subject: Efficiency Is A Server Console Switch [print this page] Efficiency Is A Server Console Switch Efficiency Is A Server Console Switch
All businesses that use a server and multiple computers in a network need some sort of server console switch. This switch is perhaps the most important piece of hardware you can buy, so it is important to make sure that it is up to the job at hand and can cope with any future upgrades to your network. Its essential function is to connect a number of mice, keyboards and monitors to a single central server, which allows a number of different possibilities. You can run multiple terminals from a single machine, or control multiple machines from a single terminal. In this article, let us look more closely at why you need a good server console switch.
Control and Efficiency
One of the most compelling examples of the use of the console or KVM switch is in controlling multiple server machines from a single terminal. Large businesses, especially those running some sort of online service or application, tend to need a lot of raw power to handle the load caused by thousands of users accessing their websites simultaneously. This in turn requires a large number of computers running in parallel. However, since these machines run autonomously for the large majority of the time, equipping each one with its own controls and monitor is wasteful. Far more useful is to have a single, convenient switch that allows any machine to be controlled by a single user.
Cost Effective Terminals
Another thing to bear in mind is the reverse situation. Consider a business where the employees are working on a task that requires very little processing power, such as typing or data entry. In these situations, giving a full computer to each employee is a waste of money, since they will each be using only 1% of its capacity. Instead, consider hooking up all of the terminals to a single server using a dedicated server console switch. This can massively reduce costs both in initial purchase price and electricity.
Future Proofing
One thing to bear in mind about console switches is that your needs is not likely to stay constant over the coming years, especially given the speed at which technology progresses. As a result, it is important to plan for upgrades, and this may mean buying a switch with vastly more ins and outs than you currently need. This will allow you to handle any upgrades and expansions that take place very easily. Although this may involve a greater initial outlay, it will easily pay for itself compared to needing to replace a lower-end model completely at a later date.
Conclusion
A server console switch is an extremely useful device that is vital for running any computer-based business efficiently. Whether you use it for controlling multiple machines from a single terminal or running multiple terminals from a single machine, you can greatly improve the efficiency of your operation. A good server console switch will last almost indefinitely in computer terms, so be sure to invest in one with plenty of opportunity for upgrade and expansion, and you may never need to buy another.
