1
Chapter 1
Introduction
Overview
The CS1798 / CS17916 8/16-port USB HDMI KVM Switch is a multi-purpose
appliance that consolidates access and control of up to 8/16 HDMI computers
from a single USB keyboard, USB mouse, and monitor console. The CS1798
/ CS17916 can be cascaded up to three levels – to control up to 512 computers
(CS1798); or two levels – up to 256 computers (CS17916) – all from a single
console.
In addition the CS1798 / CS17916 features multi-display functionality, which
enables the use of standard USB cables to stack up to eight switches in a multi-
display installation where each computer is fitted with multiple video cards.
Furthermore, the CS1798 / CS17916 comes with ATEN’s Video DynaSync
TM
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 all computers on the
installation, one by one.
The CS1798 / CS17916 provides multimedia keyboard support and is audio
enabled. 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 CS1798 / CS17916 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
CS1798 / CS17916 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 extra components 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: 1. The CS1798 / CS17916 offers two types of installation – 1)
standalone/cascade; and 2) multi-display – that require different