ATEN 2 Port USB KVM Switch

ATEN 2‑Port USB KVM Switch

The ATEN CS72U is a compact, high‑performance KVM (Keyboard‑Video‑Mouse) switch that allows you to control two desktop computers from a single console. Designed for office environments, home labs, and small server rooms, this device delivers reliable video, audio, and peripheral sharing with minimal cable clutter.

Key Specifications

• Video bandwidth: Supports up to 60 Hz, ensuring smooth motion for standard desktop displays.
• Maximum resolution: Up to 2048×1536 pixels, compatible with a wide range of monitors and projectors.
• Video input: Two VGA (D‑Sub) ports for connecting each computer’s video output.
• USB console ports: Two USB 2.0 connections for keyboard and mouse, plus a dedicated 3.5 mm audio jack for headphones and microphone.
• Audio support: One mic input (3.5 mm) and one headphone output (3.5 mm), enabling full audio sharing between the two systems.
• Power supply: External DC adapter, 5 V input, drawing only 0.142 W under normal operation.
• Case material: Durable metal chassis for long‑term reliability and heat dissipation.
• Operating humidity range: 0 % to 80 % relative humidity, suitable for most indoor environments.
• Button switch: Physical button available for manual switching between the two computers.
• DDC/CI support: Yes, allowing automatic detection of monitor capabilities and resolution settings.

Connectivity Overview

The CS72U provides a straightforward wired connection scheme. Each computer is connected via a VGA cable for video, a USB cable for keyboard/mouse, and an optional audio cable if separate sound cards are used. The console side features:

• Two USB A ports – one for the keyboard, one for the mouse.
• One VGA (D‑Sub) port – to connect the monitor that displays the selected computer’s output.
• 3.5 mm audio jack – split into a headphone out and mic in, allowing a single headset to serve both computers.

Operating Modes

The switch offers two primary methods for selecting which computer is active:

1. Button Switch: A physical button on the device cycles through the connected PCs. This tactile method is ideal for quick, on‑the‑spot changes.
2. Keyboard Shortcut (Hotkey): By pressing a predefined key combination on the console keyboard, users can switch control without touching the hardware. The CS72U supports standard hotkeys such as Ctrl + Alt + Tab, providing flexibility for power users.

Installation and Setup

Setting up the ATEN CS72U is a matter of plugging in cables and configuring display settings:

1. Connect each computer’s VGA output to one of the two input ports on the switch.
2. Attach USB cables from each computer’s keyboard and mouse to the corresponding USB inputs on the switch.
3. Link the console monitor to the VGA output port on the switch.
4. Plug a headset into the 3.5 mm audio jack; the mic will automatically route to the active computer.
5. Power the device using the supplied DC adapter (5 V).

Once connected, the switch detects each computer’s video signal and displays it on the console monitor. Users can then toggle between systems using either the button or hotkey.

Use Cases

• Dual‑Desktop Workstations: Professionals who need to run two separate operating systems (e.g., Windows and Linux) can switch seamlessly without multiple monitors.
• Server Management: System administrators can control two servers from a single console, reducing desk space and cable clutter.
• Home Lab Environments: Hobbyists building virtual machines or experimenting with different OS configurations benefit from quick toggling between host and guest systems.

Design Highlights

The CS72U’s metal chassis not only looks sleek but also provides structural integrity against everyday handling. Its low power consumption (0.142 W) means it can be left running without significant energy cost, making it suitable for 24/7 operation in small offices.

Compatibility and Standards

The switch adheres to industry standards:

• VGA (D‑Sub) video interface – universally supported by legacy monitors.
• USB 2.0 for keyboard/mouse – ensures high‑speed data transfer and broad device compatibility.
• DDC/CI support – allows the switch to query connected displays for optimal resolution settings automatically.

Conclusion

The ATEN CS72U 2‑Port USB KVM Switch is a reliable, feature‑rich solution for anyone needing to manage two computers from a single console. With robust video and audio support, low power usage, and straightforward cable management, it stands out as an essential tool for efficient desktop or server environments.