KVM Switch Input Device Disconnection and Emulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing resource sharing systems face issues with unnecessary signal transfer during switching between multiple computers, leading to potential malfunction operations when using keyboard/mouse/video (KVM) switches.
Innovation Solution
A resource sharing apparatus that employs emulators and multiplexers to selectively couple input devices to hosts, using a standby indication and identifier signals to disconnect and reconnect devices, preventing unnecessary signal transfer and ensuring smooth switching between hosts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the input device remains connected to the first host during switching, then the host can continue to receive signals, but unnecessary signals are transferred causing malfunction operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system detects the standby indication of the switching command in advance and disconnects the input device from the first host before the actual switching occurs. This preliminary disconnection prevents unnecessary signals from being transferred to the first host, thereby avoiding malfunction operations while maintaining system reliability.
2Loss of information
If the input device is disconnected from the first host during switching, then unnecessary signal transfer is prevented, but the host may lose track of the device
Solution Approach 1:
The emulator creates a virtual copy of the input device that is presented to the first host. When the input device is physically disconnected for switching, the emulator maintains the connection by generating simulated input signals that mimic the behavior of the actual device. This copying mechanism prevents the host from losing track of the device while avoiding unnecessary signal transfer.
3Reliability
If emulators are used to emulate the input device, then stable interaction is maintained during switching, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The emulator is designed to be a universal component that can emulate the input device for multiple hosts simultaneously. Rather than creating separate emulation mechanisms for each host transition, the single emulator can serve any host in the system, thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining stable interactions during switching operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a resource sharing apparatus coupling least one input device to a first host is disclosed. A first input signal is acquired from the input device, and whether the first input signal comprises standby indication of a switching command is determined. The input device is disconnected from the first host when the first input signal comprises the standby indication, and the input device is emulated to the first host.