ATEN CS1798 8-Port USB HDMI KVM Switch User Manual

1. Introduction

The ATEN CS1798 8-Port USB HDMI KVM Switch is a device designed to consolidate access and control of up to eight HDMI-enabled computers from a single console. This console includes a USB keyboard, a USB mouse, and an HDMI monitor. The CS1798 supports cascading up to three levels, allowing control of up to 512 computers from a single console. It also features multi-display functionality, enabling the use of standard USB cables to stack up to eight switches for multi-monitor installations, where each computer is equipped with multiple video cards. This functionality facilitates the contrast, analysis, and monitoring of video output, streamlining the working environment.

2. Features

• One USB console controls up to eight HDMI interface computers and two additional USB 2.0 devices.
• HDMI compatible for high-definition video transmission.
• Multi-Display feature: Stack up to eight CS1798 units to display video from up to eight monitors (supports dual, triple, quad, and multi-display configurations).
• Computer selection via front panel pushbuttons, hotkeys, and a multilingual On-Screen Display (OSD).
• Independent switching of KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) and USB focus.
• OSD Backup/Restore feature: Enables the administrator to back up the switch's configuration and user profile information and restore them as needed.
• Superior video quality: Supports resolutions up to 1080p / 1920 x 1200 at 60Hz.
• Supports widescreen resolutions.

3. Hardware Overview

3.1 Front Panel

The front panel of the CS1798 features several indicators and control buttons:

• Port Selection Buttons (1-8): Used to manually select a connected computer.
• OSD Button: Activates the On-Screen Display menu.
• Auto-Scan Button: Initiates automatic scanning through connected computers.
• KVM Reset Button: Resets the KVM functionality.
• USB Link Indicator: Shows the status of the USB connection.
• Upgrade Port: Used for firmware updates.
• Audio Out Jack: For connecting speakers or headphones.
• USB 2.0 Port: For connecting additional USB devices.
• Reset Button: Resets the entire unit.
• Power Button: Turns the unit on or off.

3.2 Rear Panel

The rear panel provides all necessary connection ports:

• DC Power Jack: For connecting the power adapter.
• Console Ports:
• USB Keyboard Port
• USB Mouse Port
• HDMI Monitor Port
• Audio Out Jack
• CPU Ports (1-8): Each CPU port includes:
• HDMI Input Port
• USB Type B Port (for KVM and USB device connection to computer)
• Audio In Jack

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your ATEN CS1798 KVM Switch:

1. Power Off All Devices: Ensure all computers and the KVM switch are powered off before making any connections.
2. Connect Console Devices: Connect your HDMI monitor, USB keyboard, and USB mouse to the respective Console ports on the rear panel of the CS1798. Connect your speakers or headphones to the Console Audio Out jack if desired.
3. Connect Computers: For each computer you wish to control, connect an HDMI cable from the computer's HDMI output to an available CPU HDMI Input port on the CS1798. Then, connect a USB Type A to Type B cable from the computer's USB port to the corresponding CPU USB Type B port on the CS1798. Connect the computer's audio output to the corresponding CPU Audio In jack if desired.
4. Connect Power: Plug the provided power adapter into the DC Power Jack on the rear panel of the CS1798, then plug the adapter into an AC power outlet.
5. Power On: Power on the KVM switch using the front panel power button. Then, power on all connected computers.
6. Multi-Display/Cascading (Optional): If using multi-display or cascading features, refer to the detailed instructions in the full product manual for specific cabling and configuration.

5. Operation

The ATEN CS1798 offers multiple methods for switching between connected computers:

5.1 Computer Selection

• Front Panel Pushbuttons: Press the numbered button (1-8) on the front panel corresponding to the computer you wish to access.
• Hotkeys: Use keyboard hotkey combinations to switch between computers. A common hotkey sequence for this model is: Hold Number Lock, press and release the Minus (-) key, release Number Lock, then press the desired number key (1-8) from the main keyboard (not the numeric keypad), and finally press Enter.
• On-Screen Display (OSD): Press the OSD button on the front panel to bring up the OSD menu. Navigate the menu using your keyboard to select the desired computer or configure settings.

5.2 Independent KVM and USB Switching

The CS1798 allows for independent switching of KVM focus and USB peripheral focus. This means you can be viewing one computer's video while controlling another computer's USB devices (e.g., a printer or external drive) or vice-versa. Refer to the OSD menu or specific hotkey commands in the full manual for detailed instructions on independent switching.

5.3 OSD Backup/Restore

The OSD menu provides options to back up the switch's configuration and user profile information to a file, and to restore these settings later. This is useful for maintaining consistent configurations or for deploying settings across multiple units.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the KVM switch. Avoid using liquid or aerosol cleaners.
• Environment: Operate the device within its specified temperature and humidity ranges. Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid placing the unit in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the ATEN website for available firmware updates for the CS1798. Firmware updates can provide new features, improve performance, or resolve issues. Use the front panel 'Upgrade' port for this purpose, following the instructions provided with the firmware.
• Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and organized to prevent accidental disconnections or damage.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your ATEN CS1798 KVM Switch, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Display/Poor Video Quality:
• Ensure all HDMI cables are securely connected between the monitor, KVM, and computers.
• Verify that the monitor is powered on and set to the correct input source.
• Check the video resolution settings on the connected computer; ensure they are within the supported range of the KVM switch and monitor.
• Try connecting the computer directly to the monitor to rule out computer or monitor issues.
• Keyboard/Mouse Not Responding:
• Ensure the USB keyboard and mouse are securely connected to the Console USB ports on the KVM switch.
• Verify that the USB cables from the computers are connected to the corresponding CPU USB Type B ports on the KVM.
• Try connecting the keyboard and mouse directly to a computer to confirm they are functional.
• If using a wireless keyboard/mouse, ensure the receiver is connected to the KVM's console USB port and has power.
• No Audio:
• Check all audio cable connections between speakers/headphones, KVM, and computers.
• Ensure the audio output settings on the computer are correctly configured to send audio via HDMI or the analog audio jack connected to the KVM.
• Verify volume levels on both the computer and your audio output device.
• Switching Issues:
• Ensure the KVM switch is powered on.
• Confirm that the hotkey sequence is being entered correctly.
• Try using the front panel buttons or OSD to switch between computers.
• General Reset: If issues persist, try power cycling the KVM switch (unplug the power adapter, wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in) and restarting the connected computers.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information regarding your ATEN CS1798 KVM Switch, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official ATEN website. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and product.

For technical support, product registration, and additional resources, please visit the ATEN official support portal or contact their customer service department. Keep your product model number (CS1798) and serial number ready when seeking support.