User guide

Chapter 1: Product Overview 5
The AMX switch
The AMX switch provides the framework for the AMX switching system and is available in a
variety of matrix sizes. Each AMX switch can be cascaded to create larger system configurations.
The AMX switch stores a full database of user rights and server names and communicates with the
AMWorks software through an IP (Internet Protocol) port.
The AMX user station
The AMX user station, the interface between the AMX switch and system users, stores local
(console) settings and provides connections for peripheral devices. The user station also provides
the OSCAR interface for target device selection and administration.
The AMX switch IQ modules
The IQ module is the primary interface between an attached device (KVM switch, serial device or
PS/2, Sun or USB server) and the
AMX switching system. If the switch loses power, the target
devices will continue to power the IQ modules. This Keep Alive functionality ensures continued
keyboard and mouse operability and prevents data loss. Available in three types, IQ modules also
provide keyboard emulation, DDC (Digital Data Channel), and
AMX switching system support.
• AMIQ module – a standard IQ module that connects a target device to the switching system.
AMIQ modules are available for PS/2, USB and Sun VGA or 13W3 interfaces.
• AMIQDM module –a two-port IQ module that enables one server to be shared between two
AMX switches, increasing the number of users that can be added to the switching system. The
AMIQDM module also enables the multimedia feature (audio and serial data communication)
when it is connected to a user station that supports this feature. AMIQDM modules are
available as PS/2, USB and Sun VGA interface modules.
• AMIQ-SRL (serial) module – a DCE (Data Communication Equipment) device that is the
primary interface between a serial device and the AMX switching system. It supports VT100
terminal emulation, break suppression and port history. See
Appendix B: Using AMIQ-SRL
Modules on page 77 for more information.
IQ modules are connected to the switching system with UTP cabling and eliminate the need for
additional cables or extra rack spaces. Each IQ module has a factory-assigned unique number that
identifies the attached target device within the system.
UTP cables
You may use any combination of CAT 5, CAT 5e and CAT 6 cables in the AMX switching system.
NOTE: Throughout this manual, UTP refers to any CAT cable used by the AMX switching system.