Interface adapters
Interface adapters allow the use of UTP CAT5e cable to connect console switches with traditional
KVM and serial interfaces. Figure 5 and Table 1 show and describe the interface adapters.
Figure 5. Types of interface adapters
Table 1. Functionality of interface adapters
Name How used VM support?
PS/2 Virtual Media Interface
Adapter
Connects KVM and virtual media device to server. Requires one
USB port on server for Virtual Media operation.
Yes
USB Virtual Media
Adapter
Connects KVM and virtual media device to servers without PS/2
mouse/keyboard ports.
Yes
USB Interface Adapter (not
shown)
Connects KVM components to servers without PS/2
mouse/keyboard ports.
No
PS/2 Interface Adapter Connects KVM signals to server. No
BladeSystem
Interface Adapter
Connects KVM signals to BladeSystem servers. Both p-Class and
c-Class server blade interface adapters are available.
No
KVM Serial Interface Adapter
Allows serial devices to be controlled and managed by KVM
management solutions.
No
Virtual media (VM) operation is supported only by the Virtual Media Interface adapter, which is easily
distinguishable from legacy non-VM adapters by the status LEDs on the RJ-45 module.
Each interface adapter has a unique, factory-assigned, electronic identification number (EID) used by
the switch to recognize and manage the attached device. The interface adapter also stores a user-
configured server name (up to 16 characters). If a server is to be relocated, HP recommends that the
interface adapter remain attached to (and move with) the server.
When a server is reconnected to an HP Console Switch through the server’s original interface
adapter, the server name and port connection will be seamlessly presented in the OSD of the new
switch. This feature makes cable reconfiguration virtually automatic and alleviates the need to update
port and server name information. The interface adapter also has a Keep Alive function that enables
users to disconnect the CAT5 cable without losing mouse and keyboard functionality. The Keep Alive
BladeSystem
Interface Adapter
KVM Serial Interface Adapter
USB Virtual Media
Interface Adapter
PS/2 Virtual Media
Interface Adapter
PS/2 Interface
Adapter