Black Box ServSwitch CX KVM Switch — 16-Server, 4-User, 1 Analog Console

The Black Box ServSwitch CX KVM Switch is a robust, enterprise-grade solution engineered to consolidate control of up to 16 servers from a single local setup and four remote user stations. Built for data centers, server rooms, and lab environments, this compact yet powerful switch provides fast, reliable access to growing IT infrastructure. By centralizing keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) control, the ServSwitch CX minimizes the need for multiple workstations and simplifies remote management, helping IT teams streamline operations, reduce downtime, and maximize rack space. Whether you’re managing physical servers, storage appliances, or network gear, the CX switch delivers dependable performance with a design that emphasizes reliability, security, and straightforward integration.

• Centralized access for up to 16 servers from a single local console and remote workstations — The ServSwitch CX consolidates control of an extended server fleet, enabling operators to switch rapidly between systems from one convenient location and up to four remote user stations. This capability is ideal for data centers and labs that require rapid, uninterrupted access to multiple hosts without toggling between separate consoles.
• 1 analog console port plus 4 remote user ports — The switch provides a dedicated analog local console port for direct, immediate interaction with connected servers and supports four remote user connections. This combination delivers versatile, multi-user management while preserving the simplicity of traditional KVM access.
• Compact, rack-mountable design for dense IT environments — Designed to fit cleanly into standard data-center rack layouts, the CX switch maximizes space efficiency without sacrificing performance. Its compact enclosure makes it suitable for machine rooms, testing labs, and environments where space and organization matter, while still delivering enterprise-grade capabilities.
• Engineered for reliability, uptime, and consistent performance — Built to endure demanding IT workloads, the ServSwitch CX emphasizes stable video quality, responsive control, and durable construction. Ready for round-the-clock operation, it’s a dependable backbone for busy data centers and development environments that rely on fast triage, troubleshooting, and maintenance without interrupting production servers.
• Seamless integration and scalable management — The CX KVM switch integrates smoothly with existing server cohorts and peripheral setups, enabling straightforward expansion as your infrastructure grows. Its design supports easy cabling, clear port mappings, and predictable switching behavior, helping IT teams manage complex environments with confidence and minimal training.

Technical Details of Black Box ServSwitch CX KVM Switch

• Model: Black Box ServSwitch CX KVM Switch
• Number of servers supported: Up to 16
• Local console: 1 analog console port
• Remote users supported: 4 concurrent user stations
• Form factor: 1U rack-mountable enclosure
• Ports: 16 server ports + 1 local analog console port + 4 remote user ports
• Connectivity: KVM control for analog console and remote user access; supports standard KVM peripherals via the local console

How to install Black Box ServSwitch CX KVM Switch

• Plan your rack layout and cabling strategy — Identify a suitable 1U rack location with ample clearance for heat dissipation and easy access to ports. Label server connections to prevent misrouting during maintenance or expansion.
• Mount the ServSwitch CX in the rack — Secure the chassis to the rack rails using appropriate screws. Ensure the unit is level and has adequate ventilation around it to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
• Connect servers to the 16 server ports — Use the appropriate KVM cabling for each server, aligning each host with a dedicated port on the switch. Keep cables organized with cable ties or velcro to prevent strain and simplify future changes.
• Attach the local console — Connect a keyboard, monitor, and mouse to the analog local console port. Verify video and input are properly routed to the first server to confirm basic connectivity before expanding to other hosts.
• Link remote user stations — Connect up to four remote workstations to the designated remote user ports. Confirm network reachability if the remote access setup includes additional networking components or access controls in your environment.
• Power up and configure — Apply power to the switch and boot servers. Access the local console to perform initial port mapping, assign server labels, and configure user permissions if the unit offers on-device setup options. Validate that switching between servers yields consistent video and input responses.
• Test switching workflows — Exercise common use cases: single-host control, quick port cycling, and multi-user access to ensure that each remote user can independently switch to their intended servers without interference. Document port assignments for ongoing operations.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the ServSwitch CX KVM Switch? The ServSwitch CX is an enterprise-grade KVM switch that centralizes control of multiple servers from a single local console and multiple remote user stations. It’s designed for data centers, server rooms, and labs where efficient, secure access to a growing server fleet is essential.
• How many servers and users can it support? It supports up to 16 servers and up to four concurrent remote users, providing flexible, scalable access for operations teams that need to manage several hosts from a compact footprint.
• What kind of console does it require? The switch includes one analog local console port for direct keyboard, video, and mouse interaction. Remote users connect via dedicated ports to access servers without needing separate physical consoles.
• Is it compatible with standard keyboards, mice, and monitors? Yes. The ServSwitch CX is designed to work with standard KVM peripherals via the local console. Remote access varies by implementation, but typical setups maintain compatibility with common keyboard and mouse configurations as part of the shared KVM environment.
• How do I expand or migrate in a growing environment? The device is built to streamline expansion within its 16-server capacity and four-user limits. For growth beyond these limits, you can plan staged deployments, add additional switches in a cascading or networked management scenario if supported by your infrastructure, and re-map port assignments as needed to maintain orderly management of your server fleet.
• What precautions improve uptime and reliability? Proper rack ventilation, clean cabling, and clear labeling help prevent accidental disconnects. Regular firmware or software updates (as released by the vendor) and routine health checks on both the switch and connected servers contribute to stable operation and faster issue resolution during maintenance windows.