Description
The ATEN CS1824 4-Port USB 3.0 4K HDMI KVMP Switch is a professional-grade hardware solution designed for power users, multimedia designers, and IT administrators who need to manage up to four computers from a single workstation. By integrating a high-performance KVM switch with a 2-port USB 3.1 Gen 1 hub and advanced audio support, this device optimizes desktop space and enhances multitasking efficiency. It delivers exceptional video quality up to 4K DCI resolution, ensuring crisp visuals across all connected systems.
This KVMP switch is engineered for five primary target audiences. First, video editors and graphic designers benefit from the precise 4K color representation and seamless switching. Second, software developers and system administrators can monitor multiple environments simultaneously using the auto-scan feature. Third, financial analysts and traders can manage separate data feeds on different machines without cluttering their desks with multiple monitors. Fourth, remote professionals can bridge their personal and work computers seamlessly. Fifth, audio engineers can leverage the unique audio mixing mode to monitor sound outputs from two different systems concurrently.
Key Technical Specifications:
- Computer Connections: 4 ports
- Port Selection: Pushbutton, Hotkey, Mouse, RS-232 Commands
- Console Ports: 2 x USB Type-A Female, 1 x HDMI Female, 2 x 3.5mm Audio Jacks
- KVM Ports: 4 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-B Female, 4 x HDMI Female, 4 x 3.5mm Audio Jacks
- USB Hub: 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A Female (1 x front panel, 1 x rear panel)
- Max Video Resolution: 4096 x 2160 @ 60Hz (4K DCI) / 3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz (4K UHD)
- Power Consumption: DC 5V, 2.535W
- Dimensions: 27.00 x 8.80 x 5.55 cm (10.63 x 3.46 x 2.19 in.)
- Weight: 0.94 kg (2.07 lb)
- Housing: Metal and Plastic hybrid
Operating the ATEN CS1824 is highly intuitive, offering multiple switching methods including front-panel pushbuttons, keyboard hotkeys, mouse wheel clicks, and RS-232 serial commands. The integration of ATEN's proprietary Video DynaSync technology eliminates boot-up display problems and optimizes resolution when switching between active sources. Additionally, the built-in USB 3.1 Gen 1 hub supports SuperSpeed 5 Gbps data transfer rates, allowing quick file transfers from external storage drives to any of the connected computers.
Compared to standard KVM switches, the ATEN CS1824 stands out due to its independent switching capabilities. Users can switch KVM focus, USB peripherals, and audio focus independently, meaning you can print a document from PC 1 while working on PC 2 and listening to music from PC 3. Furthermore, its support for both HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 compliance ensures seamless compatibility with modern protected content and media players, unlike older legacy switches that struggle with digital rights management.
How does Video DynaSync improve the user experience on the ATEN CS1824?
ATEN's exclusive Video DynaSync technology reads and stores the monitor's EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) parameters. This eliminates display compatibility issues during boot-up and ensures that windows do not resize or gather on a single screen when switching between different computers.
Can I switch USB peripherals and audio feeds independently from the computer video source?
Yes, the ATEN CS1824 supports independent switching. You can keep your USB peripheral focus or audio output locked to one computer while switching the keyboard, mouse, and monitor focus to another connected system.
What is the Audio Mixing Mode on this KVM switch?
The Audio Mixing Mode is a specialized feature that allows you to mix two audio signal sources from the connected computers and output them as a single combined audio stream, which is ideal for monitoring system alerts or background audio from multiple systems simultaneously.
Does the ATEN CS1824 support 4K resolution at 60Hz?
Yes, the switch fully supports high-definition video resolutions up to 4K UHD (3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz) and 4K DCI (4096 x 2160 @ 60Hz), providing crisp, professional-grade visual output for detailed design and media work.
What cables are included in the package with the ATEN CS1824?
The package is fully equipped for immediate setup, including one CS1824 KVMP Switch, four HDMI 2.0 cables, four USB 3.0 cables, four audio cables, one power adapter, and user instructions.
