Military KVM Switch

KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) switches allow multiple computers to share sets of I/O and visual display equipment. They may accommodate a variety of different device types, typically USB for keyboard and mouse and VGA, HDMI and DisplayPort for monitors, but may also support legacy devices using older standards such as PS/2.

Some switches offer KVM over IP capabilities, where the keyboard, mouse and video signals can be transferred over Ethernet in order to control computers in remote locations.

Rugged KVM Switches

KSW400 Series Military KVM Switch for VGA and USB by MilDef

KVM switches are used for a variety of military, government and defense applications, particularly where mission-critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) data needs to be gathered and analyzed.

Rugged KVM switches for use in harsh environments may need to be designed to military specifications such as MIL-STD-810 for shock, vibration, sand and dust, moisture and other environmental factors, as well as MIL-STD-1275 for use in military vehicles.

Applications

Military KVM switches are ideal for command centres and bases, and are particularly useful in space-limited areas such as mobile command posts, naval vessels, submarines and forward operating posts where it may not be feasible to equip every computer with its own set of peripherals.

They are also useful for server rooms with multiple machines, where operators are not likely to need to access more than one machine at a time. They can also be utilized for dynamic environments where rooms and computing stations are likely to need to be reconfigured or redeployed frequently or rapidly.

Isolated Channels & Encryption

Mil-spec KVM switches may need to access multiple computers from systems with differing security requirements or clearance levels. They will thus require isolated channels to ensure that no data can be transferred from one connection to another.

KVM over IP switches may also utilize built-in encryption such as AES or FIPS. Other physical security methods include tamper warnings and intrusion detection, fixed firmware that cannot be reprogrammed, and automatic keyboard buffer clearing.