KVM Switch Control Data Format Homogeneity
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Solution Overview
Problem
In USB-based KVM switches, the periodic transmission of setup requests from a slave KVM switch to a master switch leads to increased loads on USB interfaces, potentially delaying the transmission of port information and causing malfunctions when the data format of control data differs from key code data.
Innovation Solution
The KVM switch system creates control data with a format identical to key code data, allowing the slave KVM switch to receive control information without needing periodic setup requests, thus reducing interface loads and preventing malfunctions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If periodic setup requests are transmitted from slave KVM switch to master switch, then control information can be communicated, but load on USB interfaces increases and transmission of port information may be delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines control data with key code data into a single unified data stream transmitted through the USB interface. The controller creates control data that has the same data format as key code data, allowing both control information and port information to be transmitted simultaneously without requiring separate periodic setup requests, thereby reducing USB interface load while maintaining reliable control communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The USB interface is made multi-functional by using the same data format for both control data and key code data. This allows the USB interface to handle both types of information transmission without requiring separate dedicated channels or periodic setup requests, improving productivity by reducing the frequency and load of interface operations.
2Reliability
If control data has different format from key code data, then control information can be distinguished, but malfunctions occur during transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by embedding specific identifiers within the control data structure that match the key code data format. The control data includes a first identifier indicative of the control data, allowing the slave KVM switch to distinguish control information from key code information locally at the data structure level, eliminating the need for different overall data formats while maintaining transmission stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the parameters of control data to match the key code data format exactly, including data structure, length, and encoding. This parameter alignment allows control data to be transmitted through the USB interface without causing malfunctions, while internal identifiers within the data structure enable the receiving end to distinguish and process control information appropriately.
Data Source
AI summary
A KVM (K: keyboard, V: video, M: mouse) switch to be connected between a computer, and a keyboard and a mouse, the KVM switch includes: a connector that is cascade-connected to another KVM switch; an inputter that inputs a creation instruction of control data including control information which controls the operation of the another KVM switch; a creator that creates the control data having a data format that is the same as a data format of key code data inputted from the key board or the mouse when a creation instruction of the control data is inputted, the control data including the control information and a first identifier indicative of the control data; and an outputter that outputs the created control data to the another KVM switch.