Effortless Control

ATEN CS1798

8-Port HDMI KVM Switch with USB & Audio

 

The ATEN CS1798 is a robust 8-port USB HDMI KVM switch designed to provide seamless control over multiple systems from a single workstation. Supporting up to eight HDMI-enabled computers, this device offers centralized access through one USB keyboard, USB mouse, and HDMI monitor, making it an ideal solution for server rooms, control centers, production studios, or any environment where space efficiency and multi-system management are essential.

This KVM switch stands out for its multi-display capability. By stacking multiple CS1798 units, users can expand to dual, triple, or even eight-display configurations. This means each connected computer can output multiple video streams, which can be viewed across several monitors from a single user console. The result is a powerful and scalable setup for professionals who require full visibility over multiple systems at once—without the need for multiple sets of peripherals.

With native HDMI support, the CS1798 delivers high-resolution video quality up to 1920 × 1200 at 60 Hz, while maintaining HDCP compliance and widescreen support. The integrated Video DynaSync™ technology ensures that switching between systems happens smoothly without resolution dropouts or delay. It optimizes video output to match the best resolution supported by the monitor, minimizing screen flicker and display errors during source switching.

The switch also supports 2.1 channel audio, with independent audio switching that allows users to listen to audio from one computer while working on another. This feature is especially useful in monitoring environments where alerts, cues, or audio signals must be heard in real time, even when the source is not currently selected.

One of the key advantages of the CS1798 is its scalability. It supports cascading up to three levels, allowing a single user to control up to 512 computers. This makes it a highly flexible solution for growing IT infrastructures or centralized control centers, where system expansion is often required. The configuration is straightforward, with automatic detection and a user-friendly interface that simplifies large-scale management.

User control is intuitive and flexible. Switching between computers can be done through front-panel pushbuttons, keyboard hotkeys, or an on-screen display (OSD). The OSD supports multiple languages and provides clear status updates for easy navigation. In addition, the CS1798 supports auto-scan mode, allowing the user to cycle through active systems for real-time monitoring without manual input.

To enhance functionality, the unit includes a 2-port USB 2.0 hub. This enables connected USB peripherals—such as printers, flash drives, or barcode scanners—to be shared across all systems, regardless of which computer is in control. Users also benefit from independent USB switching, which means you can use a USB device on one system while controlling another with the keyboard and mouse.

Physically, the CS1798 is built for durability and efficient rack integration. It fits into a 1U rack-mount form factor and features a sturdy metal chassis, ideal for 24/7 operation. The front panel provides LED indicators for easy status monitoring, and rear connections are clearly labeled to facilitate quick installation and maintenance. The unit is hot-pluggable, firmware-upgradable, and compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Sun operating systems.

The device includes keyboard and mouse emulation to ensure stable boot-up behavior and system recognition. It also supports multimedia keyboards, Mac keyboards, and Sun USB keyboards, offering true cross-platform compatibility. With power-on detection, the CS1798 automatically switches to the next active computer if the currently selected one shuts down—ensuring continuous system availability.

In summary, the ATEN CS1798 is a powerful, scalable, and feature-rich KVM switch designed to meet the needs of IT professionals managing multiple HDMI-based systems. With its multi-display capabilities, cascading support, high-resolution video output, audio and USB sharing, and robust management features, it offers a complete solution for environments demanding efficiency, reliability, and centralized control—all from a single workstation.

 

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User Manual

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