KVM


 

What is a KVM?

KVM is an acronym for keyboard, video (monitor) and mouse, and is otherwise called a PC switch or electronic switch. However, this is different from the conventional data switch. The main function of KVM is to control, switch and manage many PCs via a single keyboard, monitor and mouse. According to the basic PC function design, as the PC is starting up, the operating system will automatically detect the signals of the keyboard and mouse. After confirmation of connectivity, the screen then enters the start up page. As a result, a single PC (CPU/Server) naturally complements the start up operations of the keyboard and mouse. If you need to control multiple PCs, then you need to purchase several sets of keyboard, mouse and monitor. However, this is not the most effective way of management as not only is it space-consuming, but also costly, and keeping a row of large CRT monitors may be problematic. Thus, the KVM was "born" under the demands of saving space, costs and increasing management efficiency. When purchasing a KVM, the choice is often made based on the number of PCs that you need to control and requirement of USB, PS/2, and VGA, or DVI interface. Low port number KVMs are convenient to use, without the installation of extra software, and can be easily managed using hot keys or switch keys. Some of these low port number KVMs do not need an external power supply. Due to environmental needs, multiple ports, high-level KVM switches are designed to 1U or 2U in size and can be installed on the server rack. These KVM switches can use the Internet to manage power supply and control the start up or shut down of PCs.

KVMP is an acronym for keyboard, video (monitor), mouse, and peripheral. A KVMP enables USB interface computer systems to utilize external USB devices/peripherals. These USB devices/peripherals are accessed and shared across the computer systems connected to the KVMP; this also allows you to connect a USB hub for multiple peripheral sharing.


IOGEAR KVM Products:

GCS1902

GCS1902

  • Switch between two computers with the push of a button
  • Stunning 4K video resolution
  • Multiple switching options - via pushbutton, hotkey, or mouse
  • 2 x USB 3.0 built-in ports for peripheral sharing
  • Cost effective: Cables included, firmware upgradable
  • Plug-N-Play
GCS72MDPKIT

GCS72MDPKIT

  • Switch between two computers with the push of a button
  • Offers the flexibility to mix and match computer connections: VGA and DisplayPort
  • Includes 2 x DisplayPort to VGA adapters
  • No external power needed
  • Save Cabling Costs: All cables are included
GCS922U

GCS922U

Plug-N-Play - Share two computers using a keyboard, mouse and DVI monitor (1920x1200@60Hz). Cables included.
GCS1104

GCS1104

Plug-N-Play - Share four computers using a keyboard, mouse and DVI monitor (1920x1200). Cables included.
GCS632U

GCS632U

Introducing the two port MiniView™ Micro USB PLUS KVM switch from IOGEAR – the simplest way to simultaneously run and share audio among two computers with a single USB keyboard, monitor and USB mouse. This self-powered KVM switch features the unique USB mouse and keyboard emulation to ensure smooth operation, as well as support for Plug-n-Play monitors and most wheel mice.

Our patented VSE Video Signal Enhancement® technology provides rich, 32-bit color at resolutions up to 2048 x 1536. Another big plus is the MiniView's capability to provide audio support, it allows you to share your multimedia speakers among the two connected computers. This switch also offers multi-platform support; it is compatible with Windows* and Mac computers as well as Sun Solaris workstations. IOGEAR delivered a huge breakthrough in KVM operation to Mac and Sun users by enabling functionality for the special keys on these systems. When using a PC keyboard, a special set of hot keys are designed to emulate the special keys on Mac and Sun machines. With 6' long KVM cables molded into the MiniView Micro USB PLUS, all you need to do is to plug it into your computers and you've got a complete KVM solution from IOGEAR.

GCS22U

GCS22U

IOGEAR's 2-Port USB VGA Cable KVM allows users to share a VGA monitor, a USB mouse, and a USB keyboard between two computers. It is the ideal competitively priced - entry level KVM solution that allow users to multitask with ease.
GCS72U

GCS72U

The IOGEAR 2-Port USB Cable KVM allows users to share a VGA monitor, a USB mouse, a USB keyboard, a set of powered speakers and a mic between two computers. Users can switch between computers using a manual pushbutton switch located on a wired remote that can be placed on your desk for convenience.

The GCS72U offers an out-of-box solution with no additional cables, power supply, or software needed; it's simple plug & play. It supports multiple operating systems including Windows, Sun, and Mac. It is the ideal KVM for those who want a competitively priced, entry level KVM that will allow them to multitask with two computers at their convenience.

GCS24U

GCS24U

IOGEAR's 4-Port USB VGA Cable KVM allows users to share a VGA monitor, a USB mouse, and a USB keyboard between four computers. It is the ideal competitively priced - entry level KVM solution that allow users to multitask with ease.
GCS1744

GCS1744

IOGEAR's DualView GCS1744 USB KVMP Switch brings dual head video functionality to IOGEAR's USB KVM switch technology. Now four dual-display computers can be accessed and controlled from a single console that consists of a USB keyboard, USB mouse, and two VGA, SVGA, or Multisync monitors.
GCS62HU

GCS62HU

IOGEAR's GCS62HU 2-Port HD cable KVM switch with audio and HDMI connections combines advanced High Definition Video and USB 2.0 technology. It enables effortless control over 2 devices with HDMI video connections or computers using a single USB keyboard, a USB mouse and a monitor with HDMI connection or HDTV.
GCS1104

GCS1104

Plug-N-Play - Share four computers using a keyboard, mouse and DVI monitor (1920x1200). Cables included.
GCS1644

GCS1644

IOGEAR's GCS1644 4-Port Dual View DVI KVMP Switch marks a leap in KVM functionality by combining IOGEAR's DynaSync with the widescreen graphics resolution of today's 30+ inch monitors, supporting Dual View / Dual Link DVI, 2560 x 1600 (higher than 1080p HD). Four Dual-View / Dual-Link display computers can be accessed and controlled from a single console running dual-displays!

This unique KVMP can increase efficiency and save equipment cost for applications where high resolution, dual-display large or widescreen monitors are required:

  • CAD (Computer Aided Design) and CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing)
  • Desktop Publishing / Graphic Design / Video Editing
  • Medical / Surgical / Diagnostic Displays
  • And High-End Gaming, where high and ultra-high video resolution is demanded.
GCS1102

GCS1102

Plug-N-Play - Share two computers using a keyboard, mouse and DVI monitor (1920x1200). Cables included.

Need some help selecting the right KVM for you?

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