Openterface KVM-GO

Following the success of Openterface Mini-KVM, with over 5,000 users in our open-source community as of the end of 2025 and numerous reviews from tech influencers, we’re back with an even more compact and refined evolution: Openterface KVM-GO.

Designed to fit on your keychain and save your day in a snap, this next-generation KVM-over-USB gadget is built for rapid operations in data centers, remote server rooms, and headless device troubleshooting. Available with HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA connectors, KVM-GO goes anywhere and plugs into nearly anything.

Built-in Video Connectors Eliminate Cable Chaos

We know the pain of scrambling for the right video cable when you’re deep inside a server room or tinkering with embedded boards, especially when time’s against you. That’s why the KVM-GO series comes with a built-in video connector (HDMI, DP, or VGA), eliminating the need to carry an extra cable. Just plug it directly into the target device and you’re good to go. For detailed connection instructions, see our how-to-connect guide.

Simply plug the KVM-GO’s built-in connector directly into the target device’s video output, connect the black short cable to the target for keyboard/mouse emulation, and connect the long orange cable to your host computer. Setup complete in seconds.

Network Independence & Lightning-Fast Response

Unlike KVM-over-IP or software KVM solutions that rely on network access, Openterface KVM-GO stands out by offering a plug-and-play, network-independent experience. Our device establishes a direct video and USB connection between the host computer and the target device, enabling you to take control and diagnose issues quickly, especially in environments where network connectivity is unreliable or even unavailable. The hardware startup time is just less than 1 second, ensuring you can jump right into troubleshooting without delays or disturbances in your workflow.

Upgraded Performance with 4K Support (Experimental)

KVM-GO features a significant video upgrade and is available in three models to support different video output standards:

• KVM-GO HDMI: Standard HDMI connector with 4K experimental mode support
• KVM-GO DP: DisplayPort connector with 4K experimental mode support
• KVM-GO VGA: VGA connector optimized for legacy systems (1080p@60Hz max output)

Video Specifications (HDMI & DP versions):

• Input: Up to 4096×2160 @ 60 Hz (YUV420), 4096×2160 @ 30 Hz (YUV444)
• Output: Up to 4096×2160 @ 60 Hz (MJPEG), 3840×2160 @ 30 Hz (YUV420)
• Default: 1080p@60Hz for optimal stability and performance
• 4K Mode: Available as experimental feature*

Note: The device surface may feel hot during use, especially 4K mode. However, the temperature remains within safe operating limits. Long-term stress tests and further thermal optimizations are in progress.

Ultra-Portable Design Meets Professional Performance

Designed with extreme portability in mind, Openterface KVM-GO is compact enough to carry on your keychain yet powerful enough for professional IT work. Featuring comprehensive capabilities such as BIOS-level access, audio integration, microSD file transfers, and text transfer, this device provides all the necessary tools to efficiently manage and troubleshoot your headless devices, wherever your work may lead.

For Critical Tech Moments — Plug. Control. Go.

A quick VGA demo shows KVM-GO driving an old HP 800 G3 from another PC through the Openterface app. Plug, control, done.

KVM-GO jumps between modern and legacy targets to improve your tech workflows with a vast array of interfaces, like legacy computers, Mini PCs, Raspberry Pi’s, and so much more.

In server rooms or on the bench, KVM-GO connects in seconds so you can focus on the job.

Features & Specifications

• Ultra-Compact Design: Small enough to carry on your keychain.
• Built-in Video Connectors: Direct plug-in HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA connectors
• MicroSD Slot: File transfers and OS reinstalls made easy
• Upgraded Video Quality: Supports up to 4K/60 input and output (experimental; unavailable for the VGA version)
• Cross-Platform Host App: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPadOS, Chrome web app
• No Setup Required: No app installation or configuration on target device
• Network-Free Operation: Pure USB-based KVM—fast, stable, and reliable
• BIOS-Level Access: Direct access to target device's BIOS
• Audio Integration: Captures and plays target device's audio (unavailable for the VGA version)
• Text Transfer (Host → Target): Send usernames, passwords, or code snippets via emulated keyboard strokes
• Text Transfer (Target → Host): Copy text from target's screen to host via OCR (macOS only)
• Weight: ~25g - exact weight TBD
• Open Source: Hardware and software fully open and community-driven

For more detailed information about specific features, compatibility, and technical specifications, please visit our KVM-GO FAQ page, which we continuously update with answers to common questions.

Software & Host Applications

One of the key advantages of KVM-GO is our comprehensive Openterface software ecosystem. We’ve invested heavily in developing host applications that work seamlessly with our hardware, and we offer two deployment options to suit different needs:

Desktop Applications (Windows, macOS, Linux)

Our desktop applications provide the best performance and user experience. With features like:

• Offline Operation: Works without internet connection — perfect for secure environments
• Optimized Performance: Hardware-accelerated video rendering for smooth 60fps operation
• Platform-Specific Optimizations: Each app is tailored to leverage the unique capabilities of its respective operating system

Mobile Support (Android, iPadOS)

Transform your smartphone or tablet into a fully functional KVM console. Native mobile apps will be available on their respective app stores:

Android Support:

• Available on Google Play Store
• Turn your Android device into a portable KVM console
• Touch-optimized interface for on-the-go troubleshooting

iPadOS Support (Coming Soon):

• Perfect for iPad users who want mobile KVM capabilities
• Support via the KVM-GO's built-in Bluetooth

Both mobile platforms allow you to carry a powerful KVM solution in your pocket, making it perfect for field technicians who need lightweight, portable server management.

Web Application

Thanks to our amazing community contributions, particularly @kashalls who started this project, we now offer a powerful web-based application that makes deployment incredibly easy. Simply go to Openterface Viewer and get control!

• Zero Installation: Works directly in modern web browsers (Chrome, Edge, Safari)—no downloads needed
• Fast & Easy: Quick to use when your host computer has internet access
• New Environment Ready: Perfect when you're working on a fresh system or borrowed computer
• Universal Access: Works on any device with a capable browser and internet connection

The web application is particularly valuable when your host computer can access the internet and you need to connect KVM-GO on a computer where you can’t install software, or when you want the ultimate portability and flexibility across devices.

MicroSD File Transfer & OS Installation

The built-in microSD card slot enables seamless file transfers between the target and host devices, and supports burning ISO images for OS installation. A built-in button allows you to switch the SD card mount between the target and host (also controllable via software), while the built-in LED indicates read/write status. This eliminates the need to carry a separate card reader, consolidating your troubleshooting toolkit into one ultra-compact device.

Customizable 3D-Printed Caps with Card Storage

Each KVM-GO includes a 3D-printed cap with integrated microSD storage: HDMI and DP versions feature two slots, while VGA includes one slot. 3D design files are shared on our GitHub repo Openterface_KVM-GO_Hardware for customization and printing your own caps.

What’s in the Box

We offer three complete toolkit options—HDMI, DP, or VGA version. The only difference between them is the core product itself. All other contents are identical across all three options.

Each toolkit includes:

1. Core Product: Openterface KVM-GO (choose HDMI, DP, or VGA version)
2. Toolkit Bag: Compact carrying case
3. USB Cables:
   • 0.5m black Type-C to USB-A cable with Type-C adapter
   • 1.5m orange Type-C to Type-C cable with USB-A adapter
4. 3D-Printed Cap: Custom cap with microSD storage
5. Quick Start Guide

Note: The final version you receive may differ slightly, as we’re still improving the packaging design.

Comparisons

Open-Source & Compliance

Our commitment to openness covers both software and hardware:

• Host Applications: Built on the same proven software as Mini-KVM with cross-platform support.
• Hardware Design: All schematics, PCB layouts, and 3D models will be open-sourced once finalized.
• 3D Print Files: Cap and enclosure customization files will be available for download.
• Community Development: Active GitHub repositories with ongoing community contributions.

Compliance & Certification

• Open Source Initiative (OSI):
  Our host applications are licensed under AGPL-3.0, an OSI-approved license, ensuring transparency and user freedom.

• Open Source Hardware Association (OSHWA):
  Our Mini-KVM is already OSHWA-certified (UID: CN000015).
  For KVM-GO, OSHWA certification will follow after the crowdfunding campaign, once PCB designs are finalized and validated.

Beta Testing & Real-World Validation

Before launching this campaign, we’ve been running beta testing programs with IT professionals, system administrators, and field technicians in demanding real-world environments. We value all constructive feedback, both praise and criticism, as it drives us to continuously improve and ensures KVM-GO becomes the right solution for our users’ real needs.

See KVM-GO in Action:

• User Testimonials – Real feedback from beta testers and professionals
• YouTube Reviews – Watch KVM-GO demonstrations and reviews
• Tech Media Coverage – Independent reviews from technology journalists

Tech journalists and content creators: Contact us at info@openterface.com for review units.

We believe in proving our product works before asking for your support. This validation process demonstrates our commitment to delivering a tool that not only ships on time but actually performs as promised.

Manufacturing Plan

Our studio, experienced in international collaborations, is based in the tech-savvy Guangzhou-Shenzhen region of China, a globally renowned hub for advanced manufacturing. With this solid foundation, we are confident in our ability to seamlessly execute the production and fulfillment of the Openterface KVM-GO.

Current Status: We are currently conducting small-batch production testing and have sent units to our beta testers for real-world validation.

Production Timeline:

• November 2025: Campaign launch
• December 2025: Finalize production setup and component sourcing
• January-March 2026: Mass production & quality control
• April 2026: First shipments to backers

We have carefully mapped out a plan to scale our production to match the demand generated by the crowdfunding campaign. Our dedicated team will oversee the manufacturing process, ensuring that we can make adjustments as needed to guarantee efficient and timely delivery.

Fulfillment & Logistics

After assembly and testing in our studio located in Guangzhou, China, we will box up each batch of Openterface KVM-GOs and send them to Crowd Supply’s fulfillment partner, Mouser Electronics, who will handle distribution to all backers. You can learn more about Crowd Supply’s fulfillment service under Ordering, Paying, and Shipping in their guide.

Risks & Challenges

We are confident in our ability to deliver the Openterface KVM-GO, drawing on our previous success with the Mini-KVM, but we acknowledge the potential risks and challenges inherent in the development and fulfillment process:

Economic Challenges:

• Unpredictable global trade policies and tariffs between major economies may impact component costs and shipping timelines

Technical Challenges:

• Ensuring 4K video stability across different hardware configurations—this is particularly challenging due to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements in ultra-compact designs, environmental EMI interference, and cable quality variations
• Optimizing the ultra-compact design for thermal management, especially when running in 4K mode

Manufacturing Challenges:

• Navigating extensive paperwork and certifications required for international compliance
• Potential supply chain issues for specific electronic components
• Scaling production while maintaining quality control standards

We are actively addressing these challenges through our beta testing program and will keep our backers informed of any updates or potential delays throughout the project’s timeline. We are dedicated to delivering Openterface KVM-GO as promised, and with your support, we can unlock the full potential of ultra-compact headless device management.

How to Support This Project

Running an open-source hardware and software project requires community support. Here’s how you can help:

Place Your Order – Your purchase directly funds ongoing development and manufacturing improvements.

Contribute – Code, documentation, testing, translations, design, or community management – all contributions are welcome and valuable.

Spread the Word – Share this project with others who might benefit from ultra-compact KVM solutions.

While we may not respond immediately to every issue or feature request, we read every report and carefully prioritize tasks to make KVM-GO as useful as possible. With your support, we can continue delivering better devices and improved software.

We’re continuously building more useful and powerful KVM tools for the community. Follow us and stay tuned for updates!

Your ideas and feedback are always welcome and we’d love to hear from you. Drop us an email at info@openterface.com or join our vibrant communities:

• Discord Community: TechxArtisan
• Subreddit: r/Openterface_miniKVM
• GitHub: Openterface Repository