General
Switch type	A/B gear selector switch, momentary toggle switch
Gear shifting	latched A/B position
Control	manual, RS-232, TCP/IP (Managed)
Locking	removable key lock
Connection type	RJ-45 (copper)
Network speed	up to Gigabit
Current supply	2 x 100–230 VAC, 50/60 Hz
Output voltage	12 VDC
Power consumption	100 mA (Standby), 374 mA (during switching)
Daisychain capability	up to 4080 ports or 255 chassis
Housing format	1U rack enclosure
Operation temperature	0 to 40 °C
Air humidity	Up to 95 %, non-condensing
Displays	LED for power supply (Status 1 and 2), Switch status LEDs (A/B), Network status LEDs (Management port ON, Command activity)
Connections	RJ-45 (A/B/C), Management port RJ-45 (10BASE-T), Control connector DB9 F (RS-232), Daisychain RJ-11 (gang in/gang out)
Switch	Rack address switch (8-position DIP), configuration switch (8-position DIP)

The BlackBox Pro Switching System 1U NBS, model NBS016MA, is a Network Backup Switch with 16 ports, designed for secure and reliable switching between primary and backup networks. It prevents productivity loss and network outages through A/B-gang switching, which continues signal transmission even during power failure. The latched A/B-position ensures the current connection remains active even if power supply is interrupted. Control is either manual via a toggle switch, electronic via a local RS-232 interface, or remotely for managed models via TCP/IP. A key lock secures the gang switching against unintended changes. The device is housed in a compact 1U rack housing and allows easy installation in standard 19-inch racks. It features two redundant power supply inputs to enhance operational reliability.

Applications
This device is designed for critical network applications requiring high availability and rapid recovery after failures. It is used in IT infrastructures requiring redundant network paths, such as data centers, call centers, or industrial control systems. The daisy chain capability allows chaining up to 255 chassis, achieving a maximum capacity of 4080 ports. This makes the system suitable for large, distributed networks where centralized control and monitoring of switching operations are necessary.

Functions and Equipment in Detail
The NBS016MA is a copper model supporting RJ-45 connectors for 10/100/1000-Mbit/s networks. Signal transmission occurs via highly reliable telecommunication relays, ensuring data-, protocol-, and signal-transparent transmission. Switching occurs without affecting data rate, protocol, or signal level. The switch status LEDs indicate the current position (A or B) for each port, while the network status LEDs (available only on managed versions) show the status of the management port and command activity. An rack address switch and a configuration switch (each an 8-position DIP switch) allow individual device settings within a larger system.

Technology Explained Simply
The A/B-gang switching allows switching between two network paths, with the active path (A or B) set by a mechanical switch. The latched position ensures the switch remains in the last position even during power failure, preventing network interruption. The RS-232 interface (DB9-F) enables local control via a terminal or control device. For managed models, control can be performed via TCP/IP, enabling remote control over a network. The daisy chain function via RJ-11 connectors (gang in/gang out) allows connecting multiple devices, enabling centralized control of large network structures.

Compatibility and Accessories
The device is designed for networks with RJ-45 ports and supports speeds up to Gigabit level. It is part of the Pro Switching System 1U NBS family and can be combined with other models in this series (such as NBS008, NBSALL8, NBS004, NBS006) within a system. Daisy chaining enables expansion of network control. Power supply is via two redundant inputs with 100–230 VAC, 50/60 Hz, enhancing system reliability. The output voltage is 12 VDC with a current consumption of 100 mA in standby and 374 mA during switching.

Mounting and Installation
The device is housed in a 1U rack housing with dimensions 4.4 cm height, 43.8 cm width, and 26.7 cm depth. It is designed for installation in standard 19-inch racks. Installation involves securing the device in the rack, with power supply connected via two separate inputs. Network path connections (A/B/C), the management port (RJ-45), and the control connector (DB9-F) are located on the front panel of the device. The daisy chain connectors (RJ-11) are located on the rear.

Operational Advantages
The latched A/B-position ensures continuous network connection even during power failure. The redundant power supply increases system reliability. Remote control via TCP/IP enables centralized monitoring and control, especially in large networks. The daisy chain capability allows scaling system capacity up to 4080 ports. Transparent signal transmission ensures no data distortion or protocol conflicts occur. The key lock prevents unintended switching changes, which is important in safety-critical environments.

Operating Environment
The device is designed for indoor use. Operating temperature ranges from 0 to 40 °C, and humidity can reach up to 95 %, provided no condensation occurs. The operating environment is suitable for typical IT infrastructures, including data centers and server rooms.

Warranty
The device is supplied with a 1-year Double-Diamond warranty, representing the standard protection for BlackBox products.