GCS632U - Network switch IOGEAR - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	2-Port USB KVM Switch with Audio
Brand	IOGEAR
Model	GCS632U
Computer Connections	2
Console Ports	1 x USB keyboard, 1 x USB mouse, 1 x VGA (HDB-15 female), 1 x Stereo earphone jack
KVM Cable Connectors	2 x USB Type A plug, 2 x VGA (HDB-15 male), 2 x Stereo earphone plug (6 ft / 1.8 m cables)
Maximum Video Resolution	2048 x 1536 @ 32-bit color
Video Enhancement	VSE (Video Signal Enhancement) technology
Port Selection	Hotkeys (Scroll Lock + Scroll Lock, or Ctrl + Ctrl, or via Hotkey Mode)
AutoScan Mode	Yes, with 5-second interval (default)
USB Emulation	USB sniffing technology for error-free boot-up
Platform Support	Windows, Mac, Sun Solaris (multi-platform keyboard support)
Audio Support	Share multimedia speakers between computers (2-piece powered speakers only)
Power Source	Self-powered via USB bus; no external power adapter required
Operating Temperature	0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F)
Storage Temperature	-20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
Humidity	0% to 80% RH, non-condensing
Dimensions (L x W x H)	8.1 x 6.9 x 2.6 cm (3.2 x 2.7 x 1.0 in)
Weight	0.38 kg (0.84 lb)
Package Contents	KVM switch with built-in cables, user manual, quick start guide, warranty registration card
Warranty	3-Year Limited Warranty
Certifications	FCC Class B, CE
Additional Features	Plug-n-Play monitor support, no software required, LED status indicators

Frequently Asked Questions - GCS632U IOGEAR

How do I switch between the two computers?

Quickly tap the Scroll Lock key twice: [Scroll Lock], [Scroll Lock]. Alternatively, you can change the hotkey to [Ctrl], [Ctrl] using the Alternate Port Switching Keys function in Hotkey Mode.

What is Hotkey Mode and how do I enter it?

Hotkey Mode allows advanced configuration. To enter, press and hold Num Lock, then press and hold Minus (-) for one second, then release both. On a Mac keyboard, use Clear and Minus instead.

Can I use a Mac keyboard with this KVM switch?

Yes, the GCS632U supports Mac keyboards natively. Set the keyboard platform to Mac via Hotkey Mode (press F2). You can also use a PC keyboard to emulate Mac keys.

How do I set up the audio sharing feature?

Connect your 2-piece powered speakers to the speaker jack on the KVM console. Then plug the audio connectors from the KVM cables into each computer's sound card. The active computer's audio will be heard.

Does this KVM require external power?

No, it is self-powered via the USB connection. No external power adapter is needed.

What is the maximum video resolution supported?

The switch supports resolutions up to 2048 x 1536 at 32-bit color with IOGEAR's VSE technology.

How do I reset the KVM to factory defaults?

Enter Hotkey Mode, then press R and Enter. This restores default hotkey settings, keyboard platform (Auto), and language (English).

Can I use a Sun keyboard with this switch?

Yes, set the keyboard platform to Sun by pressing F3 in Hotkey Mode. You can also emulate Sun keys using a PC keyboard with Ctrl combinations.

What is Auto Scan Mode and how does it work?

Auto Scan automatically cycles through connected computers at a 5-second interval. Activate it by entering Hotkey Mode and pressing A. Press Esc or Spacebar to stop scanning.

Are there any software drivers needed?

No, the GCS632U is driverless and supports Plug-n-Play. It emulates USB keyboard and mouse for seamless operation.

USER MANUAL GCS632U IOGEAR

2-Port USB KVM Switch with Audio

GCS632U

PART NO. M0104

Welcome

Thank you for purchasing one of the most feature-rich keyboard, video, and mouse switches on the market. IOGEAR®'s MiniView™ Micro USB PLUS switches are first-rate connectivity accessories designed to help reduce the frustration of managing multiple computer systems. With the MiniView™ Micro USB PLUS by IOGEAR®, you can access two USB computers from a single USB console (USB keyboard, USB mouse and monitor). MiniView™ Micro USB PLUS allows you to change ports easily by entering Hot Key combinations from the keyboard. Setup is fast and easy; plugging cables into their appropriate ports is all that is entailed.

We hope you enjoy using your MiniView™ Micro USB PLUS, yet another fibstrate connectivity solution from IOGEAR®.

Table of Contents

Package Contents 4

Overview 5

Features 6

Requirements 7

Introduction 8

Installation 9

Operation 11

Appendix 27

Specification 28

Technical Support 30

Radio & TV Interference Statement 31

Limited Warranty 32

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Statement 33

CE Compliance 34

Contact 35

Package Contents

This package contains:

• 1 MiniView™ Micro USB PLUS 2 Port KVM Switch (cables built-in)
• 1 User Manual
• 1 Quick Start Guide
• 1 Warranty Registration Card

If any items are damaged or missing, please contact your dealer.

Overview

Introducing the two port MiniView™ Micro USB PLUS KVM switch from IOGEAR® – A simple solution for those with more PCs than hands. Use one USB keyboard, one monitor and one USB mouse to control two USB computers. This self-powered KVM switch features the unique USB sniffing technology for USB mouse & keyboard emulation to ensure smooth operation, as well as support for Plug-n-Play monitors and most wheel mice. Our patented VSE Video Signal Enhancement® technology provides rich, 32-bit color at resolutions up to 2048 x 1536.

Another big plus of this switch is the capability to provide audio support, it allows you to share your multimedia speakers among the two connected computers.

This switch also offers multi-platform support, it is compatible with Macs and Sun Solaris workstations. IOGEAR® made a huge breakthrough in supporting Mac and Sun, by allowing Mac and Sun special keys to be functional, either with the Mac or Sun keyboard as the console keyboard, or with a standard PC keyboard. When use a PC keyboard, a special set of hot keys are designated to emulate the Mac and Sun special keys.

With KVM cables (6' long) molded into the unit, all you need to do is to plug it into your computers, and you've got a complete KVM solution from IOGEAR®.

Features

• Use one USB keyboard, monitor and USB mouse to control two USB computers.
- 6' long molded-in cables to simplify setup.
- Share your multimedia speakers among the two connected computers.
• Full support for Mac and Sun systems.
• Supports special keys on Mac and Sun keyboards.
• Port selection through convenient Hot Keys.
• USB sniffing technology allows complete USB mouse and keyboard emulation for error-free boot-up.
• Plug-n-Play monitor support.
• Support video resolutions up to 2048 x 1536
• No software required.
• Built in AutoScan mode.
• LEDs allow for easy status monitoring.
• 3 Year Limited Warranty.

Requirements

Console

• A VGA, SVGA, or Multisync monitor capable of the highest resolution that you will be using on any computer in the installation
  • A USB Keyboard
• A USB Mouse

Computers

The following equipment must be installed on each computer that is to be connected to the system:

• A VGA, SVGA or Multisync card
• A USB type A port Requirements
• A multimedia sound card for audio sharing

Audio

• Only 2-piece, powered speakers system supported

Introduction

1. Port LEDs (Refer to Appendix for LED indications)
2. KVM Cables
3. Console Ports
4. Speaker Jack

Installation

Step. 1

Before you begin, make sure that the power to all the devices you will be connecting up have been turned off.

NOTE: To prevent damage to your installation due to ground potential difference, make sure that all devices on the installation are properly grounded.

1. Plug your keyboard, monitor, mouse, into their respective ports on the GCS632U. The keyboard and mouse ports are labeled with an icon, located at the bottom of the switch, to indicate which is which.

2. Plug your speakers into the speakerjack on the GCS632U.

NOTE: 2-piece powered speakers only

Step. 2

1. Plug the USB, video, and speaker connectors of the attached KVM cables into their respective ports on the computers you are installing.

NOTE: The computer attached to the cable with one dot at its base is the Port 1 computer; the computer attached to the cable with two dots at its base is the Port 2 computer (see hotkey port selection).

1. Repeat the above step for your second computer.
2. Turn on the power to the computers and refer to Operations Instructions.

NOTE: The GCS632U's Power On default is to link to the first computer you turn on.

Diagram showing connections between a computer tower, two USB cables, and a connected interface panel (no text or symbols visible)

Operation

Hotkey Operation

The hotkey operations of the KVM assume the use of a PC-Compatible keyboard with the Scroll Lock key. If you are using a Mac Keyboard (or a keyboard that does not have Scroll Lock

key), refer to the section in the manual "Alternate Port Switching Keys" for information on re-configuring the KVM's hotkeys, and page 15 for Mac keyboard operation.

Port Switching

To toggle between the two computers, quickly tap the Scroll Lock key twice:

[Scroll Lock], [Scroll Lock]

NOTE 1: Please make sure the keyboard is plugged into the keyboard port on the KVM; otherwise the hotkeys will not work. Keyboard and mouse ports are labeled on the bottom side of the KVM with a small picture of a keyboard and mouse.

NOTE 2: You can change this hotkey to [ctrl] [ctrl].

Hotkey Setting Mode (HSM)

For all Hotkey operations, you must use the number keypad on the right side of your keyboard

To Invoke Hotkey Mode (PC-Compatible Keyboard):

1. Press and hold down Num Lock key

2. While holding down Num Lock key, also press down Minus key (-) for one second

3. Release minus key and within one second, release Num Lock key

The KVM will now enter Hotkey mode, and the Caps Lock and Scroll Lock LEDs flash in succession to indicate this. On PC-Compatible keyboards this LED is usually located on top right-hand corner.

If the KVM did not enter Hotkey mode, repeat the above procedure keeping in mind that this procedure must be done quickly and in the time-frame indicated.

To Invoke Hotkey Mode (Mac Keyboard):

1. Press and hold Clear key for two seconds
2. Press and hold Minus key [-] key for one second
3. Release Minus key [−] and within one second also release Clear key

The KVM will now enter Hotkey mode; indicated by blinking of the Caps Locks LED. On some Mac keyboards, this LED is on the Caps Lock key itself.

If the KVM did not enter Hotkey mode, repeat the above procedure keeping in mind that this procedure must be done quickly and in the time-frame indicated.

NOTE:

If using the Num Lock and Minus key to invoke Hotkey function is not optimal, refer to the next page for instructions on changing the hotkey invocation keys.

When Hotkey Mode is active, ordinary keyboard and mouse functions are suspended – only Hotkey compliant keystrokes can be input. At the conclusion of some hotkey operations, you automatically exit Hotkey mode. With some operations, you must exit manually by pressing the Esc or Spacebar on your keyboard.

Switching Ports

You may also switch ports on the KVM by doing the following:

1. Invoke Hotkey Mode
2. Press and release the computer's port number (1 or 2)
3. Press [Enter]

The KVM focus switches to the specified port and automatically exits Hotkey mode

Auto Scan Mode

You may also switch ports on the KVM by doing the following:

1. Invoke Hotkey Mode
2. Press and release the [A] key

Once scanning begins, it continues until you press the [Esc] or [Spacebar] to exit.

NOTE: While Auto Scan mode is in effect, ordinary keyboard and mouse functions are suspended.

Alternate Hotkey Invocation Keys

In case the default Hotkey Mode invocation keys (Num Lock and Minus) are not optimal in your setup, you may change them to Ctrl and F12, respectively.

To switch the Hotkey Invocation Keys, do the following:

1. Invoke Hotkey Mode
2. Press and release H
3. This will change the Hotkey Invocation key to Ctrl and F12 (instead of Num Lock and Minus).

NOTE: This procedure is a toggle between the two methods. To revert back to the original HSM invocation keys, repeat the above procedure.

Alternate Port Switching Keys

The port switching keys can be changed from tapping Scroll Lock key twice, to tapping Ctrl key twice.

If you have a MAC keyboard (or a keyboard that does not have Scroll Lock key), change the port switching keys by doing the following:

1. Invoke Hotkey Mode
2. Press and release T

The port switching key will now be the Ctrl key. To switch between computers, simply tap the Ctrl key twice: [Ctrl], [Ctrl]

NOTE: This procedure is a toggle between the two methods. To revert back to the original port switching keys, repeat the above procedure.

Restore Defaults

To restore the GCS632U to its factory default settings, do the following:

1. Invoke Hotkey Mode
2. Press and release [R] key.
3. Press [Enter]

The GCS632U's factory default settings are as follows:

Hotkey Invocation [Num Lock] [-]

Port Switching [Scroll Lock] [Scroll Lock]

Keyboard Platform [Auto]

Keyboard Language [English]

Multi Platform (Mac, Sun, Win) and Multi Language Setup

The default port settings are for a Windows Compatible operating platform, and US English keyboard language code (Refer to the previous section).

Some multi platform operations require you to change the Keyboard platform in order to fully support all the functions under that particular platform. Once the appropriate Keyboard Platform is set, such as Mac or Sun, you will be able to use all the special keys on these special platform keyboards (Mac and Sun).

Following is a matrix table showing the required Keyboard Platform under various multi platform operations:

Operation Keyboard	Platform
Using a PC keyboard to control a Window based PC	Auto
Using a Mac keyboard to control a Mac	Auto
Using a Sun keyboard to control a Solaris based Sun	Auto
Using a PC keyboard to control a Mac	Mac
Using a PC keyboard to control a Solaris based Sun	Sun

Keyboard Operating Platform

The GCS632U default configuration is for a PC-Compatible keyboard operating platform.

To change the keyboard operating platform, do the following:

Function Key Operation

[F2] Sets the MAC keyboard operating platform

[F3] Sets the Sun keyboard operating platform

[F10] Auto detects the keyboard operating platform (PC - Compatible systems only)

1. Bring the KVM focus to the desired port
2. Invoke Hotkey Mode
3. Press and release the appropriate function key (see table):

Keyboard Language

Language Code

US English 33

French 08

Japanese 15

After completing a setting, you automatically exit Hotkey Mode.

Using a PC keyboard to emulate a Sun Keyboard

After you set up the appropriate Keyboard Platform, you will be able to use a PC (101/104) key keyboard to 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 to the right.

NOTE: When using [Ctrl] combinations, press and release the [Ctrl] key, then press and release the activation key.

Windows Keyboard Sun Keyboard

[Ctrl] [T] Stop

[Ctrl] [F2] Again

[Ctrl] [F3] Props

[Ctrl] [F4] Undo

[Ctrl] [F5] Front

[Ctrl] [F6] Copy

[Ctrl] [F7] Open

[Ctrl] [F8] Paste

Windows Keyboard Sun Keyboard

[Ctrl] [F9] Find

[Ctrl] [F10] Cut

[Ctrl] [1]

[Ctrl] [2]

[Ctrl] [3]

[Ctrl] [4]

[Ctrl] [H] Help

Using a PC keyboard to emulate a Mac Keyboard

After you set up the appropriate Keyboard Platform, you will be able to use a PC (101/104) key keyboard to emulate the functions of the Mac keyboard. The corresponding functions are shown in the table to the right.

NOTE: When using key combinations, press and release the first key [Ctrl] or [Alt]), then press and release the activation key.

Windows Keyboard Mac Keyboard

[Shift] Shift

[Control] Ctrl

[Win]

#

[Ctrl] [1]

[Ctrl] [2]

[Ctrl] [3]

[Ctrl] [4]

▲

PC Keyboard Mac Keyboard

[Alt] L Alt/Option

[Prt_Sc] F13

[Scroll Lock] F14

[Desktop Menu] =

[Enter] Return

[Ins] Help

[Ctrl] [Win] F 15

List Hotkey Settings

To see a list of the current hotkey settings, do the following:

1. Open a text editor (such as Notepad, Textedit, or Word)
2. Invoke Hotkey Mode
3. Press F4 to 'paste' the KVM configuration on your text editor

USB Reset

If the USB loses focus and needs to be reset, do the following:

1. Invoke Hotkey Mode
2. Press and release F5 function key

Appendix

LED Display Table

Activity Indication

Off Port is not selected

On (Steady) Port is connected to an active computer

Flashing (On and Off Equal) Port is connected to an active computer and is being accessed in Auto Scan Mode

Specification

Function Specification
Computer Connection 2
Port Selection Hot Keys
LEDs Selected 2
Console Connectors	Keyboard 1 x Type A USB port
	Mouse 1 x Type A USB port
	Video 1 x HDB-15 female
	Audio 1 x Stereo earphone jack
KVM Cable Connectors	Keyboard & Mouse 1 x Type A USB plug
	Video 1 x HDB-15 male
	Audio 1 x Stereo earphone plug
Scan Interval 5 Seconds (Default)
Operating Temperature 0 - 50°C
Storage Temperature -20 - 60°C
Humidity 0 - 80% RH Noncondensing
Housing Plastic
Weight 0.38 kg
Dimensions (L x W x H) 8.1 x 6.9 x 2.6 cm

Technical Support

If you need technical support, please check out our IOGEAR Tech Info Library (T.I.L.) at www.iogear.com/support for the latest tips, tricks, and troubleshooting. The IOGEAR T.I.L. was designed to provide you with the latest technical information about our products. Most of the answers to your questions can be found here, so please try it out before contacting technical support.

WARNING!!! This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause interference to radio communications. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user at his own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be required to correct the interference.

Limited Warranty

WE'RE HERE TO HELP YOU!

NEED ASSISTANCE SETTING UP THIS PRODUCT?

Make sure you:

1. Visit www.iogear.com for more product information
2. Visit www.iogear.com/support for live help and product support

Warranty Information

This product carries a 3 Year Limited Warranty. For the terms and conditions of this warranty, please go to http://www.iogear.com/support/warranty

Register online at http://www.iogear.com/register

Important Product Information

Product Model ____

Serial Number ____

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential setting. This product generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used as directed, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Although this product complies with the limits for a Class B digital device, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

CE Compliance

This device has been tested and found to comply with the following European Union directives: Electromagnetic Capability (89/336/EMC), Low Voltage (73/23/EEC) and R&TTED (1999/5/EC).

Contact

IOGEAR

Toll Free 866-9-IOGEAR (USA)

Phone: [phone]

19641 Da Vinci, Foothill Ranch, CA92610

www.iogear.com

[e-mail]

© 2012 IOGEAR®. All Rights reserved. Part No. M0104.

IOGEAR and the IOGEAR logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of IOGEAR, Inc. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines, Inc. IOGEAR makes no warranty of any kind with regards to the information presented in this document. All information furnished here is for informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. IOGEAR assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies or errors that may appear in this document.

About Us

FUN

IOGEAR offers connectivity solutions that are innovative, fun, and stylish, helping people enjoy daily life using our high technology products.

GREEN

IOGEAR is an environmentally conscious company that emphasizes the importance of conserving natural resources. The use of our technology solutions helps reduce electronic waste.