Article: NOTECONS02: What to Know Before You Plug In

General
1

NOTECONS02: What to Know Before You Plug In

The NOTECONS02 is a USB crash cart adapter that allows you to connect a laptop to a headless server or computer system, giving you direct keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) access. It’s a powerful tool for IT professionals who need to troubleshoot, configure, or maintain systems without relying on remote access or a dedicated monitor and keyboard.

www.startech.com/NOTECONS02

But before you buy—or plug it in—there are a few things you should know to make sure it’s the right fit for your setup.

What can our NOTECONS02 do for you?

Before purchasing our crash cart, here are a few things to consider:

  • Are you connecting to a headless server or computer?
    This device is designed for setup or troubleshooting use with systems that don’t typically have their own monitor, keyboard, or mouse. It’s not intended as a replacement solution for long sessions or permanent remote desktop access. If you’re looking to share files or control more than one computer at once, consider our SVKMS2 for keyboard/mouse switching instead.

  • Does your target system have a VGA output?
    Our crash cart connects via VGA and USB. If your system only has HDMI or DisplayPort, you’ll need a compatible adapter (e.g., HD2VGAE2 or DP2VGA3).

  • Does your laptop (the console) have a USB-A port?
    If not, you’ll need a USB-C to USB-A adapter like USB31CAADP to connect the console side.

  • Is your laptop (the console) using a supported operating system?
    Although our device can view and control any OS, the host laptop (where the software is installed) must be running Windows, macOS or Linux; and will not work on Android or ARM-based systems. Please check compatibility before installing.

Setting Up Your NOTECONS02

Once you’ve confirmed the NOTECONS02 is right for your environment, follow these steps to get started with your setup:

1.) Connecting the Hardware

  • Plug the VGA and USB connectors into the target system (the one you want to control).
  • Connect the USB-A host cable to the console (your laptop).
  • Avoid using USB hubs or docking stations during setup → connect directly to the computer ports.

2.) Downloading the Software

  • Visit the product’s page and make sure to download the latest software version (available under the “Drivers & Downloads” tab).
  • Make sure to Extract the ZIP first, then navigate to the installer’s folder.
  • To start the process, please right-click the installer and select “Run as Administrator” to ensure proper software installation.

3.) Verifying Device Recognition

  • Once installed, launch the Crash Cart Adapter software.
  • The software should detect the NOTECONS02 and display the target system’s screen.
  • If you see “Please connect adapter” or the screen remains “Initializing,” for a long time, please double-check the USB connections and that the software version matches the latest one on our web site.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Even with the right setup, issues can arise. Here are some of the most common problems and how to resolve them:

1. No Video Signal

  • Ensure the VGA cable is securely connected.
  • If using an adapter (e.g., HDMI to VGA), confirm it supports active signal conversion.
  • Set the target system’s display to “Duplicate” or “Mirror” mode.
  • Ensure the resolution is no higher than 1920x1200 at 60Hz maximum.
  • Double-check the VGA output using a monitor if needed.

2. Mouse or Keyboard Not Working

  • Verify that the USB cable (on the same side as the VGA cable) is well connected to a functional USB port of the target system.
  • Double-check the USB ports using a standard keyboard if needed.
  • Reinstall the software and run it as administrator.
  • Ensure that the software was installed using the “Run as Administrator” method. If not, please reinstall.

3. Software Crashes or Won’t Launch

  • Ensure that the software was installed using the “Run as Administrator” method. If not, please reinstall.
  • On macOS, allow the app under Security & Privacy settings.
  • Install the latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.

4. Device Not Detected

  • Try a different USB port or cable if the device still isn’t recognized.
  • Make sure you have downloaded and installed the specific NOTECONS02 software for the NOTECONS02. Although they look similar, the software between our NOTECONS01 and NOTECONS02 versions are not cross-compatible.
  • If you had an old version installed before, please make sure to uninstall it first, restart the computer and then proceed to reinstalling the latest version (using the “Run as Administrator” method).

5. Mouse Jumps or Lags in BIOS or Windows

  • In BIOS: This is a known limitation in some pre-boot environments (e.g., Dell Lifecycle Controller). Use a direct USB mouse if precise control is needed in BIOS.
  • In Windows: Try disabling “Pointer Precision” and/or “Pointer speed/acceleration” on the Console laptop.
  • Ensure the target computer is using a supported resolution. Mismatched resolution can result in mouse movement not being properly represented within the control window.

All things said

The NOTECONS02 is a robust tool for IT professionals, but it’s important to understand its intended use and setup requirements. By following the guidance above, you can avoid common pitfalls and get the most out of your crash cart adapter.