StarTech.com PS/2 + USB KVM Console Extender — Cat5 Extender Up to 150 m

Effortlessly manage multiple computers or servers from a distance with the StarTech.com PS/2 + USB KVM Console Extender. This external Cat5 extender lets you extend your keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) console over a standard Cat5 or Cat6 network cable, delivering a seamless, reliable solution for data centers, server rooms, and development labs. Built for performance and ease of use, it helps you centralize control, reduce clutter, and improve workflow by letting you interact with remote systems from a single, comfortable workstation.

• Extended reach for your KVM setup: Extend keyboard, video, and mouse signals over Cat5 or Cat6 cables up to 150 meters, enabling flexible placement of servers, racks, and equipment while keeping your primary console nearby.
• PS/2 and USB periphery support: Seamlessly use both PS/2 and USB keyboards and mice, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and legacy systems without sacrificing convenience or performance.
• Video connectivity optimized for remote displays: VGA video support preserves essential image quality for remote consoles, making it easy to monitor alerts, run diagnostics, and perform maintenance from a central location.
• Plug-and-play reliability: Designed for quick deployment with minimal setup. No complex software or drivers are required—just connect, power as needed, and start working with your remote machines.
• Scalable for professional environments: Ideal for data centers, server rooms, and development labs where centralized management, reduced travel time, and improved uptime are paramount. Works in harmony with standard KVM switches and configurations to suit growing infrastructures.

Technical Details of StarTech.com PS/2 + USB KVM Console Extender

• Distance: Up to 150 m (492 ft) over standard Cat5 or Cat6 cable.
• KVM Interface: PS/2 and USB keyboard and mouse support for local and remote consoles.
• Video Interface: VGA video connection to the remote display with compatibility for common resolutions used in KVM deployments.
• Connectors: Local and remote units provide console ports; external power option available on certain configurations for reliable operation.
• Compatibility: Works with most PS/2 and USB peripherals and integrates with standard KVM setups, making it a flexible choice for diverse environments.

How to install StarTech.com PS/2 + USB KVM Console Extender

Install the extender quickly by following these simple steps. This setup keeps your main workstation free from constant server-side travel while maintaining responsive control over remote systems.

• Connect the local console to the local extender unit using your keyboard, mouse, and monitor cables (PS/2 or USB and VGA as supported by your hardware).
• Run a Cat5 or Cat6 cable between the local and remote extender units. This cable carries the KVM signals across the distance, letting you reach distant servers.
• Attach the remote extender unit to the target computer or KVM switch and connect the corresponding VGA, USB, or PS/2 cables as required by your setup.
• Power the units as needed (some configurations require external power). Ensure both units are powered and detected by your hardware before use.
• Power on all connected devices, switch to the remote session from the local console, and verify that keyboard, video, and mouse respond correctly. Adjust display settings if necessary for optimal clarity.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: How far can I extend the KVM console with this device? A: Up to 150 meters over Cat5 or Cat6 cable, enabling flexible remote management across racks, rooms, or data centers.
• Q: Which peripherals does it support? A: It supports PS/2 and USB keyboards and mice and standard VGA video, designed to work with typical KVM setups and a wide range of peripherals.
• Q: Do I need software to use the extender? A: No software is required; it is a plug-and-play KVM extender that works with existing hardware.
• Q: Can I use this extender to manage multiple servers? A: The extender is designed to extend a single console to a remote machine or compatible KVM setup. For managing multiple servers, pair it with a KVM switch or matrix in your infrastructure.
• Q: Is power required? A: Some models require external power; check your unit’s power port and supply as needed. If your installation uses a passive configuration, power may not be necessary for basic operation.