Description
The ATEN CS1734B serves as a centralized management hub for multi-computer environments, bridging the gap between legacy PS/2 systems and modern USB-equipped hardware. This 4-port KVM switch is engineered for reliability, featuring a robust metal housing and high-fidelity VGA support that reaches resolutions up to 2048 x 1536. By integrating a 2-port USB 2.0 hub and 2.1 channel audio support, it ensures that peripherals and sound systems are shared seamlessly across all connected workstations without the need for constant cable swapping.
This product is for:
- IT Administrators managing mixed-generation server environments requiring both PS/2 and USB connectivity.
- Multimedia Professionals who need to maintain high-resolution VGA signals and synchronized audio across multiple editing stations.
- Software Developers testing applications across four different operating systems from a single console.
- Financial Analysts monitoring multiple data streams on dedicated machines with a streamlined desktop footprint.
- Home Office Users looking to share high-quality peripherals like printers and scanners between work and personal PCs.
Detailed specifications:
- Computer Connections: 4 Ports
- Console Interfaces: 1 x VGA (HDB-15), 2 x USB Type A (Keyboard/Mouse), 2 x 3.5mm Audio Jacks
- Computer Interfaces: 4 x SPHD-15 (Yellow), 4 x 3.5mm Audio Jacks
- Maximum Video Resolution: 2048 x 1536 @ 60Hz; DDC2B
- USB Hub: 2 x Built-in USB 2.0 Type A ports for peripheral sharing
- Switching Methods: Front-panel Pushbuttons, Keyboard Hotkeys, OSD (On-Screen Display), and Mouse Switching
- Housing: Durable Metal Chassis
- Power Consumption: DC 5.3V, 3.4W
Operating the CS1734B is intuitive and flexible, offering four distinct methods to switch between computers: physical buttons, keyboard hotkeys, a comprehensive OSD, and mouse-click switching. A standout feature is the ATEN-exclusive Video DynaSync technology, which stores the console monitor's EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) to automatically optimize display resolution and prevent boot-up display issues. The independent switching capability allows users to maintain focus on one computer while the USB hub or audio focus remains on another, providing a truly multitasking-friendly experience.
In comparison to entry-level 2-port switches, the ATEN CS1734B provides double the capacity and significantly higher build quality with its industrial metal casing. While many modern KVMs have moved exclusively to digital HDMI or DisplayPort, the CS1734B remains a critical tool for VGA-based infrastructure where analog signal integrity is required. Its dual-interface support (PS/2 and USB) offers a level of versatility not found in standard USB-only switches, making it the preferred choice for environments with legacy hardware.
Q&A:
- Does the ATEN CS1734B support audio switching? Yes, it supports 2.1 channel surround sound, allowing you to share speakers and a microphone across all four connected computers.
- What is Video DynaSync? This technology eliminates display problems during boot-up by storing the monitor's EDID and optimizing the resolution automatically when switching between ports.
- Can I share a printer using this KVM? Yes, the built-in 2-port USB 2.0 hub allows you to share high-speed peripherals like printers, scanners, or external hard drives.
- How do I switch between the connected computers? You can use the front-panel pushbuttons, keyboard hotkey sequences, the On-Screen Display (OSD) menu, or the mouse scroll wheel.
- Is this KVM compatible with older computers? Yes, the dual-interface design supports both PS/2 and USB connections for the keyboard and mouse, making it compatible with legacy and modern systems.