Introduction; Overview - ATEN CS1768 User Manual

Chapter 1

Introduction

Overview

The CS1768 8-port USB DVI KVM Switch is a control unit that allow access
and control of up to 8 computers from a single USB keyboard, USB mouse, and
monitor (DVI or VGA) console. It can be cascaded to three levels – allowing
up to 73 CS1768s to control up to 512 computers – all from the original single
console. In addition, the CS1768 comes with ATEN's new Video DynaSync
technology, which optimizes display resolution.
There are three convenient methods to access any computer connected to the
installation: (1) using the pushbutton port selection switches located on each
unit's front panel; (2) entering Hotkey combinations from the keyboard; and (3)
selecting from menus provided by the on-screen display (OSD). An Auto Scan
feature also permits automatic scanning and monitoring of the activities of all
computers running on the installation one by one.
The CS1768 provides multimedia keyboard support and is audio enabled. Two
microphones can provide audio input to each of the computers, and you can
listen to the audio output of each computer on two sets of speakers (on a one-
at-a-time basis).
Setup is fast and easy; simply plug cables into their appropriate ports. There is
no software to configure, no installation routines, and no incompatibility
problems. Since the CS1768 intercepts keyboard input directly, it works on
multiple operating platforms (PC compatible, Mac*, Sun*, etc.).
Since a single console manages all of the computers on your installation, a
CS1768 KVM switch setup: (1) eliminates the expense of having to purchase
a separate keyboard, monitor, and mouse for each computer; (2) saves all the
space those extra components would take up; (3) saves on energy costs; and (4)
eliminates the inconvenience and wasted effort involved in constantly moving
from one computer to another.
Note: For PC compatible computers. Mac and Sun computers must use the
USB cable connections (see Cables, page 4).
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