SKU: 23231325329

Black Box EC Series KVM Switch for PS/2 or USB Servers and PS/2 or USB Consoles - 16-Port

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Description

Black Box EC Series KVM Switch for PS/2 or USB Servers and PS/2 or USB Consoles - 16-PortThe Black Box EC Series 16 Port KVM switch is engineered to streamline server management in demanding environments such as data centers, IT rooms, and labs. This compact, 1U high unit lets you control up to 136 servers through a single console, dramatically reducing rack clutter and simplifying operations. With support for both PS 2 and USB servers and consoles, it accommodates a wide range of hardware generations, preserving existing investments

The Black Box EC Series 16-Port KVM switch is engineered to streamline server management in demanding environments such as data centers, IT rooms, and labs. This compact, 1U-high unit lets you control up to 136 servers through a single console, dramatically reducing rack clutter and simplifying operations. With support for both PS/2 and USB servers and consoles, it accommodates a wide range of hardware generations, preserving existing investments while enabling a smooth upgrade path. The EC Series is designed to be operating-system independent and transparent to applications, ensuring your critical software runs without compatibility hiccups during every switch. Whether you’re organizing a multi-rack deployment or preparing for future expansion, this KVM switch delivers reliability, flexibility, and efficiency in one robust package. In addition, features like autoscan, unique server naming, and keyboard setting memory help administrators manage large environments with speed and confidence.

  • Cascade up to 136 servers from a single console, enabling centralized, scalable management across extensive rack ecosystems and simplifying remote administration. This cascading capability reduces the need for multiple, standalone switches and lowers total cost of ownership while maintaining fast, reliable access to every machine.
  • 1U rack-mount design preserves valuable rack space and fits neatly into standard 19-inch racks, allowing you to deploy more servers per rack and freeing up space for storage, networking gear, or high-density compute modules.
  • Supports PS/2 and USB servers and PS/2 and USB consoles, delivering broad compatibility with both legacy hardware and modern peripherals. It also accommodates Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro for enhanced navigation during long administration sessions.
  • Operating system independent and transparent to all applications, meaning switch operations do not disrupt running workloads, drivers, or software behavior. This gives IT teams confidence during maintenance windows and reduces the risk of software compatibility issues.
  • Manual switching or autoscan modes provide flexible control, with the ability to assign unique names to each server and save keyboard settings for quick, repeatable logins across the entire server fleet.

Technical Details of Black Box EC Series KVM Switch for PS/2 or USB Servers and PS/2 or USB Consoles - 16-Port

  • Port configuration: 16-port KVM switch supporting PS/2 and USB connections for both servers and consoles, enabling mixed-interface deployments in a single unit.
  • Cascade capability: Up to 136 servers when linked with additional EC Series units, ideal for growing data centers and lab environments that require scalable management surfaces.
  • Form factor: 1U height designed for standard 19-inch racks, delivering a compact, space-efficient solution for crowded IT rooms.
  • Compatibility: Operating system independent and transparent to applications, ensuring seamless integration with diverse software stacks and minimizing disruption during switches.
  • Peripheral support: Includes support for Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro and saves keyboard settings to streamline repeated logins and administrative workflows.
  • Switching options: Offers manual switching and autoscan modes, giving administrators control over how and when servers are accessed.
  • Server naming and management: Ability to assign unique names to servers, simplifying navigation in environments with many hosts and accelerating routine tasks.

How to install Black Box EC Series KVM Switch

Installing the EC Series KVM switch is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. Follow these steps to set up a robust, scalable KVM environment from the start:

  • Prepare the rack: Identify a suitable 1U rack space and ensure adequate ventilation and cable management clearance around the unit to prevent heat buildup and interference.
  • Mount the switch: Secure the EC Series 16-Port KVM switch in the selected 1U rack space using the appropriate mounting hardware, ensuring it is level and firmly fastened.
  • Connect servers: Connect each server to the KVM switch using PS/2 or USB cables, aligning the keyboard, video, and mouse connections as required by your hardware setup. Maintain consistent cable routing to simplify future changes.
  • Connect consoles: Attach your keyboard, monitor, and mouse to the corresponding PS/2 or USB ports on the KVM switch, matching the connection type used by your servers to ensure uniform operation.
  • Configure naming and controls: Assign unique names to each connected server to improve navigation. Enable autoscan if you prefer automated cycling through servers and, where applicable, save keyboard settings for consistent logins.
  • Power and test: Apply power to the switch and servers. Perform a test switch sequence to verify that each server is reachable from the console, and confirm that autoscan and manual switching operate as expected.
  • Consider cascading: If expanding beyond 16 servers, connect additional EC Series units per the manufacturer’s guidance to build out your cascading topology while maintaining performance and control.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q: Does the Black Box EC Series KVM Switch support both PS/2 and USB servers and consoles?
    A: Yes. It is designed to work with PS/2 or USB servers and PS/2 or USB consoles, providing flexible compatibility across hardware generations.
  • Q: How many servers does the base 16-Port unit support, and how scalable is it?
    A: The base unit manages 16 servers, with cascading support enabling management of up to 136 servers when combined with additional EC Series switches, ideal for growing environments.
  • Q: Is this KVM switch OS-dependent?
    A: No. The EC Series is operating-system independent and transparent to applications, ensuring consistent behavior across different software environments.
  • Q: Can I save keyboard settings and assign server names?
    A: Yes. The unit can save keyboard settings and allow you to assign unique names to each server, simplifying repetitive logins and server identification.
  • Q: Does it support Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro?
    A: Yes. The EC Series supports Microsoft IntelliMouse Pro, enhancing navigation during administrative tasks.
  • Q: What are the primary installation considerations?
    A: Ensure adequate rack space (1U), proper cable management, and plan for cascading if you intend to grow beyond 16 servers. No software installation is required; configuration is performed via hardware controls and on-device settings.
Shipping Notes
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Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
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SKU: 23231325329

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4.8 ★★★★★
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so many hobbies so little time
Port Orchard, US
★★★★★ 4
Best for a large PC case, works on smaller towers with mods
This thing is solid! I strongly recommend setting your tower on it to get a feel for the orientation you want before attaching it to your desk or wall. I had to re-mount mine because I had it positioned too far back to be able to plug cables into the PC tower. When the ad says its for a large PC tower they are not joking. I would consider my PC case to be a fairly average size but the bottom clamp and side arms don't hold my case at all. Theres a z shaped bracket included to attach to the main support and let it contact the desk or wall surface behind it. I used this part to wedge between the bottom clamp snd my PC case to hold it in place. My mount is still very sturdy without that bracket in place. I cheated during install and stacked some books under it to bring it up to the height of the bottom of my desk, made easy work of it. I really want to give it 5 stars but unfortunately the fitment issue leaves me hanging, literally. Maybe I will update my rig and get a larger PC case down the road. What I love about this item is my tower used to be on my desktop. Now its tucked away neatly and I was able to separate my 2 monitors more. Feels like a whole new workspace with less clutter and more table space for projects. Good item.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2025
D
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Daria
Port Orchard, US
★★★★★ 5
Attractive design+color, slender profile, excellent functionality, budget price (8 outlet model)
Color: Black, Size: 8 Outlet, Style: Outlets Only, Color: Black, Size: 8 Outlet, Style: Outlets Only
This is exactly what I wanted. (It’s even better - slimmer, easier to handle cord, than the Belkin in this design style.) Perfect fit for the lower shelf of my night table. To charge my phone, iPad, Bluetooth headset, and the like (plug my lamp into it as well, for convenience-sake not surge protection). The 8 outlets are perfectly spaced/placed. I briefly considered the model with the USB cord plugs directly into the unit, but for me, at this point, for this purpose the extra price didn’t seem worth-it. My USB charging adapters aren’t that bulky, and with this design they can be plugged side-by-side. I do like the convenience of that design, with the USB plugs, and will likely get it in the future, and move this one to either my home-office, or dressing area. So, this “basic” one wouldn’t be wasted. And meanwhile it’s a great budget option that sacrifices none of the design, style, or function. It’s attractive, useful, well conceived/designed and executed. For well under $20. Nice color too. Would be perfect anyplace. Though I’d think this more basic model isn’t intended for multiple multimedia devises all in one - looked like they had more suitable models for if you wanted to say plug in your TV, your game console, your streaming and/or cable - do they still call it that? - box/devise, your speakers with or without subwoofer, along with your modem and WiFi-router all into one. Someone, who works with high end electronics and/or an electrician/engineer correct me if I’m wrong. But I’d get a model - of this same device if there’s one of suitable capacity - which that’s meant to handle such a load for my entertainment center. I think another reviewer talked about joules and capacity, I think it was for this model. Or at least this manufacturer. Though I don’t see it being convenient for travel - not sure about that question there, maybe more convenient than some other styles; certainly not anywhere that’s not 120V, and I doubt that at this level it’s sufficient protection for anywhere with radically irregular electrical/voltage supply, not just the occasional spike, like say - Malawi Africa for a random example out of personal experience, for something like that you’d actually have to spend money and get a proper UPC, not to mention bulky-bulky, but that’s not relevant here, for this, just this isn’t something like that. This is for use with stable electrical and voltage supply, should give perfectly adequate protection for the occasional spikes and surges such as those following a power outage, within the design specification.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 13, 2019
A
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A - Z
Fort Morgan, US
★★★★★ 5
Excellent value from a reliable & known brand
Color: Black, Size: 8 Outlet, Style: Outlets Only
I've always bought surge suppressors and the like from APC. They're very reliable and well-made. The equipment protection guarantees are great, too. This strip is not as sturdy as some other APC strips, but it is also less expensive. Perfect for basic home use (a TV, Xbox, etc). I'd get a higher up APC model if you're protecting a workstation computer or high end audio gear. But for basic stuff, this strip is a good value. I'd trust this far more than a lesser known brand.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 17, 2021
J
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Jay T.
Draper, US
★★★★★ 5
Works well in home office.
Color: Black, Size: 8 Outlet, Style: Outlets Only
Nice layout of outlets. Sturdy construction. Flat electrical plug. Works well in home office.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2025
R
Verified Purchase
Robert MacIntel
Whiting, US
★★★★★ 5
APC is a trusted brand - this guy is beautifully thought out!
Color: Black, Size: 8 Outlet, Style: Outlets Only
It's hard to get excited about a power strip- but when they designed this one, the engineers at APC hit it out of the park! I love how the 'wall warts' (those odd klunky AC/DC power adapters that so many devices come with nowadays) have their own spot on this unit, and do not block out the remaining plugs that regular AC power cords (3 prong grounded) require. This is VERY important! Most of the competition has you forfeiting one or more plug locations when a wall wart blocks you out! There are on/off status lights (green means OK) and and on/off SWITCH. For the modest and reasonable cost, you get great surge protection. I have used APC products for many years, particularly fond of their backup UPS power supplies. I plan to buy more of this model for my apartment. The quality is there, a nice heavy line cord to connect to the AC power, and better-than-average build quality. Slick!
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Reviewed in the United States on March 15, 2019

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