Kramer HighSecLabs 4-Port KM Switch

Meet the Kramer HighSecLabs 4-Port KM Switch, a purpose-built solution for securely sharing peripherals across up to four computers. Designed for demanding business environments, the SM40NU-N delivers reliable, plug-and-play switching of keyboard, mouse, audio and USB peripherals, while offering the option to assign a USB port to a specific computer. This makes it ideal for setups where certain devices—such as a USB smart card reader or secure authentication dongle—must remain consistently mapped to one host, even as you cycle through other machines. With a compact footprint and enterprise-grade features, this KM switch helps reduce desk clutter, minimize cable management headaches, and improve workflow efficiency in multi-CPU workspaces.

• Seamlessly share peripherals across four computers: The SM40NU-N lets you toggle between four hosts, letting keyboard, mouse, audio and USB devices follow your workflow without swapping cables at the hardware level. This creates a clean, productive multi-computer environment where everything you need is accessible from a single control point.
• USB port assignment for persistent device mapping: When a device must stay tied to a particular computer (for example, a USB smart card reader or security token), you can assign that USB port to a specific host while you switch the remaining peripherals among the other machines. This ensures critical devices stay reliably connected to the intended system.
• Audio sharing and full peripheral compatibility: In addition to keyboard and mouse control, the KM switch supports audio pass-through for each connected host, enabling synchronized audio output across the four machines. It also supports a broad range of USB peripherals beyond keyboards and mice, simplifying your desk setup.
• Enterprise-grade design for secure, clutter-free operation: Built for professional environments, the HighSecLabs KM switch emphasizes dependable performance, secure device handling, and a compact footprint that fits neatly on crowded desks or behind a monitor.
• User-friendly switching with clear indicators and simple setup: Front-panel controls provide immediate, intuitive access to each host, with LED indicators that display the active computer at a glance. The straightforward installation process minimizes downtime and accelerates onboarding of new workstations.

Technical Details of Kramer HighSecLabs 4-Port KM Switch

• Model: SM40NU-N
• Type: 4-Port Keyboard/Mouse (KM) switch for sharing peripherals across four PCs
• Peripherals Supported: Keyboard, Mouse, Audio, USB peripherals
• USB Port Assignment: Ability to pin a USB device to a specific computer while switching other peripherals
• Switching Method: Front-panel push-button with LED indicators for status visibility
• Power: Bus-powered via USB; external power adapter is not typically required

How to Install Kramer HighSecLabs 4-Port KM Switch

• Prepare your workspace by identifying the four computers you will connect to the switch and ensuring each PC has available USB ports.
• Connect the KM switch to each computer using the provided USB cables or the included host cables, linking each PC to its corresponding host port on the switch.
• Attach your keyboard, mouse, audio devices and any USB peripherals to the switch’s shared ports. If you need a device to remain mapped to a specific computer, connect it to a USB port that you assign to that host.
• Power on all hosts and verify the switch receives power from the USB connection. Check the front-panel LEDs to confirm each computer is recognized and ready.
• Use the front-panel selector to switch between computers and test keyboard, mouse, audio and any USB devices to confirm proper operation on the active machine. If needed, adjust USB port mappings to ensure persistent device behavior across transitions.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What does a 4-Port KM Switch do?
  A: It enables four separate computers to share a common set of peripherals—keyboard, mouse, USB devices, and audio—without unplugging cables from each machine. You can switch the active computer at the press of a button while keeping peripherals attached to the desired host.
• Q: Can I assign a USB device to a specific computer?
  A: Yes. The SM40NU-N supports USB port assignment, allowing you to pin particular USB devices to a chosen host while you switch other peripherals among the remaining computers.
• Q: Does it support audio sharing?
  A: Yes. Audio can be shared across the connected computers, enabling synchronized sound when you switch between hosts.
• Q: Do I need an external power supply?
  A: The switch is designed to be bus-powered via USB and does not typically require an external power adapter. If you’re using power-hungry USB devices, you may consider a powered USB hub in conjunction with the switch.
• Q: Is hot-plug support available?
  A: Yes. You can add or remove computers and peripherals without powering down the system, though it’s recommended to ensure devices are properly recognized after re-wiring.
• Q: Which operating systems are compatible?
  A: The KM switch is designed to work with common desktop operating systems and USB-compatible devices. For best results, use standard, supported drivers and verify compatibility with your specific hardware setup.