Black Box ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module, USB and Audio

Take control of your server environment with the Black Box ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module (SAM) for USB and Audio. This high-performance accessory sits alongside your servers and feeds the CX switch with rock-solid USB, audio, and control signals over a standard CATx cable. When deployed with the ServSwitch CX, the SAM unlocks centralized, keyboard-and-mouse ready access to remote servers without compromising security, bandwidth, or video quality. Designed for data centers, labs, and enterprise IT rooms, the SAM delivers reliable, low-latency remote management that keeps critical operations running smoothly—even when servers are located meters away from the control console. A key advantage is the ability to place servers up to 32 feet (9.8 meters) from the CX switch, enabling flexible rack layouts and optimized cable management while maintaining high-resolution performance. The Keep Alive power feature adds another layer of reliability by ensuring the module remains powered during switch activity, providing uninterrupted access during maintenance windows or power cycles.

• Extended CATx reach for flexible deployments: Use a CATx cable to connect the Server Access Module (SAM) to the CX server port, enabling centralized management across greater distances without sacrificing control fidelity.
• USB and Audio pass-through for complete control: The SAM transmits USB peripherals and audio signals between the server and your operator station, supporting keyboards, mice, USB hubs, headsets, and other USB devices for a genuine local-like experience.
• Keep Alive power keeps you in control: The built-in Keep Alive feature powers the SAM during switch activity and power events, ensuring you can access servers without interruptions or reinitialization delays.
• High-resolution performance over standard CATx cabling: Shorter distances yield higher resolutions, while longer distances up to 32 feet (9.8 m) maintain crisp, responsive control for demanding applications.
• Seamless integration with ServSwitch CX: Designed to work in tandem with the CX switch, the SAM delivers a cohesive, enterprise-grade KVM solution that scales with your server fleet and IT infrastructure.

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

• Compatibility: Works with Black Box ServSwitch CX family for consolidated KVM control across multiple servers.
• Connectivity: Dual-mode CATx communication between the SAM and the CX server port, enabling USB and audio signal transfer alongside control data.
• Distance support: Designed to place the server up to 32 feet (9.8 meters) away from the switch, with distance impacting resolution as with many KVM interfaces.
• USB pass-through: Supports USB keyboard and mouse along with other USB peripherals, providing familiar input and peripheral access during remote sessions.
• Audio pass-through: Delivers audio signals to allow real-time listening and voice communication through connected headsets or speakers.
• Power management: Keep Alive feature ensures the SAM remains powered to maintain readiness and reduce latency when switching between servers.
• Physical form and placement: Compact, rack-friendly design suitable for 19" racks and tight data-center spaces.

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

Installing the SAM is straightforward and designed to minimize downtime in busy IT environments. Follow these practical steps to integrate the SAM with your ServSwitch CX system and your servers:

• Power down the CX switch and the servers you will connect to ensure safe installation and prevent electrical damage during cabling.
• Locate the ServSwitch CX unit in your rack and identify the dedicated Server Access Module (SAM) port or expansion connection intended for the dual CATx link.
• Connect a CATx cable from the SAM’s outbound interface to the CX server port. Ensure the cable is securely seated and routes cleanly to avoid kinking or interference.
• Place the SAM near the target server(s) or within a convenient chassis area, maintaining the recommended 32-foot maximum distance to preserve signal integrity and resolution.
• Attach USB and audio peripherals to the SAM’s USB and audio interfaces as required by your server and operator setup. This typically includes a USB keyboard/mouse, USB hub devices, and audio headsets or speakers.
• Power on the SAM (and enable Keep Alive if your configuration requires continuous operation during maintenance windows). Power sequencing should follow your data-center best practices to avoid startup conflicts.
• Power on the ServSwitch CX and the connected servers. Use the CX management interface to verify connectivity and ensure the SAM is recognized as part of the KVM matrix.
• Perform a functional test in a controlled session: switch between servers, verify USB device recognition, and confirm audio transmission. Check for latency, resolution stability, and reliability under normal operating loads.
• Document the setup for future maintenance: note the CATx cable path, SAM placement, and server mappings to the CX ports to streamline future upgrades or troubleshooting.

Tips for optimal performance:

• Keep CATx cables as short and clean as possible to maximize video resolution and minimize interference; use high-quality shielded CATx cables when available.
• When possible, consolidate SAMs and CX switches in a calm, temperature-controlled rack environment to reduce heat and noise that could affect performance.
• Periodically verify the Keep Alive power settings during maintenance windows to ensure uninterrupted operation when powering servers on or off.
• Label cables and ports clearly to expedite future servicing, especially in multi-server environments where several SAMs and CX switches may be deployed.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the ServSwitch CX Dual CATx Server Access Module? The SAM is a component that connects to Black Box ServSwitch CX and enables USB and audio pass-through, controlled over CATx cabling, to extend KVM access to servers located away from the main switch.
• How far can the SAM be from the switch? The SAM supports a maximum distance of up to 32 feet (9.8 meters) between the SAM and the CX server port. Distances shorter than this can improve display resolution and signal stability.
• Does the SAM support USB keyboards and mice? Yes. The SAM provides USB pass-through so you can connect standard keyboards, mice, and other USB peripherals for a complete remote management experience.
• Is audio supported? Yes. The SAM includes audio pass-through to transmit headset or speaker audio from the server to the operator station for real-time monitoring and troubleshooting.
• What is the Keep Alive feature? Keep Alive helps maintain power to the SAM during switch activity or power events, reducing interruptions and ensuring quick re-engagement with remote servers.
• How do I install the SAM with my ServSwitch CX? Install the SAM next to the server, connect it to the CX port using CATx, attach USB and audio peripherals, power the module, and verify operation through the CX management interface. Always follow your organization’s change-management procedures when performing this type of installation.
• Can I deploy multiple SAMs with a single ServSwitch CX? Yes. The CX system is designed to manage multiple servers via SAMs, enabling centralized control over a fleet of remotely located servers while preserving performance and security.
• What if I experience latency or signal drop? Check CATx cable quality and routing to minimize interference, ensure the SAM is within the recommended distance, verify Keep Alive power status, and test with a minimal peripheral load to isolate potential issues.