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USB KVM questions/recommendation requested

H

homestarmy

Diamond Member
I am getting a Mac Mini in a trade for my girlfriend and also to expand my abilities and I don't want to have more than one keyboard around.

I have used KVM before and have one, but it only supports PS/2 and VGA. I haven't looked into USB ones previously and have a few questions.

First, with USB, when you switch from one computer to another, is it any different from plugging/unplugging? IE, will it make that sound as if you have unplugged a device from windows? I will be using a Microsoft Wireless Ergo keyboard and mouse btw, I can't remember the exact model off the top of my head. And are there any reasons why there might be an issue with the KVM and the Mac? I know I am using a Microsoft keyboard, but the girlfriend prefers it that way also.

And I am looking for one really as cheap as possible that won't give me any headaches. I prefer to have something DVI (as it looks so much better on my monitor, there is a significant difference in my case), but I may be ok with VGA. Otherwise, do they make them without video at all? Because if I settle for VGA, I might as well just swtich the inputs right on my monitor (Dell 2005 FPW).

Please inform me a little bit and also I encourage you to make recommendations to me, I would appreciate it very much!

Thanks!
 
1) Yes it will make that noise.

2) As long as the mac supports the keyboard (it will, although i can't remember if mine lets me use the fancy keys too) you should be fine, having said that i had a cheap KVM that caused me no end of trouble with one keyboard and mouse (belkin). Another one worked beautifully with the same hardware.

3) VGA is the only option really at a budget, i'd just get two hubs and switch the reciever between the two if your monitor supports it.

4) If you do want to try a KVM go get it from a brick and mortar store, talk to the shop assistant and tell them you're worried about it not working with your setup and get them to agree that if it doesn't work you can get a refund. Or borrow one from a mate and try it first.

(I have a microsoft wireless comfort keyboard and wireless lazer mouse combo too)
 
I'm not sure of what you mean by getting two hubs and switching the reciever, could you explain?

Do you mean just physically unplugging it from one computer and back into the other? I could do that easily as there is a physical connection on the monitor that goes into the PC and the Mac Mini would have easy access, but I would likely do this very often, and that would likely get old.
 
I've got two hubs, one for each computer placed next to each other on my desk, as such i unplug the keyboard from one machine and plug it into the other. I've got two monitors both with dual input so i mix and match depending on what i want to do. If you've got a port on the screen you could switch between the monitor hub and a seperate one for the mac mini.
 
True, I would rather not have to physically switch each time though. I am thinking of going with this item: Link.

It has pretty good reviews and is pretty cheap.
 
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