KVM Matrix-Grid™ - combining several matrix switches into one system

By default, digital matrix systems can be expanded using a top-down cascade, which increases only the number of connectable computers. The Matrix-Grid function removes this limitation: any port of a matrix switch in the grid can be used for a console module, a computer module or a grid line, and communication between modules connected to different matrix switches is bidirectional. The Matrix-Grid function is available in dedicated digital matrix systems.

Several dedicated digital matrix switches from the ControlCenter-Compact and ControlCenter-Digital series are combined into one group. Console modules and computer modules can be connected to any matrix switch within the grid.

For the user, the combined matrices behave like a single large system: every connected workplace can access all sources in the group. The system handles the routing of KVM signals automatically, selecting the optimal path through the grid.

Transmission between matrix switches runs over direct connections of DynamicPorts. Each simultaneous, cross-matrix KVM connection requires one such grid line — the number of grid lines therefore determines how many cross-matrix connections are possible at the same time.

In addition, the matrix switches are connected via a network that ensures access to a shared database.

A grid comprises a maximum of 24 matrix systems. Within that limit, any topology is possible — line, tree, ring, star or mesh. A fully meshed network provides the maximum number of connections between individual matrices.

Ring and mesh topologies support redundancy concepts: if a connection path or a node fails, the system finds an alternative path for the KVM signals. Availability therefore depends directly on the chosen topology.

With fiber optic connections, cross-location access is possible over distances of several kilometers.

In dedicated matrix systems, the Matrix-Grid function is a prerequisite for the MatrixGuard function. In KVM-over-IP matrix systems this prerequisite does not apply; there, MatrixGuard instead requires each ControlCenter-IP to hold sufficient licenses for the connected end devices.