User guide

Compaq Server Console Switch User Guide 1-1
COMPAQ CONFIDENTIAL
Writer: Amy L. Laffitte File Name: b-ch1 Introduction
Codename: Hoosier Part Number: 142555-003 Last Saved On: 8/21/02 3:04 PM
1
Introduction
Product Overview
The Compaq Server Console Switch enables the user to control large computer
networks using a single keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM). With a single video
screen, the user can select as many as 64 computers running different operating
systems.
The 4-Port and 8-Port console switches use an On-Screen Display (OSD) interface,
which has menus for accessing each attached computer. Computers can be identified
by name or number, enabling the user to view and select server names.
NOTE: The 2-Port console switch uses a simplified OSD.
A typical Compaq Server Console Switch, also known as a KVM configuration,
consists of the console, the switch unit, and the attached computers. The user can
choose from a single-user system, multiple user system, or a tiered system. Tiering
increases computer access from 4 to 8 computers to as many as 64 by adding
additional Server Console Switches to the primary console switch, allowing the user
to modify the system, as network system needs change.
Two 8-Port console switch units offer dual console capabilities, allowing console
switch configurations to be controlled from more than one location or by more than
one user.