Milestone Electronics
Model: ML-81HDMI-KVM
8 IN 1 OUT HDMI KVM, with EDID
The ML-81HDMI-KVM is a professional 8×1 HDMI KVM switch supporting 720P & 1080P with 18Gbps bandwidth. Built-in EDID management and multiple switching modes ensure reliable multi-source control in structured AV and IT environments.
- Switch between eight HDMI inputs using one display, keyboard, and mouse
- Supports 720P & 1080P with 18Gbps bandwidth for high-quality signal transmission
- Built-in EDID control to prevent resolution mismatch and handshake issues
- Manual, auto, and scan switching modes for flexible input selection
- RS232 interface and IR remote for enterprise control system integration
Yes
RS232
Max Resolution
1080p Full HD
Audio Input
Stereo Analogue
Output
Single HDMI
- In-house manufactured
- 24hr response
- 2,000+ clients served
Product Overview
What makes the ML-81HDMI-KVM
The ML-81HDMI-KVM features eight HDMI inputs and one HDMI output with ARC and CEC support. It is designed for environments requiring centralised management of multiple HDMI sources, including control rooms, monitoring stations, server rooms, training facilities, and corporate boardrooms.
Integrated KVM functionality enables users to control all connected systems using a single USB keyboard and mouse setup. This reduces hardware duplication, improves workspace organisation, and enhances operational efficiency across multi-system environments.
The unit includes built-in EDID management to ensure stable communication between source devices and the connected display. Predefined EDID configurations for 720P, 1080P, and higher resolution HDMI formats prevent resolution mismatch, signal instability, and handshake issues commonly encountered in multi-source HDMI installations.
With full 18Gbps bandwidth and support for HDMI 2.0 at 720P & 1080P, the ML-81HDMI-KVM delivers stable, high-quality signal transmission without compression or degradation. It is purpose-built for B2B AV and IT environments requiring reliable multi-source switching and centralised system control.
HDMI Inputs
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Key Features
Built for professional multi-source control
Eight HDMI inputs. One display, keyboard, and mouse. Enterprise-grade switching with integrated EDID management and full 4K@60Hz performance.
720P & 1080P Video Performance
Supports Ultra HD resolution up to 4Kx2K@60Hz with full 4:4:4 chroma sampling, ensuring sharp text clarity and professional-grade visual output for demanding AV applications.
- 4K@60Hz with 4:4:4 chroma sampling
- 18Gbps bandwidth for uncompressed signal delivery
- Compatible with 3D video formats
Advanced EDID Management
Built-in EDID control ensures stable communication between source devices and the connected display. Predefined configurations prevent resolution mismatch and handshake failures common in multi-source HDMI setups.
- Predefined EDID settings for 720P and 1080P
- Support for higher resolution HDMI EDID formats
- Eliminates signal instability during system commissioning
Integrated KVM Functionality
Control all eight connected systems from a single USB keyboard and mouse. Eliminates hardware duplication, reduces workstation clutter, and improves operational efficiency in multi-system environments.
- Single keyboard and mouse controls all connected sources
- Reduces peripheral hardware across the installation
- Suited for server rooms, control rooms, and monitoring stations
Flexible Switching Modes
Three switching modes provide adaptable input control to match different operational scenarios. Manual mode offers direct front panel selection, auto mode detects and switches to active sources, and scan mode cycles through inputs at adjustable intervals.
- Manual mode via front panel controls
- Auto mode with fallback to active input source
- Scan mode with adjustable time intervals for monitoring setups
Audio Handling and Routing
Supports audio extraction and flexible audio routing, enabling integration with external amplifiers, DSP systems, or AV receivers. Selectable audio output modes allow configuration to suit the system requirements of each installation.
- Selectable audio output modes: 2.1, 5.1, and pass-through
- ARC enable and disable functionality
- Compatible with external amplifiers and DSP systems
Enterprise Control Integration
The RS232 interface enables integration with third-party automation platforms and centralised AV control systems. Built-in IR remote control and provision for an external IR sensor extension add flexible command options for professional installations.
- RS232 for automation and AV control system integration
- Built-in IR remote control included
- External IR sensor extension provision supported
Installation
Rack-mounted and structured AV deployment
The ML-81HDMI-KVM is designed for integration into professional rack-mounted AV systems, server cabinets, and structured installations across enterprise environments.
01
Rack-Mounted AV Systems
The compact chassis integrates into standard AV rack enclosures, making it suitable for deployment in control rooms, server cabinets, digital signage hubs, and corporate AV infrastructures. Multiple control options including front panel, IR remote, and RS232 allow operation without physical access to the rack position.
02
Multi-Source Switching Environment
Connect up to eight HDMI source devices and route any one source to the connected display using a single keyboard and mouse. Switching can be managed manually through the front panel, automatically via active source detection, or in scan mode for sequential display cycling. RS232 integration allows switching to be triggered by external control processors in fully automated environments.
03
EDID Configuration for System Commissioning
During installation, the built-in EDID management allows the system integrator to set predefined EDID configurations for 720P, 1080P, or higher resolution formats. This ensures that all source devices initialise at the correct resolution for the connected display, eliminating handshake issues during commissioning and routine operation.
04
Audio System Integration
The unit supports audio extraction and configurable output modes including 2.1, 5.1, and pass-through. It can be connected to external amplifiers, DSP systems, or AV receivers for installations that require dedicated audio routing independent of the display output. ARC functionality can be enabled or disabled depending on the connected audio infrastructure.
Where the ML-81HDMI-KVM performs
Designed for professional B2B environments where centralised multi-source management, signal integrity, and EDID-stable output are essential requirements.
Control and Monitoring Rooms
Centralised management of multiple computing or surveillance systems from a single operator workstation. The ML-81HDMI-KVM enables operators to switch between and control eight source devices without changing physical connections.
IT Infrastructure Management
Operate multiple servers or PCs from a single keyboard, mouse, and display. Ideal for server room installations where technicians require direct KVM access to individual systems without deploying separate peripherals at each unit.
Corporate and Training Facilities
Switch between multiple presentation devices with reliable EDID-controlled output. Trainers and presenters can alternate between source systems without display interruptions, making it well suited to training suites and multi-presenter environments.
Corporate Boardrooms
Connect presentation laptops, video conferencing systems, and media players to a single boardroom display. The switch provides clean source management and stable 4K output for executive meeting environments with multiple presenters.
Digital Signage Hubs
Manage multiple digital signage content sources from a centralised rack installation. Scan mode allows sequential cycling through HDMI inputs at configurable intervals, suitable for lobby displays and information screens driven by multiple media players.
Professional AV Installations
Integrate the ML-81HDMI-KVM into complex AV racks alongside automation controllers and DSP systems. RS232 connectivity and IR control allow the unit to be managed by third-party AV control systems in enterprise and broadcast environments.
Full specification sheet
- Video Specifications
- Inputs and Outputs
- KVM and USB
- EDID Management
- Control and Integration
- Audio
- Installation
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of the ML-81HDMI-KVM switch?
The ML-81HDMI-KVM allows users to switch between eight HDMI source devices and control them using a single display, keyboard, and mouse setup. It is built for AV and IT environments requiring centralised management of multiple HDMI sources without duplicating peripherals at each connected system.
Does this device support 720P & 1080P resolution at 60Hz?
Yes, it supports Ultra HD resolution up to 720P & 1080P chroma sampling and 18Gbps bandwidth for high-quality video performance. The full 18Gbps bandwidth ensures stable transmission of high-data-rate HDMI signals without compression or signal degradation.
How does EDID management benefit AV installations?
The built-in EDID control prevents resolution mismatch, signal instability, and HDMI handshake issues by allowing predefined EDID configurations. This is especially valuable for professional AV integrators during system commissioning, ensuring all connected source devices initialise at the correct resolution for the installed display.
What switching modes are available on this device?
The ML-81HDMI-KVM supports three switching modes: manual mode for direct input selection through front panel controls, auto mode which automatically switches to active input sources with auto fallback functionality, and scan mode for sequential switching between HDMI inputs with adjustable time intervals — suitable for demo environments and monitoring setups.
Can this unit be integrated with external control systems?
Yes, it includes IR remote support, an external IR sensor extension provision, and an RS232 interface for integration with automation and AV control systems. The RS232 interface allows the unit to be managed by third-party automation platforms and centralised AV control processors used in enterprise-level deployments.
What audio output options does the ML-81HDMI-KVM support?
The unit supports audio extraction and flexible audio routing with three selectable output modes: 2.1, 5.1, and pass-through. ARC (Audio Return Channel) functionality can be enabled or disabled as required. Audio modes can be configured based on the system requirements of each installation, allowing connection to external amplifiers, DSP systems, or AV receivers.
Which EDID presets are available on the device?
The ML-81HDMI-KVM includes predefined EDID configurations for 720P, 1080P, and higher resolution HDMI formats. These presets allow the installer to fix the EDID presented to source devices so that they consistently output the correct resolution, regardless of display capabilities — ensuring stable operation across all connected sources from the initial power-on.
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