Chapter 1

Introduction

Overview

The KL1508 / KL1516 series of Cat 5 Dual Rail LCD KVM Switches are control units that allow access to multiple computers from a single KVM (keyboard, video, and mouse), console. A single KL1508 / KL1516 can control up to 8 or 16 computers, respectively. They consist of an integrated LCD monitor, keyboard, and touchpad in a in a 1U rack-mountable retractable sliding housing.

The similarities and differences among the models in the KL1508 / KL1516 series are shown in the following table:

Model

LCD Panel

Ports

 

 

 

KL1508M

17"

8

 

 

 

KL1508N

19"

8

 

 

 

KL1516M

17"

16

 

 

 

KL1516N

19"

16

 

 

 

The LCD and keyboard/touchpad modules slide independently of each other. To maximize space in your data center, the keyboard/touchpad module slides back to "hide away" when not in use, while the thin profile LCD monitor rotates back – flush against the rack – allowing administrators to monitor computer activity on the installation.

For increased reliability and efficiency, RJ-45 connectors and CAT 5 cable are used to link to the computers. Combined with Auto Signal Compensation (ASC), 1280 x 1024 @ 75Hz signals can travel up to 40 m (130') – eliminating the need for KVM extenders. Utilizing PS/2 and USB KVM Adapter Cables for the final linkup, the KL1508 / KL1516 permits any combination of PCs, Macs, Sun computers, and serial devices to coexist on the installation.

A single KL1508 / KL1516 can control up to 8 / 16 computers. As many as 31 additional KH1508 / KH1516 switches can be daisy chained from the original unit, so that up to 512 computers can all be controlled from the original KVM console. For added convenience, an extra console port is provided on the rear panel to manage the LCD KVM switch from an external console (monitor, keyboard, and mouse) up to 20 meters away, and an external PS/2 mouse can be used instead of the touchpad.

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