Operating instructions

CHAPTER 1 SIMPLY PUT

igure 3 – Addition of KVM Switches to a Server-Based Networ

• A lab manager wants to be able to consolidate control of his lab computers and eliminate many keyboards,

monitors and mice where space is at a premium.

• A manufacturer wants to allow workers on the shop floor and loading dock to conveniently control

computers located in a server room, while protecting the computers from theft and harsh environmental

conditions.

• A business owner wants to be able to control all of his computers from anywhere in the office, but needs to

limit access to authorized personnel.

• A supervisor wants to be able to observe the desktops of employees to reduce downtime and prevent

activities such as unauthorized web-surfing.

KVM SWITCHES IN A NETWORK

ENVIRONMENT

A KVM switch is not a substitute for

networking computers, but rather can add

functionality to a network. A network utilizes a

combination of hardware and software to allow

attached computers to share files, printers, and

other resources. Computers attached to the

network are called workstations. Each computer

is independent, with shared privileges to the

printer and server. In the application illustrated

in Figure 2, any workstation can share files or

use the printer or servers.

The advantages of using a KVM switch in a

network environment depend to some degree on

the operating system being used.

NETWORKS UTILIZING A WINDOWS

OPERATING SYSTEM

Users on a network with a Windows operating

system can access files which reside on other

workstations in the network (as long as the

other workstations have been set up to allow

them access). However, they cannot run

programs that reside on the other workstations,

or see that workstation’s desktop on their

monitor. In the application illustrated in

Figure 3, KVM switches have been added that

would provide these capabilities.

ETWORKS UTILIZING A UNIX OPERATING

SYSTEM

A KVM Switch can benefit a user with

Xwindows-enabled workstations in the

following ways:

igure 2 – Diagram of a Server-Based

etwork Configuration