Introduction to the Klarity KVM-POE/4K (K-70) HDMI KVM Extender and its key features
The Klarity KVM-POE/4K (K-70) HDMI KVM Extender (K-70 family) is a compact, cost-effective solution for extending HDMI video and USB peripheral signals over a single Cat5/6 cable. Designed for environments where the source equipment must be located away from the display and user input devices, this kit supports up to 4K@30Hz video, delivers USB KVM functionality for keyboard and mouse control, and can power the remote receiver via PoE from the transmitter. With a slim metal receiver housing suitable for mounting behind displays and a transmitter that includes HDMI loop-through for a local monitor, the Klarity KVM-POE/4K aims to simplify AV and control installations without the complexity or cost of higher-end extenders.
- 4K@30Hz (4:4:4) video support up to ~50 m over full-copper Cat6; 1080p@60 up to ~70 m (vendor data).
- HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 1.4 compatible (3D supported).
- USB extension for keyboard, mouse and small peripherals (TX: 1×USB, RX: 2×USB).
- PoE-style powering via the transmitter (802.3af-style); single PSU required.
- Transmitter HDMI loop-through for a local monitor and simple EDID handling.
- Slim metal receiver profile (~15–16 mm) designed to fit behind screens.
- Attractive suggested price point: US$119.99 (suggested retail).
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the technical capabilities of the Klarity KVM-POE/4K helps determine where it best fits into AV and control setups. The extender is built around a practical balance of video quality, USB connectivity and easy installation features.
- Resolution:Supports up to 4K@30Hz (4:4:4) for short-to-medium runs when using full-copper Cat6 cable. For many control-room and digital signage applications, 4K@30Hz is sufficient to present high-resolution content with accurate color.
- Range:Vendor guidance indicates approximately 50 m at 4K on Cat6; for 1080p@60 the unit can reach roughly 70 m. These figures depend on cable quality and environment; always test in-situ for critical installations.
- HDMI/HDCP compatibility:HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 1.4 compatibility with 3D support ensures broad compatibility with older and many current HDMI sources and displays.
- USB extension:The kit transmits USB for keyboard/mouse and small USB peripherals. The transmitter provides one USB port while the receiver offers two USB ports. This is suitable for KVM control, touchscreens, and low-bandwidth peripherals; performance mimics USB 2.0 keyboard/mouse behaviour.
- Local monitor loop-through:The transmitter includes an HDMI loop-through output to drive a local monitor, useful for installers who want both a local and remote screen feed without additional splitters.
- IR support:The system is listed as supporting IR transmitter/receiver functionality on vendor pages — confirm whether IR accessories are included with your kit.
- PoE powering:The product supports 802.3af-style PoE powering via the transmitter so the receiver may be powered over the single Cat5/6 run. This simplifies cabling and reduces the need for local power outlets at the display.
- Practical installation notes:For reliable 4K performance, use full-copper Cat6. For longer runs or challenging environments, verify cable workmanship and follow vendor wiring and environmental guidance. The slim metal receiver (approx. 15–16 mm) is designed to tuck behind displays, saving space and simplifying mounting.
- Supplier documentation does not explicitly list CE/UKCA markings on the public listing. Buyers and installers should confirm CE/UKCA compliance (and any local regulatory markings), the exact kit contents and whether a power supply or IR accessories are included before purchase or installation.
- Power supply inclusion and exact power consumption data are not publicly listed — clarify with your supplier if these details matter for your deployment.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The Klarity KVM-POE/4K is suited to a range of small- to medium-scale AV and control scenarios where cost, simplicity and compact hardware are priorities:
- Remote workstations and secure rooms:Place a PC, media player or NVR in a secure equipment room while staff control the system locally using a keyboard and mouse and view content on a nearby monitor. PoE powering reduces the need for an outlet behind the screen.
- Digital signage installations:Use the extender to move the media player or small PC away from public areas to reduce tampering and heat, while driving a wall-mounted or ceiling display. The HDMI loop-through on the transmitter is convenient for monitoring the player locally during content updates.
- CCTV/NVR monitoring stations:In CCTV or NVR deployments where the recorder is situated in a secure cabinet or data room, the Klarity unit enables remote display and USB-based control (mouse, control keyboard) at a monitoring desk without running multiple cables.
- Small conference rooms and classrooms:Simplify AV routing for a teacher or presenter: source equipment can be stored centrally while the presenter uses local controls and a nearby display.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating the Klarity KVM-POE/4K, it helps to compare it against common alternative extension technologies and competing product categories:
- HDBaseT-based extenders typically support longer distances and higher resolutions (including 4K@60 with chroma subsampling) as well as additional features like multi-channel audio, RS-232 and full PoE standards. However, HDBaseT devices tend to be more expensive and bulkier. The Klarity unit is a simpler, lower-cost option if you only need 4K@30Hz and basic USB KVM functionality over relatively short runs.
- Fiber extenders offer very long runs, immunity to electromagnetic interference, and often higher resolutions and frame rates. They are, however, significantly more costly and require fiber expertise. The Klarity KVM-POE/4K is a cost-effective copper-based alternative for installations under the vendor-stated ranges.
- Networked KVM-over-IP solutions provide flexible remote control over IP networks and can scale to many endpoints, but they add latency, require network configuration and are more complex. The Klarity device offers simpler point-to-point extension with low latency and plug-and-play behavior for local control scenarios.
- At an entry-level suggested retail price of US$119.99, the Klarity KVM-POE/4K sits in the budget-friendly segment of HDMI/USB extenders. For installers or organizations needing straightforward KVM extension at modest distances without the premium of HDBaseT or fiber, it represents solid value—provided its range and resolution meet project requirements.
Customer feedback and testimonials
Public reviews for specific OEM or reseller SKUs can be limited; buyers should look for installer feedback on reseller pages or ask distributors for reference installations. Typical feedback themes for devices in this class include:
- "Easy to set up and reliable for 1080p runs" — installers often appreciate plug-and-play operation and the convenience of PoE powering that eliminates local power adapters.
- "Good value for straightforward KVM needs" — customers who do not need 4K@60 or very long runs find the device cost-effective compared with HDBaseT systems.
- "Check cable quality for 4K" — several technicians note that achieving solid 4K performance requires full-copper Cat6 and careful termination; degraded cables reduce range and image quality.
If you require documented user reviews for purchasing decisions, ask your supplier for case studies or references, or test a demo kit in the target environment prior to wide deployment.
Conclusion: Why the Klarity KVM-POE/4K is a strong choice
The Klarity KVM-POE/4K (K-70) HDMI KVM Extender is a pragmatic option for installers and organizations that need to extend HDMI and USB signals over a single Cat5/6 cable without the added cost and complexity of higher-end extenders. Its support for 4K@30Hz, USB KVM functionality, PoE powering and a slim receiver design make it well suited to remote workstations, digital signage, CCTV monitoring desks and small AV installations.
Its strengths are straightforward setup, a low-profile receiver that can be hidden behind displays, and a price point that makes it attractive for budget-conscious projects. Its limitations—lower maximum resolution and range compared with HDBaseT or fiber solutions, and the need to confirm compliance and included accessories—are manageable when the device is chosen for the right scenarios.
Before purchase, confirm CE/UKCA regulatory compliance, kit contents (power adapter, IR accessories), and test with full-copper Cat6 in your environment if you plan to use 4K. For many deployments that fit within its specified ranges, the Klarity KVM-POE/4K provides a capable, compact and cost-effective way to extend HDMI and USB for remote AV and control applications.
