IP (Cat5) KVM

[bluestrobe]

I have a thought about moving all of my servers+server rack to my basement. Currently it sits beside my desk where I run a conventional 4 port KVM along with my personal computer (webserver/ftpserver/personalcomputer/open-test cable). The only problem I see is I probably couldn't use my personal computer with an IP KVM due to distance and latency issues. Am I wrong on this? I plan on keeping the KVM in my room and running the cables to the server rack in the basement (50ft tops). Would it be feasible to keep my personal computer on the IP KVM or would I be better off going with another console setup on this?

How do IP KVM's compare in performance to standard KVMs. What are the best brands out there for the buck. I'm currently looking at a 4 port Belkin on eBay.

 

[MedicBob]

I like KVM/IP for the reduced cable clutter. I think my Dell 180AS can have 40 foot cables from server SIP to Switch, then whatever from the switch to keyboard, mouse, and monitor. They are expensive and can be confusing to configure. The Dell syastem interface PODs, what plugs into the server, can be had either in USB form or in PS2. What Dell didn't make very clear is that the USB SIP cannot access BIOS level functions and only works with Windows XP/Server 2003 and above due to an issue with Microsoft. Dells KVMs are made by Avocent but have a changed firmware.

 

[MerlinRML]

Originally posted by: MedicBob
I like KVM/IP for the reduced cable clutter. I think my Dell 180AS can have 40 foot cables from server SIP to Switch, then whatever from the switch to keyboard, mouse, and monitor. They are expensive and can be confusing to configure. The Dell syastem interface PODs, what plugs into the server, can be had either in USB form or in PS2. What Dell didn't make very clear is that the USB SIP cannot access BIOS level functions and only works with Windows XP/Server 2003 and above due to an issue with Microsoft. Dells KVMs are made by Avocent but have a changed firmware.

I have the Dell 2161DS-2 and the USB SIP works fine with the BIOS functions, Microsoft OSes, and a few variations of Linux.

While you can have long runs with your Cat5 cables, there are recommended distances for resolutions. I believe 1600x1200 was 7ft and 1280x1024 was 12 feet. I may not be remember those distances exactly.

The biggest advantage for most of the KVM/IP solutions is that you can access the KVM remotely. You get local console access from anywhere on your network. That way, you setup your servers with the KVM/IP and an old small monitor that you only use in emergencies, and if you need console access you do it from your workstation.

I've used Dell/Avocent and Raritan business class KVM, and they're both pretty good. I tried the Belkin products and was thoroughly unimpressed.

 

[bluestrobe]

We have a dell IP KVM at work and I like it. The bad thing is the price that Dell wants for their KVMs and the range they have.

 

[SuperNaruto]

I had the 2161ds from dell.. sold it with 88 sips.. its a decent device but requries that kvm java software to be installed...

the dell kvm are made by avocent..

Raritan kvm are my better.. captures the color better than the avocent and has built in kvm software into the switch. You install it on the fly and its fast.

Depends on which one you get though.. I have the Dominion KX232, 2 users over 32..

The only thing is dell from avocent has the port expander.. 1x8... the Raritan does not.. though I never tested using a regular switch to expand it...

 

[bluestrobe]

This is the one I can get locally for around $75

BELKIN OmniView? F1DP104A 4-Port CAT5 KVM Switch
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817394004

Any complaints with these?