Black Box
ActiveOverview
Black Box Corporation is an IT company providing digital infrastructure solutions, including network and system integration, managed services, and technology products. It serves sectors such as financial services, healthcare, retail, government, manufacturing, and transportation across the United States, Europe, India, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. The company operates in 75 locations across 35 countries and is known for its 24/7 technical support and catalog of network infrastructure products.
History
Founded in 1976 as Expandor Inc. by Eugene Yost and Richard Raub in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, it renamed to Black Box Corporation in 1982 and launched its Black Box Catalog. The company went public on NASDAQ (BBOX) in 1992, expanded internationally in the 1990s, and was acquired by AGC Networks in 2013, leading to delisting. It has since grown through acquisitions in APAC and MEA, established centers of excellence in India and Minnesota, and partnered with firms like Extreme Networks.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Network Infrastructure Products | Connectivity and cabling solutions | $50 - $5,000 |
| Keyboard/Video/Mouse (KVM) Switching | Remote access and control systems | $200 - $10,000 |
| Structured Cabling | Data center and premise wiring | $100 - $2,000 |
| Multimedia & AV Solutions | Video conferencing and display systems | $300 - $15,000 |
| Cybersecurity Products | Network security appliances | $500 - $20,000 |
| In-Building Wireless | Wireless infrastructure components | $150 - $3,000 |
Manufacturing
Black Box sources and private-labels its network infrastructure products from manufacturers worldwide, with no indication of in-house production facilities. Products are distributed through catalogs, websites, and resellers globally. Assembly or customization may occur through subsidiaries or partners in various regions.
Notable Products
- Black Box Catalog - Comprehensive print and online catalog featuring over 118,000 network infrastructure products with 24/7 support.
- iPath KVM Switches - Series of keyboard, video, and mouse switches for IT management and remote control.
- Industrial Ethernet Switches - Rugged networking devices for harsh environments in manufacturing and transportation.
- Fiber Optic Cabling - High-speed cabling solutions for data centers and enterprise networks.
- PoE Injectors and Switches - Power over Ethernet devices for IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points.
Reputation
Black Box is regarded by IT professionals for reliable 24/7 technical support and extensive product catalog covering niche networking needs. It holds a strong position among system integrators for global service delivery and partnerships with major vendors. Some users note higher pricing compared to direct manufacturers, but praise the comprehensive warranties and single-source convenience.