NetDirector 16-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch - Virtual Media, 4 Remote +

Ideal Use Cases

The Eaton Tripp Lite series NetDirector B064-016-04-IPG is designed for centralized control of up to 16 computers or servers through a rack-mounted KVM over IP platform. Its 16 female RJ45 computer/server ports and Cat5/5e technology suit installations that need to reduce direct console connections at the rack. Five users can be supported simultaneously: one at the local console and four through remote access. Blade server support also makes the switch relevant to blade-based server environments. Its TAA compliance addresses GSA Schedule purchasing needs that require Federal Trade Agreements Act compliance.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines multiuser IP access with an on-site console in a single 1U unit. Both DVI and VGA console ports are included, allowing a DVI or VGA monitor to be used at the local position. Remote authentication support covers RADIUS, LDAP, LDAPS, and Active Directory. Dual power inputs provide a power-redundancy option, while virtual media lets connected computers access DVD/CD drives, flash drives, and other storage media when connected with a B055-001-USB-V2 SIU. That SIU is the specified requirement for virtual-media access and should be included in compatibility planning.

Installation and Integration

The metal chassis measures 17.06 inches wide, 16.27 inches deep, and 1.72 inches high, with a weight of 12.02 pounds. Rackmount hardware is included for 1U installation, and a set of foot pads is also supplied. The package contains a grounding wire, quick start guide, RJ45-to-DB9 adapter for dial-in modem functionality, and two C13-to-5-15P power cords. Power is accepted through an IEC-320-C14 receptacle; listed input current is 1A and input frequency is 50/60Hz. The server side provides 16 RJ45 female ports, and the listed PC/server connection types are DVI, USB, and VGA. PS/2 console or service connection requires the separately sold B015-000. For remote non-browser access, the Windows client requires Windows with DirectX 7.0 or higher. The Java client requires Sun's Java Runtime Environment version 6, Update 3 or higher. The product is listed as compatible with all major operating systems.

Performance Highlights

The listed network speed is 1000 Mbps, and the maximum supported video resolution is 1600 x 1200 at 60Hz. The switch supports IPv4, Link Local IPv6 Address, and IPv6 Stateless Auto configuration protocols. Operators can select servers through push buttons, hotkeys, the on-screen display, or the remote toolbar. Autoscan is included, with a user-definable duration from 1 to 255 seconds and a five-second default. The design supports one monitor and five concurrent users while providing access to as many as 16 connected systems.

What Makes It Different

Its feature set brings four access functions into one chassis: local DVI or VGA control, remote IP sessions, directory-based authentication, and conditional virtual-media access. Dual power inputs address redundancy, and simultaneous four-remote-plus-one-local operation avoids restricting the switch to one operator at a time. The fixed 16-port architecture does not include a daisy-chain port, so capacity planning should be based on the available 16 server ports. No firmware-upgrade port is listed. The black metal enclosure is RoHS and FCC compliant, CE marked, TAA compliant, and UL and cUL listed.

Final Assessment

The B064-016-04-IPG is a focused choice when the requirement calls for 16 Cat5 KVM ports, four simultaneous remote users, one local user, virtual-media capability, remote authentication, and dual power inputs in a 1U chassis. Its supported operating range is 32° to 104°F with 0 to 80 percent non-condensing relative humidity; storage temperature is 4° to 140°F. Deployment planning should account for the B055-001-USB-V2 SIU required for virtual media and the separately sold B015-000 required for the listed PS/2 connections. Within those requirements, the switch provides a clearly defined five-user remote and local management configuration.