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Online we want to answer any questions you could have. Please check for your
questions below, if nothings seems to fit your need, please email
info@kvm-switches-online.com
and we will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also view our
KVM Switch Blog for answers to
other common questions. If
you have any questions about KVM Switches and the associated technology,
check out our
Frequently Asked Questions Section
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What is a KVM Switch?
A KVM Switch is a device that allows someone to use more than 1 computer
from only 1 keyboard, monitor and mouse. Anyone can literally manage all of
the computers in their office/server room from their desk without getting
up. The limits to what you can do with KVM Switches are few. You can manage
anywhere from 2 computers to thousands of servers using a KVM Switch.
What do I need to operate a KVM
Switch?
Different KVM Switches require different things. In most cases, all you will
need is the KVM Switch, enough cables to go to all of your computers, your
Keyboard, Monitor and Mouse, and the computers themselves. That is the basic
configuration and more advanced systems may require more components. If you
have any questions about a specific configuration, fill out this
form.
What is the best
KVM Switch for my configuration?
This question can not be answered in a paragraph. Each configuration can be
unique to what you are doing. If your questions are not answered on the
website we recommend that you fill out this
form.
Will I have to
install any software on my computers?
No. KVM Switches are a hardware-only solution to server management. They are
designed to not intrude on server performance thus are plug and play.
Why are
some KVM Switches so much cheaper than other ones?
As in all products, some have more options. Some switches offer USB sharing,
On Screen Display (OSD), audio support, port emulation, multi-platform
capability, built in conversion, come with cables, and have power supplies.
Whether or not you will need or want these features is up to you.
What is OSD?
OSD Stands for On Screen Display. This is a graphical representation of
which computers are connected to the KVM Switch and allows you to select
them without pushing the button on the KVM Switch or using Hot Key
Switching. If you have a multi-user switch, this can also show you who is
accessing which computer.
What is Hot Key Switching?
Hot key switching allows you to switch between computers without pushing the
buttons on the actual switch. It can be a combination of keys or hitting a
button a couple of times, each switch is different and the instructions are
in the manual.
Why are some of the cables
so expensive?
KVM cables are heavier than most computer cables; they are shielded and
allow for better transmission of the signal. Some manufacturers also decide
to use proprietary cabling for their switches. This allows them to eliminate
1 source of error when troubleshooting. Since all switches are different it
is hard to know how a generic KVM cable will work with every switch. When a
KVM Switch has a lot of ports it is also to use cables with special
connectors to eliminate a cabling nightmare on the KVM Switch.
What is a KVM Extender?
A KVM Extender allows you to send the Keyboard, Monitor, and Mouse signal
over a long distance using Cat5 or Fiber. This can be for a single computer
or can be connected to a KVM Switch to control multiple computers. The cable
can not be running over a network or through a hub, it must be connected
directly from the computer or KVM to your Keyboard, Monitor, and Mouse.
What is a Video Splitter?
A video splitter allows you to split a VGA signal and display it on multiple
monitors. Within this category there are some options as well. You can send
these signals over Cat5 or standard VGA Cables. You also have the option of
sending audio for multimedia applications.
What is Remote Reboot?
Remote Reboot allows to you reboot your servers from anywhere in the world
using the internet. You can do this using a simple web browser. For more
detailed information about this product
fill out this form with your requirements.
What is a USB
KVM Switch and whey are they different?
A USB KVM Switch is a KVM Switch that uses USB Peripherals instead of the
standard PS/2 keyboard and mouse. USB KVM Switches also allow you to share
USB Peripherals such as scanners, printers, etc. among the connected
computers. Since they are USB they are 100% plug and play and you don't have
to power down the computer to plug in the cables.
What is KVM Over IP?
KVM Over IP Technology allows you to access your servers from anywhere in
the world using the internet. There are a couple manufacturers that support
this type of technology and each has their benefit. For more information on
KVM Over IP Technology,
fill out this form with your configurations requirements
and a KVM Switches Online Technical Sales Representative will contact your
shortly.
What is port emulation?
Port emulation is important with KVM Switches. Port emulation makes sure
that the computer still thinks the mouse is connected directly to the
computer. Many people know that if you unplug the mouse while the computer
is running, the mouse stops to work. If you have a KVM Switch without
emulation the computer may think the mouse is unplugged.
Why do some computers
use different cables?
Different computers have different cabling connections. Due to this, the can
not use the same cable. The standard cable connection for computers is a
PS/2 Mouse, PS/2 Keyboard, and a HD15 VGA Monitor. SUN computers can have a
Mini-Din 8 Connection that works for their mouse and Keyboard or a USB plug
for both as well. They can also use HD15 VGA or also a 13W3 video
connection. Mac has specific cables as well. As you can see, it is important
to make sure you get the right cables to ensure proper operation of your KVM
Switch. If you have any questions email
sales@kvm-switches-online.com
Will my
wireless peripherals work with KVM Switches?
Unfortunately wireless peripherals do not work with KVM Switches right now.
Manufacturers have not been able to map the key sequences since there is not
a standard placed on wireless peripherals.
Can I use a 5 button
mouse on a KVM Switch?
KVM Manufacturers will only support up to a 3 button mouse.
Difference peripheral manufacturers do things differently and therefore they have not
created a standard to work with. It is possible your mouse will work but the
manufacturers nor KVM Switches Online can say that it will work. |
