Author Topic: KVM Switch - Backwards? (Read 543 times)

Midnight · « **on:** October 28, 2004, 01:42:26 PM »

Is it possible to use a KVM switch backwards?

I am going to put a new PC in my simpit, but also want to use it at the desk. If I get a KVM switch, is it possible to have the one computer connected and then switch between which monitor, keyboard and mouse I am using?

Also, do KVM switches cause any problems with frame rates or video quality in 3D games like AH?

Skuzzy · « **Reply #1 on:** October 28, 2004, 02:25:32 PM »

That is a good question Midnight. I have no idea, but it might actually work.

And yes, they all introduce some noise into the video display. Good KVM's will not be that noticeable. Some KVM's limit the monitor refresh (hardwired) to 60Hz. Avoid those at all costs.

Midnight · « **Reply #2 on:** October 28, 2004, 02:38:25 PM »

Hmm.. ok I've looked at a bunch of KVMs, but nothing mentions using them backwards.

I've now thought I have a second option that might actually be better (maybe). My simpit is designed with a keyboard drawer and the mouse just sits on the right console, so I can easily use a wireless keyboard/mouse combo if I put the reciever somewhere between the desk and simpit. Then I can just take the keyboard/mouse to the desk or the simpit, depending on what I'm doing.

I also found a PC video splitter on COMPUSA that is supposed to be very high bandwith (200Hz) and up to about 1900x1700x32 video resolution and able to run 2 analog monitors at the same time. With that, I should be able to run a monitor in the simpit and another on the desk. Might even be cool for people watching, as they can look at the desk monitor rather than over my shoulder.

Providing I can find all the extension cables I need for the audio, USB and video, I can keep the CPU on the desk, rather than in the simpit.

DAVENRINO · « **Reply #3 on:** October 28, 2004, 04:49:51 PM »

I use a 15' VGA cable from my tower in my desk to my 50" monitor. Also, a 15' audio extension for my mike and 15' usb extension to a 4 port powered hub for my controllers/TrakIR. I like my Logitech cordless keyboard/trackball.

http://pacificcable.com/

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/index.htm?source=overture

CptA · « **Reply #4 on:** October 29, 2004, 08:41:24 AM »

Try the Y-Mouse line of splitters by PI Engineering.

A simple net search via Google gave lots of links to on-line merchants who carry these items, but they are also available on the manufacturers website.

Good Luck.

CptA

llama · « **Reply #5 on:** October 30, 2004, 04:30:25 AM »

I have something similar. One computer, but a keyboard and mouse in the cockpit AND a keyboard and mouse on the desk.

The secret is USB devices. You can have as many USB keyboard and mice hooked up at the same time as you wish, and they all work at once. You can also have a PS/2 keyboard and mouse as well as a USB keyboard and mouse and everything works at the same time there too.

Then all you need is a video splitter to allow display on two monitors, OR, get a video card with two display ports, and set them to mirror each other. Then you can have everything hooked up all the time at the same time.

That's what I've been doing for years now, and it even worked in Win98.

-Llama