ATEN CS1642A 2-Port USB DVI Dual View KVMP Switch - TAA Compliant

The ATEN CS1642A is a premier 2-port USB DVI Dual View KVMP switch engineered for professionals who demand seamless, tunnel-quiet control over multiple computers from a single console. Built to support multi-application workflows, this TAA-compliant device combines a 2-port KVM switch with a 2-port USB hub, enabling easy sharing of keyboards, mice, audio, and USB peripherals across two independent systems. The CS1642A’s most compelling advancement is its Quad-View functionality when two Dual View KVMP switches are connected, creating an ultra-efficient, multi-display environment—perfect for editors, designers, engineers, developers, and IT professionals who rely on precise visual output and fast, uninterrupted access to multiple machines. With robust metal construction, reliable power management, and a user-centric design, the CS1642A is built to endure demanding workstations and remote data centers while preserving desk space and reducing cable clutter.

• Quad-View capability when paired with another CS1642A: Expand your screen real estate by connecting two switches to display four distinct video streams across two monitors, enabling simultaneous monitoring of multiple systems without switching back and forth. This feature is invaluable for comparative reviews, multi-environment testing, remote administration, and high-precision photo or video workflows where monitoring multiple inputs at once accelerates decision-making and QA processes.
• Integrated 2-port USB hub for peripherals: Share USB devices such as printers, flash drives, dongles, and other USB peripherals across both connected computers. The built-in hub reduces desk clutter and simplifies peripheral management so you can plug in once and stay productive—without swapping cables or moving to different workstations.
• Secure, hot-swappable KVM switching with DVI video: Effortlessly switch control between two computers using intuitive push-buttons or hotkey commands, while maintaining crisp, reliable DVI video output. The DVI interface supports high-quality digital video with accurate color fidelity, ensuring professional-grade visuals for design, CAD, and content creation tasks.
• Cross-platform compatibility and keyboard/mouse focus: The CS1642A is designed to work with a wide range of operating systems and peripherals, enabling smooth integration into mixed environments. Whether you rely on Windows, macOS, Linux, or UNIX-like systems, you can manage two machines from a single console with minimal configuration and maximum reliability.
• Ergonomic, space-saving design with durable build: The CS1642A’s compact enclosure is optimized for desk space, rack compatibility, and easy installation. Its sturdy construction and thoughtful layout minimize cable tangles and provide a clean, professional workstation aesthetic while withstanding daily use in busy work environments.

Technical Details of CS1642A

• Product type: 2-Port USB DVI Dual View KVMP Switch (TAA Compliant)
• Video interface: DVI-D digital video inputs for two computers; supports DVI-D display output for console
• USB hub: Built-in 2-port USB hub for shared peripherals on the console side
• Ports: 2 computer channels plus 2 console USB channels; front-facing or rear-accessible connections depending on model configuration
• Keyboard/mouse support: KVM focus for keyboard and mouse across two connected computers
• Multi-view: Quad-View capable when two CS1642A units are connected for expanded desktop access
• Hotkey and push-button switching: Quick, reliable method to switch control between connected systems
• Power: External power adapter required for standard operation; energy-efficient idle behavior
• Compliance: TAA compliant for government and enterprise deployments
• Compatibility: Designed to work with a broad range of OSes and peripherals via standard USB keyboard/mouse
• Mounting: Desktop friendly, with options for mounting in a small workspace or integrated into a rack system

How to install CS1642A

To get the most out of your ATEN CS1642A, follow these straightforward installation steps to establish a reliable, high-performance dual-computer console environment. Begin by preparing a clean workspace and gathering the necessary cables: two DVI video cables to connect each computer to the switch, two USB cables for console interaction, and any USB peripherals you plan to share. If you are creating a Quad-View setup, prepare the second CS1642A unit and ensure both switches are powered and within cabling distance of your computers and displays.

1) Connect the two computers to the CS1642A using the DVI-D cables: plug one end into each computer’s DVI output and the other end into the corresponding input on the CS1642A. Ensure a secure, snug connection to prevent intermittent video loss or garbling. If your workstation requires higher color fidelity or if you have specific display requirements, verify that the monitor supports the same resolution as your video source and that you have selected the correct input on the monitor.

2) Connect the console devices: attach your keyboard and mouse to the designated console USB ports on the CS1642A. Then connect your display(s) to the DVI output on the switch to ensure the correct video path from the selected computer is shown on your monitor. If you plan to use external audio or USB peripherals, connect them to the CS1642A’s USB hub and audio pass-through (if supported by your setup) to maximize functionality across both machines.

3) Power up and verify: plug in the CS1642A’s power supply and power on both connected computers before you attempt any switching. Give the system a moment to initialize, then confirm that firmware and hardware initialization indicators (LEDs or status lights) show normal operation. If you notice no video or peripherals, double-check cable connections, HDMI-to-DVI adapters (if used), and power status. Some systems may require a warm boot after the first connection to recognize the KVM and USB hub properly.

4) Switch and test: use the unit’s front-panel push-button or your preferred hotkey command to switch between the two computers. Confirm that keyboard input, mouse movement, and audio (if applicable) respond correctly on the active machine. If Quad-View is desired, connect a second CS1642A unit and configure your setup per the Quad-View guidance—this configuration allows you to observe two separate video streams concurrently across multiple displays, expanding your control and monitoring capabilities without sacrificing usability.

5) fine-tuning and maintenance: once your systems are connected and functioning, take time to label cables for easy maintenance and future upgrades. Regularly inspect connectors for wear and ensure software drivers or firmware updates (when available) are applied. Documentation from ATEN or your organization’s IT guidelines can help you keep a consistent configuration, ensuring optimal performance and reducing the likelihood of compatibility issues in multi-system environments.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ATEN CS1642A KVMP switch used for?

The CS1642A is designed to give you centralized control of two computers from a single keyboard, video display, and mouse, with an integrated USB hub for sharing peripherals. It is ideal for professionals who need to compare results, transfer data, or manage multiple systems without the clutter of multiple desks or workstations. The Quad-View capability, when paired with a second CS1642A, extends this functionality to four distinct streams, making it a powerful tool for advanced workflows that require simultaneous monitoring of multiple machines.

Does CS1642A support Quad-View?

Yes. Quad-View functionality is available when two CS1642A units are connected in a configuration that supports multi-switch setups. This enables you to display two separate video streams on two displays or to extend your visual workspace across multiple screens, providing a highly efficient multi-system environment for testing, development, or content creation. Always verify compatibility with your display hardware and ensure correct cabling when enabling Quad-View to avoid signal degradation.

Which operating systems are supported?

The CS1642A is designed to work with a broad range of operating systems through standard USB keyboard and mouse interfaces. Typical compatibility includes Windows, macOS, and Linux environments. In mixed-OS setups, you should experience seamless input/output switching as you move between computers using either the hotkeys or the unit’s front-panel controls. If your system requires specific driver support, consult the OS vendor guidelines or ATEN’s product manuals to ensure there are no standby or compatibility issues.

What resolutions does the CS1642A support?

The CS1642A supports DVI video, which is capable of high-quality digital video output. Typical configurations support standard resolutions up to 1920x1200 (WUXGA) or higher depending on the connected displays and the capabilities of the attached computers. For critical design or media work, confirm the monitor’s native resolution and the computer’s video output capabilities to ensure the best possible image fidelity. If you plan to run Quad-View, be aware that overall performance can vary based on the combined workload of both systems and the bandwidth available through the USB hub and DVI interface.