Take Remote Control of Your Computer with MeshCommander's KVM Viewer

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is KVM?
3. How does KVM work?
4. Hardware Requirements for KVM
5. Setting up KVM with AMT Commander
6. Benefits of using KVM
7. Limitations of KVM
8. Using the KVM Viewer in Mesh Commander
9. Features of the KVM Viewer
   1. Remote Desktop Control
   2. Power Actions
   3. Saving Screenshots
   4. Image Encoding Options
   5. Local Mouse Cursor Display
   6. Focus Tool
   7. Rotating the Screen
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will delve into the details of KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) technology. KVM is a feature that allows users to remotely control and manage their computer systems. We will explore how KVM works, the hardware requirements for its implementation, and the steps involved in setting up KVM using AMT Commander. Additionally, we will discuss the benefits and limitations of KVM, as well as the various features provided by the KVM Viewer in Mesh Commander. So let's jump right in and explore the fascinating world of KVM!

What is KVM?

KVM, short for Keyboard, Video, Mouse, is a technology that enables users to remotely control and manage their computer systems. With KVM, users can access and interact with their computers as if they were physically Present. This technology provides a convenient solution for troubleshooting, maintenance, and remote access purposes. By utilizing KVM, users can avoid the need for physical access to their computer systems, saving time, effort, and resources.

How does KVM work?

KVM works by leveraging the capabilities of Intel's Active Management Technology (AMT) and the underlying hardware of the computer system. Through AMT, KVM is able to capture the keyboard, video, and mouse input from the remote user and transmit it to the target computer over the network. The target computer then processes the input and sends the corresponding output back to the remote user, creating a seamless remote control experience. This process involves fetching the graphics image directly from the hardware, compressing it, and transmitting it over the network to be displayed on the remote user's screen.

Hardware Requirements for KVM

To utilize KVM, certain hardware requirements need to be met. The computer system must have Intel AMT technology integrated, preferably version 6.0 or above. Additionally, the computer must have Intel Graphics as the primary graphics solution. If the computer has an add-on graphics card, KVM may not work correctly. It is important to ensure that the operating system installed on the computer can respond to the virtual USB mouse and keyboard created by Intel AMT. Otherwise, the KVM functionality may not function properly.

Setting up KVM with AMT Commander

To set up KVM with AMT Commander, follow these steps:

1. Launch the AMT Commander software and establish a connection to the Intel AMT machine.
2. Navigate to the remote desktop section and click on the Connect button.
3. The remote desktop will appear, displaying the graphics image fetched directly from the Intel Graphics hardware.
4. Adjust the screen resolution according to your preferences, ensuring it fits within the boundaries of your viewer.
5. Explore the various power state options available, allowing you to perform power actions remotely.
6. Utilize the save button to capture screenshots of the remote screen for support or documentation purposes.
7. Customize the image encoding settings, such as color depth and encoding type, to optimize the KVM experience.
8. Choose whether to display the local mouse cursor and show the Ctrl+Alt+Delete button.
9. Take advantage of the focus tool, which allows you to select and update specific parts of the screen.
10. Use the rotate right and rotate left buttons to pivot the remote screen for a 360° view, including the local cursor adjustment.

Benefits of using KVM

KVM offers several benefits for remote computer management and control. Some of the notable advantages include:

1. Remote Troubleshooting: With KVM, IT professionals can troubleshoot computer systems remotely, avoiding the need to physically access the machine.
2. Time and Cost Savings: KVM eliminates the need for travel to the physical location of the computer system, saving time and reducing expenses.
3. Efficient Maintenance: Administrators can perform maintenance tasks on remote systems without interrupting the end-users' productivity.
4. Enhanced Accessibility: KVM enables access to computers located in remote or inaccessible areas, providing remote workers with seamless control.
5. Disaster Recovery: In the event of system failures or critical errors, KVM allows administrators to remotely reboot or access the BIOS for recovery purposes.

Limitations of KVM

While KVM offers numerous benefits, it is essential to be aware of its limitations. Some of the limitations include:

1. Hardware Compatibility: KVM requires specific hardware support, such as Intel AMT technology and Intel Graphics as the primary graphics solution.
2. Operating System Dependencies: The operating system installed on the target computer must respond to the virtual USB mouse and keyboard created by Intel AMT.
3. Network Reliability: KVM heavily relies on a stable and high-speed network connection. Any network issues can result in latency, lag, or disruption while controlling the remote system.
4. Security Considerations: Remote access to computer systems through KVM requires proper security measures to prevent unauthorized access and ensure data protection.

Using the KVM Viewer in Mesh Commander

Mesh Commander offers a KVM viewer that provides a user-friendly interface for remote computer control. Let's explore some of the key features of the KVM viewer:

1. Remote Desktop Control

The KVM viewer in Mesh Commander allows users to establish a remote desktop connection with the target computer. It captures the graphics image directly from the Intel Graphics hardware and transmits it over the network to the remote user's screen. This feature enables users to interact with the remote system as if they were sitting in front of it.

2. Power Actions

The KVM viewer provides power action options, allowing users to perform actions such as reset, shutdown, or reboot remotely. These power actions can be useful for troubleshooting purposes or managing the power state of the remote computer.

3. Saving Screenshots

Users can save screenshots of the remote screen using the save button provided in the KVM viewer. This feature is helpful for capturing specific moments or documenting the remote desktop for further analysis or support purposes.

4. Image Encoding Options

The KVM viewer offers various image encoding options to optimize the remote desktop experience. Users can choose between different color depth configurations (8 or 16-bit) and encoding types (RLE or raw). Adjusting these settings can impact the speed and quality of the remote screen display.

5. Local Mouse Cursor Display

By default, the KVM viewer displays both the local and remote mouse cursor. However, users can choose to show only the remote mouse cursor for a seamless remote control experience. This option is particularly useful when the local cursor interferes with the remote cursor movements.

6. Focus Tool

The focus tool allows users to select specific parts of the remote screen for updates. Users can choose the small, large, or all options to define the area of focus. This feature is handy in low-bandwidth scenarios or when dealing with specific sections of the screen while playing videos or performing intensive tasks.

7. Rotating the Screen

The KVM viewer in Mesh Commander includes buttons for rotating the remote screen. Users can pivot the screen to achieve a 360° view of the remote system. This feature is especially beneficial when dealing with digital signs or situations where the screen orientation needs to be adjusted.

Conclusion

KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) technology provides a powerful solution for remotely controlling and managing computer systems. Through its integration with Intel AMT and the underlying hardware, KVM enables users to access and control their computers as if they were physically present. By utilizing the KVM viewer in Mesh Commander, users can take advantage of various features such as remote desktop control, power actions, screenshot capturing, customizable image encoding, local mouse cursor display, focus tool, and screen rotation. Understanding the benefits, limitations, and functionalities of KVM empowers users to efficiently troubleshoot, maintain, and access their computer systems remotely. So embrace the power of KVM and take control of your computer systems from anywhere in the world!