Tripp Lite
Tripp Lite B042-016 16-Port 1U Rack-Mount KVM Switch
Control 16 computers from one VGA monitor with USB or PS/2 keyboard and mouse, expandable to 256 systems via daisy-chaining
- TypeD-Sub, USB, PS/2
- Computer Connections16 Ports
- Video Resolution2048 x 1536
- PC SelectionPush Buttons/Hot Keys/OSD
- FeaturesConnect up to 128 computers by daisy-chaining up to 8 levels
- Dimensions16.1"W x 6.5"D x 1.8"H
- Control 16 computers from one console using USB or PS/2 peripherals
- Daisy-chain up to 8 switch levels to manage 128 systems total
- Expand further to 256 computers by linking 15 additional B040/42 units
- Supports video resolution up to 2048 x 1536 for sharp display output
- Fits standard 19-inch racks in a compact 1U 1.8-inch high form factor
Rack-Mount KVM for 16 Servers
The Tripp Lite B042-016 is a 1U KVM switch that lets administrators control sixteen computers from a single VGA monitor, USB or PS/2 keyboard, and mouse. It fits a standard 19-inch rack and includes an on-screen display for port naming and selection. Daisy-chaining supports up to 128 connected systems across eight levels of compatible B042-series switches.
Thermals and Power in a 1U Chassis
The unit draws power from an included multi-national AC adapter and operates without integrated fans, relying on passive airflow within the rack. Its 1.8-inch height leaves minimal clearance, so adjacent equipment should not block the top or bottom vents. Power consumption remains low during typical switching operations, producing no audible noise in a server-room environment.
Build Quality and Daily Connectivity
A metal chassis and front-panel push buttons provide durable physical port selection alongside hot-key and OSD methods. The rear panel uses HD15 video ports and combo USB/PS/2 connectors for each of the sixteen computer links. Separate P780-series cable kits are required to attach target machines, and a daisy-chain terminator is supplied for the last switch in a cascade.
Highlights
- Control 16 computers from one console using USB or PS/2 peripherals
- Daisy-chain up to 8 switch levels to manage 128 systems total
- Expand further to 256 computers by linking 15 additional B040/42 units
- Supports video resolution up to 2048 x 1536 for sharp display output
- Fits standard 19-inch racks in a compact 1U 1.8-inch high form factor
Specifications
| Brand | TRIPP LITE |
|---|---|
| Model | B042-016 |
| Type | D-Sub, USB, PS/2 |
| Computer Connections | 16 Ports |
| Video Resolution | 2048 x 1536 |
| PC Selection | Push Buttons/Hot Keys/OSD |
| Features | Connect up to 128 computers by daisy-chaining up to 8 levels of B042-Series KVM Switches Allows for easy customization of ports by daisy-chaing any combination of B042-Series KVM's Standard 19" Rackmount size On-Screen Display (OSD) menu for intuitive operation and easy control USB and PS/2 keyboard and mouse support on both console and PC/Server side Supports video resolution up to 2048 x 1536 ( QXGA ) Password protection and Auto-logout features Firmware upgradeable Robust metal case design ensures best EMI/RFI shielding and video quality Hot-swappable: disconnect and reconnect USB |
| Dimensions | 16.1"W x 6.5"D x 1.8"H |
| Weight | 6.55 |
| Package Contents | B042-016 KVM Switch AC Power Adapter ( Multi-National ) and rackmount hardware kit 8-in Daisy-Chain cable - HD15M/HD15F ( for longer daisy-chain cables, see Tripp Lite P781 series cables) Daisy Chain terminator - HD15M Owners manual CD and Quick start guide |
| Shipping weight | 2.98 kg |
| Package size | 434 × 292 × 71 mm |
Questions about this item
How do I install the B042-016 into a standard 19-inch rack, and what step is often missed?
Mount the 1U chassis using the included rackmount hardware kit, then connect the multi-national AC power adapter before linking any computers; the step often missed is powering the switch first so the on-screen display and hot-key detection initialise correctly.
Which cables or modules will need replacement if I change the connected computers from PS/2 to USB?
The P780-Series USB/PS2 combo KVM cable kits (sold separately) must be swapped for each port you convert; the daisy-chain cable and terminator remain unchanged.
At what point does video quality hit a hard limit during sustained operation?
The on-board video circuitry caps resolution at 2048 x 1536; pushing beyond that resolution or exceeding the 16-port single-tier limit forces daisy-chaining, which adds cable length and can degrade signal integrity first.
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