ADDER CCS4-USB manual

CCS4-USB
Four-port keyboard and mouse switch
Now with Free-Flow switching technology
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Locations.......................................................................................7
Mounting......................................................................................7
Connections..................................................................................8
User console.............................................................................8
Computer systems....................................................................8
Power connection....................................................................9
Optional RC4 remote control..................................................9
Switching control by computer.............................................10
Operation
Selecting a computer.................................................................17
To select a computer using the Free-Flow utility.................17
To select a computer using the control panel......................17
To select a computer using hotkeys......................................18
To select a computer using the mouse buttons...................19
To lock access to the computers............................................20
Further information
Getting assistance.......................................................................21
Appendix 1 – Cable pin-outs......................................................22
Safety information.....................................................................23
Warranty.....................................................................................23
Emissions and Immunity.............................................................24
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Installation
Using the configuration menu..................................................11
General configuration................................................................12
Changing hotkeys..................................................................12
Mouse switching....................................................................12
Miscellaneous functions........................................................12
OPTIONS port speed..............................................................12
Free-Flow configuration.............................................................13
Installing the Free-Flow configuration application.............13
Configuring the Free-Flow system........................................13
Optional Free-Flow operations and settings........................14
Performing upgrades.................................................................15
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Introduction..................................................................................2
What is Free-Flow?.......................................................................3
What is True Emulation?..............................................................4
CCS4-USB features - top and rear................................................5
What’s in the box.........................................................................6
What you may additionally need................................................6
Configuration
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Welcome
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Contents
Welcome
The video displays are connected directly to their respective systems as usual. A single USB link
(plus an optional speaker connection) is made between each system and the CCS4-USB unit.
PC2
PC3
PC4
COMPUTER
K/M
SPK USB1 USB2
MODE
www.adder.com
4
Free-Flow
An innovative
in-built utility that
allows the unit to
automatically switch
between channels
by monitoring the
mouse pointer
position.
USB
1
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CCS4-USB
unit
configur
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PC1
3
2
1
The optional
remote control
allows the CCS4USB unit to be
neatly concealed
amongst the
cabling.
USB
2
The keyboard/mouse, the speakers and two individual USB
channels can be collectively or separately switched through
to each PC system. These are electronically switched to the
required system using any of five methods: Free-Flow utility,
CCS4-USB unit control panel, keyboard key-presses, mouse
buttons or optional remote control.
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The CCS4-USB (Command and Control Switch, four port, USB) is a
compact unit created to allow a single operator to access information
and control operations across numerous systems and screens. With the
CCS4-USB unit, you can use a single USB keyboard and USB mouse to
fulfil functions that previously required four separate sets. This provides
immediate savings in both desk space and also the time required to
access and control up to four systems and screens. The CCS4-USB
features our True Emulation technology, which ensures that the full
characteristics of the connected USB keyboard and mouse are passed
to every system.
In addition to switching the keyboard and mouse, the CCS4-USB can
also share a set of speakers and two separate USB peripherals between
the four systems. This can be done either in concert with the keyboard
and mouse (and each other) or totally independently.
The CCS4-USB unit can be used in combination with various Adder
extender products (such as Adder Infinity, X50 and X-USB) to extend
the distance between the user and the computers under control.
Switching between the systems connected to the CCS4-USB can be
achieved in five different ways:
• The innovative Free-Flow automatic switching utility,
• The COMPUTER button on the top panel,
• Keyboard hotkey combinations,
• Mouse button combinations,
• The optional remote control selector.
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Introduction
PC2
COMPUTER
PC3
K/M
SPK USB1 USB2
PC4
More information
• Free-Flow Configuration
• Operation: Selecting a computer
MODE
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PC1
Issues when using Free-Flow
• The CCS4-USB unit must have a minimum of firmware version 1.50 installed
to operate with Free-Flow.
• Free-Flow does not run any special utilities on each computer and thus has
no way to instruct the computers to hide their mouse pointers when they
are deselected by the CCS4-USB unit. Therefore, the CCS4-USB ‘parks’ each
mouse pointer in the bottom right corner of the screen immediately before
changing the channel. In most cases this will cause no issues, however, it
may be noticeable in circumstances such as the following:
• If the task bar is set to auto hide and it is positioned either along the
bottom of the screen (as default) or along the right hand side, then the
task bar will automatically reappear when the mouse pointer is parked.
• When playing full screen video, the on-screen controls (play, pause, seek
etc.) will very likely be revealed when the mouse pointer is parked.
• The mouse will not flow across the screens while any mouse buttons are
pressed down - this prevents undesired behaviour when dragging windows
around or group-selecting items.
configur
The Adder Free-Flow represents true innovation in KVM switching. For the first
time, Free-Flow allows users to automatically switch between target computers
simply by moving the mouse pointer from screen to screen. What makes this
such a revolution is that you no longer need software to be installed on your
mission critical computers in order to do this. Adder Free-Flow resides on the
switch itself, sensing screen boundaries and instantaneously switching keyboard
and mouse to the defined target computer. Free-Flow can be configured for
almost any combination of screens using the included application which allows
you to declare the individual screen sizes and visually position each one relative
to the others.
welcome
What is Free-Flow?
Free-Flow consists of special code within the CCS4-USB unit plus an intuitive
graphical configuration application. First you inform the Free-Flow configuration
application how many screens you have, their pixel resolutions and how they are
physically arranged (e.g side-by-side, vertical stack, square formation, etc.). You
then download this information to the CCS4-USB unit and this is used during
operation to determine the precise moment to switch from one screen/system to
the next.
The beauty of Free-Flow is its simplicity of configuration and operation. Once
the initial configuration has taken place, all monitoring and switching is handled
within the CCS4-USB without need for extra connections or software utilities.
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www.adder.com
Emulated USB switching
The issues with interpreting the complex USB data streams and recreating (or
Emulating) the identity of attached USB devices were eventually solved, leading
to the creation of the Emulated USB switch.
A neat side effect of the technique used is that each computer can be fooled
into thinking that the USB device is permanently connected to it, even when
the device is switched to another computer. This means that the enumeration
process for the USB device takes place only once, during the first power
on. After that, a computer merely sees a dormant version of the USB device
whenever the device is actually connected to a different computer.
However, it remains a complex task to dynamically assume the identity of a USB
device, distribute it among the connected computers and maintain all of the
necessary signals, states and processes. Therefore, manufacturers have previously
relied upon a fixed keyboard and mouse profile that is declared to each
computer, regardless of the actual connected devices. This precluded the use of
any special keyboard or mouse features over and above the standard layouts.
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Enumerated USB switching
The earliest attempts to switch USB devices applied a relatively ‘hands off’
approach. Enumerated USB switches are the electronic equivalent of those old
mechanical KVM switches with a large knob on the front.
Enumerated switches are so called because a connected USB device will be
required to perform a full initiation (a process called Enumeration) every time it is
switched; just as if you had pulled out the plug and then reconnected it.
Enumerated switches simply pass all signals straight through between the USB
device and the computer, they do not attempt to interpret any data. For most
devices, this offers an advantage because the switch just leaves them to get on
with their jobs without any interference or any hit on performance. However, it
means that a USB keyboard or mouse cannot be used to control the switching
process - a quick and simple control method expected by most users. Reliability
of switching is also an issue that has plagued enumerated switches, especially
when used with certain USB devices and particular operating systems.
True Emulation
Mindful of the limitations associated with the
USB
USB
OTHER USB
DEVICE
previous USB switching techniques, we set about KEYBOARD MOUSE
creating a more effective and elegant solution.
After a great deal of research and development,
HOST
True Emulation is the result.
CONTROLLER
True Emulation allows the complete identity of
the keyboard and mouse to be copied and then
presented to all of the connected computers.
EMULATION
ENGINE
This means that any keyboard offering specialist
function keys or any mouse with extra features
will be fully supported at each computer. As with
the previous emulation method, the unselected
computers will continue to see the identities
USB
USB
USB
USB
HUB
HUB
HUB
HUB
of the keyboard and mouse, which means that
no enumeration is necessary when their link
becomes active once again. This not only helps
PC
PC
PC
PC
to speed up the rate of reconnection, but also
2
3
4
1
raises the reliability of switching because USB
links are at their most vulnerable during the
The emulated section of
enumeration process.
the switch is shown in
True Emulation relies upon a high speed circuit,
blue and handles only the
called an Emulation Engine, to fully emulate
keyboard and mouse. The
the USB device identities and also interpret
green enumerated section
keyboard and mouse data streams. The result is
full support for KVM switching control via hotkey of the switch handles other
presses or the third button/scroll wheel of a
USB devices and also uses
mouse.
the USB hubs to link with
True Emulation is not necessarily required by
the computers.
other USB devices, which is why you will also
find two enumerated circuits included (shown in
green within the block diagram) alongside the True Emulation feature (shown
in blue). This allows those other USB devices to operate at their highest speeds,
without any intervention. The enumerated circuits benefit greatly from the
USB Hubs that are jointly used with the True Emulation system. Because they
interface directly and permanently with each computer, they help to stabilise the
dormant links, making errors during enumeration much less likely.
The dual switching arrangement provides further flexibility because the True
Emulation and enumerated sections can be switched in unison or independently
of each other, as required. Thus, your various peripherals can operate with
different computers at the same time.
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True Emulation represents a significant breakthrough in sharing USB devices
between two or more computer systems. Until this point, the problem has been
how to create a USB switch that provides all of the following:
• Quick, transparent and reliable switching,
• Accurate representation of the connected USB keyboard and mouse,
• Switching control via the connected USB keyboard and/or mouse.
The difficulty in achieving all of the above requirements has been due to the
complexity of the USB standard. This has led to various problems that have
spawned a number of possible solutions.
welcome
What is True Emulation?
CCS4-USB features - top and rear
K/M
SPK USB1 USB2
MODE
www.adder.com
COMPUTER button
Press to change to the
next computer channel.
Indicators
The upper four indicators scroll across in sequence when the Free-Flow utility is engaged.
The lower four indicators (K/M, SPK, USB1, USB2) show which peripherals are switched
to the current computer channel OR (as you begin pressing the MODE button) the
peripherals that will be switched during the next press(es) of the COMPUTER button.
MODE button
Press to determine which peripherals
should be switched to another
computer channel (will occur when the
COMPUTER button is pressed.
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The seven segment numeric display indicates the computer channel that is currently active.
• Upgrades - used to update
the internal firmware when
necessary by connecting to a
computer.
4
INDOOR
USE
O N LY
3
2
1
5V
2.5A
OPTIONS
Power input
The power supply
connects here.
User console
Connect a USB
keyboard and mouse
plus optional speakers
to these connectors.
Computer channels
Each computer connects to one
of these four channels via a USB
B-type connector and an audio
3.5mm jack input.
User console
Connect up to two USB
devices to these connectors.
These ports are switched in
an enumerated manner (see
What is True Emulation?)
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Options port
This 10p10c port can separately
support the following functions:
• Remote control - allows a
standard Adder RC4 four
button remote control unit to
be used to switch channels
(see Optional RC4 remote
control for details).
configur
COMPUTER
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welcome
The CCS4-USB unit is housed within durable, metallic enclosure with all connectors situated at
the rear panel. The smart top panel features the control buttons and the operation indicators.
What’s in the box
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Power adapter (12.5W) and
country-specific power lead
CCS4-USB-USB unit
What you may additionally need
AD
DE
R
4
3
USB cable 2m (type A to B)
Part number: VSC24
Audio cable 2m (3.5mm stereo jacks)
Part number: VSC22
Standard 3m CAT5 patch lead
Part number: VSC23
RC4 remote control
plus standard 3m patch lead
Part number: RC4-8P8C
2
1
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Flash upgrade adaptor - requires
serial port and a CAT5 patch lead
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CD-ROM
Installation
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installation
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Before you begin connecting to the keyboard, mouse and source systems, it is
advisable to mount the CCS4-USB unit in place, either:
• On a horizontal surface using the supplied self adhesive feet, or
• Amongst the cabling at the rear of the desk.
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Please consider the following important points when planning the position of
the CCS4-USB unit:
• Situate the CCS4-USB unit close to the systems to which it will be connected
and near to a source of mains power.
• Thanks to the optional remote control, the CCS4-USB unit can be situated
out of sight within the cabling cradle of a desk or placed adjacent to the
connected systems.
• Consult the precautions listed within the Safety information section.
Mounting
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Locations
Connections
Connections do not need to be carried out in the order given within this guide,
however, where possible connect the power in as a final step
User console
4 Audio: Where required, connect the lead from
your speakers to the audio socket.
IN
installation
DO
US OR
ON E
LY
2.5
A
IN
DO
US OR
ON E
LY
2.5
A
OP
From USB keyboard and mouse
TIO
OP
TIO
NS
From speakers
NS
Computer systems
Each computer system is connected to the CCS4-USB unit using (up to) two cables.
3 USB devices: Where required, attach the leads from
your USB peripherals to the USB sockets labelled
USB1 and USB2.
From USB peripherals
1
To connect a computer system
1 Ensure that power is disconnected from the CCS4-USB unit and the system
to be connected.
2 Use a USB cable (type-A to type-B) to link a USB port
on the computer system to the USB port of the
2
required channel on the rear of the unit.
1
3 If required, use a stereo audio link cable (3.5mm
jacks at either end) to link the speaker port on
the computer system to the audio port of
the required channel on the rear of
the unit.
USB and audio
links to a system
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5V
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5V
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To connect peripherals to the user console
1 Position your peripheral devices in the vicinity of the unit such that their
cables will easily reach.
2 Keyboard and mouse: Attach the leads
from your USB keyboard and mouse to
the USB sockets specifically labelled with
keyboard and mouse symbols. The keyboard
and mouse will operate in any of the USB
sockets, however, True Emulation is not
available on sockets labelled USB1
or USB2.
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The ports that make up the user console are where you attach the peripherals
which will be shared between the computer systems. Ensure that power is
disconnected from the unit.
Power connection
Optional RC4 remote control
IN
5V
DO
US OR
ON E
LY
2.5
OP
TIO
installation
A
NS
AD
DE
4
R
3
2
1
2 Connect the IEC connector of the supplied country-specific power lead to
the socket of the power adapter.
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2 Connect the other end of the cable to the OPTIONS port on the rear panel of
the unit.
IN
5V
2.5
3 Connect the power lead to a nearby main supply socket.
Note: Both the unit and its power supply generate heat when in operation and
will become warm to the touch. Do not enclose them or place them in locations
where air cannot circulate to cool the equipment. Do not operate the equipment
in ambient temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Centigrade. Do not place the
products in contact with equipment whose surface temperature exceeds 40
degrees Centigrade.
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To connect the remote control
1 Connect either end of the supplied cable to the socket at the rear of the
RC4 remote control.
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To connect the power supply
1 Attach the output lead from the power
adapter to the 5V socket on the rear panel
of the unit.
The optional RC4 remote control unit (full part number: RC4-8P8C) can be used
to provide direct push button access to any channel from your desktop. The
RC4 remote control is supplied with a 3 metre cable that is used to link with the
OPTIONS port on the rear panel of the unit.
DO
US OR
ON E
LY
A
OP
TIO
NS
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The CCS4-USB unit is supplied with a 12.5W power adapter. There is no
on/off switch on the unit, so operation begins as soon as a power adapter is
connected.
Ensure that the chosen serial port is configured to the following:
• Baud rate: 1200
• Data bits: 8
• Stop bit: 1
• Parity:
None
Channel selection codes
•
•
•
•
IN
5V
2.5
DO
US OR
ON E
LY
A
OP
TIO
NS
Channel 1: Channel 2: Channel 3: Channel 4: ASCII
Character
Hex
Decimal
‘1’
‘2’
‘3’
‘4’
0x31
0x32
0x33
0x34
49
50
51
52
installation
To connect a computer remote control
1 Use either the supplied Flash Upgrade Adaptor plus a standard CAT5 patch
cable or alternatively a custom cable to link the OPTIONS port on the rear
panel of the CCS4-USB unit and a vacant serial port on the computer.
Serial port parameter settings
configur
The cable link from the computer needs to connect the transmit (TXD) line of
the computer to the receive (RXD) input of the CCS4-USB and also link the
ground terminals (GND) of the two devices. See Appendix 1 for details.
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Connecting a computer for remote control
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The OPTIONS port allows an external serial input, typically from a computer, to
control the selection of the various channels. You can use either the supplied
Flash Upgrade Adaptor plus a standard CAT5 patch cable (part number VSC23)
or alternatively construct a custom cable to link the CCS4-USB unit and the
computer. For pin-out details of the custom cable, see Appendix 1.
Upon receipt of the correct code, the CCS4-USB will switch immediately to the
appropriate channel.
welcome
Switching control by computer
10
To use the configuration menu
During normal use, the seven segment display on the control panel shows the
number of the currently selected computer channel. From this condition, enter
configuration mode as follows:
1 Press and hold the control panel COMPUTER button for roughly five seconds.
The display will show:
Enter the Hotkey menu
Ctrl + Alt
Ctrl + Shift
Alt + Shift
Right Alt
Alt
Left Ctrl + Alt
Right Ctrl + Alt
Hotkeys disabled
Set a new password for use with the lock mode
2 On the keyboard, press the letter key for the required menu section, e.g.
The display will show the pressed letter, e.g.
3 Press the number of the required setting, e.g.
The display will show the pressed number, e.g.
to accept the setting and return to the main menu section.
4 Press
The display will show:
5 You can now continue with your next configuration change (go to step 2),
or exit from the configuration menu (see below).
To exit the configuration menu and save changes
• Press
and then press
to exit and save changes.
To exit the configuration menu without saving
• Press either of the front panel buttons. Enter the Switch Mode menu
All
KVM + Speaker
KVM only
Speaker only
USB1 only
USB2 only
Enter the User Preferences menu
Enable mouse switching
Disable mouse switching
Cycle all ports (when using ‘Hotkey + Tab’ or ‘Autoscan’)
Cycle only active ports (when using ‘Hotkey + Tab’ or ‘Autoscan’)
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installation
Enter the Functions menu
Show current firmware version
Reset configuration to factory defaults ( is displayed momentarily)
configur
The configuration mode allows you to determine numerous aspects of the
CCS4-USB unit capabilities.
You can press
at any point to exit
from an option and
return to the main
menu ( ) section.
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Using the �������������������
configuration menu
Set the OPTIONS port baud rate
1200
2400
9600
19200
38400
57600
115200
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Configuration
11
General configuration
You can enable or disable mouse switching to suit your installation requirements.
To enable/disable mouse switching
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
to enter the User Preferences menu and then press either:
to Enable mouse switching
to Disable mouse switching
to accept the setting and return to the main menu section.
3 Press
4 Press
and then
to exit the menu and save changes.
OPTIONS port speed
You can change the speed of the OPTIONS serial port.
To change the OPTIONS port speed
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
to enter the Hotkey menu and then press either:
to choose 38400
to choose 1200
to choose 57600
to choose 2400
to
choose
9600
to choose 115200
to
choose
19200
to accept the setting and return to the main menu section.
3 Press
and then
to exit the menu and save changes.
4 Press
. The display will show
momentarily.
4 Press
and then
to exit the menu and save changes.
To show the current firmware version
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
to enter the Functions menu
and then
.
3 Press
The display will blank for a short while and then the major number of the
firmware revision will be shown. The display will blank again and then show
the first digit of the minor number. Following another blank, the second
digit of the minor number will be displayed. e.g. <blank> 1 <blank> 0
<blank> 2 <blank> equals v1.02
4 Press
and then
to exit the menu and save changes.
To set a new password
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
and then
. The display will show
3 Enter a new password and then
4 Press
and then
. See To lock access to the computers.
to exit the menu and save changes.
installation
and then
configur
Mouse switching
3 Press
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To change the hotkeys
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
to enter the Hotkey menu and then press either:
to choose Alt
to choose Ctrl + Alt
to choose Left Ctrl + Alt
to
choose
Ctrl
+
Shift
to choose Right Ctrl + Alt
to choose Alt + Shift
to disable the Hotkeys
to
choose
Right
Alt
to accept the setting and return to the main menu section.
3 Press
and then
to exit the menu and save changes.
4 Press
To reset configuration to factory defaults
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
to enter the Functions menu
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CCS4-USB units use
and
as their standard hotkeys. These can be
changed if they clash with other software or hardware within the installation.
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Miscellaneous functions
Changing hotkeys
12
Free-Flow configuration
3 Double-click on each screen representation to set the screen resolution and,
optionally, to add a screen name. The screen resolutions are not critical but
they enable the CCS4-USB unit to accurately map the movement of the
mouse onto corresponding movements of the pointer across the screens.
The screen names, if used, are not downloaded to the CCS4-USB unit.
2 Arrange the coloured rectangular screen representations to mimic the
physical layout of the actual displays, for example:
1A 2A 3A 4A
1A 2A
3A 4A
1A
2A 3A 4A
The important thing is to define where each screen edge abuts to the next so
that the CCS-USB unit can determine the correct moments to switch channels.
Use the small black squares around the perimeter of each highlighted screen
representation to change their size or stretch them.
Note: The numbering of the screen representations relate directly to the four
channels on the CCS4-USB unit.
See next page for Optional Free-Flow operations and settings
configur
4 When the screen map is complete and accurately matches the true layout
of the display screens, click File and choose the Save option to store a copy
of the layout. The layout will be stored as a ‘Free-Flow Config file’ with the
extension: .ffc
5 Ensure that the optional upgrade cable is correctly installed - see ‘Installing
the Free-Flow configuration application’ left.
Click the Configure menu and choose the Connection... option to ensure
that the correct computer serial port is selected and that the Baud Rate
matches that of the CCS4-USB unit (1200 is the default speed).
6 To send the configuration, click the Send Layout to Switch option.
• If the download is successful, the upper four indicators on the CCS4USB unit will begin to scroll across (they will continue to do this while
Free-Flow mode is enabled).
• If the download is unsuccessful, a message dialog will explain that
it is ‘Unable to communicate with the device’. Check the upgrade
cable, check that the correct serial port is selected and check that the
connection speed shown within the utility matches the speed used on
the CCS4-USB unit.

Use the Free-Flow configuration application to declare the display screens and
their positions relative to each other. Then download the configuration to the
CCS4-USB unit.
1 On the icon bar, click the red, green, blue and yellow screen icons (or use the
Screens menu) to add the required number of display screens to the map area.
installation
Configuring the Free-Flow system


The Free-Flow configuration application is supplied on the enclosed CD-ROM
and is also available for download from the Adder website (www.adder.com).
1 Install the application onto any computer (not necessarily one of the four
computers linked to the CCS4-USB unit) that has a vacant serial port. Run
the installation application and follow the on-screen instructions.
2 Use the supplied Flash Upgrade Adaptor and a patch cable (VSC23 or any CAT5
patch cable) to link the computer serial port to the CCS4-USB OPTIONS port.
3 Start the configuration application.

Installing the Free-Flow configuration application
13
Optional Free-Flow operations and settings
Start-up Port
Located within Configure > Switch... menu item (see above image), this option
allows you to determine which port should be enabled whenever the CCS4-USB
unit is first powered on.
Switch Mode
Located within Configure > Switch... menu item (see above image), these
check boxes allow you to determine which peripherals should be switched
whenever the channel is changed by the Free-Flow method. The switching of
peripherals via the other methods of channels selection (e.g. the front panel,
hotkeys, mouse buttons, etc.) remain unaffected by these settings. By default,
the Keyboard/Mouse and Audio are selected.
installation
Enable (Disable) Free-Flow
This option allows you to switch off the Free-Flow feature within the CCS4-USB
unit. Located within Configure > Switch... menu item, untick the Enable FreeFlow checkbox and download the configuration the CCS4-USB unit to disable.
configur
Mouse acceleration
Mouse acceleration allows you to move the mouse pointer quickly across the
large areas of the screen in response to small but sharp shifts in the mouse
position. The Configure > Mouse... option provides settings between 0 and 50,
however, a value of 12 to 15 will give a typical Windows-like default operation.

Switch... settings


Mouse... setting

Downloading the existing layout from the CCS4-USB.
If the CCS4-USB unit has already been configured and you wish to alter it (and
you don’t have a saved .ffc config file), use the Configure > Receive Layout
from Switch option to retrieve the current configuration from the CCS4-USB.
14
Performing upgrades
configur
installation
To use the KVM Firmware Uploader utility
1 - Obtain and run the KVM Firmware Uploader.
Download the latest CCS4-USB unit KVM Firmware Uploader from the
Adder Technology website and install it on a Windows-based upgrade
computer that will be connected to the CCS4-USB unit. The files are
supplied as a compressed ZIP file. Decompress the ZIP file with an
appropriate tool such as WinZip (www.winzip.com) and copy all contained
files to the same folder on the upgrade computer.
2 - Power off the CCS4-USB unit
Remove the power supply plug from the rear panel of the unit.
3 - Connect the upgrade computer to the CCS4-USB unit
Connect the supplied Flash Upgrade Adaptor to the serial port of the
Windows-based computer and then link a patch cable (VSC23 or any
standard CAT5 patch cable) between the adaptor and the OPTIONS port on
the rear panel of the unit.
IN
5V
2.5
DO
US OR
ON E
LY
A
OP
TIO
NS

5 - Run the KVM Firmware Uploader utility
From that folder, select the KVMUploader icon to run the upgrade utility.
The KVM Firmware Uploader dialog will be displayed:
6 - Query the CCS4-USB unit
Click the Query Unit button to confirm that communication is possible with
the CCS4-USB unit and to establish its firmware details. If successful, the
‘Unit connected’ field should show the name of the CCS4-USB unit and the
current firmware will also be listed.
If the application cannot contact the CCS4-USB unit, re-check the
connection cable and click the Advanced... button to check that the correct
serial port is being used. Change the serial port within the Advanced...
section, if necessary.
continued

Items required to perform an upgrade
• The supplied Flash Upgrade Adaptor plus an optional CAT5 patch cable
(either Adder part number VSC23 or any standard CAT5 patch cable).
• A Windows-based computer with an RS232 serial port.
• The latest version of the KVM Firmware Uploader and firmware files for the
CCS4-USB unit - available from the Technical Support > Updates section of
the Adder Technology website (www.adder.com).
4 - Invoke upgrade mode
While powering on or when already powered: Press and hold the
COMPUTER and MODE buttons (for up to ten seconds) until the numeric
indicator shows ‘ ’. 

The CCS4-USB unit is fully upgradeable via flash upgrade. Such upgrades require
a Windows-based computer system to be linked via the OPTIONS port.
There is no need to adjust the computer’s serial port
settings as the application will do this automatically.
15
8 - Commence the upgrade
To begin the upgrade process, click the Upload Now button. The progress
will be shown within the dialog. Should you decide not to continue with
the upload at any stage, click the Abort button; response to this is usually
immediate, however, during an erase command, the upload will not be
aborted until the erase is complete (this may take a few seconds).
9 - Cycle the power
Disconnect the power and remove the upgrade cable. When the power is
re-applied the CCS4-USB unit will operate using the new firmware.

installation
configur
Check also that
the ‘New firmware
version’ is greater
than the ‘Current
firmware version’.

Check that the
‘Intended Target
Units’ field
matches the ‘Unit
Connected’ field.
Issues to consider when performing flash upgrades
The upgrade program rewrites the internal firmware code. If the upgrade
process is interrupted then the unit will have invalid code and will not be able
to operate. It is therefore good practice to ensure that the upgrade process
is always fully completed. A partial or failed upgrade may be rectified by
performing another upgrade.
WARNING: Running faulty or partially upgraded code may have unpredictable
results and may damage your CCS4-USB unit or computing equipment.


7 - Select the upgrade file to be used
From the main KVM Firmware Uploader dialog, click the Browse... button
and select the upgrade file:
CCS4U_xxx.txt
where xxx is the firmware version.
The upgrade file details will be displayed within the dialog.
IMPORTANT: Check that the ‘Intended Target Units’ field matches the
‘Unit Connected’ field. If these fields do not match then you may have an
incorrect upgrade file, check with Adder Technology Ltd before proceeding.
Check also that the ‘New firmware version’ is greater than the ‘Current
firmware version’.
16
Operation
Selecting a computer
Use this button
to choose which
peripherals will
be switched
To select a computer using the Free-Flow utility
•
Simultaneously press and hold
and
, then press
K/M
SPK USB1 USB2
MODE
The K/M, SPK, USB1, and USB2 indicators show which
peripherals are switched to the current computer
channel OR (as you begin pressing the MODE button)
the peripherals that will be switched during the next
press(es) of the COMPUTER button.
1 Optional: If you need to selectively switch some of your peripherals, press
the MODE button repeatedly to change the switching mode:
K/M
SPK USB1 USB2
MODE
Will switch all peripherals together
MODE
Will switch keyboard, mouse and speakers
MODE
Will switch only the keyboard and mouse
MODE
Will switch only the speakers
MODE
Will switch only USB peripheral 1
Will switch only USB peripheral 2
Notes:
If an indicator flashes, it signifies that the respective peripheral is currently
switched to another computer channel.
The peripherals to be switched using the Free-Flow method are set
independently
2 Press the COMPUTER button repeatedly to select the required computer
channel.

Use this button to
choose the next
required computer
COMPUTER
Once configured, Free-Flow allows you to change channels merely by moving
the mouse to edge of one screen towards the next screen. As the mouse pointer
reaches the edge it will cause the channel to automatically change and will jump
to the next screen.
Notes:
Free-Flow cannot be enabled until a layout has been configured and
downloaded to the CCS4-USB unit - see Free-Flow configuration.
The mouse will not flow across the screens while any mouse buttons are pressed
down - this prevents undesired behaviour when dragging windows around or
group-selecting items.
You can determine which peripherals will be switched by Free-Flow
independently of those that would be switched with any other method. See
Switch Mode within the Switch... settings section.
You can continue to use any of the other channel switching methods while
Free-Flow is enabled.
The four upper indicators on the CCS4-USB display panel will scroll across every
few seconds to show that Free-Flow is enabled. See What is Free-Flow? for an
introduction to the utility or Free-Flow configuration for more details about
how to prepare it for operation.
You can temporarily disable (and re-enable) Free-Flow using hotkey presses:
The upper four indicators will
intermittently scroll across
whenever Free-Flow is enabled.
configur
Indicates the number
of the currently
selected computer

The control panel allows you to determine how the various peripherals are
switched to one or more computer channels.


There are five ways to switch the common peripherals to specific computer
channels:
• Using the innovative Free-Flow automatic switching utility Þ
• Using the control panel 
• Using hotkeys
• Using mouse button presses
• Using the optional RC4 remote control

To select a computer using the �control panel
17
and
, press the number key of the required
2 While still holding
channel address (or the TAB key), then release all of the keys.
Note: The numbers on your keyboard’s numeric keypad are not valid, use
only the numeral keys above the QWERTY section.
The ports (K/M, audio and/or USB) that are switched using this method
depend upon the switching mode that is currently set using the control
panel buttons.
The range of standard hotkey combinations are as follows:
Note: If your hotkeys have been changed, substitute them for
the examples given here.
and
Selects channel 1
Selects channel 2
Selects channel 3
Selects channel 4
Isolates the user console from all channels
in
Selects the next channel (see note )
What are hotkeys?
The
and
keys when pressed in combination are called ‘hotkeys’ and
they signal to the CCS4-USB unit that you wish to control it, rather than the
computer. However, if these particular hotkeys clash with another device
or program, you can change them to a different combination within the
Configuration menu.
and
1 Simultaneously press and hold
2 Press and release a command key:
to switch all peripherals
to switch only the keyboard and mouse
to switch only the speakers
to switch only USB1 and USB2
.
3 Press and release the required channel number (
above the QWERTY section).
to
using only the keys
4 Release
and
.
The appropriate peripherals will change to the chosen channel.
Note: Regardless of which peripherals were switched, the front panel
indicators will continue to show the switching mode that was last
determined using the front panel controls.
Disabling/Enabling Free-Flow
Once Free-Flow is in operation, you can temporarily disable (and re-enable) it:
• Simultaneously press and hold
and
, then press
Choosing which computers are accessed when using hot keys + tab
The computer channels that are visited when you use the hot keys + tab (or
mouse buttons) are determined by a setting within the Configuration menu:
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
and then press either:
to choose Cycle all ports, or
to choose Cycle only active ports
3 Press
to accept the setting and return to the main menu section.
4 Press
and then

(or other hotkeys, if altered).
configur
and

1 Simultaneously press and hold
Additional hotkey press combinations
In addition to the standard hotkey press combinations (shown left), you can also
add additional keypresses in order to determine which peripherals are switched:


Using hotkey combinations, you can quickly switch the keyboard and mouse,
speakers and USB peripherals to any computer channel.
There are two main ways to use hotkeys: Standard and Additional.
Standard hotkey press combinations
The standard hotkey press combinations allow you to change channels with the
minimum of keypresses:

To select a computer using hotkeys
to exit the menu and save changes.
18
To select a computer using the mouse buttons
to choose Cycle only active ports
to accept the setting and return to the main menu section.
3 Press
4 Press
and then
to exit the menu and save changes.

configur
2 Press
and then press either:
to choose Cycle all ports, or

Choosing which computers are accessed when using mouse buttons
The computer channels that are visited when you use the mouse buttons (or
hotkeys + tab) are determined by a setting within the Configuration menu:
1 Enter the Configuration menu.


To select a computer using the mouse buttons
1 Hold down the middle button (or scroll wheel) of the mouse.
2 Click the left mouse button to increment the channel number or click the
right mouse button to decrement the channel. When the correct channel is
reached, release the middle button.
When using this method of switching:
• The computer channels that are visited depend upon the configuration
menu setting (see note ).
• The ports (K/M, audio and/or USB) that are switched using this method
depend upon the switching mode that is currently set using the control
panel buttons.

Using the mouse buttons, you can quickly switch the keyboard and mouse,
speakers and/or USB peripherals to any computer channel.
Note: These procedures work only with three-button or IntelliMouse devices and
only if the ‘Mouse Switching’ option has been enabled.
19
To lock access to the computers
When privacy is required, you can lock access to the connected computers via
the unit.
To lock the unit
and
, press .
2 While still holding
The display will show (providing a valid password has been previously set).
You will not be able to access any computers until the password is correctly
entered.
To unlock the unit
• When prompted, enter the correct password and press
.
To set a new password
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
. The display will show
3 Enter a new password and then
.
The password is not case sensitive and can be any combination of key
strokes, including the function keys, but excluding the Num Lock, Caps Lock,
Scroll Lock and
keys. If your keyboard has special media keys, these also
cannot be used as part of the password.
to store it. Don’t worry if
When you have typed in your password, press
you type the password incorrectly, you can always re-enter configure mode
and set the password again.
4 Press
and then
to exit the menu and save changes.
To cancel the password
1 Enter the Configuration menu.
2 Press
3 Press
4 Press
and then
. The display will show
to remove the existing password.
and then

and then
to exit the menu and save changes.
If you forget the password
To clear an existing password: Connect the OPTIONS port of the unit to the serial
port of a computer and transmit the text clrpwd to the unit.


2 Press

(or other hotkeys, if altered).

and
configur
1 Simultaneously press and hold
20
Further information
• Fax
in the UK:
in the US:
01954 780081
+1 888 275 1117
• Phone
in the UK:
in the US:
01954 780044
+1 888 932 3337

• Email – [email protected]
configur
• Adder Technology website – www.adder.com
Check the Support section of our website for the latest solutions and driver
files.

If you are still experiencing problems after checking the list of solutions in the
Troubleshooting section then we provide a number of other solutions:

Getting assistance


This chapter contains a variety of information, including the following:
• Getting assistance - see right
• Appendix 1 – Cable pin-outs
• Safety information
• Warranty
• Radio frequency energy statements
21
Appendix 1 – Cable pin-outs
6
2
RXD
RXD
3
3
TXD
GND
2
5
GND
Serial remote control and flash upgrade cable (10p10c)
10p10c
connector
D-Type female
9 way
TXD
7
2
RXD
RXD
4
3
TXD
GND
3
5
GND
Note: You can also use the supplied Flash Upgrade Adaptor together with a
standard CAT5 patch cable (or 3m patch cable - part number VSC23) to form a
serial remote control/flash upgrade cable.

TXD
configur
D-Type female
9 way

8p8c
connector


Serial remote control and flash upgrade cable (8p8c)

The OPTIONS port uses a 10p10c socket which can accommodate both 10p10c
connectors as well as the much more common 8p8c connectors, which are used
on Ethernet leads and patch cables. The pin-outs are listed in this section for
both types of connector.
22


configur
Adder Technology Ltd warrants that this product shall be free from defects in
workmanship and materials for a period of two years from the date of original
purchase. If the product should fail to operate correctly in normal use during the
warranty period, Adder will replace or repair it free of charge. No liability can be
accepted for damage due to misuse or circumstances outside Adder’s control.
Also Adder will not be responsible for any loss, damage or injury arising directly
or indirectly from the use of this product. Adder’s total liability under the terms
of this warranty shall in all circumstances be limited to the replacement value
of this product. If any difficulty is experienced in the installation or use of this
product that you are unable to resolve, please contact your supplier.

• For use in dry, oil free indoor environments only.
• Not suitable for use in hazardous or explosive environments or next to highly
flammable materials.
• Warning – the power adapter contains live parts.
• No user serviceable parts are contained within the power adapter - do not
dismantle.
• Do not use the power adapter if the power adapter case becomes damaged,
cracked or broken or if you suspect that it is not operating properly.
• Replace the power adapter with a manufacturer approved type only.
• If you use a power extension cable, make sure the total ampere rating of the
devices plugged into the extension cable do not exceed the cable’s ampere
rating. Also, make sure that the total ampere rating of all the devices
plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the wall outlet’s ampere rating.
• Do not attempt to service the CCS4-USB unit, the power adapter or the
optional remote control yourself.
• The power adapter can get warm in operation – do not situate it in an
enclosed space without any ventilation.
• The CCS4-USB unit does not provide ground isolation and should not be
used for any applications that require ground isolation or galvanic isolation.
• When using the power adapter, use only with a grounded outlet. When
using a backup power supply (UPS), power the computers, the monitors and
the CCS4-USB from the same supply.
Warranty


Safety information
23
Emissions and Immunity
All interface cables used with this equipment must be shielded in order to
maintain compliance with radio frequency energy emission regulations and
ensure a suitably high level of immunity to electromagnetic disturbances.
Canadian Department of Communications RFI statement
This equipment does not exceed the class A limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant
les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe A prescrites dans
le règlement sur le brouillage radioélectriques publié par le ministère des
Communications du Canada.


configur
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference to radio communication.
It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class A computing
device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of part 15 of FCC rules,
which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area may cause interference, in which case the user at
his own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary
to correct the interference. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by
the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a class A computing device in accordance with
the specifications in the European standard EN55022. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions may cause harmful interference to radio or television reception.
However, there is no guarantee that harmful interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment on
and off, the user is encouraged to correct the interference with one or more
of the following measures: (a) Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. (b)
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver. (c) Connect
the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected. (d) Consult the supplier or an experienced radio/TV technician for
help.
FCC Compliance Statement (United States)


European EMC directive 89/336/EEC
24


Adder Asia Pacific
6 New Industrial Road,
Hoe Huat Industrial Building
#07-01,
Singapore 536199
Tel: +65 6288 5767
Fax: +65 6284 1150
configur
Adder Corporation,
350R Merrimac Street,
Newburyport,
MA 01950,
United States of America
Tel: +1-888-932-3337
Fax: +1-888-275-1117


Adder Technology Limited,
Technology House,
Trafalgar Way, Bar Hill,
Cambridge, CB23 8SQ,
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1954 780044
Fax: +44 (0)1954 780081

© 2010 Adder Technology Limited
All trademarks are acknowledged
Release 2.0d
July 2010
Part No. MAN-CCS4-USB-ADDER
Documentation by:
www.ctxd.com
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