OVERVIEW
9
2. Overview
2.1 Introduction
A CATx/Fiber KVM Extender is mainly used, to extend the maximum distance between
a CPU and his Keyboard / Monitor / Mouse considerably. In addition they are beneficial
in installations in electromagnetic hazardous environments (EMI). Normal Keyboard-/
Monitor-/ Mouse extender cables (and Extender using traditional cables) cannot go so far
and EMI interferences may reduce the maximum distance and/or reliability. Using a
DVI-D CATx Extender system, these limitations are past. Retain your CPU in a secure
rack cabinet or data center while accessing from a 140m remotely located place.
A basic KVM extension system comprises a Local unit and a Remote unit. The Local unit
connects directly to the computer (or a KVM switch system) using the supplied cable(s). The
user console (keyboard, mouse and monitor) attaches to the Remote unit. The Remote and
Local units communicate video and data information along the interconnecting cables. Local
units offer dual access, allowing the connection of a second monitor close to the computer.
2.2 Glossary
The following terms are used in this guide:
CATx Any Category 5, 5e, 6 or higher cable, solid wires type AWG24.
Although flexible AWG27/7 cables can be used too, the lengths of
flexible cables count twice in the calculation of the total distance.
Fiber 9µ Singlemode or 50µ/62,5µ Multimode fiber cable.
KVM Keyboard, Video and Mouse.
Console Keyboard, Mouse and Monitor
Dual Access A system allowing connection of Local and Remote user consoles.
Single-Head An extender system that supports one monitor + Keyboard/Mouse
Quad-Head An extender system that supports four monitors + Keyboard/Mouse
DVI Digital Video standard, installed by Digital Display Working Group
(www.ddwg.org) R, G, B, CLOCK in a data stream with up to
3x 1,6 Gbit/sec. Signals are TMDS Level.
PSU The desktop power supply connected to the Local/Remote unit.
HID Human Interface Devices are units, which are used for human access
to the CPU. They are a USB-device class of its own (e.g. Memory
Devices etc.). Besides of keyboard and mouse also touchscreen, light
pen, fingerprint sensor, graphic tablets etc. are HID devices
