Keyzone explains KVM
Three Reasons Why Hardware Beats Software for Remote Work
Remote work is here to stay but entirely software-based solutions present various issues that a hardware-based solution can avoid.
Remote work, whether fully WFH or as part of hybrid work models, is here to stay and that means lots of remote work software. Yet depending entirely on software-based solutions leaves you and your organisation vulnerable to threats that hardware-based solutions don’t face.
Since 2020, this vast change in work habits has driven the need for new technologies and solutions. Demand for video conferencing has grown, for example, and could continue growing. The global video conferencing market size was USD$3.02 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach USD$6.37 billion by 2026, according to Fortune Business Insight’s Video Conferencing Market Analysis.That’s a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8% during the forecast period.
Generally speaking, individuals and organisations have been turning to cloud-based software for hybrid and WFH solutions, and these can be helpful, but they also suffer from issues that a hardware-based solution doesn’t. In this article we’ll look at some areas where hardware beats software for hybrid and WFH work.
Challenges of Remote Work Software
The problems that remote work software present include risks to security and reliability. Below we’ll take a look at these problems in more detail and outline how a hardware-based remote solution can get ahead of them to keep employees and organisations on track from anywhere.
Security
In the wake of stay-at-home orders across various nations, many individuals and organisations turned to wholly software-based teleconference solutions and VPNs to bridge the communication and workflow gap.
System administrators who need secure access to servers from home require a different solution than just software. Single-port over IP KVM switches allow you to directly access HQ resources from home with over IP security. This hardware-based solution keeps your data and workflow secure from end to end, something a software solution cannot guarantee.
This hardware solution offers BIOS-level access, and there is no need to install extra computer software for it to run. This has the knock-on effect again of added security as there is less risk of your computer getting a virus or malware with said software. The hardware’s remote access path is separated from the operation network, so there is no data leakage concern, no backdoor, and thus no way for would-be hackers to break in.
With said KVM, system admins also have access to event logging that records all activity. This feature leaves a trail of user activity for admins to see, or triggers a system alarm that sends an email immediately in case of suspicious activity.
Likewise, the KVM over IP Switch integrates with Control Center Video Session Recording Software (CCVSR) for both live monitoring and operation trackback. With this, system admins can monitor multiple KVM ports in real time and track any abnormalities or emergencies.
Video meetings have become ever-present but they don’t need to be security or reliability risks for individuals and organisations.
Video meetings are everywhere these days, but what if you want to hold internal meetings that observe social distancing and keep your data secure? In this instance, a LAN-connected hardware solution can help. A Seamless Presentation Switch with Quad View Multistreaming does not pass meeting data through any third-party cloud servers. The Seamless Presentation Switch instead connects to your existing network to ensure corporate IT security. Thus, users simply log in with a randomly generated room code that is given only people to who are granted access to the meeting.
Like with an over IP KVM, using a LAN-based presentation switch means organizations are not wholly dependent on third-party servers and their bandwidth and security issues. The Seamless Presentation Switch with Quad View Multistreaming uses its own app and web GUI interface that does not bear the same usership burdens as the most commonly used video conferencing platforms.
Reliability
Relying completely on software-based solutions also leaves individuals and organizations at the mercy of that platform’s bandwidth and security limitations. However, the Single Port DVI KVM over IP has over IP functionality, which means you have a direct connection to your PC at your company no matter where you are. With built-in virtual media, this device also allows for remote file transfers, diagnostic testing, and OS and applications updates and patches.
In addition, this KVM is compatible with platforms including Windows, Mac OS, Sun, Linux, and VT100-based serial devices. Besides connection reliability, the Single Port DVI KVM over IP features dual LAN and dual power for power backup to keep your devices running in case of power failure.
With a presentation switch such as the Seamless Presentation Switch with Quad View Multistreaming, meeting attendants are not dependent on a third-party video conferencing platform. Whereas the latter uses large amounts of data and bandwidth, and unstable connectivity, a LAN-based meeting solution simply does not.
What is a KVM switch?
This device improves productivity, saves space, and money by allowing you to use multiple computers with one set of keyboard, monitor, and mouse. The exclusive feature offers IT administrators centralised real-time updating and maintenance.
You've just set up your new home office, or have begun work at a new company. As part of your job, you need to use two, sometimes three, computers at your work station. However, setting up three monitors, three keyboards, and three mice is making your desk far too crowded. Plus, there’s the additional hassle of moving around to use each computer. Or perhaps you’re working in a data center with servers in racks. You need to switch among hundreds, perhaps thousands, of servers in rack cabinets. How would you even accomplish this? What if there were a device that could allow you to quickly and easily access two, three, or more computers with just a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse? There is, and it’s called a KVM switch.
KVM 101
KVM stands for “Keyboard, Video (monitor), Mouse.” The main function of a KVM switch is to control, switch between, and manage multiple PCs or servers via a single keyboard, monitor and mouse (also referred to as the ‘console’).
At its most basic, a KVM switch is a hardware device, usually box-like, that connects one set of keyboard, monitor, and mouse to two or more PCs. The PCs are connected to the switch, and the switch is connected to the keyboard, monitor, and mouse.
Fig. 1 By using a KVM switch, a user can access multiple PCs through a single keyboard, video (monitor), and mouse setup.
To switch between the different computers or servers, a user can press a button on the KVM switch, press a hotkey on their keyboard, click on their mouse wheel, or use an on-screen display program. Regardless of which method one chooses, the idea is that you can quickly and easily switch between different computers while using the same keyboard, mouse, and monitor setup.
KVMs use hardware and firmware to ensure switching is smooth, and that your keyboard, monitor, and mouse will work with each computer right away.
The benefits of using a KVM switch
Usually if you need to control multiple PCs or servers then you need to purchase several sets of keyboard, mice, and monitors. Perhaps your desk is big enough for 2 or even 4 computers, each with its own monitor, keyboard, and mouse. But what if you need to control 6 computers, or 8, or even tens of computers? Or in a server room application, having a console for each server would be extremely impractical because of how much rack space it would take up. This is not the most effective setup since it is space-consuming. What’s more, keeping a row of large monitors with keyboards and mice at one desk or in a server rack can create clutter and take up valuable space. Thus the KVM switch was "born" from the demands of saving space, costs, and increasing efficiency.
Thus, the key benefits of employing a KVM switch are:
Multiple computer / server control: Users can have quick, easy access to 2, or even much more, PCs or servers from their keyboard, monitor, and mouse setup.
- Reducing clutter: Cutting down on the number of keyboards, monitors, and mice needed frees up desk space.
- Cost saving: Not needing to invest in extra computer equipment helps save you money.
- Space saving: Keep your desk clear, and save much-needed rack space in a server room.
- Peripheral support: Some KVM switches support USB peripherals, for example, eliminating the need for separate USB hubs.
As the cost of computers goes down, many users can afford a second or even multiple PCs. As a result, KVM switches are becoming popular with consumers who want to add an extra PC or 2 but don’t want to invest in more sets of keyboards, monitors, and mice. By adopting a desktop KVM switch, a user also gets a neater, more comfortable workspace. Whereas in a server room, KVMs allow for greater efficiency and manageability.
How exactly does a KVM switch work?
When a typical PC is starting up, the operating system will automatically try to detect the incoming signals from the keyboard, mouse, and monitor. After confirmation of connectivity, the monitor then displays the start up page. As a result, the start-up operations of a single PC (CPU/Server) are intricately involved with that of its keyboard, mouse, and monitor. A KVM allows for switching with the correct signals every time through the use of signal emulation technology. (signal emulation technology)
Since the main function of a KVM switch is to use only one set of keyboard, monitor and mouse to start multiple PCs, it is important that the KVM switch ensures the emulated keyboard and mouse signals reach each PC and that during switching there is no effect on the PC’s CPU operations.
A KVM switch must also provide stable video resolution, support multiple computer platforms and operating systems, and be able to interface with many different brands of keyboards, mice, and monitors. Each KVM switch can only support a maximum number of PC connections, i.e. the total number of ports. A single KVM switch can provide as few as two ports, while a multiple KVM switch installation with possible expansion capability reaching up to thousands of ports.
KVM switches: for desktops and server rooms
Different KVM switches can connect to different amounts of computers. It all depends on the number of ports a KVM switch has. Generally speaking though, KVM switches range from 2 to 64-port models, thus allowing for between 2 and 64 computers to be connected to a single KVM device, and in turn just one set of keyboard, monitor, and mouse.
For those KVM switches that support expansion capability, the more sets of ports a KVM switch has, the bigger the installation it usually goes in. For example, a 4-port KVM is ideal for a desktop, while an 8, 16, or up to 64-port KVM switch is best suited for a server room. In addition to keyboard, monitor, and mouse, audio and USB peripheral-sharing capabilities can also be built into KVM switches.
There are other kinds of KVM switches as well for various applications, such as:
- Over-IP KVMs for remote server management
- Matrix KVMs or over-IP KVMs for control room applications
- Multi-viewer KVMs for control centers and video editing
- Multi-display KVMs for financial, banking, trading desks
- Secure KVMs for government and military agencies
- Special KVMs for production lines
Conclusion
To sum up, a KVM is a device that allows one to quickly and easily switch between multiple PCs or servers from a single console (keyboard, monitor, mouse setup) for greater efficiency, management, and both cost and space saving.
- Home Office
- Small businesses
- Computer rooms and server rooms
- Data centres
- Control rooms
- Manufacturing facilities
The above might seem like a lot of information at first, so it’s more important to decide why you’re interested in a KVM switch: Do you want to use it in a home office, a small business, or even for gaming? Are you trying to improve on cost efficiency and space saving in a server room? Do you need to monitor a data center from anywhere, even from the other side of the world?
Fig. 2 Hotkeys, pushbuttons and OSD are three kinds of port selection methods used with KVM switches.
Hotkeys
Push buttons
OSD
How Virtual Production Studios are Embracing KVM over IP for a New Wave of Digital Filmmaking
The landscape of filmmaking is undergoing a dramatic transformation, propelled by the integration of the latest technologies in virtual production studios, like projection mapping, LED video walls, real-time rendering, and advances in 4K KVM over IP transmission. These developments are reshaping the art of storytelling, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in film production.
Hubs of Innovation
Virtual Production Studios stand at the forefront of filmmaking technology. They blend live action with 3D animation, CGI, and gaming engine platforms in real-time, creating immersive content in both studio and on-location settings. In these studios, a high level of multitasking is essential, combining live action with visual effects (VFX) in real-time. This requires a collaborative environment where directors, actors, and production teams interact seamlessly, supported by a system that is both responsive and adaptive.
A variety of technical capabilities are required:
- Flexible Connections: These studios are equipped with over IP video transmission systems, allowing for versatile and extensive connectivity options for multi-display setups and LED video walls.
- Advanced Workflows in 4K: 4K dual-display production and post-production capabilities are essential for multitasking workflows in real-time and refinement of the final content.
- KVM Control Integration: KVM over IP allows operators to manage multiple computers or servers across the studio using a single set of peripherals, streamlining the workflow and enhancing efficiency. KVM over IP in a 4K environment ensures high-resolution control and monitoring, crucial for precision in film production.
- Mobility and Versatility: Beyond stationary setups, these systems can also be implemented in mobile production racks, enabling film production to transcend location boundaries.
Enhanced Storytelling with Projection Mapping, LED Walls, and Unreal Engine™
These technologies play a pivotal role in virtual production studios. Projection mapping adds an extra layer of visual storytelling to physical sets, while LED walls create vast, realistic backdrops, expanding the visual canvas available to filmmakers. Productions like "The Mandalorian" have leveraged LED walls to create immersive environments, dynamically changing the background and reducing the reliance on post-production visual effects. 3D creation tools like Unreal Engine have the capability to render complex, lifelike environments in real-time, which is integral to the virtual production process. This technology enables the creation of diverse, dynamic settings on the fly, significantly enhancing the director’s ability to visualise scenes and make adjustments in real-time
The Vital Role of over IP Video Transmission and KVM Control
The efficacy of projection mapping, LED walls, and 3D rendering is intrinsically tied to the quality and reliability of signal transmission. The adoption of 4K over IP video with KVM control is vital for maintaining the integrity and continuity of the virtual production process. KVM over IP in a 4K environment ensures that high-quality video and control signals are transmitted efficiently across the studio, supporting the collaborative, fast-paced nature of contemporary film production.
A New Era of Cinematic Innovation
The convergence of projection mapping, LED walls, 3D creation tools, and 4K KVM over IP integrated into virtual production studios represent an exciting era in filmmaking. This tech combination not only enhances the narrative and visual experience but also revolutionizes the filmmaking process, offering unprecedented flexibility, realism, and creative freedom.
