Accessing Onboard Systems Remotely Using JetKVM

I recently set up access to the ship's computer from anywhere using JetKVM. This article provides some background and instructions for setting it up.

JetKVM

This tiny device allows you to connect to a PC over your local network. It's intended for system admins who login remotely to servers. I plan on using it to connect to the Ship's computer which is in the enclosed flybridge while I'm sitting at the salon desk using my Macbook Pro.

To set it up you connect the included HDMI (for screen access) and USB (for power) cables from the device to the PC, and then an ethernet cable to the network. One it is hooked up correctly you will see an IP address on its screen. Enter that address into a browser (connected to the same network) and voila you have access over the network.

At the time of writing it is $USD 69, available on Kickstarter. It is very nicely packaged including cables and is a high quality product.

I got a 3D printed mounting for it which is available here.

HDMI Splitter

One thing I didn't realize is that when you plug in the HDMI cable to the PC it sees it as a new monitor. My system was set up to extend the displays for when there are multiple monitors so I couldn't understand why I was seeing the desktop background image but none of the shortcuts or running applications. Once I changed the settings to duplicate the displays I was able to see everything.

But I needed that HDMI port for one of my helm monitors anyways so I went ahead and purchased a UGreen HDMI splitter. Now whatever is on screen 1 is what you see when you connect.

One slight complication was powering the splitter (which comes with a USB-C to USB-A charging cable). The manual said it requires USB-C 5.0V ⎓1.0A Max and although my Boxer Pro PC has 4 USB-A ports they are 3.2 Gen 1 which provide up to 900mA (0.9A) – slightly below the required power. Luckily I had a spare FireTV plug handy and it matched the required input perfectly.

Remote Access

Now that I can access the ship's computer from anywhere on the boat from my Mac my thoughts turned to being able to access it from home. This will allow me to access the cameras or tap into NMEA data like the state of charge of the batteries or current wind conditions.

The easiest way to do it is via the JetKVM cloud. I opted-in and after some time loading the initial screen I could access my system from anywhere. Crazy simple.

I can use either Starlink or SIM cards to get internet access from the boat. I tested both from home and had no problems getting through. There have been reports that Internet providers that use CGNAT (Carrier-Grade NAT) can create problems but I experienced no issues.

Tailscale

Another way you can get remote access is using a new type of mesh networking product called Tailscale which is more like the traditional VPN approach. I set that up on the ship computer as well and can also report no problems getting in that way.

At this time I'm trialling both methods to see which I prefer and will update this page with any findings. JetKVM seems to be better for accessing desktop applications - e.g. Timezero.