Black Box ServSwitch CX Uno,16-Port

The Black Box ServSwitch CX Uno, 16-Port is a compact, high-performance KVM switch engineered for busy data centers, enterprise server rooms, and IT environments that demand fast, secure access to multiple servers from a single console. By enabling shared local and remote console access, it reduces clutter, minimizes cable mess, and accelerates routine administration tasks. The CX Uno family is known for its flexibility, allowing you to cascade units via CATx cabling to manage more servers in a compact 1U footprint, while preserving crisp video, stereo audio, and responsive control. With flash-upgradable firmware and modular expansion options, this 16-Port model is designed to grow with your infrastructure and adapt to evolving server platforms. An 8-Port version is also available, offering the same reliability and feature set in a smaller configuration.

• Shared local and remote console access for fast, centralized server management
• Cascade capability via CATx cabling to control up to 31 CPUs in 1U, enabling scalable expansion without increasing rack space
• Stereo audio support for immersive, lossless audio during remote administration and troubleshooting sessions
• Modular expansion through optional PS/2, USB, or Sun Server Access Modules (SAMs) to support a wide range of servers and peripherals
• Flash-upgradable firmware for ongoing improvements, security updates, and feature enhancements

Technical Details of Black Box ServSwitch CX Uno,16-Port

• Port count: 16-Port KVM switching with shared local and remote console capability
• Cascading: CATx-based cascade support enabling expansion up to 31 CPUs within a single 1U rack footprint
• Audio: Stereo audio support to ensure clear, synchronized audio during console sessions
• Firmware: Flash-upgradable firmware for future-proof operation and quick security or feature updates
• Expansion modules: Optional PS/2, USB, or Sun Server Access Modules (SAMs) to accommodate mixed environments
• Form factor: 1U rack-mountable chassis designed for space-efficient data center deployments
• Compatibility: Works with a wide array of server platforms and peripherals, supporting both legacy and modern interfaces
• Management: Local control via keyboard, video, and mouse; remote management through connected consoles and SAM modules

how to install Black Box ServSwitch CX Uno,16-Port

• Plan the layout: Before installation, map each server connection to the corresponding port on the CX Uno, ensuring you have the correct CATx cabling lengths and connectors for local and cascade links. Prepare space in the rack and confirm your power source meets the unit’s requirements.
• Rack mounting: Install the CX Uno in a standard 19" rack slot, securing the chassis with mounting screws to prevent vibration and ensure stable signal integrity. Verify airflow around the 1U unit to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
• Power and initial setup: Connect the power supply to a reliable power source and power on the unit. If your environment uses redundant power, configure the CX Uno accordingly and test automatic failover behavior where applicable.
• Server connections: Attach each server’s video, keyboard, and mouse interfaces to the corresponding ports on the CX Uno using CATx cables designed for KVM use. If you plan to cascade, connect the cascade port to the next CX Uno or compatible device, following the manufacturer’s wiring diagram for proper signal routing.
• Peripheral modules: If you require PS/2, USB, or Sun SAM support, install the appropriate Server Access Module in the CX Uno’s modular bay and secure it according to the module’s instructions. This step expands compatibility with legacy and mixed environments.
• Firmware and validation: Access the switch’s management interface to verify firmware version and perform any available updates. Run a quick validation by switching between connected servers, confirming video, keyboard, and mouse signals are correctly transmitted to the local console.
• Multi-server testing: For cascaded configurations, test the expanded server set by cycling through devices across the cascade chain. Confirm that the 1U footprint continues to deliver stable performance and that stereo audio remains synchronized during sessions.
• Security and maintenance: Establish any required access controls, user permissions, and audit logging. Maintain firmware updates on a regular basis to safeguard against vulnerabilities and ensure compatibility with new server hardware.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: How many servers can I manage with a single CX Uno,16-Port?

  A: The base unit supports 16 server connections from a single chassis. You can cascade CX Uno units via CATx cabling to extend management capabilities up to 31 CPUs in 1U, enabling scalable server access without additional rack space.

• Q: Do I need special cables or modules to connect legacy servers?

  A: The CX Uno supports modular expansion with PS/2, USB, and Sun SAMs. Depending on your servers’ interfaces, you can choose the appropriate module to ensure compatibility and seamless console sharing across mixed environments.

• Q: Can I update the firmware after installation?

  A: Yes. The CX Uno features flash-upgradable firmware so you can apply updates for performance, compatibility, and security without replacing hardware.

• Q: Is stereo audio supported for remote sessions?

  A: Yes. Stereo audio support is included, enabling administrators to listen and communicate more effectively during remote management tasks or training sessions.

• Q: What is the recommended rack setup for optimal performance?

  A: Install the CX Uno in a well-ventilated 1U rack space, maintain clear cable routing to minimize interference, and ensure cascading connections follow the manufacturer’s guidance to preserve signal integrity and video quality across all connected servers.

• Q: Can I use the 16-Port model alongside an 8-Port version?

  A: Yes. Both the 16-Port and 8-Port CX Uno models share core features and expansion options, enabling mixed deployments where some servers are managed on larger units and others on smaller ones. Cascading and module compatibility remain consistent.