Gefen EXT-CAT5-1600HD Video Console/Extender

Meet Gefen EXT-CAT5-1600HD, a high-performance KVM extender engineered to simplify control of a computer system from a remote location. This compact, reliable solution extends both DVI video signals and USB 2.0 peripherals over two CAT-5e or CAT6 cables, enabling seamless access, management, and operation in conference rooms, control centers, classrooms, or any environment that benefits from centralized computing. With a dedicated Receiver unit that includes a built-in 4-port USB 2.0 hub, you can connect keyboards, mice, flash drives, printers, and other USB devices at the remote site without sacrificing performance or security. The EXT-CAT5-1600HD is designed for straightforward installation, minimizes latency, and preserves the integrity of multimedia content, making it ideal for professional AV setups, IT labs, and remote administration tasks.

• Extend DVI video and USB 2.0 peripherals across two CAT-5e/6 cables for flexible, long-distance control without compromising signal quality or response time.
• Receiver unit features a built-in 4-port USB 2.0 hub, enabling shared peripheral access at the remote location while keeping the host PC and peripherals in sync.
• KVM-style access and control give you complete computer management from a distant workstation, reducing on-site visits and simplifying centralized IT administration.
• Plug-and-play design with minimal configuration requirements, designed to integrate smoothly into existing networks and AV installations with standard cabling.
• Compact, rack-friendly form factor and robust construction make the EXT-CAT5-1600HD suitable for professional environments where space and reliability matter.

Technical Details of Gefen EXT-CAT5-1600HD Video Console/Extender

Technical specifications can vary by SKU and are published by Gefen and its distribution partners. For exact figures, consult the product specifications on the vendor page using the appropriate UPC or SKU reference. In general, the Gefen EXT-CAT5-1600HD is designed to:

• Extend DVI video signals and USB 2.0 peripherals over two CAT-5e or CAT-6 cables, enabling a remote console to interact with a host computer as if it were directly connected.
• Provide a Receiver unit that includes a built-in 4-port USB 2.0 hub to support a range of USB devices at the remote site without additional hubs or adapters.
• Support KVM-style control, allowing keyboard, video, and mouse inputs to be transmitted to and from the host computer with low latency and high fidelity.
• Operate in a plug-and-play configuration, minimizing the need for software installation or complex network setup, and offering straightforward integration into existing AV or IT workflows.
• Offer a compact, durable design suitable for deployment in professional environments such as boardrooms, control rooms, classrooms, and data centers where reliable remote access is essential.

How to install Gefen EXT-CAT5-1600HD Video Console/Extender

Follow these general steps to set up the Gefen EXT-CAT5-1600HD, ensuring each end of the chain is correctly connected and powered as required by your installation guidelines. Always refer to the official setup guide provided with your unit for model-specific instructions and safety recommendations.

• Position the Transmitter (TX) near the host computer and connect the computer’s DVI video output to the TX’s DVI input. Attach the USB devices you intend to use at the host side to the TX or pass through to the USB ports on the TX, depending on your configuration.
• Connect the Receiver (RX) to the remote console area by linking the RX’s DVI output to the display and connecting any USB devices you want available at the remote site to the RX’s USB hub or directly to the host via the hub, as your layout requires.
• Run two CAT-5e or CAT-6 cables between the TX and RX units. Ensure the cables are properly terminated with appropriate connectors and are free of kinks or damage to prevent interference.
• Power both units if required by your configuration. Some models can operate on USB or external power adapters; use the power source recommended by Gefen for your specific SKU.
• Power on the host computer first, then the TX and RX units. Verify that the remote display receives a stable video signal and that USB peripherals connected at the RX hub are recognized by the host computer.
• Test keyboard, mouse, and any other USB devices used at the remote site to confirm timely input response and reliable device operation. If you encounter latency or signal degradation, check cable quality, cable length, and connector seating.
• Fine-tune display settings (resolution, refresh rate) on the host and remote displays to ensure optimal image quality and user experience. If you require multiple displays or higher resolutions, consider verifying compatibility and bandwidth requirements for your specific setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does the Gefen EXT-CAT5-1600HD do? It extends DVI video and USB 2.0 peripherals from a host computer to a remote console over two CAT-5e/6 cables, allowing full control of the computer from the remote location with an integrated USB hub on the Receiver.
• What cables are required? Two CAT-5e or CAT-6 cables are used to connect the Transmitter and Receiver; these cables carry both video and USB signals between locations.
• Do I need software to use this extender? No software installation is typically required. The device is designed for plug-and-play operation, making it easy to deploy in most standard IT or AV environments.
• Can I connect USB devices at the remote site? Yes. The Receiver includes a built-in 4-port USB 2.0 hub, enabling peripheral sharing (such as keyboards, mice, printers, or flash drives) at the remote console.
• What resolutions are supported? The extender is designed for high-definition DVI transmission over CAT cables and is optimized for common HD and UXGA/WSXGA display resolutions. Exact supported resolutions depend on the specific SKU and cabling, so consult the official specifications for precise numbers.
• Is power required? Some configurations may require external power for the transmitter, receiver, or both, while others rely on bus power. Refer to the product manual for the exact power requirements for your SKU.
• Where should I install it? This extender is suitable for conference rooms, control rooms, classrooms, data centers, and other professional environments where centralized computer access and streamlined peripheral sharing are valuable.