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KVM Basics

Find answers to your questions by reading our FAQs.

Do you already know your way around KVM, or do you have any questions about one of our products? Then take a look at our Product FAQs or contact us - we will be pleased to advise you.

What is KVM?

What is KVM?

KVM is short for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse and refers to computer ports. KVM products are connected to these - and other - ports, from where they extend or switch computer signals.

Hence, KVM is the group designation of a technology, and not a special brand or company.

Who needs KVM?

Who needs KVM?

KVM products can be used by everyone who has a computer available.

KVM products are applied to...

  • avoid noise | remove computers from the studios of a broadcast station
  • save space | remove computers from the tower of air traffic control
  • protect computers from damages | remove computers from the training room into an access-protected room
  • create more ergonomic consoles | avoid wasted heat by removing computers
  • save peripherals | operate multiple computers over one monitor, keyboard, and mouse
  • facilitate administration | facilitate maintenance and administration by removing computers into a central server room
  • create flexible working concepts | users can access their computer(s) from different consoles
  • etc...

Is KVM the same as network?

Is KVM the same as network?

No. KVM products establish a direct connection between computer and console - and not a data connection.

This has the advantage that you can work directly at your computer and not only retrieve data from the computer connected to the KVM products.

KVM-over-IP is an exception. Here the computer signals are transmitted over network and are turned into video, keyboard, and mouse information at the receiver.

What's a KVM Switch?

What's a KVM Switch?

A KVM Switch connects many computers that can be operated over one console (monitor, keyboard, mouse).

Switching between computers is carried out over a button at the switch or via hotkey. Depending on size, KVM switches also provide an OSD to switch between computers.

G&D offers Switches for DVI and VGA, which allow a user to operate 2 - 64 computers.

What's a KVM Extender?

What's a KVM Extender?

A KVM Extender extends keyboard, video and mouse signals to operate a computer from a great distance.

An extender system consists of a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter is connected to the computer's keyboard, video, and mouse interfaces, while the transmitter is connected at the remote console. Both devices are connected with one or more cables.

G&D offers Extenders for DVI and VGA, which use CAT cables or fibre optics for transmitting signals. Signals such as audio, RS232, USB 1.1 or 2.0 can be transmitted as well.

What's a KVM Matrix Switch?

What's a KVM Matrix Switch?

A KVM matrix switch combines several extenders and switches in one device.

Numerous consoles have access to numerous computers - even over long distances.
The systems are mainly distinguished by the video signal.
G&D offers Matrix Switches for DVI and VGA.

Furthermore, matrix switches are divided into compact devices (defined package contents, e.g., CompactCenter) and modular sytems (e.g. DVICenter).

Do I need to prepare my computers for the application of KVM?

Do I need to prepare my computers for the application of KVM?

No. KVM products do not influence computers, but only use their external interfaces. If the computer provides the required interfaces, our devices can extend, switch, or distribute the computer signals.

Any installed software or operating system also remains unaffected by our solutions.

Can I install the products myself?

Can I install the products myself?

Generally, yes. Installing the devices requires no special knowledge, since the installation is limited to plugging cables.

Comprehensive installations should be carried out by your IT department/your external service provider.

Installing complex, combined applications require a profound knowledge of our products. That way, installing and configuring the devices also takes less time. Getting help from a trained G&D partner, your trained IT department, or our service team ensures fast and safe installation.

Is G&D the right supplier for me?

Is G&D the right supplier for me?

Choosing a supplier or devices depends on your requirements. We as a supplier combine high quality with best possible consulting and support.

Our products are often deployed in critical sectors such as air traffic control, process control, or control rooms. These sectors require devices that guarantee long-time stability, failure safety, reliability, usability, and availability.

These features are not only required from the individual products, but also from their interaction in complex installations - features that are reflected in the price of a product.

If you are looking for all of the above, you've come to the right place!

Feel free to get to know our Company.

Where and how can I buy G&D products?

Where and how can I buy G&D products?

As a major German manufacturer, we distribute our products directly or through qualified system houses and specialty retailers.

The choice is yours.

Please ask your local dealer or contact our sales team. Just tell us what you need and together we will find a technical solution for your requirements.

Information on how to contact G&D are given here.

Where can I get a price list of your products?

Where can I get a price list of your products?

Contact our sales staff.

We look forward to providing you with a quote for your tailored application.
Feel free to ask for our price list.

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Any questions?

Please send us an email or call us on:

+49 27 39  89 01 - 333

We look forward to your request.

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