Hybrid KVM Control Network for Video Signal Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems provide limited mechanisms for controlling source computers connected to a video processor, leading to disjointed control and poor video quality when transmitting video over control networks.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid network system that connects a control computer to source computers through both a control network for input signals and video interfaces for high-quality video transmission, allowing a single keyboard and mouse to control multiple source computers and synchronizing video with control signals, using a video processor to manage and display video from various sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If video is transmitted over control networks, then flexibility in configuration is improved, but video quality and bandwidth deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the transmission path into two separate networks: a control network for carrying keyboard and mouse input signals, and a dedicated video interface for carrying high-quality video signals. This segmentation allows each network to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between configuration flexibility and video quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The video processor acts as an intermediary device that receives control signals from the control network and video signals from the video interface, then coordinates them to control the source computers. This intermediary approach allows the system to maintain both network flexibility and video quality by handling different signal types through appropriate channels.
2Ease of operation
If a single control computer controls multiple source computers, then ease of operation is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control computer is designed with universal functionality to control multiple different source computers through the control network. By implementing standardized control protocols and using a single keyboard and mouse interface, the system allows one control computer to manage multiple sources without increasing operational complexity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates virtual copies or representations of source computer states and controls through the control network. The control computer maintains a virtual model of each source computer's state, allowing the operator to control multiple sources through a unified interface without needing to understand the complexity of each individual source system.
3Reliability
If hybrid system is used with control network and video interface, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid system segments signal transmission into two dedicated paths: control signals over the control network and video signals over the video interface. This segmentation improves reliability by ensuring that each signal type receives appropriate bandwidth and processing, while the modular architecture manages complexity through clear functional separation.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are provided for efficiently controlling source computers connected to a display system. A control computer, source computers, and a video processor are connected over a control network. Input signals such as keyboard and mouse input signals are provided to the video processor and the source computers through the control network. The source computers are also connected to the video processor through a video interface, such as multiple Digital Video Interface (DVI) lines. The use of a hybrid system allows flexibility in configuring and using the control network while providing high throughput and low latency for video sent to the video processor.