Although Rose's on-screen display and menu functions are the most flexible of those tested, the UltraMatrix 16X uses a more traditional approach for server connectivity. Based on the UltraMatrix chassis, our test switch came in a standard configuration with four plug-in boards and an expansion board. This configuration provided us with a connection to 16 servers with four control stations and let us interface many more chassis into a variety of topologies. The generous allotment of four in and out ports on the expansion board proves that Rose is serious about expanding switch arrays for various configurations of the 1,000 maximum connected servers, which can be controlled by up to 250 users.

Perhaps the most utilitarian in appearance, with no chassis indicators or controls, the switch's plain exterior belies its advanced on-screen display intelligence. The screen display is customizable with a variety of font types and colors, including see-through shadings that boost usability. We manipulated the 16 different user profiles and server groupings to test security functions and operational control. Password-protected user access, restricted server/user group definitions, and administrator-assigned view/control privileges combine to form an effective approach to switch security.

Setting scan routines is simple. Rose provides far more system configuration options than does Raritan or Rackit, including display color scheme options and built-in screensaver choices. The UltraMatrix uses multiple color indications for better instantaneous user comprehension of system status. Our inventory of pointing devices was autosensed properly in all cases but one, in which a PS mouse consistently registered as a PS/2 wheel mouse. Manual setting of the type corrected the problem, and there were no other connectivity oddities.

Hot-key functions of the UltraMatrix are effective and typical of universal KVM command keystrokes. We tested video resolution to the switch's rated maximum of 1,600x1,024, which is rated to only 30 feet before employing an extender known as Crystal View, also by Rose. When used with the Crystal View, the UltraMatrix lived up to ratings of 1,024x768 at 1,000 feet, and 1,080x1,024 at 300 feet, though some manual adjustments were required to get satisfactory displays at the extended distances. The Crystal View extender also provided essential mouse and keyboard keep-alive functions despite our interruptions to the extended Cat 5 wiring connecting local and remote units.

Network control of the UltraMatrix was not available during our testing. Rose is putting the finishing touches on UltraLink, the company's answer to Raritan's Paragon and Avocent's DS1800. The unit promises to provide TCP/IP and dial-up connectivity to Rose switches, with resolution up to 1,280x1,024.

UltraMatrix 16X, Rose Electronics, (800) 333-9343, (281) 933-7673; fax (281) 933-0044. www.rosel.com or sales@rosel.com.