Overview

KVM describes two USB functions:

1. KVM Pass-through: connecting a USB device to a MaxColor Decoder allows it to communicate to a USB device connected to a MaxColor Encoder. For example, a keyboard and mouse connected to a Decoder can view a PC connected to an Encoder, and control that PC with the keyboard and mouse.
2. USB Hotkey: connecting a USB keyboard/mouse to a MaxColor Decoder enables the keyboard/mouse to control features in the Just Add Power system. For example, a keyboard can be programmed so that pressing the '1' key switches to watch Encoder 1.

For a broad overview of KVM, please see KVM Overview.

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Supported KVM Devices

KVM on MaxColor supports up to 7 devices controlling a single Encoder at a time.

KVM supports Bulk and Isochronous type USB devices:

• USB 2.0
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
  • Touchscreen
  • Gaming Controller or Joystick
  • Flash drive
  • PTZ camera control
  • Webcam video
  • Microphones

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Supported Firmware

KVM pass-through support begins on firmware MAX v3.7.3

USB Hotkey support begins on firmware MAX v4.3.0

 

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KVM Pass-through Commands

Send this command to the MaxColor Decoder over telnet to initialize the KVM connection to the Encoder it is currently watching.

usb connect

To link to a different Encoder, switch the Decoder to watch that Encoder and send the command.

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USB Hotkey

USB Hotkeys are setup through the webUI of the Decoder. Go to the USB Hotkey article for full setup instructions.

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Troubleshooting

KVM is fairly plug-and-play, but if the KVM connection is not working, check and confirm these things:

1. USB connection on both Encoder and Decoder ends are properly connected. Unplug and replug to confirm proper seating.
2. Connect the USB device directly to the PC, bypassing the Just Add Power Encoder and Decoder. This will confirm that the KVM device is functioning and is compatible with the PC it is connected to.
3. Bypass any hubs or other devices that are between the Encoder or Decoder and the KVM device.