APC by Schneider Electric 58042 2-Port Analog KVM Switch
Overview
The APC by Schneider Electric 58042 is a desktop KVM switch that lets a single local operator control two computers from one keyboard, video display, and mouse. If you run a small server pair, a primary-and-backup workstation setup, or a dedicated management console alongside a production machine, consolidating to one input set removes the clutter and the context-switching overhead of reaching for a second keyboard. The 58042 handles this at the analog KVM layer — straightforward, no software agents required on the connected hosts.
Key Features
- 2-Port KVM capacity: supports exactly two connected computers from a single console, keeping the switch footprint minimal on a desk or equipment shelf. Not oversized for a two-machine need.
- 1 local user: designed for direct, in-person operation — one operator manages both ports. There is no remote or IP access built in, which simplifies deployment where remote KVM is not required and keeps the attack surface small.
- Desktop form factor: sits on a work surface without requiring rack space or a mounting kit. Practical for IT workbenches, small server closets, or operator stations that aren't rack-based.
- Analog KVM switching: routes keyboard, video, and mouse signals at the hardware layer. No additional drivers or network configuration needed on connected hosts — plug in, switch ports, work.
Integration & Compatibility
The 58042 is part of the broader APC by Schneider Electric data center and IT infrastructure line. As an analog KVM device, it works with computers that provide standard keyboard, video, and mouse interfaces. Verify connector types on your specific hosts before ordering — analog KVM infrastructure uses VGA for video in most configurations, and PS/2 or USB for keyboard and mouse depending on the unit's cable set. No VMS, network management platform, or software stack is required.
For environments requiring more than two ports or IP-based remote access, consider a higher-port-count or IP KVM variant within the APC MasterView family. For network switching or power management alongside KVM control, APC offers complementary rack PDU and smart UPS products that pair naturally in a consolidated IT closet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many computers can the 58042 control?
A: The 58042 supports two connected computers, switchable from one local user console.
Q: Does the 58042 support remote or IP-based access?
A: No. The 58042 is an analog KVM switch designed for local, in-person operation only. It does not include network or IP KVM functionality.
Q: What form factor is the 58042?
A: Desktop. It is designed to sit on a work surface and does not require rack mounting.
Q: Does the 58042 require software or drivers on connected hosts?
A: Analog KVM switches of this type operate at the hardware signal layer and do not require software agents on connected computers. Standard plug-in operation applies, though you should confirm specific connector compatibility with your hosts before deployment.
The 58042 is a no-frills analog KVM that does exactly one thing: lets one operator switch keyboard, video, and mouse control between two computers without touching a second input set. The spec that matters here is the 2-port, 1-local-user architecture — it tells you exactly what this unit is sized for and rules out any remote-access or multi-user use case before you buy.
Technical Highlights:
- 2-Port switching: covers a primary-plus-backup or dual-workstation setup from a single console — no secondary keyboard or monitor required at the desk.
- Local-only access: the absence of IP or remote KVM capability is a deliberate scope boundary, not a limitation — it means no network exposure, no authentication surface, and no management overhead for an air-gapped or bench-top scenario.
- Desktop form factor: sits flat on a work surface, so no rack units consumed and no mounting hardware needed — the right call when the machines you're managing aren't rack-mounted either.
Deployment Considerations:
- Confirm connector compatibility before deploying: analog KVM signal paths depend on matching video (typically VGA) and input device (PS/2 or USB) connectors between the switch and your specific hosts — the evidence does not specify cable types included.
- The 58042 is a single-user, two-port unit — if your deployment grows to three or more machines, or if a second operator needs simultaneous access, you will need a different model. Plan the port count before you wire it in.
This switch is the right fit for IT workbenches, small server closets, or operator stations where two machines share one operator and remote access is neither needed nor wanted — a security-conscious, minimal-footprint choice for exactly that scope.
