Raritan MasterConsole Digital Dual

MasterConsole Digital Dual (MCD-DUAL) is the new dual-head Cat5 KVM switch in Raritan’s MCD product family. This dual-monitor KVM solution is designed for IT environments where a single operator must manage and control multiple dual-head PCs and servers from one or more console workstations. Built for reliability and ease of use, the MCD-DUAL delivers seamless switching, robust performance, and scalable management for dense data centers, server rooms, laboratories, and enterprise workspaces. With its digital console capabilities, it enables administrators to optimize workflows, reduce hardware clutter, and accelerate incident response by providing fast, intuitive access to every connected host from a centralized control point.

• Dual-monitor, multi-host control: Manage multiple dual-head PCs and servers from a single user console. The MasterConsole Digital Dual consolidates control of two independent displays per connected host, enabling administrators to monitor, compare, and interact with different systems side by side without swapping cables or consoles.
• Flexible Cat5 switching architecture: The MCD-DUAL uses Cat5 cabling to connect consoles to the target devices, offering flexible deployment across racks and rooms. This architecture minimizes cable clutter, reduces trip hazards, and supports longer cable runs than traditional KVM setups, helping you extend reach between your data center cabinets and operator stations.
• Centralized, user-centric operation: A single operator can quickly switch between dual-head hosts using intuitive controls, keyboard shortcuts, or on-device indicators. This streamlined workflow reduces downtime during maintenance, restores services faster after outages, and simplifies day-to-day management of complex server environments.
• High-reliability hardware for 24/7 environments: Designed for continuous operation in demanding IT spaces, the MCD-DUAL combines robust hardware, thermal management, and durable components to withstand the rigors of busy data centers. Its compact form factor fits into standard rack layouts, enabling efficient use of space while maintaining enterprise-grade performance.
• Scalability and ease of upgrade: The MasterConsole Digital Dual family is built to grow with your infrastructure. As your fleet of dual-head hosts expands, you can add compatible switches and consoles within the same product line, preserving a consistent management experience and reducing integration complexity.

Technical Details of MasterConsole Digital Dual

• Product name: MasterConsole Digital Dual (MCD-DUAL)
• Category: Dual-head Cat5 KVM switch
• Intended use: Centralized control for multiple dual-head PCs and servers from a single console
• Connectivity: Cat5 KVM cabling to connect consoles to host devices
• Display support: Dual-monitor output for each connected dual-head host
• Input/output compatibility: USB-based keyboard and mouse emulation for seamless host interaction
• Form factor: Rugged, enterprise-grade chassis designed for data centers and IT rooms
• Management features: Easy switching between hosts with clear indicators and user-friendly controls
• Power requirements: Standard power supplied from the facility; layout supports reliable operation in typical data-center environments

how to install MasterConsole Digital Dual

Setting up the MasterConsole Digital Dual is straightforward and designed to minimize downtime. Follow these steps to deploy and begin using your dual-head KVM solution efficiently:

• Plan your topology by identifying which hosts (dual-head PCs and servers) will connect to the MCD-DUAL and where your operator consoles will be located. Consider cable lengths, routing, and any future expansion needs before wiring.
• Unpack the MasterConsole Digital Dual and verify all included components. Inspect for any shipping damage and confirm that you have the required Cat5 cabling and consoles compatible with the MCD-DUAL.
• Connect the dual-head hosts to the KVM switch using the supplied Cat5 KVM cables. Attach each host’s dual video outputs and USB HID connections to the corresponding inputs on the MCD-DUAL, ensuring secure and orderly cabling.
• Connect your user console(s) to the switch via Cat5 cables. If you are operating from a separate console location, route cables to the designated console jack or port and secure them to prevent unplugging during routine activity.
• Power up the connected hosts and the MCD-DUAL. Allow devices to boot, then verify that the console can detect each host. Use the on-device indicators or keyboard shortcuts to switch between hosts and confirm that both displays on each host render correctly.
• Configure any host-specific display preferences, EDID settings (if supported), and keyboard mappings to ensure a consistent user experience across all connected devices. Run a few test sessions to confirm performance, latency, and input responsiveness.
• Document the topology, including host names, console assignments, and switch configuration. This helps support teams quickly identify and recover from issues and makes future expansions smoother.

Frequently asked questions

• What is MasterConsole Digital Dual best used for? It is designed for IT environments requiring centralized control of multiple dual-head PCs and servers from a single or multiple console workstations, enabling efficient management, rapid switching, and streamlined operational workflows in data centers and enterprise networks.
• Does the MCD-DUAL support remote access? Yes, the unit is built to support centralized control via Cat5 connectivity, allowing operators to manage hosts from a centralized console location and from remote workstations that are connected through the intended cabling topology.
• Can I expand beyond the initial number of hosts? The MasterConsole Digital Dual family is designed for growth. You can add compatible MCD-series units or expand within the product line to accommodate additional dual-head hosts while preserving a consistent control interface.
• What kind of video and input devices are supported? The system provides dual-monitor output for each connected dual-head host and uses USB keyboard/mouse emulation to interact with hosts, supporting standard peripherals typically used in enterprise setups.
• Is installation complicated? Not particularly. After planning your topology, wiring the KVM switch and consoles, powering on the devices, and verifying host detection, you should be able to switch between hosts quickly. The setup is designed to minimize downtime and provide a straightforward user experience.