ATEN VK236 6-Port IR/Serial Expansion Box - TAA Compliant

The ATEN VK236 6-Port IR/Serial Expansion Box is a purpose-built expansion module designed to extend the reach and capability of your ATEN Control System. Ideal for facilities that demand scalable control of multiple IR and serial devices, the VK236 delivers six dedicated ports that seamlessly integrate with your existing AV infrastructure. With an Ethernet-based connection, this compact expansion box enables flexible deployment across rooms, floors, or campuses, reducing wiring complexity while maintaining centralized control. Its TAA-compliant design meets procurement standards for government, education, and enterprise environments, ensuring compatibility with compliant buying programs without sacrificing performance or reliability. By adding the VK236 to your control network, you unlock streamlined command routing, simplified device management, and improved operational efficiency for presentations, digital signage, conferencing, and classroom AV setups. Built to withstand the rigors of professional installation, the VK236 provides consistent, dependable IR and serial port expansion without compromising the stability of your ATEN Control System.

• Six dedicated IR/Serial ports for expanded device control across a single facility or multiple spaces, enabling centralized automation of projectors, displays, receivers, scalers, and other IR/serial-enabled equipment. This expansion reduces point-to-point wiring while increasing the number of controllable devices in a scalable AV ecosystem.
• Ethernet-based connectivity that supports flexible deployment over your existing network, providing scalable management and remote configuration. The Ethernet interface allows administrators to monitor status, assign ports, and push updates from a central location, which is ideal for large venues, corporate campuses, and multi-room installations.
• Seamless integration with the ATEN Control System, ensuring that port allocations, IR commands, and serial communications can be configured and managed from the same control interface used for other ATEN devices. This simplifies setup, reduces training time, and enhances reliability through a single, unified control environment.
• TAA Compliant design that aligns with government procurement requirements, making the VK236 a trusted choice for institutions and agencies that must meet strict sourcing standards. The compliance supports streamlined purchasing processes and ensures compatibility with eligible programs while delivering enterprise-grade performance.
• Compact, rugged form factor that fits neatly into standard rack or cabinet spaces and is designed for easy installation in crowded AV racks. The VK236 minimizes clutter, improves cable management, and delivers dependable, long-term operation in demanding environments such as classrooms, conference centers, and auditoriums.

Technical Details of ATEN 6-Port IR/Serial Expansion Box

• Product model: VK236
• Ports: 6 IR/Serial expansion ports
• Interface: Ethernet-based control connection to ATEN Control System
• Compliance: TAA Compliant
• Compatibility: Designed to work with ATEN Control System master controllers and compatible ATEN devices
• Purpose: Expansion box to extend IR/Serial control capabilities
• Configuration: Centralized port management via ATEN Control System software

how to install ATEN 6-Port IR/Serial Expansion Box

• Prepare the installation by identifying an appropriate network location for the VK236, ensuring adequate ventilation and access to network and power connections within the AV rack or cabinet.
• Connect the VK236 to the ATEN Control System master controller using a standard Ethernet cable (CAT5e/6). Ensure the connection is secure and that the master controller recognizes the expansion box on the same network.
• Route IR and Serial devices to the VK236 ports, mapping each device to the corresponding port in the ATEN Control System configuration. Label cables and ports for easy maintenance and future expansion.
• Power on the VK236 and verify a stable link to the ATEN Control System. Use the ATEN control interface to confirm port status and begin assigning each port to its target device within the control hierarchy.
• Test each connected device by sending a few IR commands or serial instructions to confirm correct responses. Save the configuration and document port mappings to ensure consistent operation for technicians and operators.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the VK236? A: The VK236 is a 6-Port IR/Serial Expansion Box that adds six IR/Serial ports to an ATEN Control System, enabling centralized control of additional devices.
• Q: How many devices can be controlled with the VK236? A: The VK236 adds six IR/Serial ports, allowing control of up to six separate devices or groups, depending on your configuration and port mapping within the ATEN Control System.
• Q: How does the VK236 connect to the ATEN Control System? A: It connects via an Ethernet-based interface to the ATEN Control System master controller, enabling networked management and centralized configuration.
• Q: Is the VK236 compatible with all ATEN products? A: The VK236 is designed to work with ATEN Control System ecosystems and compatible master controllers; verify your specific ATEN setup for full integration.
• Q: Do I need a separate power supply for the VK236? A: Power requirements are determined by ATEN’s installation guidelines; the VK236 is designed to operate within a standard ATEN Control System environment, with power delivery configured as part of the overall system setup.
• Q: Can I manage the VK236 remotely? A: Yes, the Ethernet-based connection supports remote configuration and monitoring through the ATEN Control System software, enhancing management for large or distributed deployments.