Your Belkin KVM / KM features security protections designed to detect and reject devices that do not comply with NIAP PP4.0 regulations. When connected, these devices will either function improperly or not at all. If a device is rejected, your KVM / KM will show a Red LED next to the device’s port.
Secure KVM Peripheral Device Connection Guidelines
Keyboards
Keyboards must have a standard, basic keyboard design with no extra functionality. Non-approved keyboards will have functionality issues, including missed keystrokes or no keystrokes registered at all. Items that will cause this include:
- Keyboards with multimedia controls
- Keyboards with built-in CAC card readers
- Keyboards with built-in USB hubs
Mice and Trackballs
NIAP regulations specify that mice must have a standard, basic mouse design with no extra functionality. Your SKVM/SKM is designed to work with pointing devices of this type and contains a basic mouse driver. If your mouse requires a driver outside the basic mouse driver provided by Windows, it may not function with the SKVM.
Monitors and Displays
Upon power-up, your SKVM searches for and attempts connection with all connected displays. The LED light next to the Console monitor connector will flash green during connection. If a monitor cannot be properly communicated with, the LED will turn OFF, and you will not have any display from this monitor. Common causes of this are:
- Cable runs that are too long (15 feet or longer)
- Poor quality cables
- Unsupported cable adapters
- Improperly installed cables
For proper display functionality, Belkin recommends the following:
- For longer cable runs, use a video extender rather than a cable.
- Use quality brand cables instead of generic no-name cables.
- Limit the use of adapters if possible. Belkin makes SKVMs that support the most common display types, helping reduce the need for adapters.
- If adapters are required, use an adapter marked as an “Active” adapter. Also, ensure that the connection goes in the correct direction.
- Use a cable designed to meet the exact specifications supported by your SKVM.
- Many displays try to use HDCP connections. NIAP regulations require HDCP signaling to be blocked due to the 2-way communication. Disabling HDCP on your displays and computers’ graphics software can improve compatibility.
CAC and other Authentication Devices
When connecting a non-qualified CAC reader to the CAC port on your SKVM, the LED next to the port will flash green and then turn OFF. Your CAC reader will not pass data through. If your CAC port shows a Red LED next to the CAC port, your authentication device is detected but rejected. You can allow this device through the Administrator Terminal.
USB Hubs and USB Storage Devices
NIAP regulations do not allow for the use of USB Hubs and USB storage devices with your SKVM/SKM. These devices are blocked by default with your SKVM/SKM and cannot be allowed through. Connecting one of these devices will show a red rejected light on the USB port it is connected to.
