ATEN CS1788 8-Port USB DVI Dual Link KVM Switch
Overview
The ATEN CS1788 is an 8-port USB KVM switch purpose-built for high-resolution DVI Dual Link workstations and control room environments where operators need consolidated access to multiple systems from a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse. The CS1788 supports DVI Dual Link resolutions up to 2560 x 1600 @ 60Hz — the full native resolution of 30-inch professional monitors — so you're not trading display fidelity for the convenience of a shared console. VGA compatibility (up to 2048 x 1536 @ 60Hz) means legacy systems can share the same switch without a separate unit. Cascade up to 512 ports by chaining additional compatible ATEN units, making the CS1788 a practical foundation for large multi-operator control rooms without a full matrix switch investment.
Compatibility
Designed for workstations with USB keyboards and USB mice paired to DVI Dual Link or VGA displays. The three port-selection methods — OSD menu, hotkey sequences, and front-panel pushbutton — cover both GUI-driven operators and keyboard-centric power users without requiring software agents on connected hosts. The built-in USB hub provides two USB Type-A female ports (one front panel, one rear panel) for peripheral passthrough, suitable for connecting a USB headset, CAC reader, or secondary input device without unplugging from the host. Firmware upgrades are handled via a dedicated slide switch, keeping maintenance straightforward without host-side tooling. The CS1788 is rack-mountable and integrates into standard 19-inch rack infrastructure typical in security operations centers and broadcast control rooms.
Installation Notes
Scan interval is configurable from 1 to 255 seconds (default 5 seconds) — adjust upward in dense installations to reduce visual cycling overhead. Operating humidity ceiling is 80% RH non-condensing; avoid installations near HVAC discharge points or unconditioned spaces. Note that ATEN's rack-mount dimension convention for this product family expresses physical size as L x W x H rather than the more common W x D x H — confirm rack depth clearance against the published dimensional drawing before ordering rails or mounting hardware.
