Data centers and tech offices generally need to connect a number of different computers to each other. However, this is not easily possible without additional equipment. In most cases, you will need equipment such as a KVM switch in order to make all the components work together. KVM stands for keyboard, video, and mouse, and the switch is generally used for controlling multiple controllers through a single interface. Without the help of a KVM switch, you will need to invest a considerable amount of money in order to buy different keyboards, monitors, and mice to control all the computers. However, a rackmount KVM switch allows you to power everything up from one console.
Uses
KVM switches have been around for years, and have been used in plenty of different computing applications. Today, KVM switches are widely used in numerous industries, including tech offices, data centers, music studios, corporations, and virtually any other place where more than two computers are required. The reason why the rackmount KVM switch is so popular is because it offers different methods for connecting to a computer. Rather than buying peripherals for every computer, all you need to do is buy a set of cables and hook them up with the KVM switch.
Features
Most conventional KVM switches generally offer simple connection capabilities. These switches are connected with special cables that combine the keyboard, video, and mouse cables together. Today, there are certain switches which come with DVI and HDMI support. However, the most common switch still supports VGA, which is the most popular method of video transmission today. The KVM switch is generally quite small, and the number of connections that it can support differs depending upon the type of switch.
Traditional switches can provide support for up to 64 computers that can be attached to a single device. However, with the daisy chaining methods, you can take this number up to 512 computers. Such computing power is generally required in data centers and tech organizations.
Buying a KVM Switch
Due to their highly specialized nature and specific demand, these switches aren’t sold in common places. Instead, in order to buy a rackmount KVM switch, you will likely have to contact an industrial computer manufacturer.
There are plenty of companies that sell industrial computer equipment such as rackmount switches, panels, fiber optic KVM extenders, management software, and other equipment. You will have to place an order beforehand depending upon the type of switches that you want, as well as the models currently available. These switches are usually manufactured by network equipment providers, so it is best to read a few reviews about the equipment provider before you place an order.