Description
Meet the IOGEAR GCS1716, a powerful and scalable KVM switch designed to simplify complex multi‑computer environments. This 16‑port USB PS/2 combo KVM switch lets you access and control up to 256 computers from a single console—keyboard, mouse, and monitor—by cascading up to 16 switches. Ideal for IT racks, data centers, software development labs, or any workspace where efficiency and reliability matter, the GCS1716 delivers seamless switching, robust compatibility, and a tidy, clutter‑free workstation. Its versatile design supports both USB and PS/2 peripherals, making it a practical upgrade for mixed environments and legacy systems alike. Whether you’re managing servers, test benches, or a large fleet of workstations, this combo KVM switch is engineered to streamline operations, cut downtime, and improve productivity across teams.
- Unified console control: Manage up to 256 computers from a single keyboard, mouse, and monitor. The GCS1716 makes day‑to‑day administration more efficient by eliminating the need to switch between multiple consoles. With both USB and PS/2 compatibility, you can connect a wide range of keyboards and mice, ensuring smooth operation across diverse machines while maintaining a clean, centralized workstation.
- Scalable cascading architecture: Start with 16 ports and expand by cascading up to 16 additional switches. This architecture enables you to scale from a modest lab setup to a large enterprise environment, consolidating control without sacrificing performance. The cascading design keeps management simple, reducing the complexity that often accompanies growing IT infrastructure.
- Broad peripheral compatibility: Supports USB and PS/2 input devices for keyboards and mice, making it suitable for modern USB‑centric hosts and older PS/2 machines. This broad compatibility ensures you can integrate the GCS1716 into mixed environments without requiring adapters or drivers, promoting plug‑and‑play deployment and minimizing compatibility issues across different operating systems.
- Easy and reliable switching: Switch between connected computers with a convenient front‑panel push button or via hot‑key commands. LED indicators on the front provide immediate visual confirmation of the active computer, so operators can quickly verify which host is in control. The straightforward switching workflow helps reduce user error and improves response times in busy work environments.
- Robust build and user‑friendly management: Engineered for long‑term reliability in IT racks and lab environments, the GCS1716 emphasizes dependable hardware design, simple setup, and maintenance. Its compact footprint fits standard racks and desks, while the hardware‑level switching minimizes the need for software configuration, delivering a stable performance even under demanding workloads.
Technical Details of IOGEAR GCS1716
- Ports and compatibility: 16‑port USB and PS/2 combo KVM switch capable of controlling multiple machines from a single console. Supports a mix of USB and PS/2 keyboards and mice for flexible deployment.
- Cascading capability: Expandable by cascading up to 16 additional KVM switches, enabling a total reach of up to 256 computers from one console. This makes it suitable for growing labs or data centers without purchasing a new KVM system for every expansion.
- Console configuration: One keyboard, one mouse, and one monitor shared across all connected hosts. This centralized console reduces desk clutter and simplifies management in large deployments.
- Switching methods: Front‑panel push‑button switching complemented by hot‑key commands for rapid transitions between hosts. Clear LED indicators provide immediate status updates to operators.
- Power and durability: Designed for reliable operation in rack and desk environments. Requires external power supply typical for mid‑range KVM switches; power handling is geared toward consistent performance in multi‑host setups.
- Supported environments: Compatible with standard BIOS/POST sequences and a broad range of operating systems due to its hardware‑level switching. No additional drivers are required, enabling quick deployment across mixed environments.
how to install IOGEAR GCS1716
- Unpack the GCS1716 and place it in a convenient location within your rack or on a desk where the console peripherals (keyboard, mouse, monitor) can be easily connected.
- Connect the console devices: plug your keyboard and mouse into the USB/PS2 ports on the console side of the switch, and connect the monitor to the monitor output port. Ensure the display is compatible with the host machines you plan to control.
- Attach each target computer to one of the 16 ports on the KVM switch using the appropriate USB or PS/2 cables. If you are using USB keyboards or mice, connect them to the USB ports; if you are using PS/2 devices, use PS/2 connections as required by each host.
- Power the KVM switch with the included power supply. If you are cascading other switches, connect the cascade cables between the master unit and the downstream units according to the user manual to enable expansion up to 256 computers.
- Power on the computers in your setup and test switching between hosts. Use the front‑panel push button or the hot‑key commands to cycle through connected machines. Check LED indicators for visual confirmation of the active host, and adjust monitor or display settings as needed to ensure proper video output across all connected systems.
- Optionally configure hot‑key sequences or custom macro settings if your environment benefits from personalized switching workflows. Maintain proper cable management and label ports for easier maintenance and future expansion.
Frequently asked questions
- Q: How many computers can I control with the GCS1716? A: The GCS1716 is designed to control up to 256 computers when cascaded with up to 16 additional KVM switches. This makes it suitable for large labs, datacenters, or enterprise workstations where centralized access is essential.
- Q: Which peripherals are supported? A: The switch supports both USB and PS/2 keyboards and mice, providing compatibility with a wide range of devices—from modern USB peripherals to legacy PS/2 peripherals—without requiring extra drivers.
- Q: Do I need software to operate the GCS1716? A: No software installation is required. The GCS1716 operates at the hardware level with plug‑and‑play functionality, enabling quick setup and reliable operation across different operating systems.
- Q: How do I switch between connected computers? A: You can switch using the front‑panel push button for direct selection or via hot‑key commands for fast, hands‑free transitions. LED indicators on the front panel confirm the active host at a glance.
- Q: Can I cascade multiple switches for more ports? A: Yes. The GCS1716 is designed to cascade with up to 16 other switches, expanding your total host capacity to 256 computers, which is ideal for scalable IT environments.
- Q: Is the setup compatible with BIOS and POST sequences? A: Yes. The KVM switch is designed to be BIOS‑friendly and works with typical BIOS/POST sequences, ensuring that you can manage servers and workstations during boot without driver conflicts.
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