KH2508 / KH2516 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.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual User Information Online Registration Be sure to register your product at our online support center: International http://support.aten.com North America ATEN TECH http://www.aten-usa.com/product_registration ATEN NJ http://support.aten.com Telephone Support For telephone support, call this number: International 886-2-8692-6959...
Manual Part No. PAPE-0292-AX1G F/W Version: 1.1.101 Manual Date: 2008-10-02 Altusen and the Altusen logo are registered trademarks of ATEN International Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. All other brand names and trademarks are the registered property of their respective owners.
KH2508 / KH2516 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 ATEN TECH http://www.aten-usa.com ATEN NJ http://www.aten.com...
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Chapter 1 Introduction Overview The KH2508 / KH2516 Cat 5 High Density KVM Switches give IT administrators advanced control of multiple computers. Operators working at up to two keyboard, monitor, and mouse (KVM) consoles can independently and simultaneously take direct control of up to 8 or 16 computers in a single- level installation, or up to 512 or 4096 KVM ports in a full three-level cascaded switch installation.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual There is no better way to save time and money than with a KH2508 / KH2516 installation. By allowing two consoles to manage up to 4096 computers, a KH2508 / KH2516 installation: (1) eliminates the expense of having to purchase a separate keyboard, monitor, and mouse for each;...
Chapter 1. Introduction Features Two KVM consoles independently and simultaneously control up to 8 or 16 directly connected computers Cascade up to 3 levels of KH2508 or KH2516 switches to support up to 512 or 4096 computers Superior video resolution – 1280 x 1024 @ 75 Hz up to 40 m; 1600 x 1200 @ 60 Hz up to 30 m Multiplatform support: PC, Mac, Sun, and serial Backup and restore configuration settings to an external flash drive to...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Requirements Consoles The following hardware components are required for each KVM console: A VGA, SVGA, or multisync monitor capable of displaying the highest resolution provided by any computer in the installation Keyboard and mouse (PS/2 or USB) Computers The following hardware components are required for each computer: A VGA, SVGA, or multisync video graphics card with an HDB-15 port;...
Chapter 1. Introduction Other Cables The following cables are also required for use with the KH2508 / KH2516. Function Type KVM adapter cable to KH2508 / KH2516 (see page 19) Cat 5e cable Cascading (see page 20) Cat 5e cable Operating Systems Supported operating systems are shown in the table, below Version...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Components Front View Note: The KH2516 is pictured above. The KH2508 front panel is the same as that of the KH2516, except that it has 8 KVM port LEDs instead of 16.
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Chapter 1. Introduction Component Description Power LED Lights (blue) to indicate that the unit is receiving power. Port LEDs A green LED indicates that a computer is connected to the corresponding port. A flashing green LED indicates a connection to a cascaded child KVM switch.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Rear View Note: The KH2516 is pictured above. The KH2508 rear panel is the same as that of the KH2516, except that it has 8 KVM ports instead of 16. 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.
Chapter 1. Introduction Local Console Connection Component Description USB Mouse Port Use the USB mouse port to connect a USB mouse to the console. USB Keyboard Port Use the USB keyboard port to connect a USB keyboard to the console. PS/2 Mouse Port Use the PS/2 mouse port to connect a PS/2 mouse to the console.
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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: KA9130 KA9140 KA9131 KH2508 / KH2516...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Stacking and Rack Mounting The KH2508 / KH2516 can be stacked on a desktop or rack mounted in 1U of rack space. The procedures for each method are described in the following sections. Note: 1. Allow at least 5.1 cm on each side for adequate ventilation and 12.7 cm at the rear for power cord and cable clearance.
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Rack Mounting – Front 1. Remove 2 screws each from the left and right sides near the front of the switch (4 screws total). 2. Use the M3 x 8 Phillips hex head screws supplied with the rack mounting kit to screw the rack mounting brackets into the sides at the front of the unit.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual (Continued from previous page.) 3. Place the KVM switch in the rack. Position it so that the holes in the mounting brackets line up with those in the rack. Secure the mounting brackets to the front of the rack.
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Rack Mounting – Rear 1. Remove 1 screws each from the left and right sides near the rear of the switch (2 screws total). 2. Use the M3 x 8 Phillips head hex screws supplied with the rack mounting kit to screw the rack mounting brackets into the sides at the rear of the unit.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual (Continued from previous page.) 3. Place the KVM switch in the rack. Position it so that the holes in the mounting brackets line up with those in the rack. Secure the mounting brackets to the rear of the rack. Grounding To prevent damage to your installation it is important that all devices are properly grounded.
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Single Level Installation In a single level installation, there are no additional KVM switches cascaded from the first-level KVM switch. To set up a single level installation, refer to the diagram on page 18 and do the following: 1.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Single Level Installation Diagram Note: 1. Although the KH2516 is pictured in the diagram, the installation process is the same for the KH2508. 2. The numbers in the diagrams correspond to the numbered steps of Single Level Installation on the previous page.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Cascaded Installations The number of computers that can be added to your installation can be greatly expanded by performing a cascaded installation. Cascading involves using the KVM ports of a Parent KVM switch (one that is above a switch linked down from it) to connect to a Child KVM switch.
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Cascading KH2508 / KH2516 Cat 5 KVM Switches To cascade KH2508 / KH2516 Cat 5 KVM Switches, refer to the installation diagram on page 22 and do the following: Note: Before cascading additional KH2508 / KH2516, ensure that the firmware version of the KH2508 / KH2516 to be installed matches that of the first-level KH2508 / KH2516.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Non-blocked Cascade Configuration Installation Diagram 2 BUS CONNECTIONS Note: Although the KH2516 is pictured in the diagram, the installation process is the same for the KH2508.
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Chapter 2. Hardware Setup Blocked Cascade Configuration Installation Diagram SINGLE BUS CONNECTION Note: Although the KH2516 is pictured in the diagram, the installation process is the same for the KH2508.
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Chapter 3 Basic Operation Hot Plugging The KH2508 / KH2516 supports hot plugging – components can be removed and added back into the installation by unplugging their cables from the ports without the need to shut down the switch. In order for hot plugging to work properly, the procedures described below must be followed: Changing Cascaded Switch Positions You can change the position of a cascaded KH2508 / KH2516 by simply...
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Chapter 4 OSD Operation OSD Overview The KH2508 / KH2516 OSD provides a graphical interface that offers quick and convenient computer access and control, as well as efficient system administration including user management (access rights, passwords, etc.). Once the KH2508 / KH2516 has been cabled up, the next step that an Administrator needs to perform is setting the unit up for user operation.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual After successfully logging in, the OSD appears: The OSD consists of four pages (Main, Configuration, Administration, and Log), each with a specific set of functions. Each page is discussed in the sections that follow. The functions of the four buttons at the right of the title bar are described in the table below.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation The Main Page The Main page lists the KH2508 / KH2516 ports and governs port access. Selecting a port and double clicking it switches you to the device on that port. Note: Only those ports available to the currently logged in user are shown in the port list.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Quick View Ports Selecting certain ports as Quick View ports is a way of limiting which ports are included when the KH2508 / KH2516 is in auto scan mode. If the KH2508 / KH2516 is configured to only auto scan ports that have Quick View status (see Scan Target, page 41), designating a port as a Quick View port in this dialog box means that it will be included when auto scanning is in effect.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation The List Function The List Function lets you broaden or narrow the scope of which ports the OSD displays in the Main Screen. To invoke the List Function, click the arrow at the upper right corner of the screen, or press [F3]. The screen changes to allow you to choose the ports that will be listed.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual The drop down list on the left offers four fixed choices as shown in the table below. Choice Meaning Lists all of the ports on the installation. Powered On (PW) Lists only the ports that have their attached devices powered on (see port icon note on page 29).
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Port Names To help remember which computer is attached to a particular port, every port can be given a name. This field allows administrators to create, modify, or delete port names. To configure a port name: 1.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual (Continued from previous page.) After a second, the bar changes to provide you with a text input box. 2. Key in the new port name, or modify/delete the old one. Port names are case sensitive.
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Chapter 4. OSD Operation 3. When you have finished editing the port name, click anywhere outside of the input box to complete the operation. Note: Port names are stored in the KVM adapter cables. When a cable is disconnected from one port and reconnected to another port, the port name will show in both the old port and the new port in the port list until another KVM adapter cable is connected to the old port, or the port name is changed manually.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Port Operation Select a port on the OSD Main screen either by moving the highlight bar to it with the up and down arrow keys and pressing [Enter], or by double-clicking it. Once you select a port, its screen displays on your monitor, and your keyboard and mouse input affects the remote system.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation The Toolbar Icons The toolbar icons are described in the table below. Icon Purpose Drag this icon to move the toolbar to a different location. Click to skip to the first accessible port on the entire installation without having to invoke the OSD.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Recalling the OSD To dismiss the toolbar and bring back the OSD display, do one of the following: Tap the OSD Hotkey once. From the toolbar, click the icon that opens the OSD (see page 37). The OSD toolbar closes, and the main OSD display reappears.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Auto Scanning The Auto Scan function automatically switches among all the ports that are accessible to the currently logged on user at regular intervals, so that he can monitor their activity automatically. (See Scan Target, page 41, for information regarding accessible ports).
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Skip Mode Skip Mode allows you to switch ports in order to monitor the computers manually. You can dwell on a particular port for as long or as little as you like – as opposed to Auto Scanning, which automatically switches after a fixed interval.
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Chapter 4. OSD Operation The configuration page settings are explained in the following table: Setting Function OSD Hotkey Selects which Hotkey controls the OSD function: [Scroll Lock] [Scroll Lock], or [Ctrl] [Ctrl]. Since the Ctrl key combination may conflict with programs running on the computers, the default is the Scroll Lock combination.
This field lets you give the switch a unique name. This can be convenient when you need to differentiate among several devices in multistation installations. F/W Version This item displays the current firmware version number. You can reference it to see if there are newer versions available on the Aten website (www.aten.com).
Chapter 4. OSD Operation User Management The User Management dialogs are used to create and manage user profiles. Up to 96 user profiles can be configured. To delete a user profile, select it in the list box, and click Delete. To modify a user profile, select it and click Edit.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Fill in the required information for a new user profile, or modify the information to edit an existing profile. A description of the field headings is given in the table below. Heading Description Username A minimum of 6 and a maximum of 15 characters is allowed. Password A minimum of 8 and a maximum of 15 characters is allowed.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Port Access Clicking Port Access in the User Management dialog brings up a screen similar to the one below. All ports on the installation, including those of cascaded switches, are shown in the dialog box. (If necessary, collapsed switch icons can be expanded to view their ports.) The port access function allows an administrator to define the selected user's access to the computers on a port-by-port basis.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual System The System dialog box has several configurable options, as described below: Configuration Saving a configuration file is a convenient way of backing up changes made to the Administration dialog boxes, including user profiles, etc. Note: The configuration file is saved on the root of a USB flash drive connected to the Console’s front panel USB port.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Adapter Cable Upgrade Every adapter cable on the installation, including those of cascaded switches, are upgraded automatically when the first-level KH2508 / KH2516 firmware is upgraded. However, there may be times when individual or groups of adapter cables need to be upgraded separately, for example, when recovering from a failed adapter cable upgrade.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual 1. To make selecting individual ports easier, first deselect all the ports by clicking the checkbox next to Select All. (The Select All checkbox can toggle the selection of all the ports by alternately selecting, or deselecting all ports.) Note: The adapter cable’s firmware version is displayed next to its model number;...
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Chapter 4. OSD Operation 3. To perform the firmware upgrade on the selected ports, click Upgrade. The status of the upgrade on a port displays in the port information field. Note: Once an adapter cable upgrade is started, it cannot be cancelled and will not stop until an upgrade has been attempted on all selected ports.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual (Continued from previous page.) 5. The port information field then displays the upgraded firmware version of the adapter cable: 6. Click Cancel to exit the Upgrade Adaper Cable Firmware dialog box and return to the System dialog box.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Upgrade Failed If a firmware upgrade to an adapter cable fails, the port information field displays an Upgrade failed! message. To recover from a failed adapter cable firmware upgrade: 1. Disconnect the adapter cable from its computer. 2.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Attributes Attributes allow you to set the adapter cable attribute parameters for each port. When you click Attributes..., a dialog box similar to the one below appears: The port numbers for all ports on the installation, including those from cascaded switches, are listed in the column on the left.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation The Timeout field sets a time threshold for users on ports whose Operation Mode has been set to Occupy (see Occupy, page 54). 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.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Operation Mode Attributes The Setting Adapter Cable Attributes dialog box has the following options for setting a port’s operation mode: Attribute Action Occupy The first user to occupy the port has control over it. A second user can view its video output, however.
Chapter 4. OSD Operation Date/Time The Date/Time dialog box lets the Administrator set up the KH2508 / KH2516's time parameters: If your country or region uses Daylight Saving Time (Summer Time), check the corresponding box. To establish the time zone that the KH2508 / KH2516 is located in, drop down the Time Zone list and choose the city that most closely corresponds to where it is.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual The Log Page Clicking the Log tab brings up the contents of the log file. A screen similar to the one below appears: The log file tracks a maximum of 512 events. When the limit is reached, the oldest events get discarded as new events come in.
Chapter 5 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.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Preparing to Upgrade the Firmware To prepare to upgrade the firmware: 1. Notify all users to logout of the OSD on all switches in the installation. 2. Ensure that all computers are powered on; otherwise, some KVM adapter cables may not be upgraded.
Chapter 5. The Firmware Upgrade Utility Performing the Upgrade Follow the instructions below to upgrade the firmware for all possible devices, including switches and adapter cables, in the KVM installation. 1. Log in to the OSD (see page 27) from a console connected to the first level KH2508 / KH2516.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual 5. Read and Agree to the License Agreement (enable the I Agree radio button). 6. Click Next to continue. The Firmware Upgrade Utility main screen appears and the utility searches for devices. The devices capable of being upgraded by the package are listed in the Device List panel.
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Chapter 5. The Firmware Upgrade Utility If you enabled Check Firmware Upgrade, the Utility compares the device's firmware level with that of the upgrade files. If it finds that the device's version is the same, or higher, it brings up a dialog box informing you of the situation and gives you the option to Continue or Cancel.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual As each device update completes, its status is reported in the Status Messages panel. When a device group upgrade is successful, the background behind the device group name changes to pink; if a member of a device group fails to upgrade successfully, the background behind the device group name changes to red to indicate that there was an upgrade failure in the group.
Chapter 5. The Firmware Upgrade Utility Upgrade Successful When all devices have been upgraded, or you decide not to try and upgrade any devices again, click Finish to close the Firmware Upgrade Utility. The KH2508 / KH2516 then broadcasts the firmware upgrade to all cascaded switches and KVM adapter cables in the installation.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Stopping the Firmware Upgrade Stopping the Firmware Upgrade Utility before it finishes upgrading all the devices is not recommended. However, if you need to stop the Firmware Upgrade Utility while it is upgrading a device, simple click the close button in the top-right corner of the Firmware Upgrade Utility window.
Chapter 5. The Firmware Upgrade Utility Upgrade Failed If a device fails to complete the upgrade successfully, start the firmware upgrade procedure again. If the KH2508 / KH2516 becomes inoperable after a failed firmware upgrade, follow the Firmware Upgrade Recovery procedure below.
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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]...
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.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual 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. Make sure that the total of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
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.
Appendix Specifications Function KH2508 KH2516 Computer Direct Connections 512 (via Cascade) 4096 (via Cascade) Port Selection Connectors Console Keyboard 2 x 6-pin Mini-DIN Female (Purple); Ports 2 x USB Type A Female Video 2 x HDB-15 Female (Blue) Mouse 2 x 6-pin Mini-DIN Female (Green); 2 x USB Type A Female 2 x USB Type A Female KVM Ports...
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 Mode Port Number + Name Port ID Display Duration 5 Seconds Scan Target Scan Duration 10 Seconds Screen Blanker...
Appendix 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.
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KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual (Continued from previous page.) Problem Solution Some characters I enter The keyboard layout setting for the port does not match from the keyboard do not the keyboard you are using. Change the keyboard layout display correctly. setting for the port to match the layout of the keyboard you are using.
Appendix Sun Systems Problem Solution Video display problems The display resolution should be set to 1024 x 768 @ with HDB-15 interface 60Hz. systems (e.g. Sun Blade Under Text Mode: 1000 servers). 1. Enter the ok prompt (see page 79) and issue the fol- lowing firmware commands: setenv output-device screen:r1024x768x60 reset-all...
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual Restoring Original Factory Default Settings You can restore the original factory default settings for the KH2508 / KH2516 Cat 5 KVM Switch. The original password for the default administrator account is restored; all administrator and user accounts are removed from the system.
Appendix Entering the ok Prompt (Sun Solaris) If you are using a PC keyboard to control a Sun Solaris server and want to use Stop-A keys to enter the ok prompt, do the following: Note: Before entering the ok prompt, consult the server’s documentation for any precautionary steps that you should take.
KH2508 / KH2516 User Manual 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.
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Index Adapter cable installation, 19 Grounding, 16 Administration Configuration Page, 40 List Function, 31 hot plugging, 25 Log Page, 56 Hotkey Operation, 38 Main Page, 29 Quick View Ports, 30 Administration Page, 42 Installation Auto Scanning, 39 Multilevel, 20 Exiting, 39 installation Invoking, 39 overview, 11...
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Online Technical Support, 72 Registration, iii Telephone support, iii Toolbar Icons, 37 Factory Default Settings, 74 overview, 27 Upgrading the Firmware, 56 User Management, 43 Port Names, 33 User Notice, iii ports selection, 25 powering off, 25 Windows Client Auto Scanning, 39 Hotkey Operation, 38 Quick View Ports, 30 Toolbar Icons, 37...
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