Aten intros multi-console Matrix KVM switches

Taipei: Aten International has introduced the latest Matrix KVM switches, an addition to its Altusen enterprise KVM solutions line.

The KM0532 and KM0932 allow five and nine consoles to independently and simultaneously manage up to 32 directly connected servers. The switches can be daisy chained, cascaded, or both, providing flexible expansion configurations that allow up to nine consoles to control thousands of servers. Daisy chaining KM0032 switches offers an additional cost-saving configuration, since the use of dedicated chain ports allow all of the switch's KVM ports to be utilized for server connections.

An advanced dual root feature makes it possible to link two KM0932 switches to achieve an 18 console configuration that allows administrators to flexibly increase the number of consoles they deploy to match their growth requirements, and offers an ideal solution for applications that utilize multiple video displays. With non-blocked access, all consoles connected to a master switch have simultaneous access to any server on their own level, as well as having independent access to any server on any level of the installation.

The switches offer both audio and virtual media features. Being audio-enabled, the sound output and beeps from the servers allow administrators to identify and troubleshoot system problems easily. The sound capability is also ideal for presentation facilities, or studio applications. The virtual media function allows USB storage devices to be shared among all the servers. Operators can perform file transfers or install applications and OS patches across the installation from a single console, thereby reducing downtime and saving maintenance costs.

With automatic skew compensation and auto signal compensation (ASC), Matrix KVM switches ensure better video quality via Cat 5e/6 cabling-1280x1024 at a rate of 60Hz over distances of up to 300m. “The Matrix KVM switch is designed with a dual power supply to minimize downtime and offer 24x7 reliability to ensure the highest level of availability for server rooms or datacenters. With high availability, high reliability, high integration, and high security, an Aten Matrix KVM switch is the best solution for large sever rooms and datacenters,” claimed Kevin Chen, President, Aten International.

The Matrix KVM switch's console modules and KVM adapter cables provide a high degree of platform and interface integration.

Equipment using PS/2 and USB interfaces, and Win, Linux, Mac and Sun platforms, can all work together smoothly on the same installation. The use of RJ-45 connectors and Cat 5e/6 cabling eliminates bulky traditional cables, and makes for more reliable throughput and a neat, efficient, uncluttered work environment.