KVM Switches and Cables is a hard ware device that allows you to control multiple computers via a single keyboard, monitor and mouse.

The first KVM switch was created as a testing tool for motherboard and production server quality tests, and only supported video and keyboard since the mouse hadn’t been invented at that time. And as computer technology continued to evolve, so did KVM switches which led to the development of a variety types for different systems and applications. Here are the four categories of KVM switches.

From a computer access and control perspective, the KVM switch can be categorized into two main types:

The single user KVM switch. This is usually an entry level KVM switch for small installations such as for SOHO or remote office. It allows a single person to access as many computers as they need to from a single console.
The multi-user KVM switch. This is used for larger installations and data centers that required several users to manage a number of computers or servers. The Paragon® II UMT1664 is a great example as it allows 16 users to access up 64 servers.

From an application and technology perspective, KVM switches can be divided into the following two types:

The analog KVM switch. Analog KVM switches are operated by having a direct cable connection. From the computer to the KVM Switch to the console. The cables can be Coax or Cat5 depending on the switch. For example, the EZ-108 uses coax cables to connect to servers and MCCAT18 uses Cat5 cables.
The digital KVM switch. Also known as a KVM over IP. These allow you to control your servers over any IP connection from any place at any time. This can be on the company LAN or from across the world. The computers still have to have a direct connection from the computer to the KVM Switch. But the user that is controlling the computers does not need to be directly connected to the KVM Switch.

Cackle Telecommunications is proud to provide KVM Switches and Cables to NZ businesses. Explore our selection to find the solution that’s right for you.