Operating instructions

CHAPTER 2 TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

Shared Processor

Shared Processor electronic KVM switches utilize one processor to communicate with all attached

computers, and so are generally less dependable than those with dedicated processors. Since computers

require constant contact with the connected keyboard and mouse, switches with shared processors may freeze

or go into an error mode. This can happen when a computer searches for its keyboard or mouse while the

switch processor is communicating with another connected computer, as illustrated in Figure 9. If the switch

is on another port, the searching computer cannot recognize the keyboard and mouse. The problem occurs

most frequently in larger installations where a shared processor attempts to keep up with all the computers

requiring attention.

Benefits:

• The sophisticated internal programming and advanced technology lessens (but does not eliminate) the

chance of the computer losing the keyboard and mouse.

• Some manufacturers still use this method because it is less expensive than current technology. In many

general applications, this method provides satisfactory results, especially if reliability is NOT critical.

• Most computers can boot-up simultaneously.

• There are several easy ways to select connected computers, depending on the KVM switch model you

install:

• Up/down buttons

• Rotary knob

• Autoscan

• RS232

• Infrared Remote

• Keyboard commands

• Direct selection buttons

• On Screen Display (OSD)

with mouse

Limitations:

• The demands of all the attached computers can cause the occasional system failure.

• Failure of one attached computer may cause failure of the KVM switch.

• Failure of the one shared processor will cause failure of the KVM switch.

Dedicated Processors

Dedicated Processor electronic KVM switches address the problem of system failure. To solve this problem,

some manufacturers (including NTI) dedicate a microprocessor to each attached computer for constant

keyboard and mouse emulation. This ensures that all attached computers can boot and maintain connections

100% of the time.

igure 9 - Shared Processors provide

keyboard and mouse information to

multiple computers, but can’t

exchange data with all attached

computers all the time.