) and boot from the special
oppy.
CD-ROM Mode: The IP KVM does not store any data in this mode. Instead, it emulates
a USB CD-ROM drive with a disk inserted. The data from that disk must be provided by
an external web server. You will need a copy of the CD-ROM contents that you want to
emulate as an ISO le. This is a byte-for-byte copy of track one (the data track) of a data
CD-ROM. The ISO le must be made available on a web server that can be accessed by
the IP KVM. To switch to this mode, type in a URL pointing to the ISO image, and click
on Commit. The system will connect to the web server and test the le for access. If
successful, you will be shown a short report on the le contents, and the disk will be
ready to use.
Please note that the only way to preview or browse the contents of the CD-ROM
image, is from the host.
CD-ROM Web Server Requirements:
• Data must be hosted on a web server that the IP KVM can access directly.
• An image of a bootable CD-ROM disk can be used by the BIOS to boot an operating
system.
• The image le itself may be any size, but it will typically be less than 700Mb.
Normally this le will be an ISO image (an ISO-9660 le system) but any disk image
may be used.
• The web server must support “byte ranges”. Persistent connections are used, if
available, as this greatly improves performance. “Read-only” access is provided;
writing is not supported.
• CD-ROM block size must be 2048 bytes. XA-Data type tracks are not supported.
RAM Disk mode: Choose the Format as RAM Disk button to switch to RAM Disk mode.
This mode is intended to facilitate simple data transfer between the remote user and
the host computer. It will be recognized by Windows as an 8MB removable disk and
assigned a drive letter. You can easily drag and drop les up to 8MB in size to this
device.
Disk Formats: When you choose the Format as... button, the disk image stored in RAM
is formatted as an empty MS-DOS disk, with a single le called Put les here...TXT.
The IP KVM is able to read most MS-DOS/Windows formatted disks and presents the
les via the Web interface. However, disk emulation occurs at the lowest level, so other
disk formats can be used if you have the tools needed to create and read the disk
images.
At the bottom of the page are the upload and download options for the entire disk
image. Any image that is exactly 1,474,560 bytes long will be treated as a oppy.
Images of other sizes are supported up to 8MB.
Booting from USB Disk:
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If the host computer’s BIOS supports USB boot devices, it is possible to boot from
the emulated CD-ROM or oppy - allowing complete operating system replacement
without any on-site intervention.
The rst step is getting a bootable disk image onto the emulated oppy or CD-ROM.
For CD-ROM images, you will need an .ISO image from a disk that contains special bits
to enable booting (“El Torito” standard). Nothing special is needed when reading the
ISO from a working, bootable CD-ROM.
Please note that each BIOS manufacturer oers varying levels of support for USB boot
devices and may require conguration methods that are unique (to the manufacturer)
in order to utilize this feature. Similarly, please note that many BIOS’s provide a
simplied USB host stack and oer drivers that may not oer suitable reliability.
To create a bootable oppy, you can format the emulated oppy from the target
system, or read the data from a working boot oppy. This can be done from Windows
using Disk Copy (right click on the drive letter in the Windows Explorer) or by using a
program like “RAWRITE”.
Once you have a bootable image (CD-ROM or oppy) working on the Enterprise Class
KVM unit, you must adjust your BIOS settings to tell it to boot from a USB device.
Please note: You must select USB CD-ROM as the boot device for the BIOS, if using a
CD-ROM image and USB Floppy if using a oppy image.
Network Conguration
DHCP: Automatic network conguration using DHCP is: Enabled/Disabled. This
feature applies only to the LAN port on the
rear panel, and is enabled by default. When
enabled, the unit will automatically congure
itself with an IP address when a DHCP server
is present. When disabled, the LAN port
will use the values assigned to it on the IP
Addresses and Routing table below.
IP Addresses and Routing: This table allows
you to assign IP information for the LAN and
WAN ports separately. If you are using DHCP,
the values for the LAN port will be lled in
automatically and any changes made will not
aect the setup.
Domain Name Server: This section allows
you to specify DNS servers and the default
DNS domain sux in use on the network. If
DHCP is enabled, some of these values may
be supplied automatically.
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Clicking the Commit button applies any changes made on this page, but leaves the
old settings active until the next time the unit restarts. Clicking Make changes eective
now applies the changes and restarts the IP KVM so the new settings take eect
immediately.
Ethernet Address (MAC Address): This is the Ethernet hardware address of this unit’s
LAN port. It is set at the factory and cannot be changed. You may need this number to
congure your DHCP server.
Dynamic DNS Conguration: Dynamic DNS (DDNS) is a method, protocol, or network
service that allows a networked device using the Internet Protocol Suite to notify
a domain name server to change, in real time, the active DNS conguration of its
congured hostnames, addresses or other information stored in DNS.
Numerous providers, called Dynamic DNS service providers, oer such technology
and services on the Internet. They provide a software client program that automates
this function. The client program is executed on a computer or device in the private
network. It connects to the service provider’s systems and causes those systems to link
the discovered public IP address of the home network with a hostname in the domain
name system. Depending on the provider, the hostname is registered within a domain
owned by the provider or the customer’s own domain name.
User Accounts
This menu will allow you to add accounts other than admin to the system. These
accounts will not have the authority to change settings, but can access the Web
interface and log into the VNC console.
Selecting Delete permanently removes
the user from the system. If you enter
values for a user that does not already
exist under Edit User Details, the system
will create that user for you when you
click Record changes. If the user already
exists, you may change the password for
that user.
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System Identication
Machine Name: This is the name that is used to
uniquely identify this machine. You may wish to create
a DNS entry that matches this name. The name is
provided as the Client Name for the DHCP server. It is
also shown at the top of each page in the web browser
interface and is the “desktop name” for VNC clients.
Other identication details: These values are for
information purposes. They are visible from the VNC
client and via SNMP (if enabled).
Location: This string is sent as the system.sysLocation
value over SNMP. It should describe the location of this
system.
Contact Name: This string is sent as the system.sys
Contact value over SNMP. It should describe who to contact regarding this machine.
Typically it includes an email address.
Network Address: This value is not used in our conguration, but is meant to store a
user-dened value that identies the controlled machine on the network. The ocial
DNS name of the controlled machine is an obvious value to put here, but you may use
it for any purpose.
Description: A user-dened description for the controlled machine.
Security
This menu allows you to congure a number of settings,
including the admin password. Be careful when making
any changes remotely, as altering these features could
make the unit inaccessible through Web conguration
(i.e. due to rewall ltering). Note that any password
changes you make will have to be entered twice to
protect against user error.
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Compatibility
The Compatibility menu oers features
that may provide enhanced functionality
with certain KVM and power products, such
as StarTech.com’s Remote Power Switch
(PCM8155HNA). These can be left at their
default values if you are not connecting the
unit to a KVM or power management device.
SNMP
The SNMP menu allows you to congure the IP KVM so it can
be recognized and managed using industry standard Simple
Network Management Protocol software.
RADIUS
The RADIUS server requires the IP address,
the UDP port number (1812 - default or
1645) and the shared secret. The shared
secret is used to encrypt communications
and corresponds to a shared password for
the RADIUS server and the client machine.
Two additional servers may be dened for
backup purposes. Each server will be tried in
order using the indicated number of retries
and timeout period, which are congurable
on the same page.
Remember to enable RADIUS after conguring it. While RADIUS authentication is
enabled, the locally dened accounts on the Server Remote Control unit will not be
used, except for the SSH login. However, if a user name in the form “name.local” is
given at the RADIUS prompt, the system will use “name,” check the password locally,
and skip RADIUS authentication. Delete all local accounts to avoid this behavior. When
connecting via VNC, a login screen is generated that asks for a RADIUS username and
password.
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Modem
Enable this to allow the modem to answer
the phone and start a PPP connection. Enable
modem connections (PPP) via serial port/
modem.
Serial Ports
The Serial Ports menu allows you to manage
and connect to devices connected to the
unit using the R-Port on the IP KVM.
Time / Date
Date and time are stored without consideration for time
zone. If you are controlling multiple sites in dierent time
zones, we recommend you use UTC (Universal Coordinated
Time, also sometimes called GMT or Zulu) for all machines.
If the computer you are using to view this page knows the
correct time, just press the button to set the time and date
to that of your browser.
Firmware
The rmware on the IP KVM is eld upgradable. To upgrade to another version:
1. Login your IP KVM as “admin”
2. Click “Firmware”
3. Click “Get latest version”
4. Save the latest rmware le to your computer. It may take a few minutes for
downloading, depending on the speed of your network.
5. Upload the latest rmware le from your computer to the IP KVM. It will take more
than 5 minutes for uploading and writing it to the ash memory of the IP KVM.
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Auto Self Upgrade: The IP KVM unit includes
an innovative feature allowing it to upgrade
itself over the internet. Simply click on the
button labeled Upgrade to Latest and the unit
will use the internet to download the latest
version of the system rmware and then install
it.
If it cannot access the Internet directly (perhaps
due to a web proxy or other rewalls), then a
page will be shown that prompts your browser
to download the required le. Save this le to
disk and then manually upload it as described
in the next section.
Manual Upload: Enter the name of the
rmware le that you downloaded from
StarTech.com into the eld provided (or use the
“Browse” button). Press Start Upload and wait
until a successful upload message is shown.
NOTE: Remember the following during the
rmware upgrade:
• Do NOT turn o power to unit before this
operation completes successfully.
• The unit will sometimes reboot as part of the
upgrade procedure, depending on which
system component is being upgraded. You
will have to reconnect and re-login in those cases.
• Wait at least two minutes after pressing Start. Do not assume the upload did not
work, the upload could simply be slow.
• Each distributed le upgrades a dierent component of the system. Be sure to apply
all les provided as part of an upgrade. The system knows what to do with each le
you give it, and they are checked for validity before being applied.
Auto Self Upgrade: Clicking the Upgrade to latest button will automatically download
and install necessary revisions. To download upgrades for manual installation, please
click on Get latest version.
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Status
The Status screen displays a system security log, various
system settings, and the ability to generate a copy of the
system conguration in plain text format.
Port Numbers
Port Numbers provides a table allowing you to
change TCP port values for services available
on the IP KVM. By default, they are factory-set
to common Internet values. You may wish to
enhance security by disabling services that you
will not use with the unit. To disable a service,
change its port number to 0. When you have
made any necessary changes, click Commit
changes to use the settings the next time the
IP KVM restarts. To force the unit to restart
immediately, click Restart Servers.
Help Menu
Provides a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) listing to assist you with the features and
operation of the IP KVM.
Site Map Menu
This menu provides a directory of each setting available on the Web congurator.
Copyright Menu
Provides the Terms of Use and other information related to the rmware and software
on the IP KVM.
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Using the Terminal Interface via Serial Port
The terminal interface can be accessed
via the serial port (or through SSH using
the setup command) for conguration of
the basic settings of the IP KVM. While not
intended to be a substitute for the Web
interface, it does allow you to congure
some of the same functions. The menu list
below describes the options that can be
modied through the terminal interface.
Note that you must use the ‘W’ option
to conrm and apply any changes made
before you exit the terminal session.
Accessing the VNC Interface
There are three ways to communicate with the Server Remote Control unit in order to
control the host computer:
• Web interface: The integrated Web server includes a Java-based VNC client. This
allows easy browser-based remote control.
• Native VNC client: There are several third-party software programs that use the
standard VNC protocol, available in open source and commercial VNC clients.
• SSH access: By default, there is a standard SSH server running on port 22 (the
standard SSH port). Once connected via SSH, the VNC trac is tunneled through
the SSH connection and encrypts the VNC session. Each method will be discussed
briey in the following section. The type of encryption method or client used is not
critical.
Web Interface
Using the IP KVM web interface requires a browser, with cookies and JavaScript
enabled. To start the Java VNC client, login to the Web conguration interface and click
on the thumbnail of the desktop on the Home menu, or click on the Connect button,
located in the Main Menu.
You may need to upgrade Java support in your browser; however, most modern
browsers come with a version of Java that is compatible with this application. The Java
VNC client makes a connection back to the Server Remote Control unit over port 5900
(by default) or 15900, if encrypted. The encrypted connection is a standard SSL (Secure
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Socket Layer) encrypted link that encrypts all data from the session, including the
actual video pictures.
Because Java is considered a “safe” programming language, the Java VNC client has
some limitations. Certain special keystrokes cannot be sent, such as “Scroll Lock” on the
keyboard.
This client software requires the use of Java 2 (JRE 1.4) to enable features like wheel
mouse support. Sun Microsystems’s Java site, www.java.com, is an excellent resource
to ensure your browser and operating system are updated accordingly.
Native VNC Client
This system implements the VNC protocol, so any o-the-shelf VNC client can be used.
There are over 17 dierent VNC clients available and they should all work with this
system. This system automatically detects and makes use of certain extensions to the
basic RFB protocol that is provided by the better VNC clients.
The recommended client is TightVNC (www.tightvnc.com). Binaries are available
for Windows, Linux, MacOS and many versions of Unix. Source code for all clients is
available there too. This version of VNC is being actively developed. The authoritative
version of VNC is available from RealVNC (www.realvnc.com). This source base is
the original version of VNC, maintained by the original developers of the standard.
For a commercial, supported version of VNC, you should consider TridiaVNC (www.
tridiavnc.com). Their version of VNC is a superset of TightVNC and contains a number of
enhancements for use in a larger corporate environment.
NOTE: Some native VNC clients may require a ag or setting indicating they should use
BGR233 encoding by default. If this ag is not set, you may see a garbled picture and
the client will fail. The Unix versions of VNC require the ag -bgr233. For examples on
using this ag, review the commands in the following section.
SSH Tunnel (with Native VNC client)
If you are using openssh, here is the appropriate Unix command to use, based on the
default settings on a machine at 10.0.0.34:
ssh -f -l admin -L 15900:127.0.0.1:5900 10.0.0.34 sleep 60 vncviewer -bgr233
127.0.0.1::15900
Notes:
• A copy of these commands, with appropriate values lled in for your current system
setting, is provided in the on-line help page. This allows you to “cut-and-paste” the
required commands accordingly.
• You have 60 seconds to type the second command before the SSH connection will
be terminated.
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• The port number “15900” is arbitrary in the above example and can be any number
(1025...65535). It is the port number used on your client machine to connect your
local SSH instance with the VNC client. If you want to tunnel two or more systems,
you will need to use a unique number for each instance on the same SSH client
machine.
• Some Unix versions of the VNC client have integrated SSH tunneling support. Some
clients require your local user id to be the same as the userid on the system.
Use a command like this: vncviewer -bgr233 -tunnel 10.0.0.34:22
Using the VNC Menu
One of the unique features of this product is the VNC
menu system. Whenever you see a window with a dark
blue background and grey edges, this window has been
inserted into the VNC data stream so that it is eectively
laid over the existing video. These menus allow you to
control the many features of the IP KVM without using the
web interface or a custom client.
When you initially connect to the system, a Welcome
Window will appear indicating which system you are
controlling, what encryption algorithm was used, and
what key strength is currently in eect. Click anywhere
inside the window to clear it, or wait ten seconds.
Bribar Feature
Along the bottom of the VNC screen is a dark blue bar with various buttons known
as the Bribar. Its purpose is to show a number of critical status values and to provide
shortcuts to commonly used features. Here is a snapshot of what it may look like. There
will be slight dierences based on optional features and system conguration. Starting
from the left side of the Bribar, each feature and its function is outlined below.
• Bandwidth: Indicates current average bandwidth coming out of the Server Remote
Control unit. The second number measures round trip time (RTT) of the connection
when it was rst established.
• Resync: Re-aligns the remote and local mouse points so they are on top of each
other.
• Redraw: Redraws the entire screen contents; occurs immediately.
• ÷4, ÷8: Switches to thumbnail mode, at indicated size (i.e. 1/4,1/8 )
• Ctrl-Alt-Del: Sends this key sequence to the host. Works immediately.
• Alt-F4: Sends the key sequence to host (closes windows).
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• KVM: Sends the KVM “hotkey” sequence. This function is only enabled when you
have congured the unit to expect a particular brand of KVM downstream. It sends
the key sequence to launch the KVM’s on-screen display (OSD) menu. This button is
only present when a KVM model is selected in the Web interface.
• Menu: Shows the main menu.
• Video: Shows the video-tuning menu where the picture quality can be adjusted.
• Keys: Shows the VirtKeys menu, which allows you to simulate pressing special keys
such as the Windows key or complex multi-key sequences.
• [1][A][S]: These ags show the state of the keyboard lights, NumLock, ShiftLock and
ScrollLock respectively.
• X: Click this button to close the Bribar and hide it. This can be very useful on a client
machine that has a screen size the same as the remote machine. No vertical screen
space is wasted with the Bribar. Quickly press <F7> twice to start the main menu,
then click on the “Bribar” button to restore the feature.
Other items: If the server’s screen is larger than 1024x768, additional buttons will be
shown to the right of the above listed items. These are all keyboard shortcuts and are
duplicated in the Keys menu.
Main Menu
To access the main menu, quickly press <F7> twice. You must press the key twice
within one second. If you press it once or too slowly, then the <F7> key(s) are sent to
the host, just like any other key. This is the only way to get into the menu system, if the
Bribar is disabled. Here is the main menu for a typical system:
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The main menu window may be moved by clicking and dragging on the title bar. It can
be closed by pressing Escape, or by clicking on the red X in the top right corner. Here
is a guide outlining various elds from the Main Menu. Most of the functions operate
immediately. Other functions require a response to a conrmation prompt rst before
performing the requested function.
• Identication: Fixed text label that is dened by the user in the Web interface.
This does not aect the operation of the system and is intended to assist with
administration.
• Status: Current status of the attached system and the status of the unit.
• B/W Min/Avg/Max/Auto: Bandwidth control, wherein current operation will be
indicated with white highlighting. If you choose Min/Avg/Max then you will override
the default, Auto. As the automatic mode measures actual network performance,
you may see the current mode switch from Min up to Avg or Max. The dierent
modes indicate more time spent on compression versus more bandwidth. There is
no visual dierence between the modes, but there can be a noticeable dierence in
speed and smoothness.
• Mouse Resync: Resynchronizes the mouse pointer so that the local and remote
mouse pointers are on top of each other.
• Take Control: When multiple users are connected to the same system, use this
button to take control away from another user. Only one user may control the
keyboard and mouse at any time. All users see the same picture.
• Thumbnails: Switch to smaller thumbnail size screen images (click anywhere on
thumbnail to restore it). Each button corresponds to a dierent sized image, from
half size to one-sixteenth.
• Logout: End the VNC login session and disconnect.
• Video Tuning: Sub-menu with video adjustments, to be used when automatic
picture adjustment does not provide a good quality picture.
• VirtKeys: Virtual keyboard provides a menu with special keys that are often hard to
generate but needed by the remote system. The most common key sequence is the
<Ctrl> – <Alt> – <Del>.
• KVM Menu: Generates the key sequence used to access the on-screen menu for an
enterprise-class KVM switch. When these conventional KVM switches are combined
with the IP KVM, this key makes accessing their built-in menu easier, especially from
the Java client. This button will only be shown when an external KVM has been
enabled via the web interface.
• Bribar: Closes or reopens the Bribar window along the bottom of the screen.
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VirtKeys Menu
Clicking any button in the top half of
the window simulates pressing and
releasing the indicated key. In the
bottom area of the screen, clicking will
simulate the indicated Meta key being
pressed. You may then click in the top
part to send another key and release the
Meta key at the same time. Alternatively,
you may move the mouse outside this
window, press the regular key, and then
choose -RESET- to release all depressed
keys. The VirtKeys menu can be left open
while using the host system. You can then click the required button at the suitable
time, and still interact with the host in a normal fashion.
Examples:
• [Ctrl]-[Alt]-[F4]: Click L-Ctrl then L-Alt in the Toggles area. Then click F4.
• To bring up the Start menu under Windows: Click the L-Windows button at the
top left of the above window.
Video Tuning menu
Use the Auto Everything button to
automatically ne-tune all three adjustments.
If the test pattern for Color Oset calibration is
not present on the screen, then the Color Oset
adjustment is skipped.
Changes/frame indicates the number of 16x16
blocks of video that are being sent, on average,
for every frame of video. With a static image
being displayed by the server, this number will
be zero (shown as -nil-).
Moving the mouse, for example, will cause the number to jump to about 2 or 3. You
may use this number to judge the picture quality as you adjust the controls on this
menu.
Picture Positioning aects the image position on your screen. If you see a black
line on either side of your screen, or at the top or bottom, you can use the arrow
buttons to shift the image in that direction. Pressing Auto does the same thing for
you automatically. Use Save to save the changes you have made manually. Since this
adjustment depends on the video mode, separate values are stored for each video
mode.
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Color Oset is a ne tuning adjustment that requires the use of a test pattern. There
is a copy of the test pattern available on the Help! menu of the integrated web server.
You must arrange for that image to be shown on the host computer. Do not allow
scaling, cropping or any other changes to that image. Press the Auto button and the
system will calibrate color for the best possible picture in approximately one minute.
If the system cannot nd the test pattern on the screen, it will say so. Check that the
pattern isn’t scaled or covered up. It’s important to do this operation in 24-bit or 32-bit
color video mode (i.e. truecolor). Although the algorithm may work in 16-bit or 8-bit
color video modes, the results will not be optimum and usually it won’t be able to
recognize the test pattern.
Pressing the Advanced button will open the Advanced Video Tuning menu. While
the vast majority of users will not need to adjust these settings, it oers added control
of the video settings of your VNC sessions.
Sampling Phase does not normally need to be used since the IP KVM tunes the
sampling phase whenever the video mode changes. This button does not require a test
pattern, but will perform optimally when used with our standard test pattern. For your
reference, the sampling phase number is shown to the right of the Filtering button.
Noise Filter controls the advanced video ltering of our system. Unlike other ltering
algorithms, our noise lter will only remove noise. It does not degrade the signal
quality or readability of small text. You may turn it on and o using the indicated
button, or set it to other values using the arrows. Higher numbers cause more ltering
and may cause artifacts when moving windows. The most common visual artifact is a
vertical line dropping when moving windows horizontally. You may use the Redraw
button to correct these, or use a lower lter number. At minimum, these values must
be greater than two.
Using the Advanced Video Tuning Feature
The Advanced Video Tuning menu allows
you to adjust the qualities of the video in
your VNC sessions, and can be accessed
by clicking the Advanced button on the
Video Tuning VNC menu. While many
users will probably allow the IP KVM
switch to automatically congure the
video properties, you can use this menu
to exercise a great deal of control over the
settings if you wish.
The Presets section contains up to sixteen
dierent settings, plus the factory setting. If a number is highlighted, then that preset
has been programmed with valid settings and may be used. Note that the Factory
preset is always available. Simply click on the appropriate button and those settings
will be restored. To save settings to a preset, click on the Save->Preset button in the
Actions pane. The preset buttons will highlight. Click the desired preset button to save
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the values. Note that any previous settings assigned to that button will be lost. If you
do not wish to save the presets after clicking the Save->Preset button, click the
Save->Preset button a second time and the save function will be cancelled.
The section of the screen marked Current Values indicates the various video
parameters that can be adjusted. For each parameter, there are a series of buttons: [,
<<, -, Auto, +, >>, ]. The ’[’ and ’]’ buttons set the parameter to its smallest or largest
values, respectively. The ’<<’ and ’>>’ buttons decrease or increase the parameter by a
large amount. In the case of phase, this is 4 units. For all the others, this is 10 units. The
’-’ and ’+’ buttons decrease or increase the parameter by one unit. The middle button
sets the parameter to the middle value. The text of the middle button also indicates
which parameter is being controlled. Note that in the case of phase, the middle button
invokes the auto-phase algorithm.
The Performance section of the screen gives an indication of the quality of the video.
Changes/frame is the average number of tiles that change for each frame sampled by
the hardware. Flatness is an indication of what percentage of the screen contains tiles
that are comprised of only one color.
The Regrab Screen button in the Actions section causes the screen to be re-captured.
When making small changes to the video parameters, sometimes these changes are
not reected in the displayed screen immediately, particularly if the noise lter is
enabled. Press this button to see the immediate eect of the changes.
Use the Show Dis button to learn which parts of the screen are being sent over the
Internet. When you click this button, the screen is cleared to a medium grey color. All
blocks that are sent from that point on will show up on the screen as they are sent.
Click the button again to reset the screen to grey. To return to normal operation, click
the Regrab button. It is very easy to visually identify the eect noise has on signal
processing, using this feature.
The Auto Oset & Gain button in the Actions section invokes the automatic algorithm
for setting the video parameters. The algorithm requires the factory calibration test
pattern to be correctly displayed on the screen.
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Optimizing video performance
Choose the best video mode
• We recommend using 60Hz refresh rate and 1024 x 768 resolution. Using a smaller
resolution like this allows you to t multiple windows on your remote desktop.
Higher refresh rates stress the video card’s quality and do not provide any additional
information or benet.
Noisy video cards
• A digital KVM works by converting the analog video signals emitted by your video
card into digital data. If there is noise on that signal, then it must also be digitized
and sent over the network. Quality video cards, in our experience, oer better
performance simply because they don’t add analog noise.
• Some external KVM switches generate video noise as well. Try to keep cables short,
in order to reduce this eect.
• Enable the Noise Filter option (on the Video Tuning menu) to mitigate noise issues.
Network performance
• The IP KVM will always send as much data as it can, given what’s happening on
the screen and the actual network performance. When nothing is changing on the
video screen, zero bytes are sent over the network. If the whole screen is changing,
then the unit will send as much data as your network connection and VNC client
allow.
• Network latency, which is the total time it takes for a packet to get to the IP KVM
and come back, has the biggest impact on perceived performance and usability.
Network bandwidth has a lesser eect, particularly when just moving the mouse
around. Only a few bytes need to be sent when the mouse is moving (and nothing
else is changing on the screen), but the round-trip-time limits the hand-eye
coordination of the user if it is too great. Both actual bandwidth and measured
network latency are shown in the Main Menu.
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Accessing KVM Features
Once you can access and congure the networking component of the Server Remote
Control, you can use it to select and control the managed computers connected to it.
This section describes how to use the on-screen display (OSD) system to manage your
computers. Once you have established a VNC session with the IP KVM, you can access
the KVM features as though you were at a local console.
KVM Switch OSD Operation
To enter the Hotkey Menu, press the left <CTRL> key twice within two seconds.
• L-CTRL is the <CTRL> key located on the left side of the keyboard.
• 1~8/A~H are the number keys 1-8 located in the upper row of the keyboard, and
the character keys A-H (not case sensitive).
Please Note: Do not use the keypad at the right of the keyboard.
To enter the KVM Menu, press the <CTRL> key three times within two seconds. Once
entered, the menu will display a list of the connected computers with corresponding
port numbers, names, and statuses, as shown below.
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To access additional menu functions, press the <F4> key. A new screen will appear
displaying more functions, as shown below.
To access the remaining menu functions, press the <F4> key again. This will bring you
to the screen shown below.
Data-Transfer Rule
Not Followed Selected PC: Data-Transfer function resides on one particular KVM-
Channel, press <CTRL> + <CTRL> + <T> to switch to the next KVM-Channel.
Tracking Selected PC: Data-Transfer function follows the selected KVM-Channel.
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OSD Operations
By hitting the left <CTRL> key twice within two seconds, you may see the ‘Hotkey
Menu’ (unless disabled through OSD menu). Or, by hitting the left <CTRL> key three
times within two seconds, you will see a KVM MENU screen showing a list of the
computers with corresponding channel addresses, names and status.
• The port number (or channel address) of the currently selected computer is
displayed in red in the top right of the screen.
• The device name is green if the device has power and is ready for selection or
white if it has no power. The OSD menu automatically updates the color when it is
activated.
• Use the <UP> and <DOWN> arrow keys to highlight a computer and the <ENTER>
key to select it.
• Press <ESC> to exit the OSD menu and remove the OSD menu from the screen.
• An eye mark (N) on the right side of the screen indicates that the computer has
been selected to be monitored in Scan mode. You can switch this mark on and o
using function key <F2>.
• Press <ESC> to exit the OSD and to return to using the selected computer. The
computer name is shown on the screen.
OSD Function Keys
You can use the function keys when the OSD menu is active.
Function key <F1>
Edits the name of a managed computer or a Slave KVM. First, use the <UP> and
<DOWN> arrow keys to highlight a channel then press <F1> followed by name
entry. Each name can be up to 14 characters long. Valid characters are A to Z, 0
to 9, and the dash character. Lowercase letters are converted to uppercase. Press
<BACKSPACE> to delete a letter one at a time. Nonvolatile memory stores all name
entries until you change, even if the unit is powered down.
Function key <F2>
Marks a computer to be scanned by switching the eye mark on or o. First, use the
<UP> and <DOWN> arrow keys to highlight the device, then press <F2> to switch
its eye mark on or o. If Scan Type is Ready PC + N (see Function key <F4>), only
the powered and eye-marked ( N) computers will be displayed in Scan mode.
Function key <F3>
Locks a device (a computer or a Slave) from unauthorized access. To lock a device,
use the <UP> and <DOWN> arrow keys to highlight it, then press <F3>. Now, enter
up to 4 characters (A to Z, 0 to 9, dash) followed by <ENTER> to setup a password.
A Security enabled device is marked with a lock (Ï) beside its channel number. To
permanently disable the security function from a locked device, highlight it, press
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<F3> then enter the password. If you want to access the locked device temporarily,
simply highlight it and press <ENTER>. Enter the password and you can access the
device. The device is automatically re-locked once you switch to another device.
During Scan mode, OSD skips the security-enabled device.
Function key <F4>
More functions are available by hitting <F4>. A new screen pops up displaying the
functions described below. Most of them are marked with a triangle ( ►) indicating
there are options to choose from. Using the <UP> and <DOWN> arrow keys, select
the function and press <ENTER>.
Available options will be shown in the middle of the screen. To select an option, use
the <UP> and <DOWN> arrow keys then press <ENTER> to select the options. You
can press <ESC> to exit at any time.
Auto Scan
In this mode, the KVM automatically switches from one powered computer to the
next sequentially in a xed interval. During Auto Scan mode, the OSD displays
the name of the selected computer. When Auto Scan detects any keyboard or
mouse activity, it suspends the scanning until activity stops; it then resumes with
the next computer in sequence. To abort Auto Scan mode, press the left <CTRL>
twice. Scan Type and Scan Rate set the scan pattern. Scan Type (<F4>: More\Scan
Type) determines if scanned computers must also be eye mark selected. Scan Rate
(<F4>: More\Scan Rate) sets the display interval when a computer is selected before
selecting the next one.
Manual Scan
Scans through powered computers using keyboard control. Scan Type (<F4>: More\
Scan Type) determines if scanned computers must also be eye mark selected. Press
the up arrow key to select the previous computer and the down arrow key to select
the next computer. Press any other key to abort the Manual Scan mode.
Scan Type
• Ready PC + Eye (N): In Scan mode, scans through only powered computers that
are eye-marked selected.
• Ready PC: In Scan mode, scans through all powered computers. The non-volatile
memory stores the Scan Type setting.
• Eye (N) Only: In Scan mode, scans only computers that have been eye-marked.
Scan Rate
Sets the duration of a computer displayed in Auto Scan mode. The options are 3
seconds, 8 seconds, 15 seconds and 30 seconds. The Scan Rate setting is stored in
non-volatile memory.
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Hotkey Menu
When you hit the left <CTRL> key twice within two seconds, the Hotkey Menu
appears displaying a list of hot-key commands if the option is On. The Hotkey Menu
can be turned O, if you prefer not to see it when the left <CTRL> key is hit twice.
The non-volatile memory stores the Hotkey Menu setting.
CH Display
Auto O: After you select a computer, the channel address and name of the
computer will appear on the screen for 3 seconds then disappear automatically.
Always On: The channel address and name of a selected computer and/or OSD
status displayed on the screen all the time. The non-volatile memory stores the CH
Display setting.
Position
You can choose where the selected computer name and/or OSD status is displayed
on your screen during operation. The actual display position shifts due to dierent
VGA resolutions: the higher the resolution the higher the display position. The non-
volatile memory stores the Position setting.
UL as Upper Left, UR as Upper Right
LL as Lower Left, LR as Lower Right
MI as Middle
ESC: To exit the OSD, press the <ESC> key
Max. Resolution
You can adjust the maximum monitor resolution that will be sent to each computer
on the KVM switch, under this sub-menu to one of the following options:
1024x768, 1280x1024, 1600x1200, 1920x1080, 1920x1440, 2048x1152.
Hot Key Commands
A hot key command is a short keyboard sequence to select a computer, activate
a computer scan, etc. A hot-key sequence starts with two Left Control keystrokes
followed by one or two more keystrokes.
The short form hot-key menu can be turned on as an OSD function (<F4>: More\
Hotkey Menu) every time the left <CTRL> key is pressed twice.
• Left Ctrl refers to the <CTRL> key located at the left side of the keyboard.
• 1~8/A~H refer to the number keys 1 to 8 at the upper row of the keyboard (Do
not use the keypad at the right of the keyboard) and character keys A to H (case
insensitive).
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Selecting a Computer
To select a computer by hot-key command you need to know the device’s channel
address, which is determined by the KVM connection. For a computer connected to
the switch, the address is represented by the PC port number (1~4). For example, to
access the PC plugged into port 4 of the Master KVM switch, type:
left <Ctrl> + left <Ctrl> + <4>
Auto Scan
Auto Scan automatically scans through powered computers at a xed interval:
left <Ctrl> + left <Ctrl> + <F1>
When Auto Scan detects any keyboard or mouse activity, it suspends the scanning
until activity stops; it then resumes with the next computer in sequence. The length
of the Auto Scan interval (Scan Rate) is adjustable (see Scan Rate on the following
page). To abort the Auto Scan mode, press the left <Ctrl> key twice.
Manual Scan
Manual Scan enables you to manually switch back and forth between powered
computers:
left <Ctrl> + left <Ctrl> + <F2>
Press the up or down arrow to select the previous or next computer in sequence.
Press any other key to abort the Manual Scan.
NOTE: The Scan Type setting will determine whether computers must be eye-
marked to be included in the scan.
Scan Rate
Scan Rate sets the duration between switching to the next computer in Auto Scan
mode:
left <Ctrl> + left <Ctrl> + <F3>
The unit switches between scan intervals of 3, 8, 15 and 30 seconds.
Changing Your Conguration
After the initial power up, any device (either a KVM or a PC) can be added or removed
from any PC x port on the KVM without having to power down the Master KVM Switch.
Make sure that devices are turned o before connecting them to the Master KVM
switch. Note: After changing your conguration, the OSD will automatically update to
reect the new conguration.
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Using the Modem feature
Background
The modem feature allows the IP KVM to act as an Internet connection server for
increased security and exibility in connecting with the host computer. Unlike the TCP/
IP connection used with the standard Web conguration and VNC clients, the modem
creates a one-to-one connection between the IP KVM and the computer you are using
to manage the host computer that is essentially private, as it bypasses the public
Internet completely.
Note: this feature requires both an external modem (most standard connection
protocols are supported) and a dedicated phone line that can be connected to the
modem for external access. While it is possible to use the modem feature through
some PBX systems, this increases the complexity and reduces the performance of
the connection. For clarity, the instructions presented here assume that the modem
is connected to a typical POTS (plain old telephone system) line that is not routed
through a phone management system or shared with other devices. If you wish to use
this feature through a PBX system, it may require some experimentation and additional
support from your telecom services provider, and is not supported by StarTech.com.
Connecting a Modem
The IP KVM will work with virtually any Hayes-compatible modem that recognizes
the standard AT command set. Some modem manufacturers oer “enterprise” grade
modem products (at a premium price) that include technology to improve the stability
of connections; whether this type of product would be benecial to your application
depends on whether you consider the modem connection to be mission-critical, the
quality of your telecom infrastructure, and your budget for implementing this solution.
The model of modem attached is essentially transparent to the IP KVM.
It is important to note that modems that oer “56K” (or 57,000 bps) connections
often achieve connection speeds that are far lower than their maximum capabilities.
Given the limitations of telecom infrastructure (many locations have yet to implement
fully digital switching technology, and still rely on older analog technology for some
segments), the maximum “upstream” transfer rate is limited to a maximum of 33,600
bps between two modems; the “downstream” rate is often within a similar range for
a typical connection. Therefore, speeds below 57,000 bps do not indicate a problem
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with the modem or the IP KVM, but simply reect the line conditions at the time the
connection is made. The Serial port can be used for serial port conguration when the
modem is connected. It requires the use of a null modem serial cable.
Place the modem near the IP KVM and an available telephone jack. Connect the
modem to the telephone jack, data cable, and power source according to the
instructions in its documentation. The opposite end of the modem’s data cable
should be a DB9 female serial connection. Connect that end of the cable to the Serial
connection on the rear panel of the IP KVM.
Modem conguration
Although most connections will work appropriately with the default settings on the IP
KVM, manual changes can be made. To do so:
Login to the Web interface as Admin. Click Modem, listed on the left side of the main
page. You will then be presented with the Modem Option menu (see above). Make the
following changes to enable and congure the modem connection.
• Enable modem connections (PPP) via serial port/modem: select Enabled.
• Baud rate to use (aects connection between us and the modem only): select
115200.
• Init string: leave as ATE0S0=1&K3 (see below).
The baud rate dictates the connection speed between the IP KVM’s serial port and
the modem, and does not aect the connection speed between the local and remote
modems, as they will negotiate their own connection speed when a connection
is made. It is highly recommended that this setting be left at the default for best
performance.
The initialization (“init”) string is the command (using the standardized Hayes AT
command set) that the IP KVM will send to the modem to activate it. The string
included should work with the majority of modems and congures the following
connection properties: answer incoming calls on the rst ring, enable hardware ow
control, and lock the connection speed. Your modem’s documentation will describe
other potential init strings that you can use to alter the connection properties.
For instance, you could commit the settings to the modem’s non-volatile memory
(NVRAM) or allow the modem to adjust the connection speed for greater stability
(and so on). You may wish to test the connection with the default init string rst,
before making changes specic to your modem model or situation, to simplify the
troubleshooting process.
Click the Commit button to save your changes and activate the modem feature with
the specied settings.
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Conguring the Remote Connection
This section describes how to congure a typical Windows dial-up session to access
the modem connection on the IP KVM. The instructions here relate to a Windows XP
conguration; other versions of Windows are similar.
1. Open My Network Places from the desktop or the Start menu.
2. Click View network connections.
3. Click Create a new connection under Network Tasks.
4. The New Connection Wizard window will open. Click Next.
5. Select Connect to the Internet and click Next.
6. Select Set up my connection manually and click Next.
7. Select Connect using a dial-up modem and click Next.
8. In the space provided under ISP Name, type an appropriate name of your choosing
for the connection. Click Next.
9. In the space provided under Phone Number enter the phone number for the line
to which the IP KVM’s modem is connected. You may need to add the area code,
country code, or other digits needed to access the outside line as appropriate. When
nished, click Next.
10. Make your choice from “Anyone’s use” or “My use only” and click Next.
11. Beside Username enter the username of any valid user created using the Web
interface of the IP KVM. Beside Password and Conrm password enter the
password that the user you entered above uses to access the Web interface.
12. This screen also includes 3 checkboxes. Uncheck all 3 checkboxes. Click Next.
13. You may select to add a shortcut to the desktop for this connection. Click Finish.
• PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol) must be used; no other authentication methods are
supported.
• TCP/IP must be installed/enabled on the computer making the connection, and
must be used for the dial-up connection.
• The connection must be congured to obtain a dynamic IP address.
• The user name/password must match a user currently congured on the IP KVM.
• For best performance and to simplify the troubleshooting process, rewall software
should not be used with the dial-up connection.
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Accessing the Web Interface
Once a dial-up connection has been established, you can access the Web interface or
start a VNC session using the following IP address:
https://99.99.99.99
You can now login to the Web interface (and/or VNC session) normally. Note that the
remote machine (the one you dialed from) is automatically assigned the IP address
99.99.99.100 for the PPP session. This, and the IP address of the IP KVM, cannot be
modied. The following TCP/IP port numbers are assigned for a PPP connection,
regardless of the settings congured in the Web interface for the LAN or WAN ports:
HTTPS: 443
VNC (clear-text): 5900
VNC (SSL secured): 15900
SSH: 22
Performance Notes
• All images over the PPP connection will be grayscale to conserve bandwidth. If
other users are connected while a PPP session is active, their screens will be in
grayscale as well. When PPP is inactive, color is automatically re-enabled.
• Some areas of the screen may not be updated as frequently as others, and
animations or other auto-updating areas of the screen may appear out-of-focus
or “blocky” as a result. Since the area around the mouse pointer is refreshed most
frequently, hold the pointer over an area to improve its clarity.
• It may be benecial to minimize any unnecessary icons, backgrounds or other
clutter on the host computer’s desktop to make the dial-up connection as ecient
as possible.
• If you need to congure the device over a serial connection while the modem
option is enabled, connect a serial cable (see immediately above for instructions on
what type of cable to use for the port you are accessing on the IP KVM) and begin
a terminal session following the instructions under Terminal Conguration Using a
Serial Cable in this manual. Once connected, you will see the following message:
Expecting a modem, if human, type admin password (Or start PPP)
Type the password for user admin and press Enter. The password will not appear on
the screen. The conguration menu will appear. Make the changes you wish or press q
and Enter to exit and leave the modem connection active.
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Modem Troubleshooting Guide
The following messages will appear in the system log on the Status screen in the Web
interface and may help to diagnose problems with the modem conguration.
Starting PPP (for auth) on port…
Modem is connecting and the PPP login process is starting.
Modem hang up. Resetting
The connection has been closed or terminated unexpectedly.
Timeout during login process. Giving up
The PPP client connecting over the modem has waited too long to complete the
authentication process or supplied an invalid user name and/or password.
Modem init chat script failed
The modem did not respond to the initialization string from the IP KVM. You may
need to change the init string or verify the cabling and modem status.
Modem init okay
The modem has responded appropriately to the init string.
Saw PPP startup from client
A PPP authentication has occurred and a session has started.
Phone line rings
An incoming call has been detected by the modem.
Modem answers: xxxxxxxxx
The connection speed and protocol used for a connection, as reported by the
modem. The exact contents of the message will vary depending on the modem
make and model. Using Optional Serial Remote Control (R-Port) Modules.
Serial Remote Control operation
Background
The IP KVM oers a unique way to expand the functionality of the base product.
Using the integrated R-Port on the rear panel, you can manage up to 16 serial
devices using a specialized daisy-chain technology. The IP KVM includes integrated
control functionality that allows you to monitor and congure serial devices using
the interactive Web interface. To minimize space and infrastructure requirements,
the R-Port modules use a single cable to carry both power and the data signal. All
conguration settings are stored separately in each attached device in non-volatile
memory so that they will not be lost in the event of a power outage or disconnection.
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Connecting Serial Remote Control Modules
The cable for each serial device is similar to a phone cable and uses an RJ-14 connector.
For the rst module, connect the cable to the R-Port on the rear panel of the IP KVM.
Connect the opposite end to the DATA OUT (or similar) port on the Serial Remote
Control unit. Note that some devices may use an integrated cable, so you will not need
to make a separate connection on the serial device. Once you have added the rst
serial device to the IP KVM, you can connect additional modules to the DATA IN (or
similar) port on the previous module in the chain. Once the cabling is attached, the
module becomes active after a 15 second initialization period. For specic information
regarding cabling and status indicators for a specic serial console, refer to the
instructions that came with the product.
Using the Web Interface
Once you have one or more R-Port serial devices connected, you will able to congure
and manage them through the Web interface. You may need to modify the default
settings on IP KVM to match your various R-Port modules’ default conguration.
Consult the documentation that came with your R-Port module to determine if
you need to modify the default settings to complete the installation. To be able to
congure your R-Port modules, you must be logged in as admin. Other users will be
able to view which modules are active but cannot congure them.
Once you are logged in, choose the Admin/Setup option from the menu at the top
of the Home screen in the Web interface. Click External Serial consoles setup and
control. You will be presented with the Serial Consoles Attached menu, and a table
with the following headings:
• #: You can assign a value (1 ~ 99) to each attached serial remote control module.
This does not aect the conguration or operation of the device in any way, but is
simply a means to sort this list for ease of management.
• Name/Description: An identier for the R-Port module. Like the number
assignment, it is for ease of administration only.
• Baud (bps): This is the communication speed for the device, and the setting here
must match the setting on the module itself. All common baud rates between 300
and 115,200 bps are supported.
• Mode: Sets the character framing scheme that the IP KVM will use with the R-Port
module. You can choose from the following selections:
• 8N1: Eight bits, no parity, one stop bit (default and most common)
• 7N1/701/7E1/7M1/7S1: Seven bits, (none/odd/even/mark/space) parity, one
stop bit
• 8N1/801/8E1/8M1/8S1: Eight bits, (none/odd/even/mark/space) parity, one stop
bit
• 8N2: Eight bits, no parity, two stop bits
• Force DCD: Forces the Carrier Detect signal to be active at all times. Normally,
DCD becomes active when a new user connects and is dropped when the last
user disconnects (a response that is similar to many modems). When active, the
Instruction Manual
39
device will logout and reset itself if the carrier signal is lost, increasing security.
Note that this may not work with all devices and could impair proper operation in
some circumstances. The default setting is o.
• Console Log: Clicking this link will open a separate Web page that will display the
last 200 characters committed to that device’s console log. Note that existing data is
overwritten automatically when the 200 character limit is reached.
You can make as many changes as needed on this menu at one time, before applying
your changes. Once you are satised with the changes you have made, click Commit
changes to apply the new settings. Click Refresh at any time to see an updated list of
attached R-Port modules.
Remote Login via SSH
You can use almost any standard SSH client to access the R-Port options. Simply use
your SSH client (several freeware packages are available for download, along with
commercial applications) and connect to the IP address of the IP KVM using port 22
(default).
Log in to the SSH session as admin using the same password as the Web interface. At
the command prompt type “connect x” (where x is the number of the R-Port devices
you wish to manage). Alternatively, you can enter the command “connect -l” to see a
list of active devices. Once connected, you will see a welcome banner similar to the
following:
Connected to #1: (none)... (Press Ctrl-Shift-_ for menu).
You are now connected to the R-Port module in a live terminal session. Commands
you type will be echoed on the terminal screen. The module also oers a simple menu
system that allows you to change its conguration settings (similar to the function of
the menus in a terminal software package). Press <Ctrl> - <Shift> – < _ > (underscore)
on the keyboard to access the menu. It will be similar to the following:
RS-232 Menu (#1: (none), 115200 bps, 8N1)
Q – Disconnect
# - Send break
H – Hangup line (drop DCD)
E – Send Ctrl-Shift-_
L – Low log entries (line buer)
1 – Show last 10 log entries
other – Return to connection
Press key ->
To execute the desired command, simply press the corresponding key on the
keyboard. You can also execute the command and avoid the menu by pressing
the <Ctrl> – <Shift> – < _ > key combination quickly and pressing the letter of the
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command. To quit the menu, press <Q> on the keyboard when the menu is active.
These commands are not sent to the device you are managing and relate to the R-Port
module itself.
Operating Notes
• If the power supply to the R-Port modules you have connected becomes faulty
(short, overload) then the R-Port LED on the front panel of the IP KVM will show red.
Under normal operations, this light should remain green. The R-Port connector on
the rear panel also has an LED that mirrors the status of the light on the front panel.
• Hardware handshaking (CTS/RTS) is required for speeds exceeding 9600 bps. It is
enabled by default on the IP KVM, but may need to be enabled on the other end of
the connection. For Unix systems, the command is:
stty –crtscts < /dev/[serial port]
• A maximum of four users may simultaneously login to the same module. All users
may type commands at any time, and all users will see the same output. Note the
following:
• All users have equal access to all channels.
• A maximum of 16 R-Port modules may be connected at any one time.
• You plug-in and unplug any R-Port module at any time. When reconnected, it will
automatically become available after a 15 second initialization period. Any log
entries will be retained by the R-Port module while deactivated, but will not be
available to users until it is re-initialized.
About Security Certicate Warnings
What is a security certicate?
Sites that employ secure TCP/IP (Internet) connections include a certicate that
conrms that users are connecting to a legitimate site and are not being redirected
without their knowledge. Certicates are issued by trusted third parties called
Certicate Authorities (CAs) and contain essential details about a site that must
match the information supplied to your Web browser.
Why do I receive a warning when I access the login screen on the IP KVM?
As it redirects you to a secure (SSL) session by default, the login screen may
generate a warning from your Web browser or the VNC Java client for two dierent
reasons. First, the CA that has issued the certicate on StarTech.com’s behalf may
not yet be recognized as a trusted source by the computer you are using to access
the IP KVM. Second, since the unit could be congured in a number dierent ways,
it is impossible to supply a generic certicate that will match your exact network
settings.
Is my data safe?
Yes. The security certicate does not aect encryption eectiveness in any way, nor
does it make the IP KVM any more vulnerable to outside attacks.
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Can I prevent the warning from occurring?
Yes. You have two options that may prevent the warning from occurring. First, if the
Web browser you are using oers the option to ignore the warning for future visits,
the browser will no longer generate a warning if that option is selected. Second, if
you install the certicate from the IP KVM onto the host computer (see below) and
if the unit is congured with a domain name ending in .com, .net, .org, .gov, .edu,
.us, .ca, .uk, .jp, or .tw (i.e. remotecontrol.mydomain.net) then the warning should no
longer occur.
Installing the New Certicate
The following instructions detail how to install the certicate from the IP KVM onto
your local computer (in this case, when using Internet Explorer with Windows XP).
1. Open your Web browser and go to the IP KVM login screen. Click the Update
security certicate link.
2. When prompted, choose Open.
3. A Window will appear that oers information about the certicate. Click Install
Certicate.
4. The Certicate Import Wizard will appear. Select Automatically select the
certicate store… (default) and click Next. When the next window appears, click
Finish.
5. A conrmation dialog will appear asking you if you wish to install the certicate.
Click Yes.
A message should appear saying the import was successful. Click OK.
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Troubleshooting
Forgotten master password.
You can reset the master password using the serial interface on the unit. Use the
S command, and type a new password. The old password is not required for this
procedure.
Remote mouse and local mouse don’t line up.
Use the Mouse resync command in the main menu or press the Resync button on
the Bribar. If the mouse pointers still don’t line up, verify that mouse acceleration has
been disabled.
NOTE: The Windows login screen does not accept the “mouse acceleration”
conguration, and always has the mouse accelerated regardless of your
conguration. Therefore, on this screen it is best to avoid using the mouse.
After resync, the mouse pointers are still not aligned.
Use the video adjust menu to position your video image exactly where it should be.
Normally a slight video positioning error is perceived as a mouse sync issue. A video
positioning error is visible as a black line along the top or bottom (and right or left)
edges of the remote screen. Remember to save your position changes!
Cannot login via SSH.
Remember to use either admin or a username created in the system as the user
name you give your SSH client.
If you see a warning about identity of host cannot be veried, and a question
about saving the host’s ngerprint, this is normal for the rst time you connect to
any machine running SSH. You should answer yes so that your SSH client saves the
public key of this host and doesn’t re-issue this warning.
Certicate warning shown when connecting via HTTPS.
It is normal for a warning dialog to be shown when connecting via HTTPS. The
SSL certicate S uses is created when the unit is rst produced. It does not contain
the correct hostname (subject name) because you can change the hostname as
required. Also, it is not signed by a recognized certicate authority (CA) but is signed
by our own signing authority.
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Mouse performance is erratic when using the GNOME or KDE desktop in a
Linux X-Window environment.
The mouse controls in GNOME and KDE environments oer both an acceleration
and sensitivity setting. The following directions correct this issue, and apply to Red
Hat Fedora Core 2, but should be similar for other distributions that use GNOME or
KDE:
1. Click the Launch menu icon.
2. Choose Preferences > Mouse.
3. Click the Motion tab.
4. Set the Acceleration bar to the setting immediately left of center.
5. Set the Sensitivity bar to the left-most settings (lowest possible).
Power Cycling the KVM Switch
• Push the Recessed Rest Button on the KVM Switch once to power cycle the KVM
Switch.
Resetting the KVM Switch
• Push and hold the Recessed Rest Button on the KVM Switch for 8 seconds to reset
the KVM Switch to factory settings, including security and password settings.
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Supported Protocols
Service Description Benet
SSH Secure Shell May be used to securely “tunnel” VNC and HTTP
protocols.
HTTP Web Redirector
(to HTTPS)
Convenience server to redirect all web trac to
encrypted port. Clear-text HTTP is not supported.
SNMP SNMP Agent
(UDP)
Allows integration with existing SNMP network
management systems.
HTTPS
SSLTLS
Encrypted Web
Control
Secure control and management of the device
and attached system. Screen snapshots may be
downloaded. Integrated Java VNC client (with or
without encryption) allows control from any Java
enabled browser. Password protected.
VNC VNC/RFB
Protocol Server
Standardized real-time KVM network protocol.
Compatible with existing VNC client software.
VNCS SSL-tunneled
VNC
VNC protocol tunneled via SSLTLS encryption. For
secure real-time control of the server over public
networks.
DHCP Dynamic IP
Setup Cong
Eases network setup by fetching IP address and
other network settings from a centralized server.
RADIUS Centralized
authentication
Allows integration with existing RADIUS servers,
so that user management can be centralized.
Supports challenge response authentication
using hardware tokens (like SecurID) and
conventional passwords.
SYSLOG
System event
logging to
another system
MIT-LCS UDP protocol. Must be congured via
DHCP option.
DNS Domain Name
Service
Converts text name into IP Address Only used in
the URL specication needed to emulate a
CD-ROM. Use is optional.
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Specications
SV441DUSBI SV841DUSBI
Number of Ports 4 8
Console Connectors
1 x DE-15 VGA female
2 x USB type A female
1 x RJ45 Ethernet female
1 x 9-pin DB9 male
Computer Connectors
(per port) 1 x DE-15 female
LEDs 4 x Port Status 8 x Port Status
Maximum Number of
Simultaneous Users 1 Active + up to 4 Viewing
Maximum Video
Resolution
1600 x 1200 @ 85Hz (Remote)
1920 x 1440 (Local)
Audio Support No
Security 128-bit SSL
Cascadable Yes (as Master only)
Rack Mountable Optional
Enclosure Material Metal
Power Adapter 12V DC, 4000mA, center positive, type M plug
Operating Temperature 0°C ~ 40°C (32°F ~ 104°F)
Storage Temperature -20°C ~ 60°C (4°F ~ 140°F)
Humidity 0% ~ 80% RH
Dimensions (LxWxH) 187.0mm x 200.0mm x
22.0mm
187.0mm x 200.0mm x
44.0mm
Weight 900g 1260g
** Source code for the unit operating system is available upon request. Please contact us
by phone, live chat, or email to make your request. This oer is valid for three years from
the date of purchase and/or for as long as parts or customer support is oered for this
product. Charges for the reasonable cost of copying and/or conveying may apply.
Instruction Manual
46
Technical Support
StarTech.com’s lifetime technical support is an integral part of our commitment to
provide industry-leading solutions. If you ever need help with your product, visit
www.startech.com/support and access our comprehensive selection of online tools,
documentation, and downloads.
For the latest drivers/software, please visit www.startech.com/downloads
Warranty Information
This product is backed by a three year warranty.
In addition, StarTech.com warrants its products against defects in materials
and workmanship for the periods noted, following the initial date of purchase.
During this period, the products may be returned for repair, or replacement with
equivalent products at our discretion. The warranty covers parts and labor costs only.
StarTech.com does not warrant its products from defects or damages arising from
misuse, abuse, alteration, or normal wear and tear.
Limitation of Liability
In no event shall the liability of StarTech.com Ltd. and StarTech.com USA LLP (or their
ocers, directors, employees or agents) for any damages (whether direct or indirect,
special, punitive, incidental, consequential, or otherwise), loss of prots, loss of business,
or any pecuniary loss, arising out of or related to the use of the product exceed the
actual price paid for the product. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation
of incidental or consequential damages. If such laws apply, the limitations or exclusions
contained in this statement may not apply to you.
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