JetKVM: Tiny IP KVM That's Not an Apple Watch
JetKVM is a compact IP KVM device for remote management, connecting via HDMI and USB. Currently on Kickstarter, it has delivery risks and limitations like no WiFi and latency issues.
Read original articleJetKVM is a compact IP KVM device designed for remote management of computers, allowing users to control systems even when they are powered off or unresponsive. It connects via HDMI and USB, providing a web interface for remote access. The device is currently on Kickstarter, and while the author expresses confidence in its delivery, he notes the common risks associated with crowdfunding. JetKVM offers features typically found in enterprise-grade systems, such as Wake on LAN and virtual disk mounting, making it suitable for homelab enthusiasts. The user interface is straightforward, providing essential tools and metrics for performance monitoring. The hardware is well-constructed, featuring a die-cast zinc alloy body and a display reminiscent of an Apple Watch, but at a more affordable price. The device operates on a Rockchip processor, supporting basic functionalities like video encoding and network connectivity. However, it has limitations, including a lack of WiFi, no built-in PoE support, and some latency issues during use. The author highlights that while JetKVM is not intended for high-performance gaming, it performs adequately for general remote management tasks. Future updates may include additional features and enhancements, such as dark mode support and various extensions for power control.
- JetKVM is a compact IP KVM device for remote computer management.
- It connects via HDMI and USB, allowing control even when systems are off.
- The device is currently on Kickstarter, with delivery risks noted.
- It features a user-friendly interface and solid hardware construction.
- Limitations include no WiFi and some latency issues, making it unsuitable for gaming.
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Works well with Tailscale, too.
https://docs.pikvm.org/tailscale/
My use case is to be able to provide a password upon boot to an Apple pre-boot environment with no network access which does the unlock of my fully encrypted disk (via FileVault). Once the full OS boots up I can use other remote access software like ssh. I also recommend coupling the device with a remote smart plug (e.g. Kasa/TP-Link) so you can turn the KVM on remotely only when you need it, or at least turn it off when you're physically at the computer in question (if ever). This way you don't always have an HDMI virtual monitor connected. Another tip is to put your main display/monitor on a smart plug so you can turn it off when remoting, to make sure the OS uses the KVM's HDMI port as the primary/sole monitor.
The only negative for me is, the creator sold the business[1] and so the future is uncertain at this point.
ATX power control feels semi mandatory if you actually want remote operation. There's just too much chance of something not going right with reboots or after a power failure not coming back online. That kind of would be ideal to have remote control itself.
> And the NanoKVM also still exists, with it's own upsides and downsides. I covered the NanoKVM just a few weeks ago <https://www.jeffgeerling.com/blog/2024/sipeed-nanokvm-risc-v...>
which is GPLv3 https://github.com/sipeed/NanoKVM#opensource--contribution--...
I don't have a horse in this race aside from a network connected device that has essentially "keylogger access" to devices should for sure be as open as possible
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