ATEN KH2516A 2-User 16-Port CAT5 KVM Switch
Overview
The KH2516A is a rack-mount KVM switch that gives two simultaneous users independent control over up to 16 servers via CAT5 cabling — eliminating the dedicated KVM cable bundles that eat rack space and make port-density scaling painful. When 16 ports aren't enough, daisy-chain up to 16 units to reach 256 ports under a single management framework, without re-cabling the existing stack. Port selection runs three ways: on-screen display, hotkey sequences, or front-panel pushbutton — whichever fits the operator's workflow. The orange 7-segment LED station ID display confirms active port selection at a glance across a noisy server room floor. Firmware v1.8.175 (released 2025-05-22) is the current production release. For a broader look at ATEN KVM and connectivity solutions, the full line covers single-user and matrix configurations to match varying control room topologies.
Compatibility
Connects to servers and workstations with either PS/2 or USB keyboard and mouse interfaces — covering the range from legacy servers still running PS/2 headers to current USB-only systems, so a mixed rack doesn't require separate switch models. Video is carried over CAT5 to a maximum of 1920 × 1200 @ 60 Hz at 30 m, stepping to 1600 × 1200 at 40 m and 1280 × 1024 at 50 m — sufficient for full-HD console monitors at typical in-rack and across-aisle distances. Pairs with KVM switches in the same ATEN KH series for daisy-chain expansion. Compatible console stations must accept the IEC 60320/C14 power inlet for local power connection.
Installation Notes
Designed for rack mounting — confirm your rack has the appropriate rail clearance and U-space available before ordering. Input power is universal 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 1A max, so no step-down transformer is needed in international deployments. Operating humidity ceiling is 80% RH non-condensing — suitable for most conditioned data center environments, but not for unconditioned industrial or outdoor enclosures. Scan interval is configurable from 1 to 255 seconds, letting you tune auto-scan dwell time to match how many ports are active without constantly cycling through unused ports. Per ATEN's dimensional notation, physical dimensions for rack products are expressed as L × W × H rather than the standard W × D × H convention.
