Remote KVM swith access to equipment on ships
As ships become more automated and connected and the quantity of specialised computing equipment on board increases, it is essential to ensure that it is working correctly. The use of keyboard, video, mouse (KVM) extenders allows the switching, extension and conversion of these computer signals as well as DVI, HDMI, digital audio and USB. Thus, a number of computers can be controlled from one or more sets of devices. Shipboard computing equipment requires greater levels of care and management than similar shorebased systems. Conditions are far more challenging, with extremes of temperature in the surrounding environment, greater humidity and more cramped storage conditions. In addition, the hardware itself is subject to constant vibration and movement. This hardware must not fail, or at least there should be sufficient redundancy to enable continued operation should an individual item fail. There is usually little opportunity to deliver spare parts quickly to vessels and often they can only be picked up at the next port of call. On land, computers are often housed together in a central equipment room in which they can be managed and maintained in a secure, climate-controlled environment. At sea, the same philosophy holds.
The need for KVM extenders
With users and operators of the computing equipment often located several decks higher, there is an issue relating to connectivity: users need to be able to run devices in real time, as though they were located locally – just under the operator’s desk. This requirement can be solved through the use of keyboard, video, mouse (KVM) extenders.
These devices connect the operator’s screen and interacting devices to the computer electrically without affecting performance in any way. That connection can be established over a substantial distance – 140m using cable and several kilometres with fibre cabling. Despite that long separation, the computer continues to operate normally.
These devices connect the operator’s screen and interacting devices to the computer electrically without affecting performance in any way. That connection can be established over a substantial distance – 140m using cable and several kilometres with fibre cabling. Despite that long separation, the computer continues to operate normally.
KVM matrix switches
The next step in the process is to add a KVM matrix switch. By connecting all source computers to the input side of the matrix switch and all users to output ports, it is possible to arrange the system so that any operator can access any computer from any location.This has several advantages:
- Access to multiple computers - individual users can choose which computer they want to use at what time. This allows them to switch quickly between the direct connection from their workstation to one of the computers on board. They can work simultaneously on different computer screens using a single keyboard and mouse, simply by moving the mouse over the screens;
- Access from any workstation or desk - operators are no longer tied to their own workplace or desk and have access to any computer from anywhere.
- Sharing resources - current high-tech systems require expensive hardware and software, but are rarely used. It is useful to give access to these systems to multiple users so they can have access to all the different applications, when and where this is needed. This can result in reducing the costs and necessary hardware.
Areas of application
Various vessel types have different requirements when it comes to storage of sensitive machinery and equipment data.
Research and geophysical survey vessels
KVM extenders and switches provide the essential links and connection flexibility so that researchers can analyse the seabed from the convenience of their individual workstations.Cruisse vessels
Crew working on massive cruise liners need quick and easy access to information wherever they are. It is often not practical for them to move to a dedicated workstation in a distant part of the ship. With Ihse KVM matrix switches, crew members can connect to the computers that supply them with information from a convenient workstation, helping to maintain the operational status and safety of the vessel.Super-yachts
IHSE KVM systems are used on integrated bridges on superyachts. Undistracted focus on the bridge is extremely important and KVM extenders help by removing the noisy and distracting computing equipment whilst maintaining clear and accurate information for officers on the bridge.Oil Rigs
All the computers used to manage and monitor the status and performance of the rig, including systems for gas warning, fire alarms, cameras and process control, are now located in environmentally controlled computer rooms well away from the operators, whilst giving uninterrupted and immediate access to data and alarms.Maritime control
Hong Kong Harbour’s Vessel Tracking Centre is one of the most advanced systems in the world and responsible for ensuring safe passage of over 200,000 vessels moving through Victoria Harbour. IHSE KVM extenders and switches ensure that 4K UHD video information is displayed exactly as produced by the computers so that operators do not miss vital information that could endanger vessels and lives at sea.Access from any maritime device
IHSE Draco tera KVM switches connect operators and engineers with essential systems, remotely, and from any workstation, giving greater flexibility, increased efficiency and enhancing system security and reliability. The Draco tera range extends from 8 to 576 nonblocking, assignable ports with mixed operation over copper and fibre cables. They connect all types of digital video up to 4K UHD resolution and capable of parallel USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 switching, providing transmission without loss, instant connectivity and extensive configuration and redundancy options. Draco tera connects and switches users to remote CPUs and servers instantly.
KVM solutions are tested in our own KVM test-lab
Our KVM team is focused on the professional audio/video and command and control (KVM) market. Through years of experience in the professional AV and KVM world, Intronics thinks in solutions, not in products. We know the market, give independent advice, deliver different KVM solutions. These solutions are tested in our own fully equipped test lab.
The KVM Lab is used for pre- and after-sales support such as:
The KVM Lab is used for pre- and after-sales support such as:
- Testing of products
- Building Proof of Concept
- Research & Development
- Beta testing of your solution
- Developing central knowledge
Our KVM professionals are ready to help
We are in direct contact with our manufacturers. Let us know if you need additional information or help while choosing a suitable solution.
For more information, please contact us:
Tel.nr.: +32 (0)14/220 334
E-mail: sales@intronics.be
CONTACT US
For more information, please contact us:
Tel.nr.: +32 (0)14/220 334
E-mail: sales@intronics.be