-- Easy-to-use KVM Switch for concurrent, multiuser control of up to 256 computers. --
Somerset, NJ (August 10, 1998)—Raritan Computer Inc. today announced its MasterConsole MX4 keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) switch - an extension of its leading MasterConsole product line. The MX4 is a matrix switch that enables up to four simultaneous users to control up to 256 computers (PC, Mac, Sun, DEC Alpha, RS/6000, HP9000, and Silicon Graphics) each from a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse. The new MX4 eliminates the cost and clutter of unnecessary peripherals, reduces equipment space, and improves operational productivity for applications such as:
- Multiuser management of multiple servers; including data centers, corporate network, Web hosting, and ISP operations
- Access to a pool of computers (workstations) from multiple user stations
- Computer help desk and customer service operation
- Hardware/software development, testing, and systems integration
"We've got 300 PC and Sun servers that need to be updated monthly by various groups with time sensitive information and they have to be up and running 24 hours per day, 7 days per week," stated Phil Becker, Network Engineer, Computer Language Research. "Raritan's new MX4 is so easy to install and use, and since multiple people can work concurently on multiple machines, it is saving us 40% to 50% of our update time. With MX4's security features and our experience with Raritan's product reliability, we are confident that we'll maintain 24 by 7 operation."
The new MX4 incorporates Raritan's unique emulation technology (which dedicates a processor to each channel) to ensure smooth, flawless switching and operation of business critical systems, independent of operating system, such as Windows NT, UNIX, and OpenVMS. The MX4 comes in 8-channel and 16-channel models that are fully compatible with existing MasterConsole X, S, and P models for expanding control to up to 256 computers. Its advanced, on-screen user interface and multi-level security makes operation simple and secure. Its multi-level, multi-mode security options give management the ability to assign each user access rights to all, specific groups, or even individual computers.
"As customers centralize and add servers to their networks in support of existing and new applications, there is a need for several people to have simultaneous access and control of multiple systems. Similarly, for large help desk operations, individual personnel must have concurrent access and control of many computers," stated Bob Pollack, vice president, Raritan Computer Inc. "MX4 is a natural extension of our MasterConsole product line to service these needs, enabling up to four users to simultaneously access and control multiple computers. The on-screen user interface simplifies operation and systems management while eliminating any possible contention. User consoles, computers, and cascaded MasterConsole switches can be located up to 325 feet away from the MX4 so the user has the flexibility to organize equipment for maximum operational productivity."
MX4 models are available for 8 or 16 computers, with suggested retail prices of $2,695 and $5,195 respectively. Both models support high-resolution video up to 1600 x 1280. Ordering, installation, and use of the MX4 is simple and intuitive. Easy-to-manage, tangle-proof, double-shielded, coaxial cables are available in standard lengths of 2, 6.5, 13, 20, and 30 feet. Extended Length Cable Kits enable lengths from 50 feet to 325 feet to support convenient computer organization and connection.