Dynamic Workspace Access: Modern Requirements & Strategic Differentiators
In today’s fast-paced environments, organizations require seamless access to digital resources across distributed workspaces. Whether
supporting editorial teams, engineering labs, or specialized production zones, the ability to connect to machine room computers without
physical relocation is essential.
Users expect to work efficiently using their preferred HIDs (Human Interface Device) — keyboards, mice, and control surfaces — without
being constrained by unfamiliar setups. At the same time, high-value equipment often remains fixed in secure locations, yet must maintain
full access to remote content and compute resources.
OOBAXS identifies three strategic differentiators that help isolate the right solution for each client:
•
Scalable Architecture: Supports large, dynamic, and virtually unlimited deployments across facilities.
•
High-Speed Switching: Enables multi-display workflows with 60fps video and digital audio for responsive user experience.
•
Signal Integrity: Preserves pure, untouched DVI signals to ensure fidelity across critical applications.
POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS… (see below)
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LARGEST/DYNAMIC SOLUTION:
Largest/Dynamic Solution: Over-IP HD KVM with OTC Switching
For environments requiring maximum scalability and flexibility, an
Over-IP HD KVM solution built on over-the-counter (OTC) GigE
switches offers a compelling alternative to proprietary high-
performance KVM systems.
KVM-Over-IP solutions deliver a uniquely scalable and dynamic HD-
KVM Over-IP architecture that is virtually unlimited in expansion.
Unlike fixed port-based proprietary systems, it leverages standard
TCP/IP protocols and conventional IP addressing to create a matrix
that can grow virtually without limit. This flexibility allows
organizations to deploy across large facilities using OTC GigE
switches, avoiding vendor lock-in while enabling dynamic user-to-
resource mapping.
Performance & Feature Considerations:
•
Frame rates: 38fps (standard) vs. 60fps (high-performance)
•
HID support with extended functionality
•
USB 2.0 and USB data transfer capabilities
•
CD-quality audio transmission vs. Digital
•
Multi-display support from a single target device
Compared to propietary KVM systems like Thinklogical and IHSE,
the Over-IP KVM is generally more cost-effective — primarily due to
its compatibility with OTC switching infrastructure. However, to
ensure proper performance, additional investment in high-
throughput core switches is required. Frame-rate demands per
workstation and total system scale must be factored into switch
selection.
While generally more affordable than proprietary KVM platforms
like Thinklogical or IHSE Over-IP KVM requires thoughtful
infrastructure planning. Proprietary systems require proprietary
switching hardware, whereas OTC-based deployments demand
separate investment in high-throughput core switches — especially
when targeting 60fps performance across multiple workstations.
Backbone Design & Switching Strategy
Cost-per-port comparisons can be misleading. To achieve true
parity with proprietary systems, your GigE backbone must support
high-volume throughput and manage multicast traffic effectively —
particularly for any Share-Mode functionality, which relies on IGMP
and multicast protocols.
Not all OTC switches are created equal. While name-brand GigE
switches may appear sufficient, many lack the bandwidth, traffic
shaping, and reliability needed for full system utilization. To ensure
performance, OOBAXS recommends switches from enterprise-
grade manufacturers such as Cisco, Extreme Networks, HP, or
advanced equivalent — vendors with proven capabilities in handling
large-scale multicast environments.
Some OTC switches may technically meet these demands, but
selecting the right one requires deep research and validation. The
backbone must be robust and intelligently designed — because in
high-performance environments, the chain is only as strong as its
weakest link.
Special Note on Frame Rate & Network Design:
If 60fps is required at each workstation, each appliance must be
provisioned with a dedicated 1 GigE connection per video channel.
This may require dual network connections per device. To conserve
GigE ports, drops, and power, limiting workstations to 38fps may be
a practical alternative.
PROPRIETARY HIGH-PERFORMANCE HD KVM:
Precision, Reliability & Purpose-Built Switching
For environments where latency, fidelity, and mission-critical
reliability are non-negotiable, proprietary HD KVM systems offer
unmatched performance. These solutions are engineered with
purpose-built switching backbones, delivering consistent 60fps
video, ultra-low latency, and robust support for complex workflows
— without the variability introduced by over-the-counter (OTC)
infrastructure.
Thinklogical, IHSE, G&D CORE and Similar Platforms
These systems are designed from the ground up to support high-
performance digital extension across demanding environments
such as broadcast control rooms, defense installations, and post-
production suites. Unlike OTC-based deployments, proprietary
platforms integrate switching hardware optimized for throughput,
signal integrity, and deterministic performance.
Key Advantages:
•
Guaranteed 60fps Performance: Native support for full-frame-
rate video across all endpoints, without requiring dual network
paths or bandwidth compromises.
•
Purpose-Built Switching Fabric: Engineered for high-
throughput, low-latency switching with full support for USB,
HID, and multi-display configurations.
•
Signal Purity & Reliability: Maintains untouched DVI or
DisplayPort signals with zero compression or degradation —
critical for color-accurate workflows and secure environments.
•
Simplified Management: Centralized control, diagnostics, and
firmware updates through proprietary software platforms
designed for enterprise IT teams.
Cost Considerations & Value Alignment
While proprietary systems carry a higher upfront cost, they often
reduce long-term complexity and risk. Unlike OTC switch-based
deployments, there’s no need to research multicast compatibility,
IGMP support, or validate switch throughput — all components are
pre-qualified and optimized for the solution.
This eliminates the guesswork and ensures that every workstation
receives consistent performance, regardless of utilization or
network load. For organizations where downtime, signal
degradation, or user frustration carry real costs, the investment in
proprietary infrastructure is often justified.
Deployment Efficiency
Proprietary systems also streamline installation and scaling. With
integrated switching and endpoint management, IT teams can
deploy, monitor, and expand the system with minimal configuration
overhead. This is especially valuable in environments with strict
uptime requirements or limited technical staffing.
Special Note on Proprietary systems:
Proprietary systems require dedicated cabling (drop) which can
delay expanding the systems as easily as a routable Over-IP KVM.
Proprietary HD KVM systems can be an intelligent choice for
enterprise-level matrix switching, offering up flexability but with a
cap on physical expansion. Special consideration must be given
when using a proprietary core backbone switch dedicated to HD-
KVM. However, some options may allow configuring multiple core
switches together which then allows larger matrixes to be
achieved.
Considering the port limitation on proprietary-type HD-KVM
solutions is critical.
| Feature | OTC-Based Over-IP KVM | Proprietary High-Performance KVM | Native Fiber-Based KVM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scalability | Virtually unlimited with standard IP addressing | Fixed matrix, optimized for performance | Modular and scalable via fiber matrix |
| Frame Rate | 38fps standard; 60fps requires dual connections | Native 60fps across all endpoints | Native 60fps with zero compression |
| Switching Hardware | OTC GigE switches (requires validation) | Purpose-built proprietary switches | Fiber-optic matrix switches |
| Signal Integrity | High, but dependent on switch quality | Guaranteed pure signal paths | 100% native signal extension over fiber |
| USB & HID Support | Supported; may require manual configuration | Fully integrated with extended HID support | Fully supported with native USB over fiber |
| Multicast Management | Requires IGMP support and switch-level tuning | Pre-qualified and built-in multicast handling | Not applicable — point-to-point fiber routing |
| Cost | Lower upfront; higher planning and validation overhead | Higher upfront; lower long-term risk and maintenance | Highest upfront; lowest latency, highest fidelity |
| Management Tools | Varies by switch vendor | Centralized proprietary software suite | Centralized fiber management platform |
| Deployment Complexity | Requires deep research and network engineering | Streamlined with integrated components | Simplified with pre-qualified fiber endpoints |
| Security & EMI Shielding | Dependent on switch and cabling environment | Enhanced, but copper-based | Superior — immune to EMI, ideal for secure installations |
| Distance Limitations | Limited by copper cabling and switch hops | Moderate — optimized for facility-scale deployments | Extended — supports long-distance runs without degradation |
| DODIN & Security Certifications | G&D offers NIAP/Common Criteria + DODIN APL | May include FIPS, NIAP, NATO STANAG compliance | Often meets TEMPEST, NATO, and classified deployment standards |
| Metric | OTC Over-IP | Proprietary KVM | Native Fiber KVM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Hardware Cost | ?? Low | ???? Medium | ?????? High | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-Term Maintenance
Dynamic Workspace Access: Modern Requirements &
Strategic Differentiators
In today’s fast-paced environments, organizations require
seamless access to digital resources across distributed
workspaces. Whether supporting editorial teams, engineering
labs, or specialized production zones, the ability to connect to
machine room computers without physical relocation is
essential.
Users expect to work efficiently using their preferred HIDs
(Human Interface Device) — keyboards, mice, and control
surfaces — without being constrained by unfamiliar setups. At
the same time, high-value equipment often remains fixed in
secure locations, yet must maintain full access to remote
content and compute resources.
OOBAXS identifies three strategic differentiators that help
isolate the right solution for each client:
•
Scalable Architecture: Supports large, dynamic, and
virtually unlimited deployments across facilities.
•
High-Speed Switching: Enables multi-display workflows
with 60fps video and digital audio for responsive user
experience.
•
Signal Integrity: Preserves pure, untouched DVI signals to
ensure fidelity across critical applications.
POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS… (see below)
BROADCASTConnect with OOBAXS
© Copyright 2025 OOBAXS™ | Made with Xara
LARGEST/DYNAMIC SOLUTION:
Largest/Dynamic Solution: Over-IP HD KVM with OTC Switching
For environments requiring maximum scalability and flexibility, an
Over-IP HD KVM solution built on over-the-counter (OTC) GigE
switches offers a compelling alternative to proprietary high-
performance KVM systems.
KVM-Over-IP solutions deliver a uniquely scalable and dynamic HD-
KVM Over-IP architecture that is virtually unlimited in expansion.
Unlike fixed port-based proprietary systems, it leverages standard
TCP/IP protocols and conventional IP addressing to create a matrix
that can grow virtually without limit. This flexibility allows
organizations to deploy across large facilities using OTC GigE
switches, avoiding vendor lock-in while enabling dynamic user-to-
resource mapping.
Performance & Feature Considerations:
•
Frame rates: 38fps (standard) vs. 60fps (high-performance)
•
HID support with extended functionality
•
USB 2.0 and USB data transfer capabilities
•
CD-quality audio transmission vs. Digital
•
Multi-display support from a single target device
Compared to propietary KVM systems like Thinklogical and IHSE,
the Over-IP KVM is generally more cost-effective — primarily due to
its compatibility with OTC switching infrastructure. However, to
ensure proper performance, additional investment in high-
throughput core switches is required. Frame-rate demands per
workstation and total system scale must be factored into switch
selection.
While generally more affordable than proprietary KVM platforms
like Thinklogical or IHSE Over-IP KVM requires thoughtful
infrastructure planning. Proprietary systems require proprietary
switching hardware, whereas OTC-based deployments demand
separate investment in high-throughput core switches — especially
when targeting 60fps performance across multiple workstations.
Backbone Design & Switching Strategy
Cost-per-port comparisons can be misleading. To achieve true
parity with proprietary systems, your GigE backbone must support
high-volume throughput and manage multicast traffic effectively —
particularly for any Share-Mode functionality, which relies on IGMP
and multicast protocols.
Not all OTC switches are created equal. While name-brand GigE
switches may appear sufficient, many lack the bandwidth, traffic
shaping, and reliability needed for full system utilization. To ensure
performance, OOBAXS recommends switches from enterprise-
grade manufacturers such as Cisco, Extreme Networks, HP, or
advanced equivalent — vendors with proven capabilities in handling
large-scale multicast environments.
Some OTC switches may technically meet these demands, but
selecting the right one requires deep research and validation. The
backbone must be robust and intelligently designed — because in
high-performance environments, the chain is only as strong as its
weakest link.
Special Note on Frame Rate & Network Design:
If 60fps is required at each workstation, each appliance must be
provisioned with a dedicated 1 GigE connection per video channel.
This may require dual network connections per device. To conserve
GigE ports, drops, and power, limiting workstations to 38fps may be
a practical alternative.
PROPRIETARY HIGH-PERFORMANCE HD KVM:
Precision, Reliability & Purpose-Built Switching
For environments where latency, fidelity, and mission-critical
reliability are non-negotiable, proprietary HD KVM systems offer
unmatched performance. These solutions are engineered with
purpose-built switching backbones, delivering consistent 60fps
video, ultra-low latency, and robust support for complex workflows
— without the variability introduced by over-the-counter (OTC)
infrastructure.
Thinklogical, IHSE, G&D CORE and Similar Platforms
These systems are designed from the ground up to support high-
performance digital extension across demanding environments
such as broadcast control rooms, defense installations, and post-
production suites. Unlike OTC-based deployments, proprietary
platforms integrate switching hardware optimized for throughput,
signal integrity, and deterministic performance.
Key Advantages:
•
Guaranteed 60fps Performance: Native support for full-frame-
rate video across all endpoints, without requiring dual network
paths or bandwidth compromises.
•
Purpose-Built Switching Fabric: Engineered for high-
throughput, low-latency switching with full support for USB,
HID, and multi-display configurations.
•
Signal Purity & Reliability: Maintains untouched DVI or
DisplayPort signals with zero compression or degradation —
critical for color-accurate workflows and secure
environments.
•
Simplified Management: Centralized control, diagnostics, and
firmware updates through proprietary software platforms
designed for enterprise IT teams.
Cost Considerations & Value Alignment
While proprietary systems carry a higher upfront cost, they often
reduce long-term complexity and risk. Unlike OTC switch-based
deployments, there’s no need to research multicast compatibility,
IGMP support, or validate switch throughput — all components are
pre-qualified and optimized for the solution.
This eliminates the guesswork and ensures that every workstation
receives consistent performance, regardless of utilization or
network load. For organizations where downtime, signal
degradation, or user frustration carry real costs, the investment in
proprietary infrastructure is often justified.
Deployment Efficiency
Proprietary systems also streamline installation and scaling. With
integrated switching and endpoint management, IT teams can
deploy, monitor, and expand the system with minimal configuration
overhead. This is especially valuable in environments with strict
uptime requirements or limited technical staffing.
Special Note on Proprietary systems:
Proprietary systems require dedicated cabling (drop) which can
delay expanding the systems as easily as a routable Over-IP KVM.
Proprietary HD KVM systems can be an intelligent choice for
enterprise-level matrix switching, offering up flexability but with a
cap on physical expansion. Special consideration must be given
when using a proprietary core backbone switch dedicated to HD-
KVM. However, some options may allow configuring multiple core
switches together which then allows larger matrixes to be
achieved.
Considering the port limitation on proprietary-type HD-KVM
solutions is critical.
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