The success of any public transportation control room depends on the comfort and efficiency of its operators. KVM technology improves the operator experience and enhances ergonomics so control room operators can focus on their tasks, maximize productivity, and improve situational awareness and reaction time.KVM offers six key advantages for efficient, responsive control rooms.
Quiet and clean workspaces
With KVM technology, you can move servers to a remote location that is clean and secure. This reduces noise and heat that can distract operators and reduce productivity. It also saves space and allows for IT maintenance to happen behind the scenes.
KVM technology also allows for a more compact and space-efficient control room setup. By consolidating multiple computers into a single console, KVM technology reduces the need for multiple monitors, keyboards and mice, freeing up valuable control room space.
Don't worry about sacrificing signal quality with remote machines. High-performance KVM solutions enable switching, extension and distribution of full HD video, audio and USB signals without any signal degradation.
Flexibility and scalability
KVM technology gives you access to multiple devices, such as CPUs, video walls, servers and other resources. This provides operators with real-time access to all the data and visualization they need to make informed decisions.
For maximum flexibility, KVM extension works over CATx, fiber or an IP network. KVM technology is highly scalable, allowing for easy expansion as transportation systems grow and evolve. To accommodate future growth, IP KVM solutions let you manage an unlimited number of users and devices by simply adding transmitters and receivers. For an easy migration path from physical desktops to a virtual landscape, KVM technology, like Black Box's Emerald KVM-over-IP, supports both physical and virtual servers. This allows public transportation organizations to easily adapt to changing needs and technologies.
Ease of use and service
Some KVM switches, like the Black Box Freedom II, enable you to control and monitor four PCs from a single desktop console. This reduces the time it takes to access multiple computers and enables command center operators to view multiple displays at the same time. Switching between computers is as simple as moving your mouse cursor from monitor to monitor.
KVM technology offers plug-and-play connectivity, so setup and expansion are quick and easy. Because everything is contained in one central system, both operators and the IT staff can work more efficiently. Monitoring the security of your network is also easy. Advanced KVM technology provides enhanced authentication, access control and accounting for secure communications, along with real-time alerts and alarms if someone attempts to skirt security profiles.
Energy savings
KVM technology contributes to green IT initiatives. Because control rooms use KVM technology to operate with fewer PCs for work stations, energy consumption can be reduced by 60 to 70%.
Cost efficiency
Reduce the amount of desktop keyboards, monitors, and mice that are needed as well as the related installation costs by using KVM technology. The ability to remotely access and control multiple computers and servers from a single console reduces the need for multiple control rooms and the associated costs. Many KVM solutions can be connected to your existing network without additional wiring. You can save even more with systems that offer no downtime for installations and upgrades.
Transitioning to a virtualized environment with a system, such as Emerald, can result in further savings. Digital KVM solutions can help you improve workflows, share resources and licenses, accommodate remote employees and consolidate equipment.
Remote access
With KVM technology, you can access mission-critical applications and information from anywhere. Remote access enables collaboration and sharing across your enterprise and into the field.
This allows for centralized monitoring and management of transportation systems, reducing the need for multiple control rooms and increasing efficiency.
KVM solutions add value to control rooms through increased efficiency, reliability, ergonomics, security and more. If you're ready to learn more, download our KVM for Control Rooms White Paper. To see how a KVM solution can work, take a look at a real-life control room Black Box implemented for a German Airport Operations Center.
To read how DKM KVM enabled air-traffic control personnel and pilots alike to make quick, accurate decisions by clearly visualizing situations in real-time, whether in the tower or simulation room, click Airport Uses Secure Remote Access Solution with Zero Latency for Its Control and Training Centers.
KVM technology offers numerous advantages for public transportation control rooms. Quiet and clean workspaces, flexibility and scalability, ease of use and service, energy savings, cost efficiency, and the ability to remotely access and control multiple computers and servers from a single console are key benefits that can greatly improve the efficiency and flexibility of transportation systems.
