As technology continues to evolve and workstyles diversify, KVM (Keyboard, Video, and Mouse) switches have become essential tools in modern office, design, and tech environments. We’re excited to announce the launch of our first-ever dual-screen hybrid-interface KVM switch powered by Thunderbolt 4 (TB4). This marks a new chapter in the evolution of KVM devices, combining cutting-edge technology with enhanced functionality. Not only does this innovative product fill a significant gap in the market, but it also addresses many of the limitations faced by traditional KVM solutions by leveraging the power of TB4. Let’s take a look at some of the key concerns that users are most excited about:
For professionals in creative fields like designers, animators, and video editors, multi-monitor setups have become a standard part of their workflow, and the performance demands for their equipment and peripherals are often varied. These users typically work with a combination of laptops, desktops, professional monitors, external hard drives, card readers, and other devices, often requiring frequent switching between them. As a result, they need a solution that can connect multiple monitors and devices simultaneously, ensuring high-quality video output while minimizing the hassle of constantly plugging and unplugging equipment. At the same time, the high-speed data transfer capabilities of a TB4 dock are crucial for handling high-resolution videos, graphics, and large datasets.
Answer 1:
The market’s first TB4 dual-screen hybrid-interface KVM makes it easy to connect two 4K 60Hz monitors, enabling seamless dual-display functionality and addressing the challenges of high-resolution output across multiple screens. With support for TB4's 40Gbps data transfer rate, it effortlessly meets the demands of video editing, graphic design, animation production, and other professional applications. The KVM also offers additional USB ports with a 10Gbps transfer rate, eliminating the need for extra docking stations. With just one device, users can seamlessly switch between systems and manage peripherals, significantly boosting both workflow efficiency and user experience.
Question 2: I want the KVM to function like a docking station, with video output, peripheral connections, and so on. I also need high-speed data processing, but I’m concerned that the video output might take up too much of the data bandwidth. Can it really deliver the full 40Gbps performance?
TB4 offers a theoretical maximum bandwidth of 40Gbps, which might seem like plenty, but in real-world use, we need to consider the data demands of multiple devices connected at once. So, let's break down the bandwidth requirements for HDMI/DP and Gigabit Ethernet to see if TB4 can truly handle the load.
Answer 2:
Assuming the following use case:
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Dual 4K@60Hz Displays (via HDMI/DP): After compression, this requires around 10-16Gbps.*
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Gigabit Ethernet: Fixed at 1Gbps.
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Other USB devices or storage devices: Assume two 10Gbps devices operating under high load, totaling 20Gbps (e.g., external hard drives or SSDs).
The total bandwidth requirement is approximately:
Total requirement: 37Gbps, which is below TB4’s theoretical maximum bandwidth of 40Gbps.
Therefore, in typical use cases, the bandwidth of TB4 is more than sufficient. In most scenarios (e.g., dual 4K@60Hz displays + Gigabit Ethernet + moderate load data transfer), TB4’s bandwidth is fully capable of handling the demands. Even in high-load scenarios, compression technologies and dynamic bandwidth allocation can effectively prevent any bandwidth bottlenecks. As such, TB4 can reliably support users who need high-resolution displays, network connectivity, and high-speed data transfer simultaneously. This is where the advantage of our TB4 KVM really shines. However, the actual experience may still depend on the efficiency of bandwidth allocation between devices and the hardware performance.
Question 3: Will my Mac device work with the TB4 KVM?
Since most Mac devices don't come with traditional HDMI or DisplayPort ports, users typically need adapters or dongles to connect dual monitors. For Mac users, connecting dual displays often requires a separate TB dock or at least two conversion cables. Without a dock, particularly with some MacBook Air or 13-inch MacBook Pro models that only have two Thunderbolt ports, users may need to constantly plug and unplug devices when connecting peripherals.
Answer 3:
The TB 4 Dual-Screen Hybrid Interface KVM is the perfect solution for Mac users. Simply connect through the Thunderbolt 4 port, and you can instantly enjoy seamless multi-display support, ultra-fast data transfer, as well as expanded network and multiple USB ports. This built-in compatibility eliminates the need for extra adapters, streamlining the hardware setup and providing Mac users with a smoother, more efficient work experience.**
Question 4: I’m a streamer, and I use two computers—one for work and one for gaming. Will the TB4 KVM be able to support dual-screen display while maintaining a high refresh rate during gaming?
The needs of high-end gamers and streamers are vastly different from traditional work environments, but both emphasize low latency and multi-screen support. In gaming and streaming, users not only need to run multiple programs simultaneously (such as games, streaming software, and chat interfaces), but also require smooth, high-resolution output for gaming, which demands powerful performance from their equipment.
Answer 4:
The TB4 Dual-Screen Hybrid Interface KVM provides latency-free, high-resolution display output, supporting G-Sync and Adaptive-Sync to ensure that gamers and streamers can switch between multiple devices and displays without any lag or screen tearing. It leverages the high bandwidth capabilities of TB 4, supporting display outputs equivalent to the bandwidth required for two 4K60Hz screens. This means that, theoretically, you can run two 1080p240Hz or 1440p144Hz displays simultaneously. While ensuring a smooth gaming experience, it also allows for multitasking with multiple programs and devices, greatly enhancing both gaming and streaming performance.
Question 5: I work from home regularly, and I’d like to run two PCs simultaneously. Can a KVM simplify my workspace?
With the rise of remote work, remote workers may need to connect more peripheral devices (such as cameras, external hard drives, audio interfaces, etc.), especially in home office settings, where device needs are often more varied. At the same time, home office users may have limited space and prefer a clean, efficient work environment, avoiding the clutter of power adapters and cables. As a result, a compact KVM switch is needed to simplify the workspace.
Answer 5:
This TB4 Dual-Screen Hybrid Interface KVM device simplifies multi-device management. With just one TB4 cable, it functions as an all-in-one 9-in-1 docking station. The PC1 panel has two USB-C ports, and the device itself acts as a docking station. By connecting a single Ethernet cable, you can connect both PCs to the network while providing additional USB and expansion ports for multiple peripherals. It supports high-power charging, so laptops don’t require an extra power adapter. It meets the needs for high-speed data transfer and power supply while reducing the clutter of cables, making remote work more efficient and professional. In the future, our new products will gradually include the ability to drag and drop files between two PCs, further enhancing work efficiency. Stay tuned!
*: Based on Intel's official information, display stream compression of 3:1 is supported.
**: Some Mac devices are limited by hardware, and even with a Thunderbolt docking station, they cannot support dual-display output.