KVM extenders are not peripheral technology in control rooms and dispatch centres. They help decide whether operators see information reliably, operate systems stably and whether technical installations remain maintainable in 24/7 operation. controlrooms GmbH plans, integrates and supports these components as part of a complete control room architecture.
KVM extenders are the link between operator and technology
In control rooms, computers, servers and technical equipment rarely sit directly at the workstation. Heat, noise, security and maintainability argue for separate technical rooms. KVM extenders transmit keyboard, video, mouse and USB so that operators can still work directly and stably.
For a control room this is about more than cable length. Latency, image quality, USB behaviour, redundancy and switching logic decide whether the workstation works under pressure. That is why controlrooms plans KVM extenders as part of the overall architecture, not as off-the-shelf accessories.
Beyond KVM: operating architecture instead of individual devices
Modern control rooms often need multiple sources, multiple workstations, video walls, rights concepts and service access. Classic point-to-point extenders can make sense, but are not always enough. Depending on the requirements, proprietary IHSE Draco systems, KVM over IT with Barco CTRL or hybrid architectures are used.
The technical truth matters: not every system is KVM over IP, and not every IP-based solution is automatically better. controlrooms assesses bandwidth, security, availability and operating logic soberly and recommends the architecture that suits the operation.
What owners should look out for
- Separation of operator workstation and technical room
- DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB and multi-screen workstations
- KVM matrix, point-to-point or KVM over IT depending on the application
- Planning of latency, image quality and redundancy
- Integration with video wall, Barco CTRL and IHSE Draco
controlrooms as system integrator
The practical difference lies in responsibility. Individual components can be procured quickly; a control room, however, has to work as a system. controlrooms combines visualisation, KVM, room, furniture, ergonomics, IT security, service and maintenance into one solution that holds up in operation.
For owners this means fewer interfaces, clear contacts, traceable technical decisions and an architecture that can be extended later. This is exactly where control room technology parts ways with a standard AV installation.
Visit our showroom in Wieselburg or Vienna Prater
Control room technology is not decided on the data sheet alone. In our showrooms you experience control room planning, Barco visualisation, KVM systems, operator workstations, ergonomics and service working together in practice. Visits are possible by appointment.
Appointments by arrangement. Your contact: Erich Strasser.
Frequently asked questions about KVM extenders
What does a KVM extender do?
A KVM extender extends keyboard, video, mouse and USB signals between workstation and computer. This allows the technology to sit securely and maintainably in a separate room.
Is every KVM extender suitable for 24/7 control rooms?
No. For control rooms, latency, image quality, USB compatibility, redundancy and serviceability must be checked.
When do you need a KVM matrix?
A matrix makes sense when several operators need flexible access to several sources, or when rights, redundancy and central management are important.
Does controlrooms also plan IHSE and Barco CTRL?
Yes. controlrooms plans classic IHSE Draco architectures as well as Barco CTRL as a KVM-over-IT platform, depending on security and operating requirements.