A Plug-and-Play Remote KVM
LeafKVM is an open source wireless KVM that streams HDMI to a browser and emulates a keyboard and mouse. Just plug in the cables and go.
To access a remote machine, you might SSH into it or use some type of remote desktop software if there is a graphical environment. If there is a system firmware update, or other work to be done outside of the operating system, a more complex out-of-band management platform like an iDRAC may be required. These tools certainly make life easier for system administrators, but when you are just tinkering around with your own equipment at home, the complexity can be overwhelming.
A new device called LeafKVM seeks to change that. It is a flexible KVM remote controller with wireless connectivity. It captures HDMI video and audio, emulates a USB keyboard and mouse, and streams everything to a web browser. There is nothing to install on the target machine — you just plug the cables in and you are good to go. Since there is no reliance on the operating system, LeafKVM can even be used to troubleshoot BIOS issues.
The device is powered by a Rockchip RV1106G3 system on a chip, a Toshiba TC358743 HDMI-to-CSI bridge for video capture, and a RTL8821CS Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth adapter. There is also a 16GB built-in eMMC for storage inside the rugged CNC-milled aluminum enclosure.
LeafKVM has a single HDMI input and 2 USB ports that support a keyboard and mouse, and also debugging equipment. For a more solid network connection, there is an Ethernet port available. An RJ11 port even exposes some GPIO pins for those who want to hack away at the device. And hack you may, because the project is open source all the way down, which means that both the hardware schematics and firmware will be made available to anyone that wants them.
LeafKVM will be launching soon on Crowd Supply. Be sure to sign up for updates if you want to be one of the first to get your hands on one.