StarTech.com 4 Port 1U Rackmount USB PS/2 KVM Switch with OSD

Designed for professionals and tech enthusiasts, the StarTech.com 4 Port 1U Rackmount USB PS/2 KVM Switch with OSD centralizes control of up to four computers from a single console. This rack-mountable KVM switch bridges the gap between legacy PS/2 systems and modern USB-enabled devices, allowing you to mix and match hardware without sacrificing performance or reliability. With a compact 1U footprint, it fits neatly into standard 19-inch racks, freeing valuable desk space and delivering efficient routing of video, keyboard, and mouse signals through a single, centralized device. The integrated On-Screen Display (OSD) guides you through port labeling, switching, and status information, making it simple to identify which PC you’re working on and to switch quickly during maintenance windows, software updates, or on-the-fly troubleshooting. For IT managers, lab technicians, and freelancers who juggle multiple workstations, this StarTech KVM switch provides a robust, scalable solution that reduces cable clutter, minimizes downtime, and enhances security by keeping access centralized within the server room or data center. Because it supports both USB and PS/2 keyboards and mice, it’s ideal for mixed environments where older equipment and newer USB devices must co-exist. Additionally, the OSD supports intuitive navigation, enabling technicians to rename ports to reflect host machines, locations, or project codes, which accelerates asset tracking and reduces human error. The StarTech 4-Port 1U KVM switch is built to withstand the rigors of daily IT operations, with a sturdy metal enclosure that handles the heat and vibration often found in rack deployments. It’s designed for easy installation alongside other rack-mount devices, such as servers, network switches, or storage arrays, and it can operate with minimum downtime thanks to features like hot-plug support and automatic signal routing when a port is switched. In essence, this KVM switch is a practical, future-proof addition to any workspace that requires reliable access to multiple machines from a single control point, combining versatility, durability, and user-friendly management into a single, compact unit.

• Consolidate control of four machines from one keyboard, monitor, and mouse with full USB and PS/2 compatibility, enabling mixed environments where legacy and modern hosts coexist without complicated workarounds.
• OSD-enabled switching provides easy device labeling, quick selection, and real-time status updates, so administrators can identify hosts at a glance and switch devices faster during maintenance or troubleshooting.
• 1U rackmount design saves valuable space in data centers and labs, allowing seamless integration with servers, switches, and other critical equipment in a standard 19-inch rack.
• Seamless keyboard/mouse emulation and robust switching logic ensure reliable operation across reboots and BIOS initialization, reducing setup time and eliminating driver conflicts on diverse host platforms.
• Flexible switching options, including intuitive keyboard hotkeys and OSD navigation, empower admins to match their workflow—switch quickly, label ports for asset tracking, and manage access with confidence in high-demand environments.

Technical Details of StarTech.com 4 Port 1U Rackmount USB PS/2 KVM Switch with OSD

• Ports: 4 KVM ports to manage up to four computers from a single console
• Connectivity: USB and PS/2 keyboard/mouse support for broad compatibility with mixed hardware
• Form factor: 1U rackmount chassis designed for standard 19-inch racks
• Display and control: Built-in On-Screen Display (OSD) for port labeling, status, and switching
• Switching methods: Keyboard hotkeys and OSD navigation for fast, flexible access
• Compatibility: Works with most major operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Construction: Durable metal enclosure suited for rack environments and continuous operation

How to install StarTech.com 4 Port 1U Rackmount USB PS/2 KVM Switch with OSD

• Plan your rack layout and mount the switch in a 19-inch rack using the included mounting hardware or your preferred rack rails, ensuring adequate clearance for cabling and airflow.
• Connect each computer to the corresponding KVM port on the rear of the switch using compatible KVM cables (USB or PS/2 as required by each host), making sure video, keyboard, and mouse cables are securely attached and routed to minimize strain on connectors.
• Attach a single console—keyboard, mouse, and monitor—to the front or rear panel as specified by your model’s design, ensuring the display is capable of accepting the target resolution and refresh rate supported by your hosts.
• Power on the switch (and any required external power supply) and boot the connected computers; the OSD will guide you through initial port labeling and basic configuration if supported by your unit.
• Use the OSD menu or keyboard hotkeys to label each port, verify that video and input signals are transmitted correctly, and begin switching between hosts with confidence during maintenance, testing, or routine operations.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: How many computers can I control with this KVM switch? A: The system supports up to four computers from a single console, allowing consolidated management of multiple hosts without adding complexity to your workspace.
• Q: Does this switch support both USB and PS/2 keyboards and mice? A: Yes, it provides USB and PS/2 connectivity options, enabling seamless operation with a variety of devices and platforms.
• Q: What is the advantage of the OSD feature? A: The On-Screen Display helps you label ports, view status information, and switch targets quickly, which improves accuracy and reduces downtime during maintenance windows.
• Q: Is this KVM switch suitable for a data center or lab environment? A: Yes, the 1U rackmount form factor, durable construction, and centralized management capabilities make it well-suited for server rooms, IT labs, and professional workspaces requiring organized, scalable control of multiple hosts.
• Q: Can I mix older PS/2 devices with USB devices on the same switch? A: Yes, the device is designed to support both USB and PS/2 peripherals, enabling mixed environments without needing separate hardware.
• Q: How do I switch between computers after installation? A: You can switch via the OSD interface or use keyboard hotkeys for rapid transitions; the exact method may vary slightly by model, so consult the user guide for your specific unit.