Glossary of Terms
Definitions of commonly used terms in server management solution industry. More

What is a KVM switch?
KVM is the industry term for Keyboard-Video-Mouse. A KVM switch allows single or multiple workstations to have local or remote access to multiple computers located in server rooms or on the desktop regardless of their platforms and operating systems.

How would I benefit from using a KVM switch ?
KVM switches have traditionally provided cost savings in reducing energy and equipment costs while freeing up valuable real estate in a server room/computer room. When KVM switches are used in conjunction with racks and enclosures, additional floor space is gained and cable management is made much simpler.

What cabling do I need to use with a KVM switch?
Rose KVM switches require one cable per computer along with one cable connecting your keyboard, mouse and monitor cables to our switches.

What do I have to install on my computers?
Nothing, Rose KVM switches are a hardware solution to computer management. They are designed to not intrude on the performance of the computer or the computer network.

How do I switch from one computer to another with the KVM?
Rose KVM switches offer many different methods of switching computers depending on which model best suits your application.  Some models offer buttons on the front panel of the switch, while other models offer a On Screen Display (OSD) with the ability to customize names and select those names.  All Rose KVM switches allow Hot Key switching via the keyboard with a simple command sequence.

What is OSD?
OSD stands for On Screen Display, This is a graphical representation that is overlaid on top of the existing video image and allows the ability to select the computers connected to the KVM switch without having to push a button on the KVM switch or using hot key switching. The OSD also allows you configuration of the KVM switch options.

What is port emulation?
Port emulation is important with KVM switches. Port emulation makes sure that the computer still thinks the mouse is connected directly to the computer. Many people know that if you unplug the mouse while the computer is running, the mouse can stop working. If you have a KVM Switch without emulation the computer may think the mouse is unplugged.

What is Hot Key Switching?
Hot Key Switching allows you to switch between computers without pushing the buttons on the actual switch. It is a simple command sequence that is available in all Rose KVM switches. Select the following sequence depending on the model of your Rose KVM switch and remember that all keyboard commands start with an attention sequence of pressing and releasing the left [CTRL] key followed by the command sequence.  All command characters are separate keystrokes and must be entered within two seconds of each other. All numbers must be entered using the number across the top of the keyboard.

To switch all Rose KVM switches except UltraMatrix:

left [CTRL]+nn                  nn = CPU port number on the KVM switch

To switch Rose UltraMatrix KVM Switches

left [CTRL]+nn+Enter       nn = CPU port number on the KVM switch

 I have Sun Servers in addition to PC based Servers. Do I need two separate KVM switches?
Rose offers multi-platform KVM switches that allow PC’s, Sun’s and Mac’s to be connected to the same KVM switch and use only one keyboard, mouse and monitor.

Why do some computers use different cables?
Different computers have different cabling connections. Due to this, they cannot use the same cable. Rose manufactures cables with all types of connections.  Most common IBM PC-based computers use a PS/2 Mouse, PS/2 Keyboard, and a HD15 VGA Monitor. Sun computers can have a Mini-Din 8 connection for their mouse and keyboard or a USB plug can be used for both as well. They can also use HD15 VGA or a 13W3 video connection. Older Apple computers use a Mini-Din 4 keyboard connector as opposed to the newer models that use USB.  Apple also uses DB15 or HD15 for video depending on the computer.  If you are unsure about which cable is correct for your application, please call or email us.

How can I get access to more computers once I have filled up my existing Rose KVM switch ?
Rose KVM switches are expandable using both Bus and Chaining technology methods.  Contact Rose Tech Support for details on expanding your current configuration.

What is a KVM Extender?
A Rose KVM Extender allows you to send the keyboard, monitor, and mouse signal over a long distance using CAT5, Fiber or TCP/IP. This can be for a single computer or can be connected to a KVM Switch to control multiple computers.

What are the benefits of using a KVM extension product?
Rose KVM extension products allow you to place a computer in a safe, clean, and secure environment away from dirt, dust, clutter, and harm and access it from a location outside the computer room.  When used in conjunction with a KVM switch, you can access remote computers or remote workstations.

What is KVM Over IP?
KVM over IP technology allows you to access your servers from anywhere in the world using the internet. The UltraLink is specifically designed for KVM over IP access.