Enterprise KVM switches, such as the Raritan Paragon II, will often include the word Matrix in part descriptions or throughout promotional means such as in features and benefits sections on websites.
What exactly does a matrix-level KVM switches provide? To explain it in simple terms, Matrix KVM Switches will incorporate multiple input channels as well as several output channels to maximize an optimal ratio of users-to-computers to limit blocking.
Matrix KVM Switches allow users to control multiple computers from one or more user console stations. A single User Console connects to one user port on the KVM switch and consists of a single keyboard, mouse and video monitor. For example, the Raritan MasterConsole MX48 4-User, 8-port analog-based matrix KVM Switch will permit up to 4 simultaneous users to control any of the 8 attached computers. The user-to-port ratio for the Raritan MX48 example is one of the industry’s best for a self-contained KVM switch unit.
Specialized KVM requirements may require access for several users in combination with a high user-to-computer ratio to eliminate blocking for mission-critical computer systems. To accomplish this task, the Raritan Paragon II CAT5-based KVM solution will install into specific environments which call for a non-blocked 32-user by 32-port scalable enterprise KVM solution.
To solve these needs, the Paragon II 16-user by 64-port KVM switch will accomplish all requirements through the use of creative CAT5 cabling techniques. Although, resourceful KVM practices will need to occur in order to support 32-users with using only a 16-user KVM switch. Here’s how we would go about solving a 1:1 32-user, 32-computer ratio.
This diagram shows 2 16×64 Paragon II KVM switches with 16 User Stations connected to each 16×64. The dual-headed Computer Interface Module (CIM) splits two CAT5 connections and diverts each signal to both 16×64 KVM switches. Through use of the dual-headed CIM and high port density (user and computer) KVM switches, all users connected to any 16×64 switch will have non-blocked interaction to all attached servers (32). The Raritan Paragon II 16×64 solution will obviously create expansion beyond 32 computers; however, once 32 target computers are surpassed, blocked access will occur.
Additional matrix KVM switches with minimal blocking include other Raritan Paragon II models such as the P2-UMT832M 8-user, 32-port Cat5 KVM. Similar CAT5-based KVM switches includes Avocent’s AMX Matrix KVM, which provides access for 16 users and 64 computers in a single switch. For more information regarding the AMX from Avocent, please go to our Avocent KVM Switches page.
Non-CAT5 based KVM switches with low blocking ratios include the Rose UltraMatrix series. The Rose UltraMatrix 4xE, for example, will offer non-blocked access to 4, 8, or 16 computers in self-contained KVM switch box. UltraMatrix port expansion on the user and port level can increase access with use of convenient bussing cables.
KVM over IP Matrix KVM Switches
Avocent has recently updated their DSR line to include a CAT5-based 8-user by 8-port KVM over IP solution. The 8×8 DSR8020 KVM over IP switch contains 8 simultaneous digital pathways for remote access to all attached devices. The DSR8020 remains one of the only digital KVM over IP switches to offer the best non-blocked access ratios on the market today. Additional remote IP benefits for the DSR include having the ability to remotely power cycle connected devices as well as providing fail-safe control with an added external modem port for remote access when the network is down. Managed with the Avocent DSView 3 software, the DSR8020 KVM over IP switch provides web browser-based access to any connected devices in your data center – PC, Sun, Mac, USB or serial.
In conclusion, Matrix KVM switch solutions will allow users to have greater availability to multi-port KVM switch environments which will reduce blocking to mission-critical computer systems.
Incorporating multiple input user channels as well as several output channels will create more opportunities for users to switch to a port without it being occupied. Whether analog or digital matrix KVM switch products are implemented, chances of gaining port access are improved.
Copyright 2005 by Directnet, Inc.
Robert Pavlokovic is an expert in the KVM and Server Management Industry and is the technical writer for server and data center management topics. He also has a strong background in product testing and evaluation. He writes professionally for 42U (www.42U.com), KVM Switches Online (www.kvm-switches-online.com), Server Racks Online (www.server-rack-online.com), DirectNET (www.directnet.us). He provides consultation on enterprise solutions for server management equipment and is also the lead product trainer. Robert Pavlokovic comes from a strong 3-year sales and engineering background for enterprise server management solutions.
