kvm switch question

[pontifex]

i'm thinkign of getting a kvm switch because i have an extra pc that i could use but don't have room for another monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

my main question is when i use a kvm switch, will i get slower responses from my monitor, keyboard and mouse? if so, will it be noticeable? the main pc i play games on. not worried about the 2nd pc because that will be more of a file server type thing.

 

[CalvinHobbes]

I've never noticed a problem with a good quality KVM. However, I've never used one with a game PC.

 

[Czar]

nope, kvm are just as fast as a direct link in nearly all cases, might get slow with long distances and ip

 

[Bobthelost]

I never noticed any lag due to it, but it's a pain in the neck in general. Still, it is better than two keyboards and mice.

 

[pontifex]

Originally posted by: Bobthelost
I never noticed any lag due to it, but it's a pain in the neck in general. Still, it is better than two keyboards and mice.

why would it be a pain in the neck? set it up once and all you gotta do is press a button and you're on the other pc

 

[Bobthelost]

Yeah, if it works.

My mouse doesn't work 100% of the time when i swtich on the machine (i have to unplug it and plug it back in to get it to work), i can't get it to work with my old keyboard and mouse for some reason (PS2 connectors and wireless don't seem to work with a USB kvm) it's a cheap belkin one my dad bought for me, i'm far from impressed with it.

 

[Metron]

This IOGear 2 port KVM from Fry's is all I use. For USB keyboards and mice, I just use an adapter.

Hit the "Scroll Lock" key twice(which you almost never use for applications), and you easily toggle back and forth. No lag, no hassle.