JetKVM Mini

The JetKVM Mini is a compact and budget-friendly version of the JetKVM device. It is available in two models: JetKVM Mini with Ethernet for $39 and JetKVM Mini W, which is wireless, for $42. When purchased in a pack of three, the units become even more affordable, dropping to $33 and $36 per unit, respectively.

Both models share the same core features as the standard JetKVM. They offer native video capture at 1080p (up to 4K with JetKVM OS Services), keyboard and mouse control over USB, the same web interface, cloud integration, and automatic updates. The JetKVM Mini features an RJ45 port for connecting Ethernet, video, and USB cables to the target computer. Once the cables are plugged in, the device can be accessed via a web browser using the displayed IP address.

The JetKVM Mini W eliminates the Ethernet port in favor of a 2.4 and 5 GHz radio, making it suitable for machines that are not within reach of a cable. This includes PCs in other rooms, TVs, or racks with no free switch ports. Setup for the JetKVM Mini W is performed wirelessly via Bluetooth from a browser on a phone or laptop. Users simply select the desired network, enter the password, and the Mini W will connect automatically.

One of the main goals in developing the JetKVM Mini was affordability, aiming to make this device accessible for every machine. To achieve this, the Mini was re-engineered to focus on the essential functions required for a KVM: capturing video, controlling keyboard and mouse, mounting virtual media, and maintaining connectivity when the managed machine is not accessible.

The compact design of the JetKVM Mini includes an aluminium case measuring 42 × 42 × 23 mm (1.7 × 1.7 × 0.9 in), much like the footprint of a matchbox. Inside, there is an ESP32-P4X microcontroller that handles video capture, H.264 encoding, USB, and the JetKVM firmware. This streamlined architecture eliminates the need for separate DRAM and eMMC found in a Linux system, resulting in a more compact and cost-effective design.

The entire setup is housed in a simple aluminium enclosure with a status display, physical controls, and the familiar web interface, cloud access, extensions, and update system found in the original JetKVM.

Both the JetKVM Mini and Mini W run on their respective ESP32 chips, with the Mini W adding an ESP32-C5 for wireless capabilities. These chips include IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax for networking on 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies, Bluetooth LE for the setup process, and IEEE 802.15.4 for Zigbee and Thread. The Mini features two USB ports: one connects to the target computer, running at USB 2.0 High Speed (480 Mbps) and providing keyboard, mouse, and virtual media support.

The second USB port is a general-purpose USB port operating at USB 2.0 Full Speed (12 Mbps) and can also function as a backup or secondary power input.

The JetKVM Mini comes with two USB ports, one dedicated to the target computer (USB 2.0 High Speed, 480 Mbps) and the other serving as a general-purpose USB port (USB 2.0 Full Speed, 12 Mbps). The latter can also function as a backup power input or a secondary power source. Additionally, extensions can be connected to this port, with plans to update the ATX, DC power, and serial extensions to use standard USB in future releases.

External power supplies enable the USB port to operate as a USB host, expanding its compatibility with various USB devices.

The firmware for the ESP32-P4X has been rewritten and will be released as open-source from the start. It supports the same protocols as the original firmware, ensuring compatibility with the web interface and cloud services. This allows users to continue controlling the target computer using keyboard and mouse, text pasting, changing keyboard layouts, utilizing virtual media from an ISO on the TF Card, accessing the JetKVM Cloud from outside the network, Wake-on-LAN, MQTT and Home Assistant integration, OIDC login, and over-the-air updates with automatic rollback.

The Mini also incorporates JetKVM OS Services, which will be available in the upcoming weeks. These services provide advanced features such as capturing the target computer's screen up to 4K resolution, a shared clipboard, a guest terminal, and file transfer functionality.