Eaton Tripp Lite Series NetDirector 16-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch

The Eaton Tripp Lite Series NetDirector 16-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch is a cornerstone of modern IT infrastructure, engineered to simplify and accelerate remote management across data centers, server rooms, and distributed networks. With support for four remote users plus one local console, it delivers fast, secure access to a wide range of servers, virtual machines, and network devices through a familiar KVM interface. This 1U rack-mount device is designed for reliability in demanding environments, offering virtual media capabilities that streamline OS deployment, patching, and maintenance, all while minimizing on-site visits. Built to be compatible with standard Cat5/Cat6 cabling and Ethernet networks, NetDirector helps organizations maximize their existing infrastructure while delivering crisp, responsive control for multi-server environments. The TAA-compliant design further ensures procurement flexibility for government, education, and enterprise deployments.

• Remote KVM access for up to four remote users plus one local user. Manage multiple servers from geographically dispersed locations with near-zero latency, enabling faster troubleshooting, standardized maintenance windows, and improved incident response times without sacrificing security or control.
• Integrated virtual media for remote OS deployment. Map local ISO images, installers, and USB storage to target hosts, allowing remote OS installations, software updates, and disaster recovery testing as if you were connected directly to the server console.
• Compact 1U rack-mount form factor. The durable, metal chassis fits standard 19-inch racks and provides clean cable management, quiet operation, and easy accessibility for maintenance, upgrades, and routine monitoring in data centers, labs, and IT closets.
• Cat5 KVM over IP with scalable networking. Leverage existing Ethernet cabling to extend KVM control across locations or across large server farms, simplifying deployment and reducing cabling complexity while maintaining high-quality video and responsive input signaling.
• Web-based management with robust access controls. Centralized configuration and multi-user access management minimize administrative overhead, enable role-based permissions, and support auditing to help meet security and compliance requirements across the organization.

Technical Details of Eaton Tripp Lite Series NetDirector 16-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch

• 16 KVM ports over Cat5 KVM over IP, designed for flexible connections to servers, blades, or network devices.
• Supports up to four simultaneous remote user sessions plus one local console, enabling concurrent diagnostics, maintenance, or hands-on administration without compromising access control.
• Includes virtual media capability to mount ISO images or USB devices remotely for installations, updates, and recovery tasks.
• 1U rack-mount chassis that is built to be durable in data-center environments and is TAA-compliant for federal and other regulated procurement.
• Uses standard Ethernet networking with a web-based management interface, offering centralized control, user management, and straightforward configuration without specialized client software.
• Delivers high-definition video suitable for IT administration, with responsive console interaction to ensure smooth remote control of servers and other devices.
• Provides multi-user access management with clear separation of duties and session controls to support secure administration across multiple devices.

How to install Eaton Tripp Lite Series NetDirector 16-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch

• Plan your rack layout and mount the NetDirector unit in a standard 19-inch rack. Ensure there is adequate clearance for ventilation and efficient cable routing to prevent overheating and to simplify future maintenance.
• Connect up to 16 servers or KVM-enabled devices to the KVM ports using compatible KVM cables. Label each port clearly to simplify ongoing administration and reduce the chance of misrouted connections during maintenance windows.
• Link the switch to your network by plugging an Ethernet cable into the management port and connecting to a reliable network switch or router. Connect power to the unit and verify that it powers up and completes its power-on self-test (POST).
• Access the web-based management interface from a workstation on the same network. Configure the device with a fixed IP address (or DHCP reservation), then set up user accounts, access permissions, and basic security settings appropriate for your organization.
• Enable and configure virtual media, define preferred remote access policies, and test remote console sessions from one or more client workstations. Validate that virtual media maps correctly to a target server by mounting a test ISO or USB image and performing a controlled boot or installation task.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the NetDirector 16-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch best used for? A: It is designed to centralize and simplify remote management of multiple servers and network devices. By providing KVM access over IP with virtual media, IT teams can install operating systems, perform maintenance, and troubleshoot without on-site visits, improving efficiency and uptime.
• Q: How many users can connect at the same time? A: The system supports up to four remote user sessions in addition to one local console, enabling parallel administration, diagnostics, and coordination across teams.
• Q: Does it support virtual media? A: Yes. Virtual media allows remote mounting of ISO images and USB devices to target servers for OS deployment, software updates, and recovery tasks without physically touching the server.
• Q: Is the switch rack-mountable? A: Absolutely. It comes in a 1U rack-mount form factor designed for standard 19-inch racks and is built for durable operation in data centers and IT rooms.
• Q: Is this NetDirector model compliant with Trade Agreements Act (TAA) requirements? A: Yes, the NetDirector 16-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch is TAA-compliant, making it suitable for government, education, and other regulated procurement environments.