Archive notice: This article was originally published on October 15, 2009. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
According to the company, signal-management specialist Gefen presents two new plug-and-play products for DisplayPort: the DisplayPort KVM switcher and DVI-to-MiniDP converter.
DisplayPort KVM Switcher
The 2×1 DisplayPort KVM switcher connects one display to two computers via DisplayPort. The KVM switch makes it possible to control two connected computers with only one mouse and keyboard. Switching between the two computers is performed using a select button on the front of the device, an infrared remote control or RS-232. After all end devices have been connected to the KVM switcher, the audio, video and control signals from the selected PC are transmitted to the display connected via DisplayPort.
With the new DisplayPort KVM switcher, Gefen responds to the rapid spread of the DisplayPort standard. Compared with Digital Visual Interface (DVI), a DisplayPort cable supplies a display not only with video but also with high-definition audio signals. The KVM switcher reaches a maximum resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. Its compact dimensions allow the device to be integrated unobtrusively into existing A/V systems. The display and USB 2.0 mouse/keyboard are connected to the switcher’s outputs via plug-and-play. The DisplayPort, USB and audio ports of the two computers are connected to the inputs by cable. The 2×1 DisplayPort KVM switcher is compatible with both Mac and PC input and output devices.
DVI-to-MiniDP Converter
The new Gefen DVI-to-MiniDP converter is designed for users who want to connect a computer with a standard DVI port to a flat-panel display via DisplayPort, such as the new 24-inch Apple Cinema Display. Using the Mini DisplayPort interface, the device converts DVI signals to DisplayPort. The converter supports resolutions of 1920 x 1200 at 60 Hz and supports the EDID data structure. Signal transmission with the converter is achieved without loss of quality and without scaling.
The new converter is one of the industry’s first DVI-to-MiniDP converters and part of Gefen’s existing DisplayPort portfolio. The portfolio also includes the Mini DisplayPort-to-DVI adapter, already available from Gefen. Both products support HD resolutions of 1920 x 1200 at 60 Hz and are easy to install.
Prices and Availability
The DisplayPort KVM switcher (EXT-DPKVM-241) is available immediately from specialist retailers and Gefen distribution. The manufacturer’s recommended retail price is €367 plus VAT. The DVI-to-MiniDP converter (EXT-DVI-2-MDP) will be available from Gefen distribution from November 2009. The manufacturer’s recommended retail price is €137 plus VAT.
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