Aten CS1308KIT KVM Switch

The Aten CS1308KIT KVM Switch is a high-performance, 8-port solution engineered for busy IT environments where space, scalability, and reliability matter. This 1U, rack-mountable switch puts eight independent computers under one ergonomic console, delivering fast, seamless switching with flexible USB and PS/2 keyboard/mouse support and robust video connectivity. Designed for data centers, labs, and multi-seat workstations, the CS1308KIT consolidates control, reduces cable clutter, and accelerates administration in mixed-OS settings. Whether you’re managing Windows workstations or integrating diverse operating systems, this KVM switch enables streamlined workflows, improved server room organization, and scalable growth from day one.

• 8-port, 1U KVM for efficient space utilization: Manage eight servers or PCs from a single USB-PS/2 console with high-quality video through 8 SPHD-15 connections, ensuring reliable, responsive switching without compromising performance.
• Rack-mountable design for professional data centers: The compact 1U chassis fits standard 19" racks, saving valuable floor space and keeping equipment organized and accessible for routine maintenance and rapid reconfigurations.
• Dual-interface keyboard and mouse support: Seamlessly connect USB and PS/2 keyboards and mice, enabling use with newer USB peripherals alongside legacy PS/2 devices without compatibility concerns.
• Scalable to 64 computers with cascading: Cascade up to two levels to extend control from eight up to sixty-four computers, providing a clear path for growth as your environment expands or consolidates.
• Multiplatform OS support with Windows compatibility: Optimized for Windows environments (Windows 2000/XP/Vista) and designed to work in mixed-OS deployments, simplifying integration and management across your infrastructure.

Technical Details of Aten CS1308KIT KVM Switch

• Model/Product: CS1308KIT KVM Switch
• Ports: 8-Port KVM switch for 8 computers
• Video Interface: 8 x SPHD-15 connectors for video per port
• Keyboard/Mouse Interface: Dual interface — USB and PS/2 compatible
• Console: 1 USB-PS/2 console controls 8 computers
• Cascade Capability: Cascade up to 2 levels to manage up to 64 computers
• Form Factor: 1U rack-mountable chassis
• Operating System Support: Windows 2000/XP/Vista

How to Install Aten CS1308KIT KVM Switch

Step 1: Prepare your rack and mount the CS1308KIT in a standard 19" rack space. Ensure there is adequate ventilation and that the unit is securely fastened to prevent movement during operation. Position the switch at a convenient front-access location so you can easily switch between connected computers.

Step 2: Connect the eight target computers. For each computer, attach the appropriate video, keyboard, and mouse cables to the corresponding SPHD-15 video port and the USB or PS/2 keyboard/mouse connectors on the KVM switch. The CS1308KIT supports mixed configurations, so you can pair USB keyboards/mice with some machines and PS/2 peripherals with others as needed. Maintain tidy cable routing to avoid strain on connectors and to keep airflow unblocked.

Step 3: Connect a single console for control. Attach your preferred USB or PS/2 keyboard and mouse to the console ports on the CS1308KIT. This console becomes the master control for all eight computers, allowing you to switch between machines with the press of a button, a front-panel switch, or keyboard hotkeys.

Step 4: Configure cascade expansion if you anticipate growth. If you plan to manage more than eight computers, connect cascade cables per the user manual to add a second level of KVM switches. This enables control of up to 64 computers by chaining two levels, maintaining centralized management while preserving performance and responsiveness.

Step 5: Power up and verify. Power on all connected computers and verify that each system displays correctly on its dedicated SPHD-15 video route and responds to keyboard/mouse input through the console. Test switching between ports to ensure seamless transitions, and adjust any hotkeys or port mappings as needed in the device’s configuration interface.

Step 6: Implement routine maintenance. Document your port assignments and cascade topology, so changes to your IT environment do not disrupt existing configurations. Regularly inspect cables for wear, monitor for signal quality, and update firmware if and when Aten releases improvements that enhance stability or compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the maximum number of computers this KVM switch can control? Directly eight, with cascading enabled you can expand up to 64 computers across two cascade levels.
• Does it support both USB and PS/2 keyboards and mice? Yes. The CS1308KIT provides a dual-interface console that works with USB and PS/2 peripherals, and it supports computers using either interface where compatible.
• What type of video connectors are used? It uses 8 SPHD-15 connectors to deliver video to each connected computer, supporting reliable high-resolution output on all ports.
• Is the unit rack-mountable? Yes, the CS1308KIT is designed in a 1U form factor suitable for standard 19" equipment racks.
• Which operating systems are supported? The product is documented for Windows environments (Windows 2000/XP/Vista) and is intended for multiplatform deployments in mixed-OS networks.
• How do I expand capacity to more than eight computers? Use the cascade feature to connect additional KVM switches in two levels, allowing a total of up to 64 computers to be controlled from a single console. Follow the user manual for precise cascade wiring and port mapping.