Matrix grid: bidirectional switching for complex infrastructures

The matrix grid uses the features of the dynamic ports provided at G&D matrix switches: Each port can be used as in- or output and enables bidirectional communication. The ports are not only used to connect computers and consoles, but also serve to establish a connection between individual matrix switches thus allowing access beyond individual matrices.

Until now, such connections could be already established via cascades. Unlike in classic cascades – which are still possible as an alternative – access from consoles to computers is no longer exclusively top-down in a tree structure. For this, the database structure in the matrix grid has changed substantially as it now virtually summarizes a system of individual devices into one single, large matrix

Versatile topologies become reality

This means: From now on users are no longer limited to the classic cascade tree, but devices can be interconnected as desired depending on a given project. Here, G&D once again put the focus on the compatibility of their systems: All digital KVM matrix systems – ControlCenter-Digital and DVICenter, in all sizes between 16 and 288 ports – can be included in the matrix grid. And the database provides only a theoretical limit of a maximum of 24 matrices per grid.Therefore, the G&D matrix grid allows for highly complex topologies to be set up in a variety of ways, for example, as strand, ring, star, or as a fully meshed network (or as a combination of these). Of course, this wide range of possibilities also challenges planners and integrators to select the optimal topology in each individual case. But no matter how challenging the task, the KVM experts from G&D are there to offer advice and their experience from 30 years of developing KVM.

Customers benefit from new possibilities

With the new matrix grid, customers are able to establish even larger installations, which they can use more flexibly, for example, distributed over several locations. Especially for critical applications a fully redundant topology provides further advantages in the availability of all systems connected. Now further failover concepts complement the mission-critical features already provided by G&D.

The matrix grid also pays off from the commercial side as large matrix installations can be set up to optimize the amount of required ports. Even expansions of existing systems offer potential for savings and easy ways to combine devices for adding fibre components on a broad basis to CAT-based systems, for example.

Users, however, don’t even realize the complexity of the installation. With the help of the G&D matrix grid, they basically operate one large system – and don’t have to spend a thought on its infrastructure. Yet, they benefit from even more flexibility and reliability: From their workplaces, users can access all computers connected to the grid – no matter how many.

	Example of topology: simple line Thanks to the bidirectional connection, the G&D matrix grid allows access across locations. When connected via optical fibres, locations can even be several kilometres apart from each other – and in addition to the classic cascade users of all interconnected locations are able to access all systems connected.
	Example of topology: networked ring Ring topologies, for example, support redundancy concepts even better: Even if a connecting line or a node fails, the system finds an alternate path for switching KVM signals. Therefore, users benefit from always available installations – especially in connection with other mission-critical features provided by G&D.
	Example of topology: fully connected network The fully meshed network provides the maximum of accesses between individual matrices. For selecting the ideal setup, planners and integrators are supported by experts from G&D. In the future application the system automatically takes over the routing of KVM signals by selecting the ideal path through the grid.