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Chapter 2: Overview
2. Overview
2.1 Introduction
The ServSwitch KVM Extender DVI/VGA system consists of a local unit (transmitter) and a remote unit (receiver). The local unit
connects directly to the computer (or a KVM switch system) using the supplied cable(s). The user console (keyboard, mouse and
monitor) attaches to the remote unit. The remote and local units communicate video and data information along the
interconnecting cable (see Figure 2-7). Local units offer dual access, enabling the connection of a second user console close to the
computer.
The ServSwitch KVM Extender DVI/VGA enables high-resolution video, PS/2/USB keyboard and mouse signals to be
communicated up to:
• 300 feet (100 m) over Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher (CATx) cable.
• 1200 feet (400 m) over multimode fiber cable (50/125μ).
• 600 feet (200 m) over multimode fiber cable (62.5/125μ).
• 6
1
⁄
4
miles (10 km) over single-mode fiber cable (9/125µ).
In a digital applications (DVI input and output), there is no loss of picture quality regardless of extension distance, and no
adjustments are required. The extender also supports traditional analog VGA. All combinations of DVI and VGA (graphics cards
and monitors) are supported, allowing equipment to be mixed. In a mixed analog/digital application, some adjustment of the
video signal is necessary to optimize the analog-digital signal conversions. DVI KVM Extenders are equipped with various auto-
matic and manual video correction tools in the OSD.
2.2 Terms Used in this Guide
The following terms are used in this guide:
CATx:
Any Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher cable.
Multimode:
Any multimode duplex cable, 50/125µ or 62.5/125µ
Single-mode:
Any single-mode duplex cable, 9/125µ
PSU:
The desktop power supply connected to the local/remote unit.
KVM:
Keyboard, video monitor, and mouse.
Console:
A keyboard, monitor, and mouse, plus optional serial/audio devices.
Dual Access:
A system allowing connection of local and remote user consoles.
Single Head:
An extender system that supports one monitor.
Dual Head:
An extender system that supports two monitors.
2.3 Features
All members of the ServSwitch Brand DVI KVM Extender Series offer the following features:
• Support for high video resolution over extended distances: 1600 x 1200 @ 60 Hz over all allowed distances (all lower resolutions
with refresh rates of at least 75 Hz).
• All models come with dual access, to allow local or remote operation (Local DVI access limited to screen resolutions up to 1280
x 1024).
• All control and video tuning carried out using an on screen display (OSD) with settings stored in EEPROM memory.
• Local/remote unit firmware and settings are flash upgradable.
• Intelligent PS/2 keyboard and mouse emulation ensures PCs do not lock up and enables peripherals to be hot-plugged.
