Operating instructions

CHAPTER 1 SIMPLY PUT

Multiple Platform Control

Our Universal KVM switch allows one user to control up to 32 PC, Sun or Mac computers (or 152

computers with cascading) with just one keyboard, mouse and monitor. This switch allows for expansion of

the network that is not limited to a particular platform.

Using a multiple platform switch as the master in a cascaded application does have one limitation, in that

each slave unit is “uni-platform,” as seen in Figure 6. That is, slaves can only have computers of the same

platform connected to them and the cable between the slave and master unit must also support that platform.

(Additional benefits of Multiple Platform Control are discussed in the “Efficiency/ Flexibility” section

below.)

Multiple User Control

NTI’s line of KVM switches also includes two types of matrix KVM switches. Matrix KVM switches

support multiple users and multiple platforms. There is no costly installation of networking hardware and

software to allow for the multi-user feature. This feature lets the network administrator add control points

wherever needed, such as the manufacturing floor or another department area. Two or more users can then

simultaneously access the same computer to collaborate on solutions from different locations, although only

one user at a time should operate the accessed computer (other users should stop). All users see the same

application screen.

Matrix switches save up-front costs because the customer need only purchase the plug-in modules or cables

necessary to control their current network computers. They do not need to guess at future needs because

they can “grow” the KVM switch setup as needs grow by adding or changing the plug-in modules or adapter

cables necessary. NTI’s matrix switches can also be used as a multiple-platform master switch in a cascade

application.

The two types of matrix KVM switches that NTI offers are:

1) Modular Matrix KVM switches utilize plug-in modules for PC, Sun, USB and Mac computers and

standard cables. Modules can be added or changed as needed.

2) Universal Matrix KVM switches are a low-cost matrix switch solution which accesses PC, Sun or MAC

computers without the need for plug-in modules. Users can easily change platforms using adapter cables

instead of being locked into a specific platform.

(Additional benefits of Multiple Platform Control and Matrix switches are discussed in the

“Efficiency/Flexibility” section below.)

FFICIENCY AND FLEXIBILITY

Consolidated Control of Computers

A multiple user/multiple-platform KVM switch application lets the network administrator scan all servers on

the network, no matter what the platform. He or she can add or remove servers at will while the switch is

powered-on, without causing a disruption, or using expensive cabling. The administrator can spot-check the

operation of the network, troubleshoot, or make adjustments on any one of the servers from a single control

station, whether that control station is in the server closet and/or at the administrator’s desk.

Simultaneous Boot-Up

NTI uses a dedicated microprocessor for each keyboard/mouse, allowing administrators to boot all computers

attached to the KVM switch in one operation.