Black Box ServView 17" LCD Console Drawer with 1-Port CATx KVM Switch

The Black Box ServView 17" LCD Console Drawer is engineered for high-density IT environments where space, accessibility, and reliability matter. This compact console combines a full-function 17-inch LCD, a keyboard, and a 1-Port CATx KVM switch in a single, rack-mountable unit. With front-panel OSD controls, intuitive LED indicators, and a design that lets the keyboard and LCD slide independently, it delivers streamlined server management without sacrificing speed or comfort. Ideal for data centers, server rooms, labs, and enterprise IT closets, the ServView helps administrators access and control servers with minimal footprint and maximum efficiency.

• Front-panel on-screen display (OSD) control and LED indicators give you quick, precise adjustment of display image properties (brightness, contrast, color, and alignment) right at the rack, reducing the need to reach behind cabinets or power down systems for tweaks.
• Keyboard and LCD display slide in and out independently, enabling flexible access from any rack position. This means technicians can open the console for troubleshooting without moving or disturbing mounted equipment, improving uptime and workflow.
• Top-of-tray hideaway USB port supports USB HID devices, including wireless keyboards and mice. When not in use, it tucks away neatly, preserving rack space and maintaining a clean, organized work area.
• Integrated 1-Port CATx KVM switch allows quick switching between connected servers or devices from a single console. This simplifies remote management, reduces cable clutter, and minimizes the need for multiple consoles.
• Rack-compatible design delivers a professional, space-efficient solution for centralized control of critical servers. The ServView combines ergonomic access with rugged construction, helping IT teams manage systems with confidence in busy data centers or lab environments.

Technical Details of Black Box ServView 17" LCD Console Drawer with 1-Port CATx KVM Switch

• Type: LCD console drawer with integrated 1-Port CATx KVM switch
• Front-panel features: OSD controls and LED indicators for display adjustment and status monitoring
• Independent slide mechanism: Keyboard and LCD panel extend separately for flexible access
• USB connectivity: Hideaway USB port on top of the keyboard/mouse tray supports USB HID devices
• KVM capabilities: 1-Port CATx KVM switch to control a single connected device or server
• Mounting: Designed for rack installations, providing a compact, space-saving solution for dense IT environments

How to install Black Box ServView 17" LCD Console Drawer

Preparing your rack and console for installation ensures a smooth, reliable setup. Begin by identifying a compatible 19-inch rack location with adequate clearance for the 17" display, keyboard, and slide-out tray. Use the included rails or mounting hardware supplied by Black Box to secure the console in the desired 1U or 2U position, depending on your rack configuration. Confirm that power availability matches the device’s requirements and that your network or CATx cabling route is unobstructed so you can connect quickly during the cabling phase.

Connect the KVM channel by running a CATx cable from the ServView’s KVM port to the target server or KVM switch in your cabinet. Ensure the cable path minimizes bending and is shielded where possible to reduce EMI and maintain signal integrity. Attach USB and other peripheral cables only after the console is securely mounted to prevent strain on connectors during the initial positioning.

Power up the unit and use the front-panel OSD to verify image settings. Through the front-panel controls, adjust brightness, contrast, and color temperature for optimal readability in your environment. If you’re using a wireless USB keyboard or mouse, connect them via the hideaway USB port on the top of the keyboard/mouse tray and confirm they pair correctly with the host as soon as you power on.

Test workflow by operating the connected server through the KVM switch. Use the OSD and status LEDs to confirm that the display is synchronized with the host’s output, and verify that all intended devices are accessible and controllable. Finally, route any remaining cables neatly along the back of the rack, label connections for future maintenance, and ensure the console tray can extend and retract smoothly without interference from adjacent equipment.

Regular maintenance involves periodic cleaning of the LCD screen bezel and keyboard area, inspecting cables for wear, and recalibrating the OSD when display conditions change due to lighting or ambient conditions. Keeping firmware or software controlling the KVM switch up to date may also help improve compatibility with newer servers and operating systems, ensuring long-term reliability of your rack infrastructure.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the ServView 17" LCD Console Drawer? The ServView is a compact, rack-mountable LCD console with an integrated keyboard and a 1-Port CATx KVM switch. It consolidates display, input, and server control into a single, space-saving unit designed for data centers, labs, and IT closets. Its front-panel OSD and independent slide-out functionality are tailored for efficient server management in tight spaces.
• Can I use wireless keyboards with this console? Yes. The top of the keyboard/mouse tray features a hideaway USB port intended for USB HID-supported wireless keyboards and mice, enabling a clean, cable-light setup while maintaining reliable control of connected servers.
• How many systems can I control with the built-in KVM switch? The described model provides a 1-Port CATx KVM switch, allowing control of a single connected host from the console. For management of multiple servers, you would typically pair this with a KVM switch that supports multiple ports or use a chained setup as per your infrastructure requirements.
• Is the console compatible with standard rack installations? Yes. The ServView is designed for rack mounting and fits standard 19-inch racks, making it a practical addition to most data centers or industrial IT environments. Always verify clearance and mounting hardware compatibility with your specific rack model.
• What maintenance or setup considerations should I keep in mind? Regularly inspect cables and connections for wear, keep the OSD firmware up to date if available, and calibrate display settings through the front-panel controls to preserve image quality. For ongoing reliability, ensure proper ventilation around the rack and avoid over-bending CATx cables during installation.