Configurations

The KVM Switch has several models each supporting a different number of computers. For applications with a large number of computers, KVM Switches can be cascaded in a master/slave configuration to support even more computers.

Single KVM Switch Configuration

Connect a PS/2 keyboard, a PS/2 mouse and a VGA multi-sync monitor directly to the Master’s CONSOLE port. Then, connect multiple sets of keyboard, mouse and monitor cables to the “PC x” ports of the KVM Switch, as shown in figure 1.

Figure 1: A single KVM Switch configuration

Cascade (Master/Slave) Configuration

You can connect a second level of one or more KVM Switches to “PC 1”~”PC 4” (KNV104) or "PC 1"~”PC 8” ports (KNV108 & KNV116D) of a Master unit. Cascade configuration expands system ability allowing you to select computers connected to the Master or Slaves. There is only one Master, which has a mouse, a keyboard and a monitor connected to its CONSOLE port directly operated by a user. Once connected, KVM Switches automatically configure themselves to either Master or Slave. Slaves of different models can be mixed in cascade configuration. [NOTE: Master must have equal or more PC ports than that of Slaves, i.e., if KNV108 is a master, KNV108 and KNV104 can be Slaves, but KNV116D can not.]

Figure 2: A cascade KVM Switch configuration

Throughout this manual, Master is the KVM Switch that has a physical keyboard, mouse and monitor connected to its CONSOLE port. Slave is a KVM Switch that has its CONSOLE port connected to a Master's “PC x” port. Slave only exists in cascade configuration.