TechxArtisan
Video & Cameras
Keyboards & Input Devices
Funding ended on Jun 13, 2024 at 04:59 PM PDT.
Welcome to the launch of Openterface Mini-KVM - a compact, feature-rich and open-source KVM gadget driven by a vibrant community.
This KVM-over-USB solution offers you a lightweight, speedy and seamless control, enabling you to operate a headless computer directly from your laptop or desktop computer. It eliminates the hassle of additional keyboards, mice, monitors or complex network configurations in a stylish manner, simplifying your setup and significantly enhancing your workflow when managing headless devices.
Openterface Mini-KVM is the perfect companion for a wide range of users and scenarios:
Unlike KVM-over-IP or software KVM solution that rely on network access, Openterface Mini-KVM stands out by offering a plug-and-play, network-independent experience. Our device establishes a direct HDMI and USB connection between the host computer and the target device, enabling you to take control and diagnose issues quickly, especially in environments where network connectivity is unreliable or even unavailable. The hardware startup time is just less than 1 second, ensuring you can jump right into troubleshooting without delays or disturbances in your workflow.
Designed with portability in mind, Openterface Mini-KVM is a compact and lightweight gadget that can easily accompany you on the go for tasks. Featuring comprehensive capabilities such as BIOS-level access, audio integration, a switchable USB port and text transfer, this device provides all the necessary tools to efficiently manage and troubleshoot your headless devices, wherever your work may lead.
Most KVM consoles on the market come with a hefty price tag, making them inaccessible to many users. Openterface Mini-KVM breaks this barrier by offering a more affordable solution, empowering a wider range of professionals and enthusiasts to benefit from its handy features.
But the real magic lies in our commitment to open-source development and community engagement. By embracing these principles, we’re building a vibrant ecosystem where users can collaborate, contribute, and customize the device to meet their unique needs, fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Openterface Mini-KVM Kit + VGA-to-HDMI Cable | StarTech Crash Cart NOTECONS02 | PiKVM V4 Plus | Synergy | |
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Compatibility | MacOS, Windows, Linux; Work in Progress: Android | MacOS, Windows, Linux | Web App | MacOS, Windows, Linux |
Control Method | KVM-over-USB | KVM-over-USB | KVM-over-IP | Software KVM |
Embedded OS | N/A | N/A | Raspberry Pi | N/A |
Power Type | USB-C powered by the host computer | USB-A powered by the host computer | External DC (12 V, 2 A) required | N/A |
Software | Host App install required | Host App install required | No local install required | App install required on both sides |
Video Capture | HDMI & VGA (with the add-on VGA-to-HDMI cable) | VGA | HDMI | Software supported |
Audio Capture | via HDMI embedded audio | ❌ | via HDMI embedded audio | Software supported |
Hardware Reaction Time | Less than 1 sec | Less than 1 sec | Need to wait for Pi to startup | N/A |
Text Transfer | Via emulated keyboard output | Unknown | Via emulated keyboard output | Software supported clipboard |
File Transfers | Via switchable USB port | Via virtual drive | Via virtual drive | Via software |
BIOS-level Access | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
ATX Support | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
Open Source | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
Price | $99+$10 for crowdfunding | $495.99 | $384.95 | $29 (1 year of software updates) |
Device Net Weight | 48 g | 170 g | 350 g | N/A |
Device Net Size | 61 x 13.5 x 53 mm | 74 x 15 x 115 mm | 120 x 68 x 24 mm | N/A |
Discover comprehensive guides for setting up and using the Openterface Mini-KVM on our website: https://openterface.com/
Our commitment to openness extends to both software and hardware:
We’re currently building an open, supportive and friendly community of Openterface Mini-KVM. Join our vibrant communities to stay updated, receive support, share insights, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to the project’s development:
Our studio, experienced in international collaborations, is based in the tech-savvy Guangzhou-Shenzhen region of China, a globally renowned hub for advanced manufacturing. With this solid foundation, we are confident in our ability to seamlessly execute the production and fulfillment of the Openterface Mini-KVM.
We have carefully mapped out a plan to scale our production to match the demand generated by the crowdfunding campaign. Our dedicated team will oversee the manufacturing process, ensuring that we can make adjustments as needed to guarantee efficient and timely delivery. Additionally, we are actively working to obtain necessary international certifications, such as CE, to adhere to global quality standards. With these strategies in place, we commit to delivering the Openterface Mini-KVM to our backers within 3 months of reaching our crowdfunding goal.
Moreover, we pledge to keep our community closely updated at each stage of the crowdfunding, production, and delivery processes, ensuring transparency and engagement.
After assembly and testing in our studio located in Guangzhou, China, we will box up each batch of Openterface Mini-KVMs and send them to Crowd Supply’s fulfillment partner, Mouser Electronics, who will handle distribution to all backers. You can learn more about Crowd Supply’s fulfillment service under Ordering, Paying, and Shipping in their guide.
We are confident in our ability to deliver the Openterface Mini-KVM, but we acknowledge the potential risks and challenges inherent in the development and fulfillment process. These include navigating the extensive paperwork and certifications required to comply with product and accessory regulations, which can be time-consuming. Additionally, we may face challenges related to supply chain issues for specific electronic components or production delays from our PCB manufacturers. There may also be a need to procure specialized equipment to effectively implement quality control measures if the initial production order is large.
Another challenge we foresee in software is ensuring the stability and compatibility of the host applications across different operating systems. To mitigate this, we are actively seeking external help for comprehensive beta testing and unit testing to identify and address any software-related issues.
Please be confident that our team is fully prepared to address these challenges. We will keep our backers informed of any updates or potential delays throughout the project’s timeline. We are dedicated to delivering Openterface Mini-KVM as promised, and with your support, we can unlock the full potential of headless device management.
As we refine our host applications and expand device capabilities, we warmly invite developers and tech enthusiasts to read our roadmap and join us in testing and contributing and enhancing the Openterface Mini-KVM. Your contributions can help shape its future, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of technological innovation.
"[Openterface Mini-KVM] promises to be a low cost, feature packed way to use a laptop as a monitor, keyboard and mouse for accessing servers and other computers. "
"Openterface Mini-KVM offers a simple solution for managing headless devices like mini PCs, kiosks, or servers directly from your laptop or desktop."
"Low-latency pocket-sized gadget delivers keyboard, HDMI video, and mouse control over a single USB cable to a host machine."
Produced by TechxArtisan in Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
Sold and shipped by Crowd Supply.
Openterface Mini-KVM with quick start guide
Want to buy this item? Check the current project page for the latest information.
Openterface Mini-KVM with quick start guide, HDMI male-to-male cable (30 cm), type-C male to USB-A male cable (30 cm) with USB-A female to type-C male adapter, type-C male-to-male cable (150 cm), in a handy toolkit bag
Want to buy this item? Check the current project page for the latest information.
This cable converts VGA video and audio to HDMI, supporting up to 1080p HD resolution. It features a VGA male port for video input, a 3.5mm audio input, a USB male port for power supply, and an HDMI male port for video output.
Want to buy this item? Check the current project page for the latest information.
Guangzhou, Guangdong, China · TechxArtisan · TechxArtisan
We're an adventurous team of tech enthusiasts crafting innovative solutions and products that matter. From e-product prototypes to wild tech art, we dabble in 3D modeling, play with LEDs, master PCB design, excel in software, and explore AI, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible while aiming to do good. Let's create something extraordinary together!
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