* ATEN uses WLAN technology to let KVM devices talk to servers
ATEN Technology this week threw its hat into the ring of wireless keyboard-video-mouse devices.
KVM devices are designed to let network managers remotely connect to servers and other networked gear to control and manage them. A keyboard, video monitor and mouse in one location can be used to control multiple servers in various locations. The relatively new wireless variety use wireless LAN technology to make those connections.
ATEN says that its version, the KW1000 KVM over Wireless, has “the highest video resolution on the market for these types of products,” at 1,600-by-1,200, as opposed to others’ 1,024-by-768.
The new device also uses the IEEE 802.11b standard for its WLAN, which ATEN argues is superior than the higher-bandwidth 802.11a, because 802.11b has a longer range and allows ATEN to create a product that is less expensive.
The Avocent AutoView Wireless is an example of a competitive product. It uses 802.11a, but offers a version that is an extender to reach computers up to 100 feet away.
ATEN makes the wired kind of KVM switches, along with video switches and cards to support connection technologies like FireWire and USB.
This is yet another example of an innovative use of WLAN technology, which like wired Ethernet before it seems be used in more and more places. Once again, the focus is on letting administrators roam about to perform their management tasks – or at least avoid the hassles associated with running lots of cables.
The KW1000 is available now for $1,000.
