KH2508A / KH2516A User Manual FCC Information This is an FCC Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
86-10-5255-0110 Japan 81-3-5615-5811 Korea 82-2-467-6789 North America 1-888-999-ATEN ext 4988 United Kingdom 44-8-4481-58923 User Notice All information, documentation, and specifications contained in this manual are subject to change without prior notification by the manufacturer. The manufacturer makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties as to merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
KH2508A / KH2516A User Manual About This Manual This User Manual is provided to help you get the most from your KH2508 KH2516 system. It covers all aspects of installation, configuration and operation. An overview of the information found in the manual is provided below.
For information about all ALTUSEN products and how they can help you connect without limits, visit ALTUSEN on the Web or contact an ALTUSEN Authorized Reseller. Visit ALTUSEN on the Web for a list of locations and telephone numbers: International http://www.aten.com North America http://www.aten-usa.com...
Page 10
KH2508A / KH2516A User Manual This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
Chapter 1 Introduction Overview A KH2508 /KH2516 KVM switch is a control unit that allows IT administrators to access and control multiple computers from two PS/2 or USB KVM (keyboard, monitor, and mouse) consoles. Operators working at up to two consoles can independently and simultaneously take control of up to 8 (KH2508 ), or 16 (KH2516 ) computers.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Features and Benefits The features and benefits provided by a KH2508 / KH2516 deployment are described in the following table: Features Benefits Two Consoles Control Two KVM consoles independently and simultaneously control up to 8 or 16 directly connected computers. Scalability By daisy chaining up to 31 additional KH2508 / KH2516...
Page 13
Adapter Cables with ID The KH2508 / KH2516 KVM series supports automatic ID recognition of the new ATEN KVM Cable Adapter KA7000 series (See KVM Adapter Cables on page 5). Using the new adapter cables with ID means it is not required to change cable configuration settings when moving cables from port to port.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Requirements Consoles A VGA, SVGA, or multisync monitor capable of the highest resolution that you will be using on any computer in the installation A PS/2 or USB mouse A PS/2 or USB keyboard Computers The following equipment must be installed on the computers that connect to the KH2508 or KH2516...
Chapter 1. Introduction KVM Adapter Cables Cat 5e/6 cable is required to connect the KH2508 / KH2516 to one of the KVM adapter cables. The following KVM adapter cables are required for use with the KH2508 KH2516 Function Module Connect to devices with PS/2 ports KA7920 / KA7520 / KA7120 KA9520 / KA9120 Connect to devices with USB ports...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Components Front View KH2508 1&2 KH2516 1&2...
Page 17
Chapter 1. Introduction Component Description Port Selection Press a pushbutton to give the KVM focus to the computer Pushbuttons attached to its corresponding port. Simultaneously pressing Pushbuttons 1 and 2 for 3 seconds performs a keyboard and mouse reset. Simultaneously pressing Pushbuttons 7 and 8 of the KH2508 or Buttons 15 and 16 of the KH2516 starts Auto...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Rear View KH2508 KH2516...
Page 19
Chapter 1. Introduction Component Description Power Socket The power cord to the AC source plugs in here. Power Switch This is a standard rocker switch that powers the KH2508 KH2516 on and off. Daisy Chain When daisy chaining units (see Daisy Chaining, page 17), Ports the daisy chain cables plug in here.
Page 20
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
Chapter 2 Hardware Setup Overview For convenience and flexibility that allows mixing the PS/2, USB and serial interfaces, the KH2508 / KH2516 's design utilizes KVM adapter cables that serve as intermediaries between the KVM switch and the connected devices: A separate KVM adapter cable is required for each computer or device connection.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Stacking and Rack Mounting The KH2508 / KH2516 can be stacked on the desktop or rack mounted at the front or rear of the rack. The following sections take you through the procedures for each method. Note: 1.
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Rack Mounting The KH2508 / KH2516 can be mounted in a 19" (1U) rack. The mounting brackets can screw into either the front or the back of the unit so that it can attach to the front or the back of the rack. To rack mount the unit: 1.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Single Station Installation In a single stage installation, there are no additional KVM switches daisy chained down from the KH2508 / KH2516 . To set up a single stage installation, refer to the installation diagrams starting on page 15 (the numbers in the diagram correspond with the numbers of the instruction steps), and do the following: 1.
Page 25
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Single Stage Installation Diagram...
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Daisy Chaining To control even more computers, up to 31 additional KH2508 / KH2516 KVM switches can be daisy chained from the original KH2508 or KH2516 As many as 512 computers can be controlled from a single console in a complete installation.
Chapter 3 Basic Operation Port Selection KH2508 / KH2516 installations provide three methods to obtain instant access to any computer on your installation: Manual, OSD (on-screen display), and Hotkey. Manual Manual port selection simply involves pressing the port selection switch that corresponds to the device you wish to access.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Hot Plugging The KH2508 / KH2516 supports hot plugging – components can be removed and added back into the installation by unplugging and replugging their cables without the need to shut the unit down. In order for hot plugging to work properly, however, the procedures described below should be followed.
Chapter 3. Basic Operation Powering Off and Restarting If it becomes necessary to power off the KH2508 / KH2516 , or if the switch loses power and needs to be restarted, before starting it back up it is suggested that you follow these procedures to prevent possible equipment issues: 1.
Page 32
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
Chapter 4 OSD Operation OSD Overview The On Screen Display (OSD) is a menu driven method to handle computer control and switching operations. All procedures start from the OSD Main Screen. To display the Main Screen, tap the OSD hotkey twice. The default hotkey is [Scroll Lock].
Page 34
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual When you start the OSD, a screen similar to the one below appears: Note: 1. The image above is the Administrator's Main Screen. The User Main Screen does not show the F4 and F6 functions, since these are reserved for the administrator and cannot be accessed by users without administrator privileges.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation OSD Navigation To dismiss the menu, and deactivate the OSD, click the X at the upper right corner of the OSD Window or press Esc. To Logout click F8 or the symbol at the top of the Main Screen, or press [F8].
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual OSD Functions OSD functions are used to configure and control the OSD. For example, you can rapidly switch to any port, scan selected ports only, limit the list you wish to view, designate a port as a Quick View Port, create or edit a port name, or make OSD setting adjustments.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation F2: LIST Many of the switch’s OSD functions only operate on the computers currently selected for listing on the Main Screen. Accessing this function lets you broaden or narrow the scope of ports that get listed. The submenu choices and their meanings are given in the table below: Choice Meaning...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual F3: SET Accessing this function allows the administrator and each user to set up an individual working environment. A separate profile for each operator is stored by the OSD and is activated according to the username provided during login. To change a setting: 1.
Page 39
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Setting Function SCAN/SKIP Selects which computers will be accessed under Skip mode (see F5: MODE SKP, page 34), and Auto Scan mode (see F7: SCAN, page 36). Choices are: – All the ports which have been set Accessible (see SET ACCESSIBLE PORTS, page 31);...
Page 40
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Setting Function SET QUICK This function lets users and the administrator select which ports to VIEW PORTS include as Quick View ports. To select/deselect a port as a Quick View Port, use the navigation keys to move the highlight bar to it, then press the [Spacebar]. When a port has been selected as a Quick View Port, an arrowhead displays in the QV column of the LIST on the Main Screen to indicate so.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation F4: ADM F4 is an administrator only function. Accessing this function allows the administrator to configure and control the overall operation of the OSD. To change a setting double click it; or use the up and down arrow keys to move the highlight bar to it, then press [Enter].
Page 42
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Setting Function This function sets a time threshold for users on ports whose Operation OCCUPY Mode has been set to Occupy (see SET OPERATION MODE, TIMEOUT page 31). If there is no activity from the user occupying the port for the amount of time set here, the user is timed out and keyboard and mouse control on the port is released, after which the first user to send keyboard or mouse input will occupy the port.
Page 43
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Setting Function SET CAT 5 Lets you specify how long the Cat 5e/6 cable between the port and the LENGTH KVM adapter cable is. Press [Spacebar] to cycle through the cable length settings: S: Short – for up to 25 m M: Medium –...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual F5: SKP This function enables you to easily skip backward or forward, switching the console focus from the currently active KVM Port to the previous or next available one. The selection of computers to be available for Skip mode switching is made with the Scan/Skip mode setting under the F3 SET function (see page 29).
Chapter 4. OSD Operation F6: BRC F6 is an administrator only function. When this function is in effect, commands sent from the console are broadcast to all available computers on the installation. This function is particularly useful for operations that need to be performed on multiple computers, such as performing a system wide shutdown, installing or upgrading software, etc.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual F7: SCAN This function automatically switches among the available computers at regular intervals so that you can monitor their activity without having to take the trouble of switching manually. The selection of computers to be included for Auto Scanning is made with the Scan/Skip mode setting under the F3 SET function (see page 29).
Chapter 4. OSD Operation F8: LOUT Clicking the F8 field, or pressing [F8], logs you out of the OSD and blanks the console screen. This is different from simply deactivating the OSD when you are at the Main Screen by pressing [Esc]. With this function you must log in all over again to regain access to the OSD, whereas with [Esc], all you have to do to reenter the OSD is tap the OSD Hotkey.
Page 48
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
Chapter 5 Hotkey Operation Hotkey Port Control Hotkey port control allows you to provide KVM focus to a particular computer directly from the keyboard. The KH2508 / KH2516 provides the following Hotkey port control features: Selecting the Active Port Auto Scan Mode Switching Skip Mode Switching Computer Keyboard / Mouse Reset The following settings can also be controlled in Hotkey mode:...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Invoking Hotkey Mode All Hotkey operations begin by invoking Hotkey mode. To invoke Hotkey mode you may use two possible keystroke sequences shown below. Only one of the two key-sequences below can be operational (see Setting the Hotkey key combination on page 46): Number Lock and Minus Keys 1.
Chapter 5. Hotkey Operation Selecting the Active Port Each computer port is assigned a port ID (see Port ID Numbering, page 21). You can directly access any computer with a Hotkey combination that specifies the port ID that the computer is connected to. The steps are: 1.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Auto Scan Mode Switching Auto Scan automatically switches among all the active computer ports that are accessible to the currently logged on user at regular intervals. This allows their activity to be monitored automatically (See SKAN/SKIP MODE of the OSD F3 SET function, page 29).
Chapter 5. Hotkey Operation (Continued from previous page.) When you want to keep the focus on a particular computer, Pausing is more convenient than exiting Auto Scan mode. When you resume scanning it starts at the computer where you paused. If you exited and then restarted Auto Scanning, it starts, at the beginning, from the first computer on the installation.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Skip Mode Switching This feature allows you to switch between computers in order to monitor them manually. You can focus on a particular port for as long as you like – as opposed to auto-scanning, which automatically switches the port focus after a fixed interval.
Chapter 5. Hotkey Operation Computer Keyboard / Mouse Reset If either the keyboard or mouse stop functioning on the computer connected to the currently selected port, you can perform a keyboard / mouse reset on the computer by executing the following steps: 1.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Setting the Hotkey key combination The keys used to enter the Hotkey Mode (see HOTKEY COMMAND MODE, page 29) can be switched between: , and [Num Lock] + [-] [Ctrl] + [F12] by the following steps: 1.
Chapter 5. Hotkey Operation Setting the Port Operating System A port’s operating system configuration can be matched to that of the computer attached to the port by performing the following steps: 1. Invoke Hotkey mode: [Num Lock] + [-] or [Ctrl] + [F12] 2.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Hotkey Summary Table [Num Lock] + [-] [A] [Enter] Invokes Auto Scan mode. When Auto Scan mode is in effect, [P] or left-click pauses auto-scanning. [Ctrl] + [F12] When auto-scanning is paused, pressing any key or another left-click resumes auto- scanning.
Chapter 6 Keyboard Emulation Mac Keyboard The PC compatible (101/104 key) keyboard can emulate the functions of the Mac keyboard. The emulation mappings are listed in the table below. PC Keyboard Mac Keyboard [Shift] Shift [Ctrl] Ctrl [Ctrl] [1] [Ctrl] [2] [Ctrl] [3] [Ctrl] [4] [Alt]...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Sun Keyboard The PC compatible (101/104 key) keyboard can emulate the functions of the Sun keyboard when the Control key [Ctrl] is used in conjunction with other keys. The corresponding functions are shown in the table below. PC Keyboard Sun Keyboard [Ctrl] [T]...
Chapter 7 The Firmware Upgrade Utility Introduction The purpose of the Windows-based Firmware Upgrade Utility is to provide an automated process for upgrading the KH2508 / KH2516 and compatible adapter cable firmware. The program comes as part of a Firmware Upgrade Package that is specific for each device.
Page 62
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual (Continued from previous page.) 3. Use the firmware upgrade cable (provided with this unit), to connect a COM port on your computer to the firmware upgrade port of your device. Note: On a daisy chained installation, connect the cable to the first station (master) unit.
Chapter 7. The Firmware Upgrade Utility Performing the Upgrade Starting the Upgrade To upgrade your firmware: 1. Run the downloaded Firmware Upgrade Package file, either by double clicking the file icon, or by opening a command line and keying in the full path to it.
Page 64
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual The Utility checks to make sure the KH2508 / KH2516 is in the Firmware Upgrade Mode and then lists all firmware available preselected in the Device List panel. Note: If the Utility fails to list any firmware check that the KH2508 KH2516 is connected and in the Firmware Upgrade Mode.
Chapter 7. The Firmware Upgrade Utility As the upgrade proceeds status messages appear in the Status Messages panel, and the progress toward completion is shown on the Progress bar. To abort the upgrade procedure before it completes, click Cancel. If you cancel before completion, a dialog box warns you that the upgrade will not finish and shows the options to proceed or abort the cancel operation.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Upgrade Failed If the upgrade failed to complete successfully a dialog box appears asking if you want to retry. Click Yes to retry. If you click No, the Upgrade Failed screen appears similar to below: Click Cancel to close the Firmware Upgrade Utility.
Chapter 7. The Firmware Upgrade Utility 3. From your KVM switch console, bring up the OSD (see page 23) and select the F4ADM function. 4. Scroll down to FIRMWARE UPGRADE. Press [Enter]. 5. Press [Y] to invoke Upgrade mode. 6. Proceed with the firmware upgrade as described in Performing the Upgrade, starting on page 53.
Page 68
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
Appendix Safety Instructions General Read all of these instructions. Save them for future reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the device. Do not place the device on any unstable surface (cart, stand, table, etc.). If the device falls, serious damage will result. Do not use the device near water.
Page 70
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual (Continued from previous page.) Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord or cables. Route the power cord and cables so that they cannot be stepped on or tripped over. If an extension cord is used with this device make sure that the total of the ampere ratings of all products used on this cord does not exceed the extension cord ampere rating.
Appendix Rack Mounting Before working on the rack, make sure that the stabilizers are secured to the rack, extended to the floor, and that the full weight of the rack rests on the floor. Install front and side stabilizers on a single rack or front stabilizers for joined multiple racks before working on the rack.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Technical Support International For online technical support – including troubleshooting, documentation, and software updates: http://support.aten.com For telephone support, see Telephone Support, page iii: North America Email Support support@aten-usa.com Online Troubleshooting http://www.aten-usa.com/support Technical Documentation Support Software Updates...
Appendix Specifications Function KH2508 KH2516 Computer Direct Connections Max. 256 (via Daisy Chain) 512 (via Daisy Chain) Port Selection OSD (On Screen Display); Hotkeys Pushbuttons Connectors Console 2 x 6-pin Mini-DIN F (Purple) 2 x USB Type A F Video 2 x HDB-15 F Mouse 2 x 6-pin Mini-DIN F (Green)
Page 74
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Function KH2508 KH2516 Environment Operating Temp. 0–50 Storage Temp. -20–60 Humidity 0–80% RH Physical Housing Metal Properties Weight 2.81 kg 2.85 kg Dimensions 43.72 x 16.36 x 4.40 cm...
Appendix Connection Tables The following table indicates the relationship between the number of KH2508 / KH2516 units and the number of computers that they control KH2508 Computers Computers Computers Computers 1 - 8 65 - 72 129 - 136 193 - 200 9 - 16 73 - 80 137 - 144...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual OSD Factory Default Settings The factory default settings are as follows: Setting Default OSD Hotkey [Scroll Lock] [Scroll Lock] Port ID Display Position Upper Left Corner Port ID Display Duration 3 Seconds Port ID Display Mode The Port Number plus the Port Name Scan Duration 5 Seconds...
Appendix Administrator Login Failure If you are unable to perform an Administrator login (because the Username and Password information has become corrupted or you have forgotten it, for example) you can clear the login information with the following procedure: 1. Power off the KH2508 / KH2516 and remove its housing.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Troubleshooting Overview Operation problems can be due to a variety of causes. The first step in solving them is to make sure that all cables are securely attached and seated completely in their sockets. In addition, updating the product’s firmware may solve problems that have been discovered and resolved since the prior version was released.
Appendix Limited Warranty ALTUSEN warrants this product against defects in material or workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase. If this product proves to be defective, contact ALTUSEN's support department for repair or replacement of your unit. ALTUSEN will not issue a refund. Return requests can not be processed without the original proof of purchase.
Page 80
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual This Page Intentionally Left Blank...
Page 81
Index Adapter Cable Installation, 16 Hardware Setup, 11 Adapter Cables, 11 Hot Plugging, 20 Administrator Login Failure, 67 Hotkey, 23 Auto Scanning, 28, 42 Selecting the Active Port, 41 Invoking Auto Scan, 42 Summary Table, 48 Pausing Auto Scan, 42 Hotkey Mode Setting the Scan Interval, 42 Exiting, 40...
Page 82
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual KVM adapter cables, 5 Operating Systems, 5 Online OS Support, 5 Registration, iii Reset Switch, 7 RoHS, ii Factory Default Settings, 66 Functions, 26 Hotkey, 23 Safety Instructions Main Screen Headings, 25 General, 59 Navigation, 25 Rack Mounting, 61 Overview, 23 Scan Duration, 28...
Need help?
Do you have a question about the ALTUSEN KH2508a and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers