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How does a KVM switch work?

Tastatur, Video, Maus - Schalter

A KVM switch enables several computers to be controlled via one operating station.

The abbreviation stands for "Keyboard, Video, Mouse". It is therefore a distributor for connected peripheral devices, i.e. keyboard, mouse and monitor. A switch can be used to switch between the connected systems. In some cases, additional devices, such as USB hubs or speakers and microphones, can also be connected and used either alternately or simultaneously.

The peripheral devices used are connected directly to the KVM switch. The computers to be operated were originally mainly connected via VGA+2xPS/2 connections. Nowadays, this is mostly done using combinations of USB and DVI or HDMI. In some cases, proprietary cables, such as DB25 cables, are used, as these can create a faster and mechanically more stable connection.

There are various options for switching between the systems. For example, many KVM switches have an integrated switch using a physical button or touch control panel. This allows you to switch from one computer to another at the touch of a button. Another option is hotkeys, which are entered via the connected keyboard. The command to switch is executed by pressing the scroll key twice and another key that is assigned to the corresponding computer.

Applications of a KVM switch


With a KVM switch, several computers can be operated in a local architecture. Above all, this creates security for the integrated systems. In addition, software-independent control is realised.


Modern KVM switches emulate a permanent connection of keyboard, mouse and monitor for all connected systems. This makes the computers think that there is an uninterrupted connection. The device information can be saved separately on each system in this way. This prevents inconsistencies with the respective operating systems or drivers.

KVM switches can be used at smaller workstations or in larger networks. The technology enables remote administration, for example. KVM has a major advantage over software-based solutions for controlling different systems. Virtual Computing Network (VNC) or terminal servers function as processes in the running operating system of a computer. If there are problems or compatibility issues with the corresponding software, remote control is not possible. With a KVM switch, on the other hand, the systems can be used independently of the software used. They can also be booted remotely or changes can be made to the BIOS settings.

InLine offers an extensive range of
KVM switches and accessories

InLine® Cable KVM Switch, 2-port, Displayport 1.2, 4K, USB, Audio
This device is a 2-port DisplayPort USB cable KVM switch with two integrated USB/KVM and audio/micro combo cable sets and a QuickSwitch button for remote control via cable to quickly connect your computers.
You can access, control, boot and restart multiple multimedia computers with just one USB keyboard, mouse, monitor and speaker set with mic.

To quickly switch between two computers, use the QuickSwitch button or the switching software installed on the computers! On Windows and Mac platforms, it provides an innovative, user-friendly KVM switching software - a small Windows/Mac client application to support KVM switching operations such as selecting PCs and programming hotkey sequences, autoscanning, programming autoscan delay time, independent/simultaneous audio & PC switching, etc.

This DisplayPort USB cable KVM switch offers USB 2.0 interface technology for Plug&Play and hot-plugging.
In addition to a mouse or keyboard, other fast USB devices can also be connected to the two USB 2.0 ports. Users benefit from maximum flexibility and user-friendliness thanks to the compact design in a single device.
  • 2-way KVM USB DisplayPort switch with audio
  • 2 integrated cable sets 1.2m, with 1x DisplayPort plug, 1x USB plug, 2x 3.5mm audio plug
  • Switch with 1x DisplayPort socket, 2x USB 2.0 socket, 2x 3.5mm audio socket
  • Cable remote control with QuickSwitch button, 1.5m
  • 2 LEDs to indicate the active PC
  • Max. Resolution: 3840x2160 pixels @ 60Hz
  • DisplayPort 1.2 compatible
  • Power supply via USB, no external power supply unit required
  • Switching via quickswitch button or programmed hotkey sequences
  • Compatible for Windows and Mac
Please note:
The InLine KVM switches are designed for office and home office applications as well as for monitoring and controlling multiple computers from one workstation.
However, the KVM switches are not suitable for gaming accessories such as mouse and keyboards with programmable special keys, nor are gaming monitors with high frequencies from 120Hz supported.
The hotkey function for the keyboard only works on the designated console USB port; hotkey control is not possible when connected via the USB hub ports.
Item no.: 63613I

InLine® KVM Desktop Switch, 2-port, Dual Monitor, DP+HDMI, 4K, USB 3.0, Audio
InLine® KVM Desktop Switch, Dual Monitor, DP+HDMI, 4K, USB 3.0, Audio
The InLine KVM Desktop Switch was specially developed for the use of two monitors (1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort) on two multimedia computers. With the InLine KVM Desktop Switch you can completely control two PCs with only one USB keyboard, mouse and two monitors. This dual monitor HDMI/DP KVM switch supports resolutions of up to 3840x2160 (4K) at 60Hz for maximum comfort when adapting to your display needs.
With TTU emulation technology integrated into a new ASIC chip, the dual monitor HDMI/DP USB KVM switch is able to offer complete versatility in meeting the functional requirements of all types of modern keyboards and mice. It features 2-channel stereo sound for full sound functionality. Its advanced audio & microphone switching function also gives you an uninterrupted multimedia experience during KVM operation (e.g. you can listen to music from one PC while operating another). Multi-platform support for PC and Mac is also available.
  • 2-way KVM switch
  • Two computers on one console (consisting of 1x DisplayPort monitor, 1x HDMI monitor, 1x USB mouse and 1x USB keyboard)
  • Two additional USB 3.0 (USB 3.2 Gen 1) Type-A connectors for peripherals
  • Audio support for microphone and speakers
  • Maximum video resolution: 3840x2160 per monitor
Scope of delivery:
  • 1x InLine KVM Desktop Switch, Dual Monitor, DisplayPort + HDMI
  • 2x KVM cable set
  • 1x plug power supply DC 12V
  • 1x instruction manual
Please note:
The InLine KVM Switches are designed for office and home office applications as well as for monitoring and controlling multiple computers from one workstation. However, the KVM Switches are not suitable for gaming accessories such as mice and keyboards with programmable special keys, nor are gaming monitors with high frequencies of 120 Hz or more supported. The hot key function for the keyboard only works on the designated console USB port, connected via the USB hub ports, hot key control is not possible.

 

InLine® KVM Cable Set USB for 19" KVM Switch length 1.8m
This InLine® USB Cable Set, proprietary for the InLine® Rack 19’ Automatic KVM Switches part number 60664A, 60665A and 60666A, makes it easy to connect the communication ports of the KVM Data Switch to those of the PC/Server and helps, given their All-in-One design, to keep the wiring under the desk or in a Data Rack cabinet tidy. The colour coding of the connectors, as per the PC99 standard, ensures easy identification of the correct port to which to connect.
  • InLine® Proprietary USB KVM Cables Set
  • Side A connectors: 1x 15pin HD system connector
  • B side connectors: 1x USB Typ A male, 1x VGA Sub-D 15pin HD male
  • For use with InLine® Rack 19’ Automatic KVM Switches part number 60664A, 60665A and 60666A
  • Die-cast connectors
  • Connector colouring as per PC99 standard
  • Cable length 1.8m
Item no.: 60667D

InLine® Compact Desktop KVM Switch USB DVI 2 Port + Audio with Cables 1.2m
2-port USB/DVI/audio KVM switch with True Transparent, USB emulation and monitor data mirroring incl. 2 x 1.2m PC cable. This 2-port DVI/USB/audio KVM switch has innovative features that give you unrestricted access to multiple computers and allows you to connect additional USB devices/mass storage devices. All driver functions of the keyboard/mouse are fully retained, even though they are emulated (= remain permanently logged on to both computers). In addition, and this is almost unique, the ‘really connected’ display is permanently emulated on all connected computers (DDC emulation).

Features:
  • True Transparent USB (TTU) emulation = emulation with full driver support for keyboard/mouse.
  • TTU emulation gives you extremely high compatibility with all keyboards and mice (including gaming/CAD).
  • TTU emulation retains all the special functions of the PC's driver software.
  • Nevertheless, the keyboard/mouse remain permanently logged on to all computers and react immediately after switching.
  • The DDC emulation permanently supplies the DDC information to the computers (= up to 1920x1080 pixels to the display) and thus offers not only the best possible video quality, but also maximum compatibility with all operating systems and graphics cards.
  • Thanks to DDC emulation and TTU emulation, it is possible to boot at any time ‘independently’ of the switching position of the KVM switch - keyboard/mouse and display always function as if they were connected directly to the PC/notebook.
  • Can be switched at any time ‘independently of the computer status’ via hotkey (key combination on the keyboard) - without software installation.
  • Audio is also switched (can also be switched independently ‘via hotkey’)
  • 2 x USB 2.0 is also switched (in addition to keyboard/mouse) (can also be switched independently ‘via hotkey’)
  • The button on the KVM switch gives you direct access to the PC selection as an alternative to hotkey switching.
  • Adjustable hotkey release button ‘2 x scroll’ = default, also possible: Ctrl ‘right or left’, scroll, caps, Esc, F12, Num.
  • Suitable for all current operating systems (from Windows XP, Linux, Mac-OS, Sun-OS, etc.) and various platforms (PC, notebook, Mac, ...)
  • Low power consumption thanks to ASIC technology
  • Dimensions: 154 x 65.5 x 27 mm
  • Housing: plastic / colour: white / silver
  • Scope of delivery: German manual, English manual, AD-CP02A KVM switch, 2x 1.2 m long DVI-I/audio and USB PC cables
Please note:
The InLine KVM switches are designed for office and home office applications as well as for monitoring and controlling multiple computers from one workstation.
However, the KVM switches are not suitable for gaming accessories such as mice and keyboards with programmable special keys, nor are gaming monitors with high frequencies from 120Hz supported.
The hotkey function for the keyboard only works on the designated console USB port; hotkey control is not possible when connected via the USB hub ports.
Item no.: 61602C

KVM splitters and extenders


A KVM splitter has the opposite function to the switch. You can use it to access a system via several operating stations. This function can be useful if, for example, two or more workstations are to use one computer.

The KVM extender, on the other hand, is responsible for increasing the distance between the KVM switch and the connected computers. This enables loss-free transmission by means of amplification. The principle of a KVM extender is based on a transmitter and a receiver. A computer is connected to the transmitter and the control elements are connected to the receiver. The connection between the two devices is then established via a network cable, often a Cat.5 cable. Connections via fibre optics are also possible in some cases. This allows machines, bank terminals or monitoring systems to be operated, for example. Workstations where the computer should not be located directly at the desk are also a conceivable location.
Several extenders located at different points can be connected to a KVM switch. The InLine® range includes high-quality KVM switches and extenders as well as other devices for the reliable distribution of signals.
InLine® DVI USB KVM Extender over TP Cable with Audio up to 50m
The DVI USB KVM Extender DX050 with Audio extends your DVI display up to 50m away from your DVI source using Cat 5e cables. The use of Cat 5e cables provides a simple and reliable connection method that takes advantage of the wiring system in most modern office buildings. The DX050 incorporates UNICLASS's technology that allows the Audio KVM signal to be transmitted over Cat 5e cable. If the real EDID is required, it simply goes through the Cat 5e cable. With stereo audio support and include for popular widescreen formats (resolution up to 1920 x 1200), the DX050 provides crystal-clear image and sound quality in all installations where remote DVI displays are required. The DX050 is your ideal solution for use in any type of installation where you need to place the console as it is conveniently accessible, but to keep the system equipment to reside in a safe location-away from the dust and dirt of the factory floor, or the harsh environment influence of a construction site.
  • Long distance transmission-up to 50m
  • Uses Cat 5e cable to connect the local and remote units
  • Features UNICLASS EDID technology that allows transmission over Cat 5e cable
  • Superior video quality-up to 1920x1200 (40m), 1080p (40m), 1080i (50m)
  • Stereo Audio enabled
  • Supports widescreen formats
  • Support Hot plug Detect & IR Remote Control
  • USB Device Port
  • Extends the distance between DVI source and DVI display device
  • HDCP Compatible
  • USB Keyboard and USB Mouse Ports
  • Adjustable EQ compensation control
  • Content: 1x Local Extender unit (TX), 1x Remote Extender unit (RX), 1x USB to DC Jack cable, 1x Users Guide, 1x Power adapter (DC5V)
Item no.: 61640

InLine® HDMI USB KVM over IP Extender, 4K up to 100m
The InLine® 64601 4K over IP Extender comprises two distinct units, the Transmitter and Receiver unit respectively. It’s a LAN based extender and working in pairs to extend your HDMI video from local player to a remote display via an active LAN. To connect both units of transmitter and receiver, you can use either a direct CATx cable connection or through a Gigabit Ethernet Switch in between. With the feature of CATx cable, the image can be delivered up to 100m, while still keeping a satisfying image quality at the same time.

The supported resolution can be up to 2160p@60Hz with 7.1 audio channel. Applicable either over an exhibition room, working floors, demo room, control center, or other mission-critical scenarios.

With multiple receivers and transmitters even a Point-to-Point or Point-to-Multipoint and Videowall scenarios are possible to realize.

Features:
  • 4K Over 1 Gigabit Network with Ultra low 1 frame/Sec. latency
  • Up to HDMI 2.0 4K 2160p@60Hz 4:2:0 Video Input and HDCP2.2 is supported
  • Supports 7.1 ch Audio or more (LPCM/DTS/Dolby/Dolby ATMOS)
  • Hybrid Video output (Each Receiver can choose different video format independently)
  • HDMI Audio Extract to Analog audio output (2 channel LPCM audio only)
  • Max. Bit Rate control (10 Mbps ~ 800 Mbps)
  • Video Snap shot (Video Capture)
  • USB 2.0 pass-thru for IP KVM application
  • Webpage management
  • RS-232 Serial control command management
  • Https/Telnet command management
  • Automatic EDID configuration
  • Output video rotation
  • Output video partial enlargement and shift for videowall and irregular video wall application
  • 4-bit DIP switch for 16 stream channel selection
  • Small size / VESA mount
  • Rack-mount
Specification:

Transmitter:
  • TX/RX connector: 1x RJ45 Female
  • AV Tnterface: 1x HDMI Female (In), 1x HDMI Female (Out, Loopback)
  • USB Device: 1x USB Type B Female
  • IR: 1x 3.5mm Jack Female
  • RS232: 1x RJ12 Female
  • Dimension (LxWxH): 95x115x26mm
Receiver:
  • TX/RX connector: 1x RJ45 Female
  • AV Tnterface: HDMI Female (Out) x 1
  • USB Device: 4x USB Type A Female
  • IR: 1x 3.5mm Jack Female
  • RS232: 1x RJ12 Female
  • Dimension (LxWxH): 115x115x26mm
General:
  • Image Resolution: 3840 x 2160 @60Hz
  • Power Adapter: DC 5V
  • Operating Temperature: 0~40°C
  • Storage Temperature: -20~60°C
  • Humidty Limits: 0~90% RH, Non-condensing
Item no.: 64601