Silex Technology DS-700 USB3.0 Device Server Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

1.1 Product Overview

The Silex Technology DS-700 is a USB3.0 Device Server designed to enable network connectivity for USB devices. This device allows users to connect and share USB peripherals such as printers, scanners, external hard drives, and card readers over an Ethernet network. By centralizing USB devices, the DS-700 provides flexibility in device placement and allows multiple users to access the same USB device sequentially from different computers on the network.

1.2 Key Features

• USB 3.0 Connectivity: Supports high-speed data transfer for compatible USB 3.0 devices.
• Network Sharing: Enables USB devices to be shared and accessed by multiple computers over a standard Ethernet network.
• Versatile Device Support: Compatible with a wide range of USB devices including printers, scanners, storage devices, and more.
• Flexible Placement: Allows USB devices to be located anywhere on the network, independent of direct computer connection.
• Easy Configuration: Setup and management are facilitated through dedicated utility software and a web interface.

2. Package Contents

Please ensure all items are present in the package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your vendor or Silex Technology support.

• Silex Technology DS-700 USB3.0 Device Server Unit
• AC Power Adapter
• Ethernet Cable
• Quick Start Guide / Documentation

3. Device Layout

Familiarize yourself with the ports and indicators on the DS-700 device.

Image: Top-front view of the Silex Technology DS-700 USB3.0 Device Server, showing the Silex logo and the front-facing ports.

Image: Rear view of the Silex Technology DS-700 USB3.0 Device Server, highlighting the power button, USB 3.0 port (blue), USB 2.0 port (black), Ethernet port, and DC 12V power input.

3.1 Front Panel

• Power LED: Indicates power status.

3.2 Rear Panel

• Power Button: Used to turn the device on or off.
• USB 3.0 Port (Blue): Connect USB 3.0 compatible devices for high-speed data transfer.
• USB 2.0 Port (Black): Connect USB 2.0 compatible devices.
• Ethernet Port (RJ-45): Connects the device server to your network router or switch.
• DC 12V Power Input: Connect the provided AC power adapter here.

4. Setup

4.1 System Requirements

• Computer with an available Ethernet port or Wi-Fi connection.
• Operating System: Windows (specific versions may vary, refer to Silex Technology support website for latest compatibility).
• Network environment with a router or switch.
• Internet access for software download and updates.

4.2 Hardware Connection

1. Connect USB Devices: Plug your USB devices (e.g., printer, scanner, external HDD) into the USB 3.0 (blue) or USB 2.0 (black) ports on the rear of the DS-700.
2. Connect to Network: Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the DS-700 and the other end to an available port on your network router or switch.
3. Connect Power: Plug the AC power adapter into the DC 12V power input on the DS-700, then plug the adapter into a power outlet. The Power LED on the front panel should illuminate.

Image: A diagram illustrating the Silex DS-700 acting as a central hub, connecting multiple USB devices (MFP, Scanner, HDD, Camera) to two separate personal computers (PC) over a network.

4.3 Software Installation

To access and manage USB devices connected to the DS-700, you need to install the Silex Technology utility software on your computer.

1. Download Software: Visit the official Silex Technology support website (www.silextechnology.com/support) and download the latest version of the "Device Server Setup" utility and "SX Virtual Link" software for your operating system.
2. Install Software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Launch Utility: After installation, launch the "Device Server Setup" utility to discover and configure your DS-700 on the network.

Image: Screenshot of the Silex Device Server Setup utility interface, showing network device discovery and configuration options.

5. Operation

5.1 Connecting to USB Devices

Once the DS-700 is set up and the software is installed, you can connect to the USB devices.

1. Launch SX Virtual Link: Open the "SX Virtual Link" application on your computer.
2. Discover Devices: The application will display a list of available USB devices connected to the DS-700 on your network.
3. Connect: Select the desired USB device from the list and click the "Connect" button. The device will then appear as if it were directly connected to your computer.

Image: Screenshot of the SX Virtual Link software interface, displaying a list of detected USB devices and their connection status, along with a pop-up for requesting a USB device connection.

5.2 Sharing USB Devices

The DS-700 allows multiple users to access USB devices, but typically only one user can actively use a specific USB device at a time. When a device is in use by one computer, other computers will see its status as "In Use." To use the device, the current user must disconnect, making it available for others.

Image: A network diagram illustrating the Silex DS-700 connected to a printer, enabling the printer to be shared across two distinct networks (Network 1 and Network 2) with multiple client computers.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Silex Technology support website for firmware updates. Updating the firmware can improve performance, add features, or resolve issues. Follow the instructions provided with the firmware update carefully.
• Environmental Conditions: Ensure the device is operated within recommended temperature and humidity ranges. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your DS-700, refer to the following common solutions:

• Device Not Detected:
  • Ensure the DS-700 is powered on and the Power LED is illuminated.
  • Verify the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the DS-700 and your network router/switch.
  • Check your computer's network connection.
  • Confirm that the Silex utility software is correctly installed and running.
  • Temporarily disable any firewall or antivirus software to see if it's blocking communication.
• USB Device Not Functioning:
  • Ensure the USB device is properly connected to the DS-700.
  • Verify that the USB device is powered on (if it requires external power).
  • Check the SX Virtual Link software to ensure you are actively connected to the USB device.
  • Install the necessary drivers for the USB device on your computer.
  • Try connecting the USB device directly to your computer to confirm it functions correctly.
• Connection Drops:
  • Ensure your network connection is stable.
  • Check for any network interference or excessive network traffic.
  • Update the DS-700 firmware to the latest version.

For further assistance, please refer to the comprehensive troubleshooting guides and FAQs on the official Silex Technology support website: www.silextechnology.com/support.

8. Technical Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Silex Technology products are covered by a limited warranty. For detailed warranty information, registration, and to access technical support resources, please visit the official Silex Technology website.

Online Support: www.silextechnology.com/support

Here you can find drivers, firmware updates, FAQs, and contact information for technical assistance.