While searching for alternatives, Tom noticed TESmart’s HKS402-E23-USBK. He had clear functional requirements:
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20 workstations, each with 3 PCs + 2 monitors, planning to add a fourth PC in the fall
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Deep awareness of long-term equipment reliability issues, including USB/HDMI port looseness, DP latch wear, and cable stress
Clear Requirements and Collaborative Exploration
When evaluating the HKS402-E23-USBK, Tom specified his needs:
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Remote management (IP preferred, serial as secondary)
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Soft reboot
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Preset switching
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One-touch operation
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Secure installation and reliable cable locking
TESmart engaged in multiple rounds of interactive discussion:
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Requirements sorting & co-creation simulation: The team modeled different control methods and preset strategies based on Tom’s lab scale and workflow, analyzing efficiency and maintenance cost for each operation in real use.
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Transparency on technical limits: TESmart candidly highlighted the HKS402-E23-USBK’s constraints—it does not support IP management, soft reboot, preset switching, or HDMI screw locks—while exploring alternative solutions, keeping discussions open.
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Rational solution comparison: Considering Tom’s priorities and actual lab usage, TESmart recommended HKS403-P23 as a viable alternative offering preset functionality, demonstrating desktop and rack installation stability, as well as reliable cable connections.
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Interactive feedback & co-creation: Tom provided input on pros and cons of each option, and TESmart documented this feedback as reference for future product planning—particularly regarding IP management, structural reliability, and interface locking mechanisms.
Outcome
Through this interactive process:
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Tom gained actionable guidance for equipment selection and a clear understanding of each device’s capability boundaries
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TESmart collected real-world technical requirements and improvement directions
This discussion embodies a co-creation spirit: the user contributes real pain points and priorities, while the team provides professional analysis and feasible solutions, jointly exploring best practices for lab KVM deployments.
