IHSE’s Dual-Head 4K DisplayPort extender increases viewing area on multi-display workstations

IHSE announces the launch of new dual-screen capabilities with the Draco ultra DP 1.2 Dual-Head option kit, which supports up to two 4K60 displays in one extender set.

Packaged in a compact 2-slot Draco vario enclosure are two DisplayPort KVM extenders that create a unique extender solution for business and professional users focused on high-resolution imaging for broadcast applications, command and control, air traffic control, visual medicine, and geospatial mapping.

“Whether they’re in a classroom, a boardroom, a military war room or an editing suite — or anywhere in between — organizations are increasingly taking advantage of UHD screens and can achieve more by putting them together,” said Mark Hempel, head of product management for IHSE. “With this Dual-Head 4K DP extender, we’re bringing the next level of dual-screen capability; to increase productivity with large UHD dual-display workstations for ultra-high-resolution imaging, mapping, or multiapplication setups. Organizations will benefit in terms of both capex and ROI.”

The Draco ultra DP main module is the first 4K DisplayPort KVM extender with 60 Hz refresh rate in full color depth (Deep Color). The device uses the innovative Lightweight Image (Lici®) codec, developed in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits. This revolutionary coding technology ensures brilliant image quality at the highest video resolutions with outstanding color accuracy.

The Draco ultra DP Dual-Head extender kit allows users to operate CPUs from a remotely located workstation over two duplex fiber cables or two Cat X cables. The extender transfers digital video in 4K resolutions at 60 Hz refresh rate and full color depth (10 bit, 4:4:4). Users can either create a stretched desktop of 8192 x 2160 across two displays or run them in clone mode to show the same content on both displays.

These extenders can also support digital audio transmission via the DisplayPort interface, eliminating the need for additional audio modules and enabling playback of the audio signal on monitors with integrated loudspeakers. It is also possible to integrate optional Draco vario upgrade modules for additional interfaces, including USB 2.0 and RS232.

In addition to extending point-to-point high-resolution images up to 5 kilometers, the DP Dual-Head extenders can be integrated into IHSE’s XV models of KVM matrix switches, allowing users to share Dual-Head 4K sources across multiple workstations.

IHSE’s KVM switching, extension and sharing solutions are available for demonstration at upcoming trade fairs:

  • SMM (Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine Technology) in Hamburg, 4 – 7 September 2018. Stand no. B6.129.1.
  • IBC (International Broadcasting Convention) in Amsterdam, 14 – 18 September 2018. Stand no. 7.A09.

IHSE launches 4K60 extenders over copper cable

IHSE expands the Draco ultra high-end extender series with Cat X transmission of video signals up to 4K60 with the same image quality as fiber optic extenders. Combination of Cat X and fiber optics in matrix switching applications is also possible. Users benefit from a considerable cost saving using an existing Cat X infrastructure, rather than replacing it with fiber.

IHSE’s Draco ultra KVM extenders deliver unprecedented quality with imperceptible latency in the transmission of high definition video, with keyboard, mouse and data signals. The series was developed in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits (IIS) and is regarded as the industry’s leading technology for KVM signal extension.

For ultra-high-resolution video signals, IHSE offers Extreme Velocity (XV) extenders. The XV series is now offered with Cat X devices to supplement the original fiber versions. The new XV models support DisplayPort 1.2 and HDMI 2.0, enabling transmission of 4K60 video with a color depth of 10 bit per RGB color channel and optimal 4:4:4 color sampling over a single Cat X connection.

The expansion of the series enables users to integrate ultra-high-resolution video signals into Cat X infrastructures. Existing copper cabling no longer needs to be replaced by optical fibers in order to support the maximum resolutions and frame rates.

Backward compatibility of these devices enables access from 3G to 1G infrastructures through Draco tera enterprise matrix switches. Workstations with 4K screens can seamlessly access 2K computers via extender modules of other Draco series, regardless of the transmission medium.
In addition to compatibility with all Draco ultra extenders, the new 3G extenders are also compatible with all Draco vario add-on modules for audio and serial signals and are ideal for use with Draco tera matrix switches.

“The choice of transmission media no longer plays a deciding role in distribution of ultra-high-resolution video signals,” explains Mark Hempel, Product Manager at IHSE. “Cost-intensive new cabling with fiber optics is no longer necessary to transmit 4K60 signals at the highest quality”.

IHSE’s KVM switching, extension and sharing solutions are available for demonstration at upcoming trade fairs:

  • SMM (Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine Technology) in Hamburg, 4 – 7 September 2018. Stand no. B6.129.1.
  • IBC (International Broadcasting Convention) in Amsterdam, 14 – 18 September 2018. Stand no. 7.A09.

Variable channel pair selection for SDI audio

With IHSE’s comprehensive conversion system, embedded audio signals can be de-embedded and output in a variety of formats. For the first time, the IHSE Draco vario extender series allows free channel pair selection of SDI audio.

Commonly used AV and broadcast signals, including SDI, HDMI and DisplayPort include both audio and video signals on a single cable interface. The standard stereo PCM audio signal requires two audio channels. Usually, channels 1 and 2 of eight possible channels are used for audio transmission.

The source audio signal can be on different audio channels. IHSE’s conversion process allows free audio channel pair selection for SDI audio. This allows users to access audio tracks on channels other than the first two channels, ensuring that the video signal is accompanied by sound.

The Draco vario extender series from IHSE also enables comprehensive audio conversion between analog, digital and embedded audio signals. Additional modules allow the output of embedded audio signals via external analog or digital loudspeakers at the receiving workstation. Balanced audio, which is widely used in professional recording studios, is also supported.

The extenders are compatible with the new IHSE IP CPU extender module, receiving audio from virtual machines and outputting in analog and digital form.

“The comprehensive variety of conversion options delivers enormous flexibility and cost savings,” explains Mark Hempel, Product Manager at IHSE. “On the source side, a dedicated audio module is unnecessary, which saves on rack space and cabling. On the receiver side, the system allows the use of low-cost analogue speakers.”

IHSE’s KVM switching, extension and sharing solutions are available for demonstration at upcoming trade fairs:

  • SMM (Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine Technology) in Hamburg, 4 – 7 September 2018. Stand no. B6.129.1.
  • IBC (International Broadcasting Convention) in Amsterdam, 14 – 18 September 2018. Stand no. 7.A09.

For the first time, IHSE enables collaborative use of multi-monitor workstations

The new multi-screen control allows two users to operate up to eight computers in parallel using their own screens and keyboard and mouse sets.

Multi-screen control is a feature in the Draco tera Tool configuration firmware; an integral part of all Draco tera KVM systems. With IHSE’s multi-screen control, users can operate several computers across multiple monitors with just one keyboard and mouse set.

This is necessary in situations in which an operator manages several screens connected to different computers, for example in command centers and ship bridges monitoring and controlling technical processes or in control rooms.

Here, users need to be able to monitor a number of screens and quickly switch between computers and monitors. If there was a separate keyboard/mouse set at the workstation for each monitor, a quick change between devices would not be possible or somewhat more complicated.

With multi-screen control, users can quickly switch between computers using keyboard hotkeys or simply by moving the mouse from one screen to the next. Computers with more than one video output (multi-head) can be connected.

Eight monitors – two users

A new upgrade now enables the industry’s first simultaneous operation of up to eight screens using two keyboard and mouse sets. Two users can work simultaneously at a multi-monitor workplace and access connected sources in parallel.

Various setups are possible. For example, dedicated monitors can be assigned to a user that only that user can access, while the remaining computers are available elsewhere. This allows new forms of collaboration and enormous flexibility in multi-monitor applications.

Safety-critical multi-monitor workstations can now be configured so that they can be operated by both one and two users, for example in emergency situations. This makes it possible to react quickly to situation changes or to deploy personnel effectively in emergencies.

Mark Hempel, Product Manager at IHSE

 

IHSE’s KVM switching, extension and sharing solutions are available for demonstration at upcoming trade fairs:

  • SMM (Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine Technology) in Hamburg, 4 – 7 September 2018. Stand no. B6.129.1.
  • IBC (International Broadcasting Convention) in Amsterdam, 14 – 18 September 2018. Stand no. 7.A09.

IHSE KVM onboard the world’s largest cruise ships

IHSE KVM systems have been installed on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines largest and most prestigious cruise ships. The KVM solutions enable the crew to quickly and easily access important data from workstations around the ships.

The cruise company Royal Caribbean Cruise Line recently expanded its fleet to include the two largest passenger ships in the world: Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, each capable of carrying 6,750 passengers, along with and 2,100 crew members.


Real-time access and flexibility for the crew

It is essential for crew members to be able to access information quickly and easily. Critical decisions need to be taken in a timely manner to ensure the utmost comfort and safety of those on board. With eighteen decks and an overall length of 360 meters, moving to a dedicated location somewhere in the ship to use a particular computer system would take time and reduce the efficiency of the crew and their ability to provide the best possible level of service and safety to customers.

Thanks to the KVM solution, crew members have instant access to all the information they need from any convenient workstation – comprising a screen, keyboard and mouse – and can instantly switch between the computers they need to access. This system ensures a high degree of flexibility, convenience and greatly improves crew efficiency.


Maximum safety on the high seas

As well as saving time, the KVM system increases safety: data is always available to the crew ensuring that they do not miss any important safety-critical information. Back-up and redundant connections ensure continuous operation of the systems in the event of failure or emergency.

“Computer systems are located at a long distance from the operators. The KVM system enables the crew to access data from their own workstations and select and instantly change the computer they are using. They work more efficiently and effectively, and the ship operates safely at sea”, says Gérard R. Michel, Senior Project Manager of maritime system integrator TechnoSolutions.

“Even on the world’s biggest cruise ships, saving space is crucial. The IHSE KVM solution is of great help to address this target, especially in high technical venues like the Engine Control Room or Safety Command Centre”.

IHSE’s KVM switching, extension and sharing solutions are available for demonstration at SMM in Hamburg, 4 – 7 September 2018. Stand no. B6.129.1.

Mittelplate drilling rig optimizes working environment with IHSE KVM system

DEA redesigned the central control room on the drilling and production island of Germany’s largest oil field, Mittelplate. An IHSE KVM system now enables a highly efficient and user-friendly workflow.

North of the Elbe estuary, seven kilometers from the coast, lies the Mittelplate drilling platform in the North Sea. With an annual production volume of 1.4 million tons of oil, Mittelplate is Germany’s largest and most productive crude oil deposit. The oil field contains about 65% of the remaining economically recoverable German oil reserves. Since its development in 1987, more than 35 million tons of crude oil have been produced.

Safety is a top priority at Mittelplate: A control room for process control is located on the drilling platform. In this control room essential services including the gas warning system, fire alarm system, camera system and process control systems are monitored and operated around the clock by shift supervisors.

System computers were previously located by operator workstations. These took up valuable space and caused a considerable amount of noise and heat. In addition, the computers required regular cleaning because of the dust and dirt in the air.

The IHSE KVM solution helped making the new control room could quieter and more ergonomic. This was achieved by relocating the IT infrastructure to a separate equipment room. A fail-safe distribution and switching system from IHSE is used for computer access. All computers and process control systems as well as the operating devices (ten monitors, eight keyboard-mouse sets and loudspeakers) are connected via a Draco tera KVM matrix switch. From the workstations, the operators can access all necessary systems as if the computers were located under the wide console in the control room.

“The KVM system was installed during regular operation of Mittelplate,” said Fabian Ehlers, Electrical Engineer at DEA Holstein Production District. “Thanks to good preparation and good cooperation, the project was a great success.”

“In addition to the user-friendly environment, the system offers extensive switching options,” said Marl Hempel, Product Manager at IHSE, “Operators can instantly access all devices they need from their individual workstations – with optimum video quality.”

 

About IHSE

IHSE is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) solutions with more than 30 years of experience. KVM technology enables the remote switching, distribution, bidirectional extension and conversion of primary computer signals including DVI, HDMI, 4K DisplayPort, audio and USB. IHSE develops and manufactures an extensive range of KVM switches and extenders with visually lossless signal transmission from headquarters near Lake Constance, Germany.

IHSE products have been certified for outstanding manufacturing quality, security, operability, resilience and high transfer speeds. Many renowned companies and institutions across vertical segments including Broadcast, Post Production, Air Traffic Control, Control Rooms, Banking, Industrial, Corporate, Medical, Maritime, Education, Venues & Entertainment and Government rely on KVM solutions made by IHSE, Germany.

 

About DEA Deutsche Erdoel AG

DEA Deutsche Erdoel AG is an international operator in the field of exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas based in Hamburg. Its focus is on safe, sustainable and environmental conscious exploitation of oil and gas. DEA has 119 years of experience working along the whole upstream value-chain as operator or project partner. With a staff force of 1,150 employees DEA has shares in production facilities and concessions in, among others, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Egypt, Algeria and Mexico.


Read the full case study:

KVM in Maritime Research

IHSE equips research vessels with solutions to overcome space limitation, increase security and enable new forms of resource sharing.

Today we are used to being able to access content quickly and easily wherever we are. What is a simple process on our home networks poses enormous challenges in secure installations in critical environments – especially when they process large amounts of data.

Many systems reach their limits when it comes to data capacity and flexibility

Research vessels that collect and process data, for example those making geological measurements of the seabed, require high-performance computers that must be protected from moisture, extreme temperatures and vibration. There is a particular challenge in ocean-going vessels with the lack of space in which to locate these sensitive devices.

To work effectively, researchers and staff need unrestricted and instant access to all data and information from any location on board.

Tomorrow’s solutions, today

Future-proof solutions to these requirements have already been deployed on research vessels. These cutting-edge solutions deliver a range of benefits:

•    Real-time data transmission
•    Delay-free switching
•    Sharing of resources and content
•    Access to systems located on different decks

Many manufacturers of superyachts (e.g. ADK) and cruise ships (e.g. Symphony of the Seas) as well as operators of research and exploration vessels rely on IHSE solutions, including Fugro Searcher, Petroleum-Geo Services (PGS) and the Alfred Wegener Institute with its flagship, the legendary icebreaker Polarstern.

With IHSE solutions, computers and special equipment can be re-located to a secure environment with complete real-time access. To the operator, it feels as if all computers and devices are located alongside their own workstation.

Engineers and researchers can work jointly on projects, share resources and access all data, subject to defined access rights. Workstation complexity is minimized, equipment is protected and space is saved.

IHSE’s KVM switching, extension and sharing solutions are available for demonstration at SMM in Hamburg, 4 – 7 September 2018. Stand no. B6.129.1.

Case Study (PGS): IHSE KVM solution supports seismic exploration activities.

 

IHSE and EVS Team Up to Accelerate Live Production Workflow

Advanced Technology Partnership Brings New KVM Solutions to new XT series server and Xfile Systems

Oberteuringen, April 11, 2018 – IHSE today announced an advanced technology partnership with EVS to enhance live production workflows for the EVS XT series server and Xfile3 gateway and removable storage system. As part of this partnership, IHSE has developed a specialized KVM package based on the Draco tera compact series of KVM matrix system that supports both current and future connectivity requirements for EVS systems. At the 2018 NAB Show, the companies will route a fiber link between IHSE’s booth (SL10216) and EVS’ booth (SL3816) to demonstrate long-distance connectivity using dual EVS LSM (Live Slow Motion) remote-control panels at a single workstation.

The EVS XT series live production server is used by virtually every high-level broadcaster in the world. Many top-tier broadcasters and related service companies rely on IHSE’s KVM technology. At the show, EVS — the world leader in the production of live slow-motion replay and the creation of instant on-the-fly highlights — will show how incorporating IHSE technology enables faster turnaround and better access to enriched graphics for live events and mobile production. An XT3 Server at the EVS booth will be connected via fiber to a workstation at the IHSE booth using dual LSM remote-control panels, while previews of converted SDI sources will appear on HDMI displays.

EVS recently opened a new training center in New Jersey, incorporating IHSE’s Draco compact matrix system to enable dynamic switching during hands-on training sessions. EVS also demonstrated IHSE’s KVM systems inside its “EVS Live on Tour” demo van, which travels the country giving customers on-site demonstrations of the latest EVS live-production solutions.

Based on the Draco compact series of switch and extender solutions, the KVM system supports all connectivity for video management and LSM remote control over RS422 — all within the same KVM switch environment. In addition, IHSE’s new 474-BSS upgrade card supports up to two LSM units at the same workstation. By using integrated KVM to connect the EVS systems, LSM opens enhanced capabilities to share multiple servers from a single remote control with unmatched speed for slow-motion and live-editing operations.

“The EVS team is excited about our new partnership with IHSE,” said Nicolas Bourdon, senior vice president of marketing, EVS. “This partnership will enable EVS to deliver enhanced features that will help our customers become more efficient and reduce costs.”

“By partnering with EVS, IHSE is helping improve live production workflow the world over,” said Manuel Greisinger, head of sales for IHSE. “Combining our technology with EVS’ powerful and world-renowned live-production solution means that, together, we can collaborate to deliver unique workflow functionality focused on productivity. The result is greater efficiency and streamlined operations for XT and XFile3 users.

The new partnership will spark innovation and additional R&D in the KVM and IP CPU server markets by maximizing the product development talents and resources at both companies, while driving efficiency in the company’s respective market segments.”

About IHSE

IHSE is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) solutions with more than 30 years of experience. KVM technology enables the remote switching, distribution, bidirectional extension and conversion of primary computer signals including DVI, HDMI, 4K DisplayPort, audio and USB. IHSE develops and manufactures an extensive range of KVM switches and extenders with visually lossless signal transmission from headquarters near Lake Constance, Germany.

IHSE products have been certified for outstanding manufacturing quality, security, operability, resilience and high transfer speeds. Many renowned companies and institutions across vertical segments including Broadcast, Post Production, Air Traffic Control, Control Rooms, Banking, Industrial, Corporate, Medical, Maritime, Education, Venues & Entertainment and Government rely on KVM solutions made by IHSE, Germany. For further information please refer to www.ihse.com.

About EVS

EVS is globally recognized as the technology leader for live video production. The company introduced Live Slow Motion replay in 1994, and has continued to build on its reputation for quality and reliability with solutions that enhance live sports, entertainment and news content. Innovations – such as the C-Cast multimedia platform and DYVI software-defined switcher – are raising the bar for live production enrichment, management and distribution. Broadcasters, rights owners, producers and venues alike use EVS to maximize the value of their productions and increase revenue streams.

The company is headquartered in Belgium with offices in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America, and provides sales and technical support to more than 100 countries. EVS is a public company traded on Euronext Brussels: EVS, ISIN: BE0003820371. For more information, please visit www.evs.com

IHSE Press Release – EVS Training Center (104 KB)

Read the full case study (479 KB)

Advanced options for audio conversion

Oberteuringen, April 5, 2018 – IHSE KVM Draco vario Extender Series enables cross-audio conversion between analog, digital and video-embedded audio Signals.

IHSE Draco KVM extenders now include comprehensive audio de-embedding and cross-conversion, reducing the number of modules required in a KVM system for audio handling and conversion in broadcast systems.

Commonly used AV and broadcast signals, including SDI, HDMI and DisplayPort include both audio and video signals within a single cable interface. When extended by Draco KVM extenders, the audio signals are maintained within the AV interfaces and additionally extracted and converted for output on dedicated audio connectors. Full cross-conversion between analog and digital signals is included for complete flexibility. The user can also select which SDI audio channels are transmitted.

The extenders are also compatible with the new IHSE IP CPU extender module, receiving audio from virtual machines and outputting in analog and digital form at the receiving workstation.

The comprehensive variety of conversion options delivers enormous flexibility and cost savings. On the source side, a dedicated audio module is not required, which saves on rack space and cabling. On the receiver side, the system allows the use of low-cost analogue speakers. – Mark Hempel, Product Manager at IHSE

IHSE will be demonstrating the diverse possibilities of audio conversion alongisde other KVM highlights for broadcast and media technology at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, from April 9 to 12, 2018, at booth SL10216.

IHSE Press Release – Advanced Options for Audio conversion

IHSE enables seamless integration of virtual machines into KVM systems

The new Draco vario Remote IP CPU revolutionizes both the KVM market and the virtual machine space by combining the two systems into one homogeneous solution. It delivers the same level of flexibility and performance associated with IHSE KVM matrix switch Systems.

IHSE expands the successful Draco vario series with the IP CPU unit. The device enables the integration of virtual machines in KVM environments into existing Draco tera KVM switch systems. The result is a highly functional remote desktop solution with all the benefits of the Draco KVM system.

This new device is particularly suited to control rooms with virtualized process automation, Network Operations Centers (NOC) that require real-time access to real and virtual target devices, as well as in the TV and film industry, where virtualized desktops are increasingly used. The solution delivers additional connection capability, convenience and represents substantial cost saving over alternative connection methods. It is suited to safety-critical applications requiring extremely fast access to the required information.

Maximum functionality and flexibility

With the new extender module, the user can access virtual machines directly from their own KVM-connected workstation via RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) or operate simple PC remote maintenance. The extensive functionality of the Draco KVM system offers options such as real-time switching, sharing, private mode and flexible, unrestricted, access to all connected computers and virtual machines.

Multi-session, SSH and VNC

Multi-session accesses are now possible. A single Remote IP CPU extender module allows multiple sessions to be run in parallel. These can then be displayed and operated either individually in full screen or in MultiView configuration, for example in 2×2, and larger, videowalls.

In addition to its application in RDP access of remote and virtual machines, secure shell sessions (SSH) can also be operated from the workstation to enable device management and network control. Computer remote access via VNC protocol is also included.

Compact design

The Remote IP CPU unit is designed in a compact Draco vario design and includes full thin client functionality, eliminating the need for a separate thin client for RDP access. This solution therefore delivers both cost and space savings.

Homogeneous management platform

Virtual machines and components connected to the network, alongside physical workstations, can be controlled directly via the KVM matrix. Thus, the tiered configuration level is replaced by a unified administration that seamlessly includes both the KVM extender and matrix layer, the integrated thin client, and the IP network.

IHSE Press Release – Draco Vario Remote IP CPU