Black Box EC Series KVM Switch for PS/2 or USB Servers and PS/2 or USB Consoles - 16-Port

Black BoxSKU: 2890218

Price:
Sale price$1,750.35

Description

Black Box EC Series KVM Switch for PS/2 or USB Servers and PS/2 or USB Consoles - 16-Port

The Black Box EC Series 16-Port KVM switch is engineered to streamline server management in demanding environments such as data centers, IT rooms, and labs. This compact, 1U-high unit lets you control up to 136 servers through a single console, dramatically reducing rack clutter and simplifying operations. With support for both PS/2 and USB servers and consoles, it accommodates a wide range of hardware generations, preserving existing investments while enabling a smooth upgrade path. The EC Series is designed to be operating-system independent and transparent to applications, ensuring your critical software runs without compatibility hiccups during every switch. Whether you’re organizing a multi-rack deployment or preparing for future expansion, this KVM switch delivers reliability, flexibility, and efficiency in one robust package. In addition, features like autoscan, unique server naming, and keyboard setting memory help administrators manage large environments with speed and confidence.

  • Cascade up to 136 servers from a single console, enabling centralized, scalable management across extensive rack ecosystems and simplifying remote administration. This cascading capability reduces the need for multiple, standalone switches and lowers total cost of ownership while maintaining fast, reliable access to every machine.
  • 1U rack-mount design preserves valuable rack space and fits neatly into standard 19-inch racks, allowing you to deploy more servers per rack and freeing up space for storage, networking gear, or high-density compute modules.
  • Supports PS/2 and USB servers and PS/2 and USB consoles, delivering broad compatibility with both legacy hardware and modern peripherals. It also accommodates Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro for enhanced navigation during long administration sessions.
  • Operating system independent and transparent to all applications, meaning switch operations do not disrupt running workloads, drivers, or software behavior. This gives IT teams confidence during maintenance windows and reduces the risk of software compatibility issues.
  • Manual switching or autoscan modes provide flexible control, with the ability to assign unique names to each server and save keyboard settings for quick, repeatable logins across the entire server fleet.

Technical Details of Black Box EC Series KVM Switch for PS/2 or USB Servers and PS/2 or USB Consoles - 16-Port

  • Port configuration: 16-port KVM switch supporting PS/2 and USB connections for both servers and consoles, enabling mixed-interface deployments in a single unit.
  • Cascade capability: Up to 136 servers when linked with additional EC Series units, ideal for growing data centers and lab environments that require scalable management surfaces.
  • Form factor: 1U height designed for standard 19-inch racks, delivering a compact, space-efficient solution for crowded IT rooms.
  • Compatibility: Operating system independent and transparent to applications, ensuring seamless integration with diverse software stacks and minimizing disruption during switches.
  • Peripheral support: Includes support for Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro and saves keyboard settings to streamline repeated logins and administrative workflows.
  • Switching options: Offers manual switching and autoscan modes, giving administrators control over how and when servers are accessed.
  • Server naming and management: Ability to assign unique names to servers, simplifying navigation in environments with many hosts and accelerating routine tasks.

How to install Black Box EC Series KVM Switch

Installing the EC Series KVM switch is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. Follow these steps to set up a robust, scalable KVM environment from the start:

  • Prepare the rack: Identify a suitable 1U rack space and ensure adequate ventilation and cable management clearance around the unit to prevent heat buildup and interference.
  • Mount the switch: Secure the EC Series 16-Port KVM switch in the selected 1U rack space using the appropriate mounting hardware, ensuring it is level and firmly fastened.
  • Connect servers: Connect each server to the KVM switch using PS/2 or USB cables, aligning the keyboard, video, and mouse connections as required by your hardware setup. Maintain consistent cable routing to simplify future changes.
  • Connect consoles: Attach your keyboard, monitor, and mouse to the corresponding PS/2 or USB ports on the KVM switch, matching the connection type used by your servers to ensure uniform operation.
  • Configure naming and controls: Assign unique names to each connected server to improve navigation. Enable autoscan if you prefer automated cycling through servers and, where applicable, save keyboard settings for consistent logins.
  • Power and test: Apply power to the switch and servers. Perform a test switch sequence to verify that each server is reachable from the console, and confirm that autoscan and manual switching operate as expected.
  • Consider cascading: If expanding beyond 16 servers, connect additional EC Series units per the manufacturer’s guidance to build out your cascading topology while maintaining performance and control.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q: Does the Black Box EC Series KVM Switch support both PS/2 and USB servers and consoles?
    A: Yes. It is designed to work with PS/2 or USB servers and PS/2 or USB consoles, providing flexible compatibility across hardware generations.
  • Q: How many servers does the base 16-Port unit support, and how scalable is it?
    A: The base unit manages 16 servers, with cascading support enabling management of up to 136 servers when combined with additional EC Series switches, ideal for growing environments.
  • Q: Is this KVM switch OS-dependent?
    A: No. The EC Series is operating-system independent and transparent to applications, ensuring consistent behavior across different software environments.
  • Q: Can I save keyboard settings and assign server names?
    A: Yes. The unit can save keyboard settings and allow you to assign unique names to each server, simplifying repetitive logins and server identification.
  • Q: Does it support Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro?
    A: Yes. The EC Series supports Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro, enhancing navigation during administrative tasks.
  • Q: What are the primary installation considerations?
    A: Ensure adequate rack space (1U), proper cable management, and plan for cascading if you intend to grow beyond 16 servers. No software installation is required; configuration is performed via hardware controls and on-device settings.

Customer reviews

(0)

0 Out of 5 Stars


5 Stars
0
4 Stars
0
3 Stars
0
2 Stars
0
1 Star
0


Showing - Of Reviews


You may also like

Recently viewed