Paragon II
Analog KVM

Dominion KX III
KVM-Over-IP

The Raritan Paragon analog KVM series has been around for nearly two decades. Even today, it’s used by IT and broadcast pros on a daily basis. But, much has changed since its introduction. Today’s IP KVM switches have many advantages, features and benefits leveraging low cost and flexible IP technology. Over the next few pages, we’ll see how the two compare. And, we’ll help you to determine whether it’s time to make the switch.

Distance

Analog KVM	IP KVM
Range: 100 to 1,000 ft. Network: Local	Range: Unlimited Network: LAN, WAN, Internet, Local

Whereas an analog KVM switch limits users to a distance of 1,000 ft. at best, an IP KVM provides an unlimited range of access - as far as your IP network takes you. Additionally, the IP KVM can connect over LAN, WAN, Internet, and locally. But, the analog KVM is limited to the local network.

Video

Analog KVM	IP KVM
Video Formats: VGA Resolution: Depends on distance	Video Formats: VGA, DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort Resolution: 1920 x 1080 or 1200

Once the standard port of all computers and displays, VGA is rapidly fading. In order to support digital video standards, IP KVM supports DVI, DisplayPort, and HDMI, in addition to VGA. Additionally, IP KVMs like Raritan’s KX III support 1080p or 1920x1200 video-over-IP at 30 frames-per-second and digital audio.

Virtual-Media

Analog KVM	IP KVM
Virtual Media: None	Virtual Media: Yes. Install software, transfer files, backup data, run diagnostics, and reboot from afar.

What is virtual media over IP? Virtual media lets administrators perform tasks such as installing software, transferring files, backing up data, diagnostics and rebooting without having to be physically present at the target server location. Admins have the flexibility of utilizing a variety of media such as CD, DVD, USB drives, ISO images and PC hard drives.

Scalability

Analog KVM	IP KVM
Scales by: Tiering, Stacking	Scales over: IP, Ethernet

Scaling your analog KVM system can be a massive undertaking. It requires dedicated hardware for tiering and stacking. Scaling your IP KVM on the other hand is nearly painless. You simply add additional IP KVM switches and user stations to the LAN with inexpensive Cat5 cables.

User Interface

Analog KVM	IP KVM
Access with: Analog User Station Interface: On-Screen Display (OSD)	Access with: PC, IP User Station Interface: Modern Desktop

While analog KVM systems utilize old-school, On-Screen Display (OSD) user interfaces connected to a single server, IP KVM switches utilize a modern desktop that can simultaneously connect to multiple servers. Both IP User Station and PC/laptop access is available over LAN, WAN and even the Internet (with a VPN).

Is it Time to Make the Switch?

As you can see, making the switch from analog to IP KVM has many advantages and luckily Raritan can help you ensure a smooth migration. Our KVM HealthCheck Service will help to assess your current remote management system, and provide specific recommendations on upgrading to ensure continued compatibility, reliability, and connectivity. You can also Trade-in your old analog KVM switches and get a discount on your new Raritan IP KVM switches!