KVM extenders are not a side issue in the control room. They determine how securely and with how little delay operators work with remote computers, sources and systems. JPEG XS opens up new possibilities here — but only if the surrounding architecture is right.
Why JPEG XS matters for KVM
JPEG XS is designed for high image quality at very low latency. For control rooms that is relevant wherever visual precision and fast operation have to come together: process images, situation maps, video sources, monitoring displays and detailed technical views. The codec compresses lightly enough to remain visually lossless, while keeping the delay low enough that mouse and keyboard still feel direct.
The practical benefit is bandwidth. Uncompressed 4K transmission occupies considerable network capacity. With JPEG XS, high-resolution signals fit into standard 1 GbE infrastructure — which changes what is economically feasible in cabling and switching.
What IHSE has introduced
IHSE has presented KVM extenders with JPEG XS in DisplayPort and HDMI variants, developed together with the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS. The units transmit high-resolution video over standard network infrastructure and integrate into existing Draco tera KVM matrices. For existing Draco ultra installations, IHSE offers a firmware-based upgrade path rather than a hardware replacement.
Typical applications:
- Computers relocated to technical or server rooms
- Operator workstations without local machines
- High-quality image transmission for monitoring and control
- Integration into existing IHSE Draco KVM architectures
- Stable 24/7 operation for critical applications
- Clear separation of workstation and IT/OT infrastructure
Planning decides stability, not the device
A KVM extender does not solve an architectural problem on its own. controlrooms GmbH examines the source, the operator workstation, the signal path, USB requirements, redundancy, security requirements and later expandability. Only from that does a structure emerge that remains stable in 24/7 operation — and that can still be extended in five years.
IHSE, Barco CTRL and hybrid architectures
Not every application demands the same KVM technology. Proprietary high-performance KVM, KVM over IP and KVM over IT have different strengths. We assess these variants across manufacturers and combine them where it serves the operating concept — including architectures that deliberately avoid redundant hardware.
Frequently asked questions about JPEG XS in KVM
What is the advantage of JPEG XS over uncompressed transmission?
Bandwidth. JPEG XS keeps the image visually lossless while reducing the data rate enough for high-resolution signals to run over standard 1 GbE infrastructure. That lowers the cost of cabling and switching.
Is the latency noticeable in operation?
JPEG XS is designed for latencies in the range of a few image lines. In practice, operators do not perceive a delay between mouse movement and screen reaction — which is the decisive criterion in a control room.
Can existing IHSE installations be upgraded?
IHSE provides a firmware-based upgrade path for existing Draco ultra DisplayPort and HDMI units, so the hardware does not have to be replaced. Whether that is worthwhile depends on the age and architecture of the installation.
Does JPEG XS replace KVM over IT?
No. JPEG XS is a codec, KVM over IT is a platform concept. The two address different questions and are often combined — which is why the architecture should be decided before the product.
Talk to us about your KVM architecture
We plan KVM structures across manufacturers — from the individual extender to the complete matrix. Write to office@controlrooms.at or call +43 2742 43570.