JetKVM: Best Remote PC Control?

JetKVM is a high-performance, open-source KVM over IP solution that provides robust remote control capabilities. With JetKVM, you can seamlessly manage computers, servers, and workstations, including diagnosing boot issues, installing operating systems, configuring BIOS settings, and performing other essential tasks, regardless of your physical location.

Existing remote desktop options

There are several methods for controlling your computer remotely. Built-in options like Windows Remote Desktop and macOS Screen Sharing provide basic remote access capabilities. For more advanced features and flexibility, third-party software such as TeamViewer, AnyDesk, and RemotePC offer robust solutions. These tools allow you to control your computer from any device with an internet connection, enabling remote troubleshooting, file transfer, and system management. Additionally, cloud-based services like Chrome Remote Desktop provide a convenient way to access your computer through a web browser.

Remote desktop apps, while offering significant convenience, have limitations that can impact user experience. Network dependency is a major factor, as slow or unstable internet connections can lead to laggy and unresponsive remote sessions. Resource consumption on both the host and client machines can also impact performance, especially when running resource-intensive applications. Security concerns arise from the potential for unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyberattacks. Additionally, hardware and software compatibility issues can limit the functionality of remote sessions. Finally, user experience factors like input lag and limited functionality can hinder productivity and user satisfaction.

What is KVM?

KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse. In the context of remote connection, a KVM over IP solution allows you to control a remote computer’s keyboard, video output, and mouse input over a network connection. This enables you to access and manage the remote computer as if you were physically sitting in front of it.  

Direct Hardware Access:

KVM over IP solutions provide direct access to the physical hardware of the remote computer, allowing for BIOS configuration, firmware updates, and other low-level operations that may not be possible through remote desktop apps.

Lower Latency and Higher Performance:

KVM over IP solutions transmit only keyboard and mouse input, as well as video signals, resulting in significantly lower bandwidth usage and latency compared to remote desktop apps, which transmit entire desktop images. This leads to a smoother and more responsive user experience, especially for tasks requiring precise control, such as video editing or gaming.

Support for Multiple Operating Systems:

KVM over IP solutions are typically compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. This flexibility makes them suitable for diverse IT environments.  

Cost-Effective:

KVM over IP solutions often require less powerful hardware and network infrastructure compared to remote desktop solutions. This can lead to lower overall costs, especially for large-scale deployments.

JetKVM: Key Features

Ultra-low Latency: High-definition 1080p video at 60 FPS with 30-60 millisecond latency, using efficient H.264 encoding. Smooth mouse and keyboard action transfer for responsive remote interaction.

Free & Optional Remote Access: Beside local access, JetKVM has built-in and free remote management via JetKVM Cloud using WebRTC. Secure and a fast direct connection, even behind the most restrictive NAT environments, with our STUN and TURN servers.

Open Source: Written in Golang, running on Linux, making it easy to modify the software on your JetKVM device. Want to customize the JetKVM screen? Simply patch the software and
upload it to the JetKVM device through SSH, and you’re good to go.

Unlimited Hackability: The JetKVM hardware is fully customizable. Through the RJ11 extension port, extra hardware capabilities can easily be added by anyone. Need something specific like a temperature sensor? The JetKVM extension port is the way to fully customize your device. As optional add-ons, we’ll be selling hardware extensions using the extension port, enabling features like ATX Power Control, Serial Console and DC power control on your device.

As optional add-ons, we’ll be selling hardware extensions using the extension port, enabling features like ATX Power Control, Serial Console and DC power control on your device.

• ATX Power Control: Manage the power state of your connected computers.
• Serial Console: Direct access to the device’s serial console for diagnostics and low-level control.
• DC Power Control: Control the power states of connected devices & also provides the JetKVM device with power.

By using the extension port, developers, and hardware enthusiasts can add a variety of features, for example:

• Temperature Sensors: Monitor temperature for environmental controls.
• Mechanical Button Pressers: Automate physical interactions with connected devices

If you have specific needs for your workflow or want to create fun projects, the extension port provides the flexibility to build and experiment.

JetKVM: How to use it

Getting your JetKVM up and running is easy. Follow these steps to start controlling your target computer remotely.

1. Attach the USB-C port on the back of the JetKVM to a USB port on the computer you wish to control.
2. Plug a Mini HDMI cable from the HDMI port on the JetKVM to the target computer’s HDMI port.
3. Insert an Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the JetKVM to connect it to your network.
4. Plug in the JetKVM. Once powered, the front display will show the device’s IP address.
5. Open a browser and enter the IP address displayed on the JetKVM screen.

You can now control your target computer remotely.

JetKVM: Technical Specifications

Device	CPU: RockChip RV1106G3 Core: Single core ARM Cortex-A? Memory: 256 MB DDR3L Storage: 8 GB EMMC  Touch display: Capacitive 1.69 Inch IPS, 240 x 280
Connections and Expansion	Ethernet RJ45 (up to 100 Mbps) USB C (up to 480 Mbit/s) HDMI Mini RJ11 Expansion port
Software	Operating system: Linux 5.10 with Buildroot Dashboard: Javascript, React, Tailwind Controller: Galang Firmware: C
Size and Weight	Height: 31 mm (1.22 inches) Width: 43 mm (1.69 inches) Depth: 60 mm (2.3 inches) Weight: 136 gram (4.79 oz)
In the box	JetKVM Device HDMI Mini cable USB-C Cable Barrel plug to USB-A

JetKVM vs the competition

In comparison to the TinyPilot and PiKVM v4, the JetKVM offers a significant advantage in terms of the latency (30ms vs 100ms) and pricing ($69 vs $400). Given its ease of use, a sleek web interface and support for various hardware configurations, JetKVM is a no-brainer at the $69 price-tag. Note that JetKVM uses the USB cable for power, so you would need a DC extension if you need an external power source.

Pricing and Availability

The JetKVM device is now available for pre-order on Kickstarter. With a pledge of $69, you can get JetKVM Device with optional add-ons. The expected delivery is December 2024.

Source: Kickstarter