Belkin Secure KVMs and KMs allow users to utilize a single set of control devices and peripherals across multiple computer systems. Devices connecting to the KVM / KM do not communicate directly with each other; rather, they interface with the KVM / KM, which then handles the communication between them. The secure nature of the KVM / KM does require certain functionality blocked on keyboards, mice, and other control devices.
Blocked functionality includes:
- Keyboards with built-in USB hubs
- Keyboards with built-in CAC readers
- Keyboards with multimedia controls
- Mice with multi-function buttons
- Keyboards and mice requiring special drivers
- Trackball mice
Some keyboard and mouse functionality are disabled due to the functional nature it requires. Devices with two-way communication, such as USB hubs, are fully blocked by the KVM / KM due to NIAP regulation requirements not allowing this functionality. Other items are required to be blocked by default for security reasons but can be enabled through the Administrator Configuration Terminal.
IMPORTANT: Before allowing any device to connect to your KVM / KM it is recommended to check with your IT and Security groups to ensure it does not violate any security policies. Belkin KVM / KMs are built and shipped following strict NIAP guidelines, with functionality turned OFF by default from the factory.
Troubleshooting Tips
Try a different Keyboard or Mouse
If your keyboard is not working, try obtaining a standard, basic keyboard with no added lights or functionality. These are usually keyboards that come with the computer. Power down the KVM and connect the keyboard to the USB-A keyboard port located on the console section of the KVM and then power the KVM back ON. Look for a green light next to the port to indicate that the keyboard was recognized.
Mice can also be troubleshot in the same way. Locate a standard 2-button mouse and connect it to the USB-A Mouse port located on the console section of the KVM.
Try using the Belkin HID Filter
Some keyboards' internal hardware identifies itself to the KVM as a device required to be blocked by NIAP regulations. The Belkin HID Filter, F1DN-FLTR-HID-4, helps strip out unsupported hardware signals allowing only the basic keyboard/mouse control traffic to make it to the KVM. This adapter occupies a single USB-A connection but allows for up to 2 devices to connect.
NOTE: Older models of the HID filter contain security locks on the USB-A connector that lock it into the port it is plugged into. We recommend that if you are simply testing the filter that you connect the filter to a short USB-A extension cable, and then connect the extension cable to the KVM. This way you are not locked into using the HID filter with that KVM only.
Enable touch screen support
Belkin Secure KVMs and KMs can be used with most touch screen displays. The displays follow the same device guidelines that all keyboards and mice do, meaning that the KVM may reject them if they identify as a blocked device.
Touch screen support can be enabled in the Administrator Configuration Terminal. This must be done before trying to use the touch screen. If the touch screen is showing as rejected on the KVM USB-A port, try using the Belkin HID Filter. If that still does not work, it is possible that your touch screen display is utilizing hardware that is required to be blocked by the KVM.
Using Keyboards and Mice with the Belkin Copper and Fiber extenders
If you need to extend the keyboard and mouse control for your KVM, we highly recommend using a Belkin extender rather than a standard USB cable for any distances longer than 10 feet. When using the extenders there are some guidelines that must be followed for proper operation:
1. An HID filter must be used with a standard keyboard and mouse. The HID filter should be connected to the Mouse port of the extender, and the keyboard and mouse connected to the HID filter.
2. If using a Belkin F1DN008KBD KVM Remote Control with an integrated keyboard instead of a standard keyboard, the F1DN008KBD must be plugged directly into the KB port on the extender. If connected through the HID filter the remote control functionality will not work and the RGB backlights will not illuminate.
3. Both the Transmitter and Receiver units should have their power supplies connected to the extender and powered.
4. The proper connection and power-ON order should be used otherwise the KVM will not recognize the Keyboard and Mouse.
a. Connect the Keyboard and Mouse to the receiver unit.
b. Connect the CAT6 Cable between the receiver and transmitter units.
c. Connect the transmitter to the KVM.
d. Power ON the receiver and transmitter.
e. Power ON the KVM.
b. Connect the CAT6 Cable between the receiver and transmitter units.
c. Connect the transmitter to the KVM.
d. Power ON the receiver and transmitter.
e. Power ON the KVM.
Scroll Lock, Caps Lock, and Number Lock keys do not illuminate on the keyboard
This is standard behavior. These keys require two-way communication between the host computer and the keyboard to illuminate these indicators. The KVM is required to block all two-way communication.
Status lights have been integrated into the front of the KVM to indicate when one of these controls is active. Even though the keyboard does not illuminate, once pressed the KVM recognizes this and activates the control, sending the command to the host computer. This functionality is on a per-channel basis and will remain on when switching channels, but is reset when the KVM is power-cycled.
