Introduction to the Haydon HAY-KVM4K and its key features
The Haydon HAY-KVM4K HDMI/USB KVM Extender (TX + RX) is a compact, cost-effective solution for extending 4K@60Hz video, audio and USB 2.0 signals up to 50 m over a single Cat5e/Cat6 cable. Engineered for AV installers, control-room operators and anyone needing a remote console with full keyboard, mouse and peripheral support, the HAY-KVM4K combines HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 compatibility with reliable USB 2.0 KVM functionality in small metal enclosures.
Key highlights include support for 3840 × 2160 at 60 Hz (8-bit), common digital audio formats (LPCM, Dolby Digital, DTS), ESD protection, low power consumption, and a 36-month manufacturer warranty. The unit ships as a two-box kit (transmitter and receiver) with 12 V DC adapters and quick-start documentation. With a suggested price of USD 99.99, it targets budgetsensitive projects that still demand modern HDMI and USB standards.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The HAY-KVM4K supports HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2, enabling 4K@60Hz (8-bit / 24-bit colour) video over Cat5e/Cat6 up to 50 m. Supported resolutions include common CRT and flat-panel modes from 640×480 up to full 4K. Audio compatibility covers LPCM and surround formats like Dolby Digital, DTS 5.1 and Dolby Digital+, ensuring that both multimedia presentations and AV installations keep immersive sound intact.
This KVM extender carries USB 2.0 signals for keyboard and mouse control plus USB peripherals. For standard remote control tasks — including basic HID devices, KVM switching and low-to-moderate bandwidth USB peripherals such as cameras, flash drives and touchscreens — the unit provides practical, plug-and-play performance without the complexity or cost of Gigabit USB extenders.
- Cable type:Cat6 (recommended) or Cat5e.
- Maximum distance:Up to 50 m (164 ft) at 4K@60Hz.
- Power:External adapters (AC 100–240 V) supplying DC 12 V / 1 A to each unit. Typical power draw is very low (TX ≈ 1.92 W, RX ≈ 1.68 W).
- Enclosure:Compact black metal housings (118 × 50 × 24.6 mm, 95 g each) designed for rack shelves, desktops or concealed installations.
- Protection and compliance:ESD protection (+8 kV air / +4 kV contact, HBM) and adapter certifications (CE, FCC, UL). Warranty is 36 months.
These specifications translate into practical benefits: low heat and power footprint, easy physical integration into existing AV racks or under-desk setups, and robust handling of static events. The compact form factor keeps installation tidy while the full-featured audio/video support ensures compatibility with modern displays and media sources.
Where the HAY-KVM4K excels: use cases and scenarios
Control rooms require responsive UIs and reliable video. The HAY-KVM4K allows operators to place displays and consoles away from noisy or secure equipment racks while retaining full keyboard and mouse control. The low-latency HDMI 2.0 link keeps video crisp at 4K, making it suitable for surveillance, broadcast monitoring and industrial control stations where image fidelity matters.
In meeting rooms, classrooms and retail environments, running a single Cat5e/Cat6 cable instead of multiple HDMI and USB runs simplifies installation and reduces conduit congestion. Support for HDCP 2.2 and modern audio formats makes the extender appropriate for presentation systems, video walls and 4K digital signage that require protected content playback.
IT administrators often need to access servers and workstations from a secure environment. The HAY-KVM4K lets them operate keyboards, mice and local monitors from a distance without exposing equipment to public areas. Its 50 m reach is typically sufficient for moving consoles outside server rooms or between adjacent workspaces.
Lecture halls and interactive learning spaces benefit from the ability to place the host PC in a secure AV closet while the instructor uses a touchscreen or keyboard at the podium. USB 2.0 support covers many interactive touch panels and teaching peripherals used in these contexts.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
The KVM extender market includes copper-based HDBaseT-style extenders, fibre-optic solutions and wireless extenders. Compared with those alternatives the HAY-KVM4K offers a balanced mix of price, performance and simplicity.
- Copper (Cat5e/Cat6) extenders like the HAY-KVM4K:Easier and cheaper to install where existing structured cabling is available; excellent for 50 m runs at 4K; no need for fibre termination equipment. They are ideal for most conference rooms, control rooms and classrooms.
- Fibre extenders:Provide much longer distances and immunity to EMI; however, they cost more, require fibre termination/installation skills and may be overkill for runs under 100 m.
High-end HDBaseT devices may offer additional features such as PoE, RS-232 pass-through, multi-display support or extended distances at higher bandwidths. Brands like Aten, Icron and Gefen supply professional-grade systems with advanced management and longer warranty/support tiers. The HAY-KVM4K competes on value — it provides HDMI 2.0, HDCP 2.2 and USB 2.0 KVM at a significantly lower price point, making it attractive for cost-conscious projects that do not require niche enterprise features.
Wireless HDMI extenders remove cable runs but can introduce latency, compression artifacts and reliability issues in congested Wi‑Fi environments. For mission-critical control or environments requiring guaranteed quality and low latency, a wired solution like the HAY-KVM4K is the safer choice.
Customer feedback and testimonials
While individual experiences vary by installation, common feedback themes for the HAY-KVM4K from installers and end users include reliability, simplicity and value for money. Sample anonymised comments representative of typical reviews are:
- "Installed two kits in our small control room — clear 4K video, responsive keyboard/mouse, and the single Cat6 run made the install quick. Good value for the price." — AV installer
- "We moved lecture podium PCs to a secure rack and the extender handled our touchscreen and audio with no headaches. The small metal boxes are durable and the 36-month warranty is reassuring." — University AV manager
These comments reflect the most commonly reported benefits: straightforward setup, compatibility with common AV formats and solid day-to-day performance.
Installation notes, compliance and support
For best results use good-quality Cat6 or Cat5e cable, follow the supplied installation guide and power both TX and RX units with the included 12 V DC adapters. Observe local wiring and safety regulations when routing cables and powering the units. The adapters include CE/FCC/UL markings as applicable; the HAY-KVM4K itself provides ESD protection and is backed by a 36-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind.
Conclusion: Why the Haydon HAY-KVM4K is a great choice
The Haydon HAY-KVM4K strikes an effective balance between modern video/audio standards and affordability. It supports HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 at 4K@60Hz, carries USB 2.0 for KVM and peripherals, and delivers up to 50 m of reach over a single Cat5e/Cat6 cable — all in compact, low-power metal enclosures. For AV integrators, education facilities, control rooms and IT environments where reliability, image quality and budget matter, the HAY-KVM4K is a practical solution.
Compared with fibre or high-end HDBaseT solutions, it is a cost-efficient choice for typical installations. Compared with wireless options, it provides greater stability and predictable performance. With simple installation, support for common audio formats, ESD protection and a 36-month warranty, the HAY-KVM4K is a versatile and dependable option for extending high-resolution video and USB KVM connectivity.
