NetCommander 32-Port Cat5 KVM over IP Switch - 2 Remote + 1 Local User

The Eaton Tripp Lite series NetCommander B072-032-IP2-K is a 32-port Cat5 KVM over IP switch built for rack-mounted control of computers and servers. It supports three simultaneous users—two remote and one local—and allows connected systems to be controlled locally or through a network or the Internet. The steel enclosure occupies 1U of rack space and includes dual power inputs, an on-screen display and hotkey port selection.

Ideal Use Cases

This model is suited to rack environments that require access to as many as 32 computers or servers from one local console and two remote computers. Its simultaneous user support accommodates an on-site operator while two additional users connect remotely. TAA compliance also makes the switch suitable for GSA Schedule purchases where Federal Trade Agreements Act compliance is required.

Cat5e, Cat6 or Cat6a cabling connects the server interface units to the switch. This approach supports longer cable distances while reducing the cable clutter associated with conventional KVM installations. Cabling is supplied by the user.

Why Choose This Model

The B072-032-IP2-K combines 32 ports, IP remote access and three-user operation in a compact 1U design. Sixteen B078-101-USB-1 USB server interface dongles are included, allowing an initial group of USB-equipped computers or servers to be connected without purchasing those interface units separately. Every connected system requires a compatible server interface unit, so additional units are needed when deploying more than the 16 included dongles.

Users can select ports through keyboard hotkeys or the on-screen display. The local console supports a USB keyboard and mouse with a VGA monitor, while computer connections can accommodate USB or PS/2 keyboard and mouse interfaces and VGA video through the appropriate server interface unit.

Installation and Integration

The package includes the 32-port KVM switch, 16 B078-101-USB-1 USB server interface dongles, two C13-to-5-15P power cords, rack-mount hardware and a quick start guide. Its 17.28-inch width, 10.99-inch depth and 1.71-inch height fit a 1U rack installation. The unit weighs 7.68 pounds and uses IEC-320-C14 power input receptacles.

Each connected computer requires a B078-101-USB-1 or B078-101-USB2 USB server interface unit, or a B078-101-PS2 PS/2 interface unit. Connected computers require an HD15 VGA port and either USB or PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports. Computers equipped with DisplayPort or HDMI can be converted to VGA using the specified P134-06N-VGA-V2 or P131-06N adapters, although maximum resolution may vary when adapters are used.

The switch is compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems. Remote access is supported from Windows computers, and remote console computers require at least a Pentium 4 processor with 2 GB of memory. User-supplied Cat5e, Cat6 or Cat6a cables are required for system connections.

Performance Highlights

Local video resolution reaches 1920 x 1200 at 60 Hz, while remote video resolution reaches 1920 x 1080 at 60 Hz. The network interface operates at 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet speed, and USB 2.0 supports transfer rates up to 480 Mbps.

Virtual media operates at up to 12 Mbps when the B078-101-USB2 interface unit is used. The switch supports RADIUS and LDAPS authentication. Its operating range is 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, or 0 to 40 degrees Celsius, with relative humidity from 0 to 80 percent non-condensing.

What Makes It Different

The combination of 32 ports, two remote users, one local user and 16 included USB interface dongles distinguishes this configuration. Dual power inputs add redundancy, while the compact 1U format conserves rack space. A blue power LED provides visible operating status, and the cold-rolled, electrogalvanized steel construction supports rack-mounted deployment.

The unit is FCC Class A, RoHS and REACH compliant, CE Marked and TAA compliant. It supports multiple listed AC voltages and consumes 50 watts, with input frequency support at 50/60 Hz.

Final Assessment

The NetCommander B072-032-IP2-K provides a focused solution for controlling up to 32 VGA computers or servers through a local USB console and two remote users. Its included interface dongles, rack hardware, dual power inputs, 1U construction, local and remote high-resolution video support, and TAA compliance make it a well-equipped KVM over IP platform for compatible rack installations.