Weekly News – Nov 20, 2008

Overview of industry headlines from across the web:

New Laptop USB KVM With Dual PC Control, File Transfer, and USB 2.0 Peripheral Access Unveiled by ATEN Technology – Market Watch - Key features include seamless file transfer between two computers, plug-and-play functionality, and access to USB 2.0 peripherals such as external storage drives. The device also adjusts the resolution of the remote desktop window to match the local computer monitor.

Raritan Acquires dcTrack Software to Bolster Data Center Power Management Capabilities – Market Watch - Adds visualization and tracking technologies for improving data center efficiency and reducing energy costs

ATEN Technology Launches New 8- and 16-Port Dual Channel CAT5 KVM Switches – Earth Times - The switches are eight and 16-port units that provide two operators with independent and simultaneous access to eight or 16 connected servers

IOGEAR is Named CES Innovations 2009 Design and Engineering Award Honoree – sys-con.com - IOGEAR's Wireless USB to VGA Kit enables HD video streaming up to 720p between a PC and TV or projector.

NEW PRODUCTS: Multi-user KVM Switches - Smart 216 / Smart 232

Minicom announces the launch of two new multi-user KVM switches for IT managers of server rooms and data centers – the Smart 216 and the Smart 232. The new products allow two users to control up to 16 or 32 mixed-platform (PS/2 & USB) servers. They also provide seamless power control via Minicom's Serial Remote Power Switch (RPS).

Easy installation via user friendly OSD and compatibility is increased thanks to USB keyboard and mouse console.

Physically, the Smart 216 and Smart 232 are both thin 1U sized, rack-mountable devices that save critical space in crowded computer room environments. They both feature Minicom KVM over CAT5 technology that directly connects the switch to each computer in the server room, eliminating cable clutter and extending the distance between server and switch up to 30m/100ft.

“Thanks to their advanced functionality the Smart 216 and Smart 232 overcome many of the challenges facing today’s crowded server rooms and data centers,” says Minicom’s KVM Product Manager Benny Hayumi. “They are the ideal solution for corporate server rooms requiring both a powerful and versatile KVM solution.”

The Smart 216 and Smart 232 strengthen Minicom’s position in the KVM market by going to the next level of control. From a single remote user product line (Smart 108, Smart116) Minicom now offers a dual user line. In addition Minicom offers a full line of remote access switches for both single and multiple users (Smart 116 IP, Smart 216 IP and Smart 232 IP)

To learn more, download and read our latest white paper “How to Achieve Cost-Efficient Data Center Growth” through centralized management that leverages your existing KVM infrastructure.

Minicom’s entire line of KVM Products is available in an online catalog. Also, view case studies from different industries featuring Minicom KVM products.

Between The Lines

Larry Dignan always writes well and this is no exception. Check out this article about the feeling of CIOs as to IT spending. The economy is always going to affect spending but on the other hand if someone needs to go out and buy something they will. It's the Micro vs Macro forces battling away at each other.

Shuffling the Deck

Had the pleasure of meeting with Ed Deckard from Deckard Innovative. Ed works with Cables To Go which many of you would know as being one of the best in the business.

Rest In Peace

I found this interesting blog devoted to the KVM Switch and KVM Extender Technology. The only problem is that it hasn't had a post since June 2005. Think how far KVM technology has come regarding the KVM switch in that time! It began in December 2004 and only has 10 posts which is a shame because each of them was very informative. They even have a post about Minicom purchasing Replicom. The blog was written by Daxten which is a huge name in the KVM Switch industry.

KVM Switch - Everything You Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask

When it comes to KVM Switches - 42U.com know what they're doing. For those of you new to the KVM Switch industry, still finding your way around, you might like to see the FAQ, 42U.com have up there.

It has answers to practically every KVM Switch-related question you would have. The questions are in seven categories: Installation and Set Up, Expansion and Replacement, Features of KVM Switches, Supported Features, Devices, and Platforms, Remote Power Management, Server Dongles, Security and Access Rights.