FAQs KVM basics

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.

KVM products can be applied by everyone who uses computers.

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

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. 

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 KVM switches for DisplayPort, DVI and VGA, which allow a user to operate 2 - 64 computers.

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 (CPU) is connected to the computer's keyboard, video, and mouse interfaces, while the receiver (CON) is connected at the remote console. Both devices are connected with one or more cables.

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

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 (DisplayPort, DVI, VGA).
G&D offers analogue KVM matrix switches and digital KVM matrix switches.

Furthermore, matrix switches are divided into compact devices (defined package contents, e.g. ControlCenter-Compact) and modular sytems (e.g. ControlCenter-Digital).

With the ControlCenter-IP, G&D’s portfolio includes also a solution for KVM-over-IP-installations.

Many G&D devices let you connect two RJ 45 plugs on top of each other.

When plugging two RJ 45 plugs on top of each other please make sure to use tight strain relief boots to avoid mechanical collisions between the plugs.

The list below shows a selections of cables and plugs tested with G&D devices.

The example refers to cables with a length of 2m.

The same result applies for lengths of 1m, 1,5m, 3m, 5m, 7m, 10m ….

n.ok means that mechanical collisions occur when plugging two RJ 45 plugs on top of each other.

Manufacturer: Datwyler

Source: www.cabling.datwyler.com

Manufacturer: Telegärtner

Source: www.telegaertner.de

The results for cables from Rosenberger OSI are the same as for cables from Datwyler.

Mechanical collisions occur more often when using Cat.5e UTP and Cat5/5e cables with TM11 plugs since these cables have a thicker strain relief boot.

When using Cat.6/Cat.7 cables with TM21/TM31 plugs there are no mechanical collisions when plugging two plugs on top of each other.

If you have further questions regarding this topic, feel free to contact our Support.

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.

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.

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

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

These features are not only required from 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.

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.

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.