This section provides an overview for kvm switches as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 12 kvm switch manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked kvm switch companies as of November, 2024: 1.IEC., 2.Dell Inc., 3.Vertiv Group Corp..
Table of Contents
A KVM (Keyboard/Video/Mouse) Switch is a piece of hardware that allows you to control multiple computers with a single keyboard, display (video), and mouse. It is also sometimes referred to as a CPU Switcher or PC Switcher.
Basically, a single pair of KVMs control multiple computers, but some products allow multiple KVMs to control a single computer. The more versatile KVM switches also offer the ability to share USB devices and speakers. They can also be used for data servers as well as computers.
KVM Switches can be used in the home, but are most commonly used in industrial and commercial applications. Some examples are listed below:
KVM Switches connect the cables from each device to the switch and outputs to the computer via a special cable that combines USB and VGA.
There are two types of KVM switches: passive and active, each with a different principle; the characteristics of the PC and OS will affect the compatibility of the KVM switch, so an appropriate switch must be selected.
Passive KVM Switches, also known as Mechanical KVM Switches, physically switch the electrical circuitry. PCs are switched by select switches or pushbuttons.
While the structure is simple and inexpensive, the maximum number of PCs that can be connected is limited to 12. Also, since the interface device is perceived as physically disconnected from the unselected PC, it may fail to boot or boot without a mouse, depending on the PC and OS.
Active KVM Switches, also called Electronic KVM Switches, use simulated signals to switch between peripheral devices. Unlike Mechanical KVM Switches, they emulate the connection of an interface device to a non-selected PC. This prevents non-selected PCs from failing to boot.
Active KVM Switches also work well with PCs and operating systems that continuously monitor the connection status of interface devices, and switching between PCs can be done by quickly pressing a specific key, eliminating the need to touch the KVM switch itself for convenience.
KVM Switches are available as Remote KVM devices that can be operated from long distances. There are two types of remote KVMs, analog KVM and digital KVM, depending on the control method.
Analog KVM Switches are designed for operation over a distance of up to 300 meters. A LAN cable is used for connection, but the communication protocol is proprietary to the product, so it cannot be connected to other LAN devices.
Because it uses a proprietary protocol, it does not have much communication delay time. 256 or more access points can be configured, and more than 8,000 PCs can be controlled.
Also called KVM Over IP, Digital KVM can send and receive signals over the Internet via Ethernet communication. Although there is a slight delay in operation due to the use of the Internet, it can operate over a longer distance than analog KVM. Because of this characteristic, they are also used for remote work.
Most digital KVMs allow remote control of PCs via a browser or dedicated viewer software. Remote software that can remotely control a PC over the Internet includes VNC and terminal services. Digital KVM Switches have the advantage over them in that they do not require the installation of remote software.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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Raritan Americas, Inc., a company founded in 1985 and headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, United States., is a supplier and manufacturer of power management solutions and data center infrastructure equipment. The company offers a comprehensive range of products, including intelligent rack power distribution units, environmental sensors, and KVM switches. Their products are designed to enhance energy efficiency, optimize server performance, and streamline data center operations in industries such as information technology, telecommunication, and healthcare. The company also offers technical support, product training, and customization options to meet clients' specific requirements.
IEC established in 1993 in Commerce City, Colorado, USA, is a manufacturer of electronic cables, connectors, display racks, and relevant accessories. The product range includes HDMI & USB cables, audio-video cables, Ethernet cables, power cords, cable management solutions, and various connectors. These products ensure optimum connectivity, signal transmission, and efficient power distribution for various electronic devices and systems. The benefits include superior quality, durability, advanced-speed transmission of data, compatibility, and adherence to industry standards. These cables and accessories find applications in IT infrastructure, telecommunications, medical devices, industrial automation, and the military, enabling seamless connectivity and efficient operations in various industries.
Vertiv Group Corp. founded in Columbus, OH, in 2016 is a supplier of infrastructure technologies, hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services. The company's product portfolio includes Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)DC Power SystemsPower DistributionStatic Transfer SwitchesSwitchgear and Switchboard. the company serves markets including Automotive and Electric Vehicles, Renewable Energy and Energy Storage and Electronics and IT Infrastructure. They operate in 130 countries and also provide services including product selection, installation, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.
GIGA-BYTE Technology Co., Ltd., founded in 1986 and headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, is a manufacturer specializing in computer hardware. The company produces a broad range of products, comprising motherboards, graphics cards, laptops, and desktop PCs. It holds ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications, ensuring that its products meet the optimal standards of stability and environmental responsibility. The products provide benefits such as optimum performance, advanced features, and unique technology, making them popular among gamers, enthusiasts, and professionals. Its hardware finds uses in numerous industries, from gaming and entertainment to scientific research and business computing.
ASIX Electronics Corporation was founded in 1195, in Taiwan and has been a manufacturer and supplier of networking and connectivity solutions. Their product portfolio includes Industrial & USB Ethernet ICs, Non-PCI/SPI Embedded Ethernet ICs, Interface ICs, UART Transceivers, and Microcontrollers. The USB Ethernet ICs are a solution to smart home and office, PC and peripherals, etc. applications, such as Game Console, Smart Sensors, Power Grid, IP Camera, and Security. And the majority of the products have applications in the Industrial IoT department for automation, robotics, networking, etc.
PLANET Technology Corporation, established in 1993 in Taipei, Taiwan, is a manufacturer of network and communication products. The company specializes in providing various unique networking products for both residential and industrial applications, including Ethernet switches, PoE (Power over Ethernet) devices, IP surveillance equipment, industrial automation solutions, and network management software. The products enable efficient data transfer, network management, surveillance, and connectivity for modern businesses and organizations. The benefits include robust performance, energy efficiency, seamless integration, advanced security features, and user-friendly management interfaces. These products are used in telecommunications, IT, security, industrial automation, hospitality, and smart city projects.
Rextron International Inc. was established in 1998 in Taipei City, Taiwan, as a manufacturer of KVM switches. The company's product list comprises a 4K HDMI HDBaseT Extender Transmitter, a 4K HDMI HDBaseT Extender Transmitter with 3 Ports Switch, and a Dual HDMI KVM Extender, among others. The products offer a flexible and convenient method for transmitting video and audio signals over an Ethernet-based network, simplifying cable management and promoting a tidy workspace, while also providing an efficient solution for switching USB control consoles across multiple servers. The company serves various industries, including information technology, audiovisual and media, telecommunications, and industrial automation.
ATEN INTERNATIONAL Co., Ltd. is a company based in Taiwan, a manufacturer produces wide range of products including KVM switches, video matrix switches, video extenders, video splitters, and other connectivity and management solutions. ATEN International, founded in 1979, was established with their service to simplify and enhance the control and management of various computing and multimedia environments. The company has received several awards including the Taiwan Excellence Award, which honors outstanding Taiwanese products.
Adder Technology Limited was established in 1984 and is based in Bar Hill, Cambridge, England, as a manufacturer and designer of connectivity solutions. The company's product list comprises ADDERLink INFINITY 3000, ADDERLink XD150FX, ADDERLink X-DVI PRO, and ADDERLink X-DVI PRO-MS, among others. The products offer solutions for IT connectivity and remote access challenges, addressing the needs of critical applications across diverse environments. The company serves various industries, including control rooms, energy and utilities, government and military, healthcare, and industrial and manufacturing.
PROSUM, established in 1992 in Denver, Los Angeles, USA, is a manufacturer and provider of technology products and consulting services to help businesses. The company offers various IT services, including IT consulting, software development, project management, and staff augmentation. The solutions are designed to enhance efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness for companies across various industries. The benefits include improved IT infrastructure, enhanced operational performance, cost-effective solutions, and access to skilled IT professionals. It’s expertise is applied in industries such as healthcare, finance, entertainment, and technology, enabling clients to adapt, develop, and leverage technology for sustainable growth in the dynamic digital landscape.
Shenzhen CKL Technology Co., Ltd. Founded in 2004, located in Shenzhen, China is a manufacturer of high-end KVM switches, video switches, KVM extenders, video splitters, and adapters. The portfolio of the company consists of single monitor / dual monitor / triple monitor / quad monitor /multi-view KVM Switches, video switches and splitters for 2 to 16 computers, with various video interfaces to support different set-up, and many more.
Dell Inc. is an American developer and manufacturer of personal computers and related products established in Round Rock, Texas in 1984 as a business unit of Dell Technologies. The company primarily designs and produces various personal computers, including desktop, laptop, netbook, and tablet models. They also manufacture servers, storage devices, computer peripherals, and network switches to wide a range of specifications, including for large enterprises or competitive gaming. Dell, Inc. operates globally with more than 50 facilities, sales offices and distribution centers across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.
Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | IEC. |
19.3%
|
2 | Dell Inc. |
13.3%
|
3 | Vertiv Group Corp. |
11.5%
|
4 | Raritan Americas, Inc. |
9.5%
|
5 | PROSUM |
7.8%
|
6 | ATEN INTERNATIONAL Co., Ltd. |
6.5%
|
7 | PLANET Technology Corporation |
6.0%
|
8 | Shenzhen CKL Technology Co., Ltd. |
5.8%
|
9 | Adder Technology Limited |
5.7%
|
10 | GIGA-BYTE Technology Co., Ltd. |
5.5%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the kvm switch page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
Taiwan | 5 | 45.5% |
United States of America | 3 | 27.3% |
United Kingdom | 1 | 9.1% |
France | 1 | 9.1% |
China | 1 | 9.1% |