Raritan (Legrand)
Raritan MasterConsole Digital CAT5 KVM Switch
Best dual-head KVM switch for efficient multi-server rack management.
The Raritan MasterConsole Digital CAT5 KVM Switch (MCD-108-DUAL) offers single-user control for up to eight dual-head servers, utilizing cost-effective CAT5/6/6e UTP cabling for connections up to 100 feet away. It's ideal for managing dual-display setups with digital video interfaces like DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort, and includes integrated audio support. Seamless port switching is achievable via borderless mouse movement, hotkeys, or the OSD. Its 1U rackmount design is space-efficient, and MDCIM technology ensures hot-swapping capabilities without system interruption.
$1696.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
114
/ 1363
#114 in KVM Switches
Price vs Category Average
+56%
Above average
Dimensions
17.33.5.91.1.73.
/ in (W) x in (D) x in (H)
Who it's for
- Data center operators planning for future infrastructure growth
- IT managers needing flexible cable runs across large server rooms
- System administrators requiring sharp visuals for detailed server maintenance
Who should skip it
- Small businesses operating on a strict, limited hardware budget
- Organizations preferring vendor-neutral hardware and lower per-port costs
- Generalists lacking the specialized expertise for complex enterprise deployments
Performance breakdown
Multi-Display Management
Seamlessly handles dual-head server setups with impressive precision and stability.
Cabling Efficiency
Standard CAT5/6 UTP cabling significantly reduces clutter in dense rack environments.
Switching Versatility
Borderless mouse movement and hotkey options make toggling between servers effortless.
Scalability
Cascading support for up to 64 servers provides excellent long-term growth.
Build Reliability
High MTBF ratings ensure consistent uptime for mission-critical server room operations.
Hot-Swap Capability
Keep-alive technology allows for hardware maintenance without interrupting active system processes.
Key Specs
Dimensions
17.33 in. (W) x 5.91 in. (D) x 1.73 in. (H)
Weight
4.03 lbs. (1830g)
Form Factor
1U, full width, rack mountable
Supported console users
1
Channel ports (female RJ-45)
8
Female DVI-I ports
2
Female 3.5mm audio jack
1
AC socket
1
Features
- Manages dual-head PCs and servers efficiently
- Uses standard CAT5/6/6e UTP cabling
- Supports borderless mouse switching
- Switch ports via mouse, hotkeys, or OSD
- Supports digital video and audio
- Cascadable for up to 64 servers
- Hot-swapping with 'keep-alive' technology
- User profiles for secure access
What customers say
Customers highly value the Raritan MasterConsole for its enterprise-grade reliability and superior performance. Professionals consistently praise the robust build quality and its exceptional ability to transmit clear digital video over long distances using standard cabling, simplifying rack management. Users report smooth, lag-free switching even when managing many servers concurrently. While the unit excels in demanding professional environments, the high price point is noted as a significant investment. Furthermore, initial setup requires specialized knowledge, contrasting with simpler plug-and-play expectations. Overall, this KVM is recognized as a top-tier, dependable solution that justifies its cost for users needing critical, high-demand control.
Know before you buy
Yes, the MCD-108-DUAL is specifically designed for dual-head setups, allowing you to control up to eight servers that each require two displays.
You can place your servers up to 100 feet away from the switch by using standard, cost-effective CAT5, CAT6, or CAT6e UTP cabling.
Yes, the unit is cascadable, meaning you can daisy-chain additional switches to manage up to 64 servers from a single console.
Yes, the system supports various digital video interfaces, including DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort, making it versatile for modern server environments.
Borderless mouse switching allows you to switch between connected servers simply by moving your mouse cursor across the edge of your screen, providing a seamless transition between systems without needing to press physical buttons.
No, the switch features MDCIM technology with 'keep-alive' support, which allows for hot-swapping cables and devices without interrupting the operation of your servers.
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$1696