Hardware Reference Guide

SmartClass+ Screen Sharing (KVM)

VGA-USB

2012-01-03

HardwareReferenceGuide_SC+ Screen Sharing VGA-USB_ENG_2012-01-03

Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ VGA-USB Screen Sharing Page ii

Guide – Revision History

REVISION DATE CHANGES
2011-12-15 Initial Release
2012-01-03 Expanded installation/test information
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ VGA-USB Screen Sharing Page iii

INDEX
System Architecture
Introduction......................................................................................................... 1
Block Diagram – Screen Sharing Module ......................................................... 2
Block Diagram – Screen Sharing and Audio Intercom Modules .................... 3
Theory of Operation ........................................................................................... 4
The SC2500 Platform .......................................................................................... 4
Basic System Components..................................................................... 5
Switching Buses/Channels ..................................................................... 6
Advanced System Components ............................................................. 6

Site Survey
Assessing the Environment .............................................................................. 7
Room Layout Diagram ....................................................................................... 8

System Configuration
Example System ................................................................................................. 9
Equipment Requirements .................................................................................. 9
Interfaces .................................................................................................. 9
KVM Hubs ................................................................................................. 9
Controllers.............................................................................................. 10
Equipment Placement ...................................................................................... 11

Installation
Installation Planning ........................................................................................ 12
Workstation Port DIPswitch Settings ............................................................. 13
Connecting the Central Equipment................................................................. 15
Larger Systems & Multiple Hubs..................................................................... 16
Connecting the Workstation Equipment ........................................................ 17
Connecting the CAT-5 System Cables ........................................................... 19
Dual Monitor Workstations .............................................................................. 20
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ VGA-USB Screen Sharing Page iv

System Cabling
Cable Details ..................................................................................................... 21
Cable Type .............................................................................................. 21
Cable Length .......................................................................................... 21
Cable Pin Out ......................................................................................... 21
Cable Identification .......................................................................................... 22
Cable Testing .................................................................................................... 22
Securing of Cables ........................................................................................... 22

Software Configuration
Introduction....................................................................................................... 23
KVM Switch Checkbox ..................................................................................... 24
COM Port Selection .......................................................................................... 24
Interface Port Addresses ................................................................................. 24

System Components
Introduction....................................................................................................... 25
K/V/M Switching Hub – SC2500 H2 ................................................................. 26
Front Panel ............................................................................................. 26
Rear Panel .............................................................................................. 26
Front Panel Connections & Indicators ................................................. 27
Rear Panel Connections........................................................................ 28
K/V/M Inter-Hub Connections ....................................................... 28
K/V/M Hub to Audio Hub Connections .......................................... 28
Controller Connections.................................................................. 29
Power Supply Connections ........................................................... 30

Controller – SC2500 CR ................................................................................... 31

Front Panel ............................................................................................. 31
Rear Panel .............................................................................................. 31
Power Switch ......................................................................................... 31
C-Link Port (to Hub) ............................................................................... 31
Port A (to external control device) ....................................................... 32

Interfaces........................................................................................................... 33
SC2500 IX2-USB – Dual Workstation Interface ................................... 33
Front Panel ................................................................................... 33
Rear Panel .................................................................................... 33
Side Panels ................................................................................... 33
Hub Connections........................................................................... 34
Rear Panel Connections & Settings .............................................. 35
K/V/M Cables ..................................................................... 35
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ VGA-USB Screen Sharing Page v

Address DIPswitch Settings ............................................... 36

Common DIPswitch Settings .............................................. 36
Power Supply ..................................................................... 38
SC2500 IX4-USB Quad Workstation Interface ..................................... 39
Front Panel ................................................................................... 39
Rear Panel .................................................................................... 39
Side Panels ................................................................................... 39
Multi-Station Interfaces – Common Connections .......................... 39
SC2500 IX6-USB Hex Workstation Interface........................................ 40
Front Panel ................................................................................... 40
Rear Panel .................................................................................... 40
Side Panels ................................................................................... 40

Control Link Extender ...................................................................................... 41

Control Link Extender (SC2500 DSB)................................................... 41
Front Panel ................................................................................... 41
Rear Panel .................................................................................... 41
C-Link Connection......................................................................... 42
K/V/M Hub Connection.................................................................. 42
Power Supply Connection ............................................................. 43

#######
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 1

SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE

INTRODUCTION
The SmartClass+ system can optionally be equipped with a hardware-based screen
sharing module, (aka a KVM – Keyboard-Video-Mouse module). (This module is never
present in the SmartClass+ LIVE version of the product.)

Teachers are equipped with a workstation having dual screens, one called the teacher
screen and the second called the control screen. The control screen always displays
the SmartClass+ Live Activities Dashboard software.

Dual-Screen Teacher Workstation

Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 2

BLOCK DIAGRAM – KVM Screen Sharing Module – SCREEN

SHARING MODULE

Teacher Station Student Stations

Teacher Control

Interface
SC2500 IX2 or
IX4 or IX6

Interface
SC2500 IX2 or
IX4 or IX6

Controller SC2500 CR

Interface
SC2500 IX2 or
Optional IX4 or IX6
C-Link to RS485
Adapter
(SC2500 DSB) CAT-5e

Central Equipment
KVM Hub SC2500 H

Interface
SC2500 IX2 or
IX4 or IX6
 Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 3

BLOCK DIAGRAM – SCREEN SHARING & AUDIO INTERCOM

Teacher Station Student Stations

Control Teacher

Audio Mixer
SC2500 BIL2-T

A/V Equipment

Optional
RS-232 to RS422
Adapter
CAT-5e
(SC3000 RS422)

Central Equipment
KVM Hub SC2500 H

Controller SC2500 CR
Audio Mixer
SC2500 BIL2-S
Audio Matrix SC2500 AM-IL2
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 4

THEORY OF OPERATION
The SmartClass+ VGA system, (based on the SC2500 Plug & Play platform), is a KVM
switching system (Keyboard-Video-Mouse). There is an optional audio intercom layer,
which would expand this definition to KVM+A, where the “A” is for audio.

In principle, you can imagine a switching

cloud, (as shown in the associated
diagram), where every PC, every
monitor, every keyboard, every mouse, Teacher
every microphone, and every set of Workstation
headphones is connected.

There is a control panel associated with

this switching fabric, and from the The
control panel, the teacher determines Switch
which computers are connected to
which monitors, which keyboard and
mouse are controlling each computer,
and which microphones and headsets Student
are active. Control Workstations
Interface

THE SC2500 PLATFORM

With the SC2500 platform, the switching fabric uses a distributed switching topology, in
which there is some central switching equipment at the teacher’s station (or in a remote
equipment rack), and some local switching equipment within close proximity of the
actual workstations. Workstations must be within 12 feet of their local workstation
interfaces. And interfaces must be within 150 feet of the central equipment (to which
are connected with CAT-5 cabling). See the diagram below.
Controller Central Switching Local Workstation
Equipment Interfaces

KVM Hub

Audio Hub CAT-5

Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 5

Basic System Components

We call the central switching components “hubs” and the local switching components
“interfaces”. There is also a “controller” that is used to manage the switching
functions.

• Hubs – Switching hubs have a series of interface ports, each of which will connect to
a remote workstation interface. If there are a large number of interfaces required,
hubs can be daisy-chained together to expand the number of interface ports.
Separate hubs are provided for KVM and for Audio functions.

• Interfaces – Generally, workstations must be located within 12 feet of the interface.

Workstation interfaces are available in with a varying number of workstation ports.
There is at least one port per interface and a maximum of 8 ports per interface. Each
workstation port has a physical address between 0 and 62 that is set with
DIPswitches. Address 63 is available as a custom-order.

• Controllers – The controller might use a mechanical control interface (with integral
buttons), or it might support a graphical control interface that runs on an associated
control computer (as is the case when running the SC+ Live Activities Dashboard).
Normally controllers are located at the teacher station.

• Audio Mixers/Call Buttons – If the system is equipped with an audio intercom

option, then audio mixer/call button units will be required at each station and audio
matrix modules are required as part of the central equipment.

Workstation Workstation
KVM Cables Audio Cables

CAT-5 Interface Audio Mixer/

Call Button
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 6

Switching Buses/Channels

The SC2500 interfaces allow the local monitor, keyboard, and mouse connections to be
transparently passed through to the local computer workstation, or to be switched onto
a system-wide bus. The SC2500 platform supports a single system-wide video bus for
sharing video amongst workstations. It is therefore possible to designate any station,
(or auxiliary device like a document camera), as the video source, and to share this
source with one, some, or all stations.

Similarly, microphones can be transparently connected to the local headphones and the
local computer, and/or can be switched onto a system-wide bus. The SmartClass
VGA’s audio sub-system uses an audio matrix. With the audio matrix, there is virtually
unlimited flexibility in interconnecting headphones and microphones. For systems
having more than 32 stations, a second audio matrix expands connectivity to 64
stations, and a multi-port interface is used to interconnect the two matrices.

Advanced System Components

The basic SC2500 switching platform is designed for use in a single classroom having
one teacher and up to 62 students. Normally, the central switching equipment is
located immediately beside the system controller at the teacher’s desk. There are some
additional system modules that allow for more configuration flexibility:

• Remote Central Equipment: When the central switching equipment is remotely

located from the teacher station, a control link extender must be used. In systems
without audio where the connection is over 6-feet away, a data signal buffer,
(SC2500 DSB), must be deployed between the controller and the central equipment.
In systems with audio, where the connection is over 25-feet away, an extender
(SC3000-RS422) must be used.

• Dual Monitor Student Stations: In some classrooms, (typically those running

Computer Aided Drafting applications) all workstations are equipped with two
monitors, and teachers want to be able to switch both monitors at the same time. To
accomplish this two parallel SC2500 systems are deployed, the first switching the
video of the primary monitor and the second switching the video of the secondary
monitor. Rather than having independent controllers, the two systems are slaved to
a common controller using the SC2500 LD loop doubler module.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 7

SITE SURVEY
ASSESSING THE ENVIRONMENT
Before a SmartClass+ VGA system can be properly configured, a site survey of the
target computer lab must first be undertaken.

 Room Layout: Review the physical configuration of workstations, related A/V

equipment such as projectors, any existing wiring and/or conduit that is slated for
use with the system, and the location and space available for central equipment. It
is helpful to generate a room layout diagram as shown overleaf.

 System Type: Examine the physical connections for the local monitor, keyboard,
and mouse. Does the video connection use a VGA link or a DVI link? Do the
keyboard and mouse use PS/2 connections or USB connections? Use this
workstation type information to select the appropriate SmartClass system type.

Note that for the SmartClass VGA systems described in this document, it is
presumed that the workstations have the following characteristics:

• VGA video connection (computer-to-monitor), and

• USB K/M connections (computer-to-keyboard-and-mouse).

The system type automatically defines the available system modules – as described
later in this section.

 Workstation Interfaces: Look at the physical layout of the workstations and

determine what type of interface, (e.g. Dual, Quad), is appropriate for each cluster.
Note also whether auxiliary equipment like document cameras or projectors require
an interface port.

 Central Equipment: Tally the number of workstation interfaces, and then determine
how many KVM and Audio hubs are required to provide sufficient interface ports.

 Module Positioning: Determine the approximate physical positioning of each

SmartClass VGA module, and ensure that there is sufficient mounting space for all
modules at workstation positions and in any central equipment racks.

 Cable Lengths: Determine the necessary cable runs, (length), and cable type
(standard or plenum), for each cable. Note that separate cables are required for
video connections, for keyboard/mouse connections, and for audio connections.

 Power Outlets: Ensure that there are adequate power connections available for all
central equipment and for all multi-workstation interfaces.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 8

ROOM LAYOUT DIAGRAM

24’
36’
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 9

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
EXAMPLE SYSTEM
We shall assume that a site survey has been done for a room similar to that shown in
our room layout diagram on the previous page. This room contains:

• a teacher station with a graphical user interface

• a document camera, and a projector (sharing one interface port)
• 24 student stations organized into rows of 4
• There is no audio intercom
• the central equipment will be located under the teacher’s desk

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Interfaces

There are 24 student stations

organized into rows of 4. If an
IX4 is located in the middle of
each 16-foot row, it can
comfortably connect with all
stations in this cluster. We
therefore need a total of six (6)
SC2500 IX4-USB interface
modules (shown immediate
right).

At the teacher station, we will use an SC2500 IX2-USB to connect to the teacher
workstation and to the projector and document camera. This is shown above far right.

KVM Hubs

As there are a total of seven (7) interfaces, a single 8-port

SC2500 H KVM hub is required, (immediate right).
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 10

Controller

Because the teacher will use a graphical user interface,

the SC2500 CR controller will be deployed. Because the
controller is located within 6-feet of the hubs, no SC2500
DSB is required to extend the connection distance to the
SC2500 H.
 Quad Quad
Interface Interface
EQUIPMENT PLACEMENT

Quad Quad
Interface Interface

Quad Quad
Interface Interface

Dual KVM Hub

Interface
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing

Controller
Page 11
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 12

INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION PLANNING
Take the time necessary to make sure that you have everything you need to complete
the installation, and then visualize the sequence of tasks that you will execute to install
the SmartClass+ VGA system.

• There is no pre-defined sequence for how to complete the installation, but you might
want to consider installing the central equipment first, then the workstation interfaces
and any optional audio mixer modules, and finally the system CAT-5 cabling.

• When mounting hardware modules on the underside of desks, make sure that:

 Any necessary mounting brackets have been pre-installed

 There is adequate room for all cable connections
 Diagnostic LEDs are easily seen
 DIPswitches have been properly pre-set

• One common problem for novice installers is that of having duplicate addresses
within the system. Every workstation port, whether connected to a workstation or
not, must be uniquely addressed.

• For our example system, the SC2500 IX2-USB interface at the teacher station will
only be a few feet away from the central hubs. Novice installers might be tempted
to use a short cable for this connection, but remember that the minimum
recommended cable length for system cables is 25 feet.

• Do not fasten down all cables until some preliminary functional testing has been
done. If there are any wiring or module problems, it is much easier to troubleshoot
them when cable connections can be easily moved.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 13

WORKSTATION PORT DIPSWITCH SETTINGS

SC2500 IX2-USB, SC2500 IX4-USB, and SC2500 IX6-USB

Address DIPswitches

On all multi-workstation interfaces, there is a bank of six (6)

DIPswitches beside each workstation port for setting addresses.
They are placed in the up position for ON, and in the down position
for OFF, and the least significant bit is to the right.
Address = 2
The graphic at right illustrates how to set an address of “2”.

SC2500 IX2-USB, IX4-USB, and IX6-USB – Address DIPswitch Settings

Switch Function
(left to right)
5
1 Address bit 6 (high order - 2 )
2 Address bit 5
3 Address bit 4
4 Address bit 3
5 Address bit 3
0
6 Address bit 1 (low order - 2 )

Note that if there are unused workstation ports on any interfaces, it is suggested that
you set the address for these open ports to 62, (unless you need this address for an
actual station).

Common DIPswitches

On the side of the Interface, there is a bank of 3 common

DIPswitches as shown at right.
<75 feet
Low
 USB Speed – The two DIPswitches on the left are used
to set the speed (Low or Full) for each of the two USB
connections, (Keyboard and Mouse). ON corresponds Full 2 1
to Low speed. ≥75 feet
USB Speed Cable
 Video Compensation – The switch on the right is used (for each port) Length
to control video compensation for different lengths of
video CAT-5 cables. This switch is set to ON if the CAT-5 cable length is between 0
and 75 feet. The minimum cable length is 25 feet. The switch is set to OFF if the
CAT-5 cable length is between 75 feet and 150 feet. The maximum cable length is
150 feet.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 14

SmartClass Workstation Port Address Settings (for DIPswitches)

Address Switches
1 2 3 4 5 6
0 ON ON ON ON ON ON
1 OFF ON ON ON ON ON
2 ON OFF ON ON ON ON
3 OFF OFF ON ON ON ON
4 ON ON OFF ON ON ON
5 OFF ON OFF ON ON ON
6 ON OFF OFF ON ON ON
7 OFF OFF OFF ON ON ON
8 ON ON ON OFF ON ON
9 OFF ON ON OFF ON ON
10 ON OFF ON OFF ON ON
11 OFF OFF ON OFF ON ON
12 ON ON OFF OFF ON ON
13 OFF ON OFF OFF ON ON
14 ON OFF OFF OFF ON ON
15 OFF OFF OFF OFF ON ON
16 ON ON ON ON OFF ON
17 OFF ON ON ON OFF ON
18 ON OFF ON ON OFF ON
19 OFF OFF ON ON OFF ON
20 ON ON OFF ON OFF ON
21 OFF ON OFF ON OFF ON
22 ON OFF OFF ON OFF ON
23 OFF OFF OFF ON OFF ON
24 ON ON ON OFF OFF ON
25 OFF ON ON OFF OFF ON
26 ON OFF ON OFF OFF ON
27 OFF OFF ON OFF OFF ON
28 ON ON OFF OFF OFF ON
29 OFF ON OFF OFF OFF ON
30 ON OFF OFF OFF OFF ON
31 OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON
32 ON ON ON ON ON OFF
33 OFF ON ON ON ON OFF
34 ON OFF ON ON ON OFF
35 OFF OFF ON ON ON OFF
36 ON ON OFF ON ON OFF
37 OFF ON OFF ON ON OFF
38 ON OFF OFF ON ON OFF
39 OFF OFF OFF ON ON OFF
40 ON ON ON OFF ON OFF
41 OFF ON ON OFF ON OFF
42 ON OFF ON OFF ON OFF
43 OFF OFF ON OFF ON OFF
44 ON ON OFF OFF ON OFF
45 OFF ON OFF OFF ON OFF
46 ON OFF OFF OFF ON OFF
47 OFF OFF OFF OFF ON OFF
48 ON ON ON ON OFF OFF
49 OFF ON ON ON OFF OFF
50 ON OFF ON ON OFF OFF
51 OFF OFF ON ON OFF OFF
52 ON ON OFF ON OFF OFF
53 OFF ON OFF ON OFF OFF
54 ON OFF OFF ON OFF OFF
55 OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF
56 ON ON ON OFF OFF OFF
57 OFF ON ON OFF OFF OFF
58 ON OFF ON OFF OFF OFF
59 OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF
60 ON ON OFF OFF OFF OFF
61 OFF ON OFF OFF OFF OFF
62 ON OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
63 Special Order Interface – address not set with switches
 Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 15

CONNECTING THE CENTRAL EQUIPMENT

For our example system, we have three modules; a KVM hub, an audio hub, and a
controller. They are connected as described and shown below.

SC2000 JU SC2000 CR

Port B Port A

Control PC
Controller

Upstream Downstream Controller

Upstream Downstream

TTL DSB Audio

INTER-HUB POWER INTER-HUB HUB
K/M Bus DC-12V Video Bus

KVM Hub

Power Supply

• Connect the controller port marked SC2000 JU to the KVM hub port marked
Controller – TTL using the supplied 6-foot CAT-5 shielded cable.

• Connect the control computer (or your laptop PC pre-configured with the SCVI
graphical user interface) to the controller RS-232 serial port marked Port A. (Note
that if your control PC does not have a serial port use an RS-232 to USB adapter.)

• Connect the power supply to the KVM hub and plug the power supply into a mains
outlet.
 Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 16

LARGER SYSTEMS & MULTIPLE HUBS

In systems having more than 8 workstation interfaces, multiple KVM and Audio hubs
must be configured. The connection diagram below summarizes how the hubs must be
connected.

SC2000 JU SC2000 CR

Port B Port A

Control PC
Controller

KVM Hub #1
UpstreamDownstream Controller
Upstream Downstream

TTL DSB Audio

INTER-HUB POWER INTER-HUB HUB
K/M Bus DC-12V Video Bus

Video Expansion

Connect from Downstream port

on Hub #1 to Upstream port on
Hub #2

Keyboard/Mouse Expansion

Connect from Downstream port

on Hub #1 to Upstream port on
Hub #2

UpstreamDownstream Controller
Upstream Downstream

TTL DSB Audio

INTER-HUB POWER INTER-HUB HUB
K/M Bus DC-12V Video Bus

KVM Hub #2
 Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 17

CONNECTING THE WORKSTATION EQUIPMENT

For our example system, we have SC2500 IX4-USB Quad interfaces for each row of
student stations, and an SC2500 IX2-USB Dual interface at the teacher station. We
will look at the connections at the teacher position, (but note we are showing a Quad
interface just to make the physical connections more obvious).

Teacher PC

Teacher Monitor, Keyboard & Mouse

USB- USB- I-Link Video Video

1 2 1 2
USB- USB- I-Link Video Video

1 2 1 2 Power Supply
Workstation
Interface

Projector Document
Camera
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 18

• Connect the 6-foot video cable from the Video in connector of the address 0 port on
the interface to the Teacher PC video output.

• Connect the 6-foot brown USB cable from the USB-Host 1 connector of the address
0 port on the interface to a USB jack on the Teacher PC.

• Connect the 6-foot gray USB cable from the USB-Host 2 connector of the address 0
port on the interface to a second USB jack on the Teacher PC.

• Connect the monitor video cable (with an extension if necessary) to the Video out
connector of the address 0 port on the interface.

• Connect the keyboard USB cable (with an extension if necessary) to the USB-
Device 1 connector of the address 0 port on the interface.

• Connect the mouse USB cable (with an extension if necessary) to the USB-Device 2
connector of the address 0 port on the interface.

• Connect a video cable from the Video in connector of the second interface port to
the video out connector on the document camera.

• Connect a 2nd video cable from the Video out connector of the second interface port
to the video in connector on the projector.

• Connect the small power supply to the power jack on the side of the SC2500 IX2-
USB interface, and plug the other side into a mains outlet.

Note that if you are connecting an input device like a document camera or laptop
computer to a workstation interface, and there is no monitor or projector connected
to that same workstation port, you will need to simulate a monitor by connecting a
Video Load adapter to terminate the video signal. (Robotel can provide the
adapter.) If not, the image sent to other stations will appear overexposed.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 19

CONNECTING THE CAT-5 SYSTEM CABLES

Each multi-station interface is connected to the central KVM switching equipment with
two CAT-5e cables.

For our example system comprising 24 student stations, arranged in clusters of 4,the
system connections are shown below:

Dual Interface (0, 31)

HU SC2500 IX2-
Vide
Video K/M
K/M Audi
Audio
USB

Quad Interface (1, 2, 3, 4) Quad Interface (5, 6, 7, 8) Quad Interface (9, 10, 11, 12)

HU HU HU
Vide SC2500
Video K/M IX4-Audio
K/M Audi VideSC2500
Video K/M IX4-Audio
K/M Audi VideSC2500
Video
K/MIX4- Audi
K/M Audio
USB USB USB

Quad Interface (13, 14, 15, 16) Quad Interface (17, 18, 19, 20) Quad Interface (21, 22, 23, 24)

HU HU HU
Vide SC2500
Video K/M IX4-Audio
K/M Audi VideSC2500
Video K/MIX4-Audio
K/M Audi VideSC2500
Video
K/MIX4- Audi
K/M Audio
USB USB USB

KVM Hub
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Interface Video Interface K/M

SC2500HUB
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 20

DUAL MONITOR WORKSTATIONS

Loop Doubler (SC2500 LD)

To fully support dual-monitor workstations, two SmartClass+ systems working in parallel

are required. At the teacher station, a single controller is used to manage both
systems. The controller is connected using a module called an SC2500 LD Loop
Doubler.

The diagram below shows the control connections.

KVM KVM Control PC

Video 2 Hub Hub
Loop
Doubler
Keyboard/Mouse KVM KVM
Video 1 Hub Hub

Audio Audio
Audio
Hub Hub Controller

The diagram below shows the workstation connections.

KVM
System
2 CAT-5

CAT-5
KVM Interface Audio Mixer/
System Call Button
1
Audio
Matrix
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 21

SYSTEM CABLING
CABLE DETAILS

Cable Type

The SmartClass+ Screen Sharing module is available in two different models – one with
VGA analog video connections, and the other with DVI digital video connections. Both
models use the same USB-based keyboard/mouse connections.

The VGA-USB version uses two different CAT-5 cables to connect between the central
KVM switching hubs and the workstation interfaces. The type of cable used for the
analog video signals is critical for proper system operation.

Robotel uses the following CAT-5e UTP cable for both video and keyboard/mouse:

 Belden – Data-twist
 Model 7987R (Regular)
 Model 7987P (Plenum)

Note that Plenum rated cables must be used if cables are being run in a space that is
used as a return air channel for an HVAC system. Check with your building’s
maintenance department or engineering department if in doubt.

Cable Length

Cable length must conform to the following limits:

 Minimum length = 25 feet (7.7 meters)

 Maximum length = 150 feet (46 meters)

Cable Pin Out ANSI/TIA/EIA T568-B

Pin Conductor Color Code

SmartClass+ cables must be terminated
with RJ-45 connectors and it is strongly 1 white/orange
recommended that the connector pin out 2 orange
adhere to the ANSI/TIA/EIA 568-B 3 white/green
standards as shown in the diagram at 4 blue
right. 5 white/blue
6 green
7 white/brown
8 brown
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 22

CABLE IDENTIFICATION
We recommend color coding cables based on their function and we recommend tagging
all cables at both ends to avoid confusion when connecting system components and
when troubleshooting installation related problems.

• Color Coding: Robotel uses the following color coding standards for different
cable functions. Note that audio cables normally use a Purple cable shroud.

Red Video (screen)

Blue Control
Green Keyboard/Mouse
Purple Audio

• ID Tags: Each end of a cable should be tagged with meaningful information.

For example, at the end of a cable that will be connected to the KVM Hub, the
tag might read “IX4 Video – stations 5,6,7, and 8”. At the Interface end of the
same cable, the tag might read “KVM Hub 1 - Video”.

CABLE TESTING
It is strongly recommended that you carry a portable CAT-5 cable tester and pre-test all
CAT-5 cables before connecting them to the SmartClass+ equipment. Bad cables can
potentially harm equipment and complicate system testing.

SECURING OF CABLES
Once you have done some initial system testing, cables should be secured with tie-
wraps to ensure a neat, aesthetically-pleasing installation and to minimize the possibility
of accidental cable disconnection.

• To avoid damage to connectors due to taut cables, tie wraps should be placed no
closer than 15-20 cm from each connection. There should be sufficient slack to
unplug and/ re-plug each connection, should a module need to be serviced.

• Avoid kinks in cables. Make sure that any bends in cables have a large rounded
radius. This is especially important for the foil shielded video cables.

• If a cable is too long, it is preferred that it be replaced with a cable of the correct
length. If this is not practical, the cable can be tie-wrapped in a loop and secured
under the desk.

• Trim all tie wraps cleanly, as close as possible to the tie and without creating sharp
edges.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 23

SOFTWARE CONFIGURATION
INTRODUCTION
To use the hardware-based screen sharing
module, the SC+ software must be configured
properly. The configuration is managed from the
Live Activities Dashboard via a button called
Configuration as shown at right.

The configuration panel is shown below. The three portions of this panel that are
relevant to the hardware-based screen sharing option are highlighted with red boxes.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 24

KVM Switch Checkbox

The checkbox labeled KVM Switch must be checked.

COM Port Selection

The correct RS-232 COM port on the teacher station must be selected.

Interface Port Addresses

The KVM column in the station table must be configured so that the port addresses
match the physical addresses programmed via the DIPswitches on the workstation
interfaces.

Note that there can be no duplication of addresses.

By convention, the system is normally installed so that the physical addresses in the
KVM column match the software addresses in the Number column, but this is not
mandatory.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 25

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
INTRODUCTION
This section of the Hardware Reference Guide provides an overview of each of the
switching modules used in the SC+ Screen Sharing module.

 KVM Hub – SC2500 H (version 2)

 Controller – SC2500 CR

 Interfaces (USB Keyboard/Mouse)

o SC2500 IX2-USB
o SC2500 IX4-USB
o SC2500 IX6-USB

 Control Link Extender (optional)

o SC2500 DSB
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 26

K/V/M Switching Hub - SC2500 H2

The SC2500 H2 switching hub is functionally very similar to the SC2500 H, but uses a
low-profile rack mount physical configuration. Two L-shaped brackets are used to adapt
the desktop housing for under desk or rack mounting.

Front Panel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Interface Video Interface K/M

SC2500HUB

Rear Panel

Upstream Downstream Controller

Upstream Downstream

TTL DSB Audio

INTER-HUB POWER INTER-HUB HUB
K/M Bus DC-12V Video Bus
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 27

Front Panel Connections & Indicators

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

There are two banks of RJ-45 connectors on the front panel of the KVM Hub. The left
bank is used for Video connections with the workstation interfaces, and the right bank is
used for Keyboard/Mouse connections with the workstation interfaces. Each KVM Hub
supports connections for up to 8 interfaces, (singles, duals or quads).

The indicators built into the RJ-45 jacks provide status information about the hub and
associated interface connections and can be used for diagnostic purposes.

 All Green LEDs on the Video connectors share a common role: They are used to
indicate active data transmission from an Audio/Call Button or Terminal connected to
the associated interface.
 The Green LEDs on the Keyboard/Mouse connectors similarly share a common role:
They indicate if the associated interface is an active K/M receiver or K/M transmitter.
 The role of the Yellow LEDs on both Video and Keyboard/Mouse connectors is
summarized in the table below:

Status of Yellow LEDs on K/V/M Hub Front Panel

Position Video Connectors K/M Connectors
1
Teamwork mode activated K/M Inter-Hub Bus IN Connection =
2
OPEN
Auto video bus-termination
3
activated
Power overload circuit tripped
4
Compensation ≥ 75’ for current
5
Video Tx Source
Controller transmitting Data
6
K/M Inter-Hub Bus OUT Connection =
7 Power On (Controller)
CLOSED
Mains Power Available
8
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 28

Rear Panel Connections

K/V/M Inter-Hub Connections

Upstream Downstream
Video Video
When multiple K/V/M hubs are combined to support
more than 8 interface ports, the individual K/V/M hubs
must be interconnected using the appropriate rear-
panel connections. The diagram at right shows the
inter-hub connectors.

Separate connections are used for Video and for

Keyboard/Mouse signals. It is critical that the two OUT Upstream Downstream
connectors be connected to the two IN connectors on K/M K/M
the next K/V/M hub in the chain.

Note that the inter-hub connections use a simple daisy chain and NOT a loop. Note
also that inter-hub bus termination is automatically sensed and provided by the first and
last hubs in a multi-hub connection. A maximum of 8 hubs is recommended. Inter-hub
connections are limited to a 6’ maximum length.

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Hub #3 Hub #2 Hub #1 Controller

Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 29

Controller Connections

The K/V/M Hub is controlled from the SC2500 CR controller.

CONTROLLER
When multiple K/V/M Hubs are deployed, the controller may
be connected to any single hub, but by convention, this is
usually hub #1.
TTL DSB
The K/V/M Hub provides two connection options, TTL and
DSB, as shown in the above diagram. If the controller is
physically located within 6’ of the hub, then the TTL connection is fine. If the controller
is remotely located from the hub, (as is often the case if the hubs are located in an
equipment room), the controller is connected to the hub via an SC2500 DSB module.
The DSB module converts the TTL connections on the controller to an RS-485 format,
which enables transmission over hundreds of feet.

K/V/M Hub #1

LOCAL Controller
Connection

TTL “C-Link” Max 6’

K/V/M Hub #1

REMOTE Controller
Connection
TTL “C-Link” Max 6’

SC2500
DSB
DSB RS-485 Link Max 1000’
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 30

Power Supply Connections

The final connection for the K/V/M Hub is the local power supply
connection. This comprises a single power supply of the same type
used with the SmartClass SC2000 system. The power supply module is
included as part of the hub.
POWER
CD-12V
The power supply connections are shown below.

Power Supply Power Supply

#####
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 31

Controller - SC2500 CR
Front Panel

Rear Panel

SC2000 JU SC2000 C

Port B Port A

There are only three items on the controller rear panel that are relevant to all
installations; the C-Link port (labeled SC2000 JU), the external control port, (labeled
Port A), for operating with an external graphical user interface, and the power switch.

Power Switch

The power switch, which is mounted on the front of the CR controller, activates or de-
activates the entire system. The green indicator side of the switch is toggled on to
enable operation.

The CR controller includes a green indicator on the power switch to visually identify for
the user when the controller boot procedure has been completed. This lamp flashes
quickly during the boot sequence, and then generates a periodic flash (heartbeat), when
in normal operating mode.

C-Link Port (to Hub)

The silver-colored C-Link RJ-45 jack is used to connect to the K/V/M Hub
in a SmartClass Plug & Play system. The connection can be made to any C-Link
K/V/M Hub, but customarily, the hub to which the controller is connected is
designated as #1.

Where the K/V/M Hub is located withing 6 feet of the controller, the
connection can be made directly to the TTL controller port on the hub. Where the hub is
remotely located from the controller, the C-Link connection is made to an auxiliary
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 32

device, called an SC2500 DSB (Digital Signal Buffer), which converts the TTL control
signals to an RS-485 format suitable for communication over large distances.
K/V/M Hub #1
Controller
LOCAL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Connection
TTL “C-Link” Max 6’

K/V/M Hub #1

REMOTE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Controller
Connection

DSB RS-485 Link Max 1000’

SC2500
DSB

Port A (to external control device)

With SmartClass+, the teacher station is connected to Port A on the

SC2500 CR controller using an RS-232 null modem cable. Port A

Teacher Computer

Controller
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 33

INTERFACES
In this document, we look at the SC2500 VGA-USB series of workstation interfaces.
(The SC2500 DVI-USB series of workstation interfaces are covered in a separate
Hardware Reference Guide.)

SC2500 IX2-USB – Dual Workstation Interface

The SmartClass Plug & Play system currently supports three different versions of USB
keyboard/mouse style workstation interface modules:

 SC2500 IX2-USB IX2 Dual Workstation

 SC2500 IX4-USB IX4 Quad Workstation
 SC2500 IX6-USB IX6 Hex Workstation

As there are no user-accessible controls on interfaces, these units are typically screwed
to the underside of a desk.

Front Panel

USB-Host USB-Device I-Link Video In Video Out

1 2
1 2

Rear Panel

Video Out Video In I-Link USB-Device USB-Host

2 1
2 1

Side Panels

6 5 4 3 2 1 On 6 5 4 3 2 1

SC2500 IX2-USB Off

Video K/M Audio

USB Low
Speed POWER 12V
Full
1 2 Cable length
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 34

Hub Connections

All USB interface models have a set of three RJ-45

jacks for connecting to the central hub equipment. Video K/M Audio

If the system is only required to support Video

switching, then only a single CAT-5 connection
needs to be made between the interface and the
K/V/M Hub, (Video).

If the system is required to support K/V/M switching, then two CAT-5 connections need
to be made between the interface and the K/V/M Hub, (Video and K/M).

The audio connection is not used with SmartClass+ systems.

Note that there is a video compensation DIPswitch setting on the side panel that must
correspond the CAT-5 cable length. The switch must be set to OFF if the cable length
is between 0 and 75 feet in length, and the switch must be set to ON if the cable length
is between 75 feet and 150 feet. The maximum CAT-5 cable length is 150 feet between
each interface and the hubs.

Interface

SC2500 IX2-USB
Video K/M Audio

K/V/M Hub

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 35

Rear Panel Connections & Settings

K/V/M Cables

The workstation interface connects to the local computer(s) via a set of 3 cables, (1
video and 2 USB). With an IX2 dual interface, there are two sets of cable connections;
with an IX4 quad interface there are four sets of cable connections; etc.

*****Important Note*****
To ensure proper functioning of USB peripherals, it is critical
that the following sequence of connections be observed:
1) Configure the Common DIPswitch settings to match
the speed of the USB peripheral devices (see
overleaf)
2) Connect the USB devices to the Interface
3) Connect the Interface to the USB host(s)

*****Important Note*****
If there is a communication problem Video Out Video In I-Link USB- USB-Host
between a USB peripheral device and the 2 1 2 1
host, disconnect the Interface from the
USB host, and then re-connect the
Interface to the USB host to reset the USB
communications.

K/V/M Cables
(options for 6’ or 12’ length)
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 36

Address DIPswitch Settings

On the side panel of every USB workstation interface, there

is a bank of 6 DIPswitches for every workstation connection.
Switches are placed in the down position for OFF, and in
6 5 4 3 2 1
the up position for ON.

The role of each switch is summarized in the table below.

Address = 3
Address DIPswitch Settings
Switch Function
(right to left)
1 Address bit 1 (low order - 20)
2 Address bit 2
3 Address bit 3
4 Address bit 4
5 Address bit 5
6 Address bit 6 (high order - 25)

There are six address bits corresponding to binary station address between 0, (all
switches ON), and 63 (all switches OFF). (Actually address 63 requires a special
interface.) The switch settings shown above right reflect an address of 3. See overleaf
for a list of address settings.

Common DIPswitch Settings

On the side of the Interface, there is a bank of 3 common

DIPswitches as shown at right.
<75 feet
Low
 USB Speed – The two DIPswitches on the left are used
to set the speed (Low or Full) for each of the two USB
connections, (Keyboard and Mouse). ON corresponds Full 2 1
to Low speed. ≥75 feet
USB Speed
(for each port) Cable
Length
 Video Compensation – The switch on the right is used
to control video compensation for different lengths of
video CAT-5 cables. This switch is set to ON if the CAT-5 cable length is between 0
and 75 feet. The switch is set to OFF if the CAT-5 cable length is between 75 feet
and 150 feet. The maximum cable length is 150 feet.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 37

SMARTCLASS INTERFACE ADDRESSING (DIPSWITCH SETTINGS)

Address Switches
1 2 3 4 5 6
0 ON ON ON ON ON ON
1 OFF ON ON ON ON ON
2 ON OFF ON ON ON ON
3 OFF OFF ON ON ON ON
4 ON ON OFF ON ON ON
5 OFF ON OFF ON ON ON
6 ON OFF OFF ON ON ON
7 OFF OFF OFF ON ON ON
8 ON ON ON OFF ON ON
9 OFF ON ON OFF ON ON
10 ON OFF ON OFF ON ON
11 OFF OFF ON OFF ON ON
12 ON ON OFF OFF ON ON
13 OFF ON OFF OFF ON ON
14 ON OFF OFF OFF ON ON
15 OFF OFF OFF OFF ON ON
16 ON ON ON ON OFF ON
17 OFF ON ON ON OFF ON
18 ON OFF ON ON OFF ON
19 OFF OFF ON ON OFF ON
20 ON ON OFF ON OFF ON
21 OFF ON OFF ON OFF ON
22 ON OFF OFF ON OFF ON
23 OFF OFF OFF ON OFF ON
24 ON ON ON OFF OFF ON
25 OFF ON ON OFF OFF ON
26 ON OFF ON OFF OFF ON
27 OFF OFF ON OFF OFF ON
28 ON ON OFF OFF OFF ON
29 OFF ON OFF OFF OFF ON
30 ON OFF OFF OFF OFF ON
31 OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON
32 ON ON ON ON ON OFF
33 OFF ON ON ON ON OFF
34 ON OFF ON ON ON OFF
35 OFF OFF ON ON ON OFF
36 ON ON OFF ON ON OFF
37 OFF ON OFF ON ON OFF
38 ON OFF OFF ON ON OFF
39 OFF OFF OFF ON ON OFF
40 ON ON ON OFF ON OFF
41 OFF ON ON OFF ON OFF
42 ON OFF ON OFF ON OFF
43 OFF OFF ON OFF ON OFF
44 ON ON OFF OFF ON OFF
45 OFF ON OFF OFF ON OFF
46 ON OFF OFF OFF ON OFF
47 OFF OFF OFF OFF ON OFF
48 ON ON ON ON OFF OFF
49 OFF ON ON ON OFF OFF
50 ON OFF ON ON OFF OFF
51 OFF OFF ON ON OFF OFF
52 ON ON OFF ON OFF OFF
53 OFF ON OFF ON OFF OFF
54 ON OFF OFF ON OFF OFF
55 OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF
56 ON ON ON OFF OFF OFF
57 OFF ON ON OFF OFF OFF
58 ON OFF ON OFF OFF OFF
59 OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF
60 ON ON OFF OFF OFF OFF
61 OFF ON OFF OFF OFF OFF
62 ON OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
63 Special Order Interface – address not set with switches
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 38

Power Supply

All USB interfaces require a local power supply, and therefore have a single barrel jack
for connecting to a local external power supply on one side panel.

6 5 4 3 2 1 On 6 5 4 3 2 1

Off

USB Low POWER 12V

Speed
Full
1 2 Cable length

Power Supply
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 39

SC2500 IX4-USB Quad Workstation Interface

Front Panel

USB-Host USB-Device I-Link Video In Video Out

1 2
1 2

USB-Host USB-Device I-Link Video In Video Out

1 2
1 2

Rear Panel

Video Out Video In I-Link USB-Device USB-Host

2 1
2 1

Video Out Video In I-Link USB-Device USB-Host

2 1
2 1

Side Panels

Height will vary according to interface model; (IX2, IX4, IX6, or IX8).

6 5 4 3 2 1 On 6 5 4 3 2 1

Off

6 5 4 3 2 1 On 6 5 4 3 2 1
SC2500 IX4-USB
Video K/M Audio
Off

USB Low
Speed POWER 12V
Full
1 2 Cable length

Multi-Station Interfaces – Common Connections

See the Common Connections section for the SC2500 IX2-USB interface.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 40

SC2500 IX6-USB Hex Workstation Interface

Front Panel

USB-Host USB-Device I-Link Video In Video Out

1 2
1 2

USB-Host USB-Device I-Link Video In Video Out

1 2
1 2

USB-Host USB-Device I-Link Video In Video Out

1 2
1 2

Rear Panel

Video Out Video In I-Link USB-Device USB-Host

2 1
2 1

Video Out Video In I-Link USB-Device USB-Host

2 1
2 1

Video Out Video In I-Link USB-Device USB-Host

2 1
2 1

Side Panels

6 5 4 3 2 1 On 6 5 4 3 2 1

Off

6 5 4 3 2 1 On 6 5 4 3 2 1

SC2500 IX6-USB Off

6 5 4 3 2 1 On 6 5 4 3 2 1

Video K/M Audio

Off

USB Low POWER 12V

Speed
Full
1 2 Cable length
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 41

CONTROL LINK EXTENDER

A control link extender must be used in situations where the teacher station and the
controller are not located immediately beside the central switching equipment, (KVM
Hubs).

Control Link Extender (SC2500 DSB)

The DSB is used to extend the connection between the controller and the K/V/M Hub,
by converting the C-Link TTL protocol into an RS-485 protocol suitable for transmission
over long distances, (up to 1000 feet).

Front Panel

SC2500 DSB
DATA SIGNAL BUFFER

Rear Panel

From To
Controller Hub
12V DC

SC2500DSB

C-Link Connection

The C-Link connection from the controller is cabled to the RJ-45 connector labeled as
“From Controller” on the DSB module.
Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 42

SC2500 DSB

From To
Controller Hub
12V DC

SC2500DSB

Controller

K/V/M Hub Connection

The RJ-45 jack labeled as “To Hub” is cabled to the corresponding DSB jack on the
K/V/M Hub.

SC2500 DSB

From To
Controller Hub
12V DC

SC2500DSB

K/V/M Hub

Upstream Downstream Controller

Upstream Downstream

TTL DSB Audio

INTER-HUB POWER INTER-HUB HUB
K/M Bus DC-12V Video Bus
 Hardware Reference Guide – SC+ Screen Sharing Page 43

Power Supply Connection

The 12V accessory power supply is connected to the 5.5mm barrel jack connector on
the rear of the DSB.

SC2500 DSB

From To
Controller Hub
12V DC

SC2500DSB

Power
Supply

#####

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