ATEN Technology Inc. on Wednesday introduced two new KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switches designed to support systems that use Digital Visual Interface (DVI)-based displays. The switches let you access two or four computers using the same LCD panel, USB mouse and USB keyboard — though limited resolution support may make them best suited for Mac users with either the 20-inch Cinema Display or third-party displays.
The new MasterView CS-1762 and CS-1764 are two and four-port KVM switches, respectively. In addition to DVI and USB support, the new switches also provide connections for microphones and speakers. The two switches also include an internal two-port USB 1.1 hub, allowing you to connect two peripheral USB devices attached directly to the switch. LED displays show you which switch is being used. The switches support Windows and Mac host systems and provide keyboard emulation. The CS-1762’s price is US$249.95; the CS-1764 is $349.95.
DVI is used on Apple’s most recent round of Cinema Displays and can also be found on various Mac laptop and desktop models, including the new Mac mini. DVI is also supported by many third-party LCD display manufacturers. The maximum resolution supported by these new MasterView displays is 1600 x 1200, however — a lower resolution than Apple’s Cinema HD Displays. As a result, these switches are probably best suited for use with third-party LCD panels limited to a maximum 1600 x 1200 resolution.