The objective of KVM extenders is to get beyond the distance limitations that come with analog and digital interface connections. Businesses can expand user access to PCs from remote places by choosing a point-to-point extender or one that runs over an existing IP network. This will ultimately help to improve desktop ergonomics, IT security, and productivity.
Thus, you need to know a few facts before you buy KVM extenders.
An Idea of KVM Extenders
Users can operate a computer from a distance with the help of a keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) extender. It usually consists of a pair of devices: a transmitter and a receiver. The computer system is linked to the KVM transmitter unit, which records peripheral signals such as audio, video, and USB for the keyboard and mouse. The KVM receiver device powers the displays, keyboards, and mouse at a remote user station via these signals.
KVM extenders carry these signals anywhere from a few Kms to several hundred meters from the system, circumventing the distance restriction imposed by HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB cords.
Reasons Why You Require an Extender
A KVM extender is handy when operating a computer remotely.
Workplaces with ergonomic capacity
An increasing number of offices are using KVM extenders to remove noisy and hot workstations into server rooms to enhance working conditions and free up space, resulting in more ergonomic workspaces. Since numerous computers may be handled with a single set of monitors, a keyboard, and a mouse, employing KVM extensions with switching solutions optimizes disk space when a person wants to operate on multiple systems.
Easing Multiuser Collaboration
A critical additional factor is the equipment centralization for easier maintenance and increased security. Computers can be kept in a dust-free, temperature-controlled environment in server rooms, where they are shielded from environmental contaminants like salt and moisture. Another security precaution in server rooms is locking down equipment that keeps room for you to buy a KVM extender. Locking down equipment has many advantages, including access limits, prevention of hardware tampering, and protection against significant information theft.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Extenders
There are a few more crucial factors to consider when you buy KVM extenders, such as which are most appropriate for your particular use. There are a few factors that you need to keep in mind.
Type of Video
KVM extenders comes in different variations depending on the video output, it can be HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA or DVI type. You can choose an extender depending upon the video output from the workstation.
Resolution.
Video resolution is another important factor that needs to be taken into consideration before selecting a KVM extender, extenders supporting resolution of SD, HD, 4K and even 5K are available.
Distance
The extension distance is limited by the type of cables used between the transmitter and the receiver, usually the Cat cables support up to 100 meter for a digital extender and up to 300 meters for a VGA KVM extender, if you require an extender that can handle longer distance, KVM extender over fiber is a good option, Fiber extender can support distances up to 400 meter over multi-mode fiber or up to 10 Km over single mode fiber.
Reliability
The device should be able to provide reliable and real-time access regardless of the location, while maintaining the same user desktop user experience.