A KVM switch connects one set of input and output devices to multiple computers, reducing clutter and cabling. It can manage as many computers as needed and can be switched using a button or hotkey. KVM switches are useful for networks with dedicated servers and can be networked for remote control. The Mac Mini increased consumer interest in KVM switches.
KVM stands for “keyboard, video, mouse”. A KVM switch connects a keyboard, mouse and video display to multiple computers. This allows users to control multiple computers with just one set of input and output devices. By sharing inputs and the display, you can reduce desktop clutter and cabling requirements. A KVM switch can also include other switching features, such as for USB and audio ports.
The most common and least expensive KVM switch allows access to two computers. However, switches can be created to manage as many computers as a user requires. To switch between computers, the KVM switch may have a button or knob on the device itself. More sophisticated switches will allow the user to switch computers using a keyboard shortcut, also known as a hotkey.
A typical use for a KVM switch is in networks with dedicated servers. In day-to-day use, a server needs no user interaction, making a dedicated monitor and keyboard an unnecessary waste of space, money and energy. In larger networks, where servers may be mounted horizontally in large racks, an entire array of servers can share a set of display and input devices via a KVM switch installed directly in the rack.
A recent development is networked KVM, which requires no physical connection between the keyboard and mouse other than a standard Ethernet network connection. This potentially allows a user to control hundreds or even thousands of computers from one access point. Wireless routers found in homes offer something similar: By embedding a web server into the router, it can be accessed from virtually any connection on the network without requiring physical access to the router.
For consumers, interest in the KVM switch was spurred by the release of Apple Computer’s Mac Mini. Aimed at Windows users, the Mac Mini came without a keyboard or mouse, allowing users a relatively inexpensive way to try out a Macintosh computer.
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