Aten 8-Port USB HDMI KVM Switch (CS1798) - Manage 8 HDMI PCs

In this review the Aten 8-Port USB HDMI KVM Switch (CS1798) is evaluated for IT rooms and power users who need to control multiple HDMI-equipped computers from a single console. The bottom line: this KVM is for administrators and content analysts who require reliable multi-display workflows and straightforward console switching, because it consolidates keyboard, mouse and monitor control for up to eight HDMI computers while preserving video quality and offering flexible cascading options.

Key Features

• Eight-port control: Lets a single USB keyboard, USB mouse and HDMI monitor access up to eight HDMI-interface computers, reducing desk clutter and simplifying system management.
• High-definition video: Supports up to 1080p and 1920 x 1200 at 60Hz to keep video clarity and accurate color for monitoring and analysis tasks.
• Multi-display stacking: Stack up to eight CS1798 units for multi-display setups or cascade up to three levels to control up to 512 computers from one console, enabling large-scale deployments.
• Flexible selection: Computer switching is available via front-panel pushbuttons, hotkeys and a multilingual on-screen display for fast, low-friction access.
• Independent KVM and USB focus: Separate switching of KVM and USB devices lets the console control computers while sharing two additional USB 2.0 peripherals independently.
• Configuration backup: OSD Backup/Restore preserves switch configuration and user profiles so administrators can recover settings quickly after maintenance.

Who It's For

The CS1798 is best for system administrators, control room operators and power users who need to monitor or interact with multiple HDMI-equipped computers from a single console. Its support for widescreen resolutions, reliable 1080p output and cascade/multi-display options suit environments where multiple video feeds must be compared or managed simultaneously.

Prospective buyers who only need to connect two or three computers, or those requiring native 4K video, should consider simpler or higher-resolution options. This unit targets stability and large-scale flexibility rather than cutting-edge ultra-high resolution displays.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consolidates up to eight HDMI computers to one USB console, saving workspace and simplifying control.
• Supports crisp 1080p/1920 x 1200 at 60Hz video, making it suitable for monitoring and content review.
• Multi-display and cascading capability enable expansion to very large installations without complex rewiring.
• OSD Backup/Restore and independent USB switching improve administrative control and peripheral sharing.

Cons

• Does not natively support 4K resolutions, so it may not meet needs that require ultra-high-definition displays.
• Advanced multi-display installations require careful planning and extra switches to achieve the full stacked setup.

Specifications

Brand	ATEN
Model	CS1798
Ports	8 HDMI computers, plus 2 additional USB 2.0 device ports
Video Resolution	Up to 1080p / 1920 x 1200 at 60Hz
Display Features	Multi-Display stacking up to 8 units; cascade up to 3 levels
Switching Methods	Front-panel pushbuttons, hotkeys, multilingual OSD
Configuration	OSD Backup/Restore for settings and user profiles

Our Verdict

The Aten CS1798 is a practical, well-rounded KVM for IT teams and control rooms that need dependable HDMI switching and scalable multi-display setups. It delivers strong value when 1080p video, independent USB device sharing and easy cascading are priorities, though buyers who require 4K should look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many computers can one console control?
The CS1798 directly controls up to eight HDMI computers and can be cascaded up to three levels to reach many more systems.

What video resolutions does it support?
It supports up to 1080p and 1920 x 1200 at 60Hz, including common widescreen resolutions.

Can I share USB peripherals independently?
Yes, the unit provides two additional USB 2.0 device ports and allows independent switching of KVM and USB focus.