KVM Switch

[Condor]

Now that I will soon have a dedicated gaming computer for the first time I need to consider how much floor space I want to dedicate to computer stations.  My preference is to continue with one station with a single monitor, mouse, and keyboard shared by the general use computer and the gaming computer.  There are KVM switches available from $20 to $200.  Has anyone had experience with using a KVM switch?  The greatest concern, of course, is how it will affect video quality.  I’m currently using a Trinitron 21” CRT monitor.

Sure hope my build goes well or this question will only be academic.

[soda72]

I use a KVM switch,  miniview III, for the last 6 years.  It let's me use the same monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer on 4 PC's.  However I have had to replace my monitor twice now since I've used it.   I think's it's related to using the KVM switch....

[wabbit]

I've been using the Startech SV411 for almost a year now with four systems and it works great. Have a client that's using a 2-port startech and it's working great for him too.

Here's the link for Newegg:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817183303


Wabbit

[Balsy]

Now that I will soon have a dedicated gaming computer for the first time I need to consider how much floor space I want to dedicate to computer stations.  My preference is to continue with one station with a single monitor, mouse, and keyboard shared by the general use computer and the gaming computer.  There are KVM switches available from $20 to $200.  Has anyone had experience with using a KVM switch?  The greatest concern, of course, is how it will affect video quality.  I’m currently using a Trinitron 21” CRT monitor.

Sure hope my build goes well or this question will only be academic.

I have a 21inch trinitron and KVM switch.. video is fine.

[Krusty]

Make sure you get one that is WELL SHEILDED!

I read up on this a while ago, tried to set something up for my mother (work and personal computers near each other, only wanted to use 1 KVM set), but I read a lot of bad reviews about some kits/sets that would ghost the monitor or have shadows or just static, because of the weak sheilding on the wires. The signals were crossing.

[Getback]

I've been using IOGear miniview for about 6 years as well. Seems to work quite well. It's a 4 port hub. Most computers I have attached are 3.

I often websearch or do my personal finances while flying.

[Condor]

Souds like there have been some good and bad experiences.  I'll definitely try a make and model that has worked well for others.


Balsy,

what make and model are you using?  It sounds like the Startech and IOGear models may be good choices but I'm ibnterseted in the one that works well with the 21" Trintron.

Thanks

[Condor]

Getback,

I checked NewEgg and there are several models of the IOGear Miniview ranging in price from $0 to $165.  Which are you using.  I suspect they don't all perform equally.

[Balsy]

Souds like there have been some good and bad experiences.  I'll definitely try a make and model that has worked well for others.


Balsy,

what make and model are you using?  It sounds like the Startech and IOGear models may be good choices but I'm ibnterseted in the one that works well with the 21" Trintron.

Thanks

Dynex