KVM switches

It doesn’t matter whether it’s a data center, industrial workplace or home office: If you use more than one computer, you don’t need the same number of peripheral devices. With a KVM switch, you can switch work sources in an instant. Learn all about KVM technology and how to get the most out of your workplace in this guide.

What is KVM?

The abbreviation KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, Mouse – and thus describes the interfaces for the input devices of a computer. However, the abbreviation should not be confused with an infrastructure of the Linux kernel, the kernel-based virtual machine.

KVM products can be used in different scenarios. For example, if you are interested in setting up a workplace according to ergonomic standards, an outsourced computer can not only provide more space at the desk, you can also prevent the waste heat from the computer from unnecessarily driving up the temperature at your workplace. We have compiled further information for an ergonomic workplace in this How-To.

You can also simplify the administration of your network by storing the computers in a central location. This also enables you to have a flexible workplace concept: With KVM switches, you can change the computer displayed on a screen at the touch of a button. Your employees are no longer tied to fixed workstations, but have access to their computer and the files stored on it from any location.

Classic KVM vs. KVM-over-IP: What’s the difference?

Once you have decided to use the system, the next step is to think about the implementation. You have the choice between a classic KVM matrix and a KVM-over-IP solution. With classic KVM, the computers are connected to the input and output devices via copper or fiber optic cables and a switch. In contrast to this, with KVM-over-IP the peripheral devices are connected via so-called remote clients with their own special software.

A classic KVM matrix can prove to be a more cost-effective alternative, especially in small networks. You have the option of using existing cabling. However, to ensure latency-free transmission, it makes sense to set up your own KVM network to which only the computers and peripherals are connected. So you have no transmission loss through Internet connections and can choose between different transmission rates of 1-10 Gbit/s through the standard cabling. In addition, the proprietary transmission increases data security, since you only transmit internal data within your KVM matrix.

However, if you want to be able to scale your system in the future, KVM-over-IP seems a logical next step. Installations with transmission rates of 100 Gbit/s are already not uncommon – and it is foreseeable that the transmission rates will increase in the future. But even if your network has lower bandwidth, you can aggregate multiple devices to lower the required rate. With KVM-over-IP you can embed KVM products in your existing infrastructure and maintain a uniform network technology.

Switch, Extender or Splitter

There are various connection options for a KVM matrix, regardless of whether it is classic or via IP. Which one is best for your system depends essentially on your individual requirements. In the following, the differences between switches, extenders and splitters will be briefly explained and it will also be shown which product is the right solution for which application.

Switches

Would you like to change the connected computer at the push of a button? Then you should use a switch. Depending on the product, you can change the displayed computer by pressing a button, a rotary switch or using hotkeys. An LED display on the switch shows you at any time which computer is currently connected. The switch ensures that all connected computers are continuously seen, so there is no data loss. The switch solution is of particular interest for ergonomic workplaces. Another possible application is the private desk at home if you have several PCs.

So-called matrix KVM switches even enable you to access the same computer from several workstations at the same time. This solution is of particular interest for large data centers or IT administration.

Extenders

Data losses and latencies can occur, especially when large transmission distances between computers, switches and products have to be covered in a KVM matrix. To avoid this, you should use KVM extenders. Traditional cables such as VGA, HDMI and DVI cables are particularly affected by bandwidth limitations. With a KVM extender, you can extend the transmission distance to up to 100m (HDMI, DVI) or 150m (VGA). To do this, the extenders, which are usually supplied in pairs, must be attached to both ends of the respective transmission cable.

Modern KVM switches now have built-in extenders. In order to ensure latency-free transmissions, you should definitely find out whether you need an additional extender before installing a switch.

Splinters

A KVM splitter is the exact opposite of a switch: it ensures that you can access the same computer from multiple workstations. This is particularly helpful if you want to establish a flexible workplace model. The activation of the corresponding computer works in a similar way to a switch at the push of a button. In addition, splitters can be combined with switches and extenders, giving you the opportunity to choose from different computers at one workstation.

In the industrial sector, splitters can be used to access a computer outside of a clean room in order to minimize the risk of contamination. The corresponding employees do not have to leave their workplace for this, but can dial in one after the other.

Conclusion

A KVM network offers a multitude of possibilities, whether in a private, commercial or industrial environment. Depending on what conditions already exist and how large you want to build your network, a classic matrix can be more cost-effective. However, in order to be able to scale them, a KVM-over-IP solution is advisable. With various KVM products such as switches, extenders or splitters, you have the option of tailoring your network to your individual requirements. You will find a wide selection of KVM products in the reichelt online shop.