Redirecting input and output for multiple computers
View Patent ↗Apparatus, methods, and systems provide for remote management of a set of local computers by transferring screen frames produced by the local computer for viewing at a remote computer. A redirection module captures and transmits video signals from a local computer through over a network, such as the Internet, to a remote computer where the remote computer produces a display that contains the screen frames being transferred. The module is configured for use with and installation within a keyboard, video, and mouse switch configured for receiving the module. The redirection module is further configured for use with and installation on a server-blade to allow remote management of the server-blade.
1. A keyboard, video, mouse (KVM) switch for allowing control of a plurality of local computers from a remote computer, comprising:
a printed circuit board having at least one internal connector for connection to a KVM redirection module, wherein the at least one internal connector is configured to provide video signal data from a local computer of the plurality of local computers to a connected KVM redirection module;
a housing that encloses the printed circuit board and at least one internal connector comprising at least one opening corresponding to the at least one internal connector for receiving a KVM redirection module;
a plurality of keyboard, video, and mouse input connectors electrically connected to the printed circuit board corresponding to the plurality of local computers, wherein the plurality of keyboard, video, and mouse input connectors are accessible externally from the housing; and
means for selecting a local computer from the plurality of local computers for controlling with the remote computer.
2. The KVM switch of claim 1 , wherein the housing further comprises:
a first vertical surface parallel to and opposing the printed circuit board, wherein the at least one opening is through the first vertical surface at a location opposing the at least one internal connector;
guiding means for slidably receiving a KVM redirection module such that a connector on one end of the module engages the internal connector on the printed circuit board while a face surface of the module contacts the first vertical surface of the housing.
3. The KVM switch of claim 2 , wherein the guiding means comprises slide rails disposed within the housing substantially perpendicular to the first vertical surface.
4. The KVM switch of claim 1 , wherein the KVM switch housing has a height dimension equal to or less than 1U.
5. The KVM switch of claim 1 , wherein the switch is configured to allow a KVM redirection module to be inserted through the at least one opening and connected to the at least one internal connector to begin operation of the module without removing power from the switch.