Operating instructions

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Simply Put ______________________________________________________________________________ 1

What is a KVM Switch? _________________________________________________________________________1

KVM Switches in a Network Environment __________________________________________________________2

Networks Utilizing a Windows Operating System ______________________________________________________________2

Networks Utilizing a UNIX Operating System_________________________________________________________________2

Benefits of Using a KVM Switch___________________________________________________________________3

Design Issues: What Makes a Good KVM Switch? ___________________________________________________4

Performance Concerns ___________________________________________________________________________________4

Flexibility _____________________________________________________________________________________________4

Security _______________________________________________________________________________________________5

Design Goals ___________________________________________________________________________________6

NTI’s KVM Switch Implementation _______________________________________________________________6

Reliability _____________________________________________________________________________________________6

Control of Costs ________________________________________________________________________________________ 6

Efficiency and Flexibility _________________________________________________________________________________8

Analyzing Your Needs __________________________________________________________________________11

Deciding Which KVM Switch Fits the Environment ___________________________________________________________11

Future Trends in KVM Switch Technology_________________________________________________________12

USB_________________________________________________________________________________________________12

IEEE 1394 (FireWire®) _________________________________________________________________________________12

Off-Site Remote _______________________________________________________________________________________12

Flat Panel Display ______________________________________________________________________________________13

Internet Keyboards _____________________________________________________________________________________13

DDC ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 13

Other NTI Features of Note _____________________________________________________________________13

Testing ______________________________________________________________________________________________13

Certification __________________________________________________________________________________________13

International __________________________________________________________________________________________13

Rackmount ___________________________________________________________________________________________13

Message Board ________________________________________________________________________________________ 14

NTI KVM Configurator _________________________________________________________________________________14

Technically Speaking_____________________________________________________________________ 15

Evolution of KVM Switching ____________________________________________________________________15

Mechanical KVM Switches ______________________________________________________________________________15

Electronic KVM Switches _______________________________________________________________________________15

Appendix A_____________________________________________________________________________ 28

Glossary _______________________________________________________________________________ 30