KVM Switch: Save time, Space and Cost Managing Multiple Servers with a Single Console

In the past, multiple computers needed multiple keyboards, monitors and mice for control and administration. However, with the advent of newer technologies, this is no longer necessary. A user can now control multiple computers with just one set of peripherals using a basic KVM Switch. Purely a hardware device, this unit can be connected via PS2 and VGA cables. Typically, you can connect from 2 to 32 computers, but by cascading these devices, an even greater number of computers can be controlled. Control of computers is accomplished with the help of push buttons on the device or through keyboard commands. As the technology expands more switches have become available. One version is the USB KVM Switch.

With this switch, it is possible to control up to 16 USB computers with just one set of USB peripherals. Available in 2, 4, 8 and 16-port versions, it can support resolutions up to 1920 x 1440 including native SUN resolution of 1152 x 900 at a bandwidth of 200MHz. Hot pluggable, the switches are so designed that it is not necessary to shut down computers while maintenance operations are being performed. It is also possible to monitor servers via 128 bit secure browser from anywhere in the world over IP. This is made possible with an IP KVM Switch. By providing a non-intrusive solution for remote access and control, it is ideal for any environment involving multiple computers where remote access is needed. This device is rack mountable in 1U of rack space and supports high resolution up to 1600 x 1200 locally and remotely.

Allowing for multi platform support, these switches are compatible with SUN, IBM, HP, Dell, Solaris, and Mac, and Windows Vista/2003/XP/2000, Netware, UNIX and Linux operating systems and have optional 12, 24 and 48 volt DC power. Its main benefit is providing cost effective remote server management. Due to the functionality and flexibility of the KVM Switch, it is recommended for use in all areas, from small home or office with few computers to large industry and commercial business with huge data centers. The military and government sectors also have need for the KVM Switch which is often used in command center applications and configurations.