C2G 32568 UKV-048OSD_088OSD_0168OSD - Manual (Page 12)

UKV-048OSD/088OSD/0168OSD Rackmount KVM Switch User Manual Rev. 1.8 July 2004
1.3.2.3. PC Port
The PC port is where you connect your keyboard, video and mouse cable (or a 3-in-
1 combination cable).
1.3.2.4. Daisy Chain Port
The daisy-chain port is where you can daisy-chain to another switch for cascaded
application of multiple KVM Switch units.
1.4. KVM Switch Technology Overview
The KVM Switch is a hardware-based device that allows you to control multiple
computers/servers using only one Keyboard, Video and Mouse, hence the name of the
KVM Switch.
The distinction between a KVM switch solution and any other software/hardware
measures for the same control purpose is that: the KVM Switch exerts its control and
operation on the connected computers only by the shared keyboard, video and mouse. It is
more efficient and more versatile as being capable of control from BIOS level up to the GUI
applications.
Not only can a KVM switch save you
money by eliminating the needs for multiple sets of
keyboard, video and mouse, but also save you space from desktop, factory floor or office, and
finally it saves you precious time that used to be spent in moving around different desktops,
server rooms or even buildings. And the result is huge savings on many aspects plus a
productivity boost.
Since KVM Switch is a hardware device, it offers a transparency of control that will not
interfere with the way a computer can be operated by and interacts with its user. As
compared to other hardware/software solution for remote control, it takes an intrusive agent
that will interfere with certain aspect of the computer or, at best, functions as well but eat up a
considerable system resources or even large share of computing power, not to mention the
extra costs which can be really expensive sometimes as the Enterprise Management Software.
Therefore, the KVM Switch solution is better in this “transparent” sense for server/computer
remote control.
On the other hand, a KVM Switch also offers a complete and more flexile control than other
software/hardware solutions: a KVM Switch offers a total control from BIOS level such as
CMOS setting up to GUI application as well as and other maintenance routines.
So obvious is the advantage of using KVM switch in an environment that requires users to
control more than one computer. We can see the KVM Switch being deployed in many
diverse applications and locations, whether it is SOHO, corporate or factory
environment. And the professionals who use and come to appreciate the convenience and
elegance of the KVM Switch range from SOHO workers, graphic artists, and network
administrators to lab workers, floor supervisors and lab testing personnel, etc.
Page 12
Chapter 1 Features and Functions