KVM switches

[Malak]

With the little knowledge I had I chose to get a KVM switch instead of a new monitor/keyboard/mouse when my new rig arrives. It says it can support up to 4 systems, so should last me a while.

However, I'd like to know more about how it works. Cables, things I should know about it, pros and cons, etc. Hidden costs? I read a review about one KVM switch that was supposedly really good except it needed proprietary cables that cost a ton each(would be cheaper to get monitor and whatnot). I also chose the KVM switch for the same reason most do.. no where to put the other monitor/keyboard/mouse. I just hope I don't run into any serious issues, like hidden costs.

 

[Matthias99]

Not really a highly technical question. Try General Hardware or Peripherals.

 

[Malak]

Originally posted by: Matthias99
Not really a highly technical question. Try General Hardware or Peripherals.

Heh. Maybe not from someone sitting on a mountain of knowledge, but someone who has never used anything similar like myself may think so. I've also got someone else who wants feedback on whether they are worth it or not, and the more I know about them the better. But I suppose I'll ask my question in the peripherals section instead.

 

[Calin]

Not a highly technical answer, but you should buy all the cables you need.
I think you would need for any new computer one PS2 male-to-female cable for mouse and one for keyboard, and one D-SUB male to female cable for the monitor. But the switch might also use proprietary inputs, and then you're out of luck.

Keep in mind that a KVM switch will degrade the quality of video signal (especially if you use high resolution and refresh rates).

 

[ViperXX]

Here at work we use 2 different workstations for two separate networks. I installed KVMs on all machines that use two workstations. The ones I use are made by Belkin part#F1DK102P cost $37.99. I purchased them from www.cdw.com The ones I use connect two workstations to one monitor, one keyboard(PS/2) and one mouse(PS/2) and come with built in cables. They work great! To switch between the two workstations just tap the scroll lock button twice and push the up or down arrow.

 

[lkm]

viperXX, holy shizzlne, i didn't know about the scroll lock double tap then up down button switching. TY alot. i really need to read manuals from now on. btw, mine is Airlink.