Black Box ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module, USB

The Black Box ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module, USB is a compact, high-performance solution designed to extend hands-on server control from the CX KVM switch to remote servers. By bridging your CX switch to the server rack with a standard CATx cable, this SAM enables smooth keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) access and reliable USB peripheral support over practical distances. The Dual CATx design accommodates flexible deployments, letting IT teams place servers up to 32 feet (9.8 meters) away from the CX switch without sacrificing performance or display quality. A notable Keep Alive feature powers the module to preserve connections and session integrity even during power fluctuations, helping administrators maintain consistent access during maintenance windows or unexpected outages. Built for data centers, labs, and IT closets, this module delivers secure, low-latency server control, reducing travel time for administrators and enabling faster issue resolution while preserving a streamlined, centralized management workflow.

• Remote server access over CATx: Connect the Server Access Module (SAM) to the CX server port using standard CATx cable, enabling centralized, remote control of servers from the CX console without leaving your workstation.
• Extended distance for flexible deployments: Place servers up to 32 feet (9.8 meters) away from the switch. Shorter cable runs can yield higher video resolutions and crisper on-screen clarity for precise server management.
• USB support for peripherals: USB keyboard, mouse, and select USB devices operate through the SAM, delivering a familiar setup for administrators and enabling quick peripheral docking when needed.
• Keep Alive power for reliability: The keep-alive feature ensures the SAM remains powered and maintains sessions even during certain power events, preserving ongoing connections and reducing disruptive downtime.
• Seamless CX ecosystem integration: Designed to work in harmony with the Black Box ServSwitch CX family, offering plug-and-play integration, robust performance, and streamlined management for multi-server environments.

Technical Details of Black Box ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module, USB

• Module type: Server Access Module (SAM) for the Black Box ServSwitch CX family
• Interface: CATx cable connection to CX server port; USB passthrough for peripherals
• Distance capability: Up to 32 ft (9.8 m) between SAM and CX switch; shorter runs can improve resolution
• Power feature: Keep Alive power sustains module operation to preserve sessions
• USB compatibility: USB keyboard and mouse support; compatible with select USB peripherals through the SAM
• Color/finish: Black (as indicated by the product name and branding)
• Compatibility: Specifically designed for use with Black Box ServSwitch CX switches and associated SAMs

How to install Black Box ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module, USB

• Power down all components in the immediate installation area if recommended by your maintenance guidelines, then identify the CX switch port designated for the Server Access Module connection.
• Connect the SAM to the CX switch using a standard CATx cable. Plug one end into the SAM’s CATx port and the other end into the corresponding CX server port per your deployment plan.
• Place the target server or servers near the SAM location, ensuring the distance to the CX switch remains within the 32 ft (9.8 m) limit for optimal video resolution and response time.
• Connect USB peripherals (keyboard, mouse, and any supported USB devices) to the SAM if you require direct USB access from the remote workstation. Verify that USB devices are recognized by the host system at the endpoint.
• Power up the CX switch and servers. Allow the system to boot and establish the KVM session through the ServSwitch CX interface. Use the CX control panel or management console to select the remote server and verify keyboard, video, and mouse response.
• Perform a quick test of display resolution, peripheral responsiveness, and session stability. If you encounter latency or display issues, shorten the CATx run if possible and ensure cables are fully seated. Consult the CX user guide for any firmware updates or compatibility notes related to the SAM.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Black Box ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module, USB?
  A: It is a Server Access Module designed for the ServSwitch CX family that enables remote KVM control and USB peripheral access from a CX switch to a server located up to 32 feet away via CATx cables. It includes a keep-alive power feature to preserve connections during power events.
• Q: How far can you place the server from the CX switch?
  A: Up to 32 feet (9.8 meters). Shorter distances may yield higher video resolutions for clearer on-screen display during remote management.
• Q: Does the SAM support USB devices?
  A: Yes. The module provides USB pass-through to support a keyboard, mouse, and select USB peripherals during remote access sessions.
• Q: What is the purpose of the keep-alive feature?
  A: The keep-alive power feature helps ensure the SAM remains powered and maintains active sessions during certain power events, contributing to reliable remote access continuity.
• Q: Is this module compatible with all CX switches?
  A: It is designed to work within the Black Box ServSwitch CX ecosystem, providing seamless integration with CX switches and their management software for multi-server environments.