How to Choose a Good KVM Switch
A KVM switch (Keyboard, Video and Mouse) is a hardware device used for sharing a keyboard, monitor or mouse on multiple computers. There are several factors to consider while choosing a compatible KVM switch for your computers.
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Instructions
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Choose a KVM Switch
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When choosing a KVM switch, keep in mind the number of computers you want to connect. For example, you can connect two, four, eight, ten or twelve computers to a KVM switch with all of them sharing a single device.
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Choose the hardware devices you will connect using the KVM switch, such as a mouse, keyboard or monitor. Know the types of ports (USB and/or PS/2) your computer uses to interface with these devices.
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Choose a KVM switch that is compatible with your computer's operating system.
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If you plan on creating shared access to a monitor, choose a KVM switch that supports that monitor's video resolution. It's always advisable to choose a KVM switch that supports all standard resolutions.
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Choose a KVM switch that supports auto scan interval. The auto scan feature allows you to monitor and scan the activity on all attached computers for a short time period ranging from 5 to 99 seconds.
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Look for extra features, such as an LED display, that shows which computer the KVM switch is monitoring and offers front-panel push buttons corresponding to each computer for manual port selection by the user. Other additional features include a flash upgrade, which allows you to update drivers and firmware using a flash drive; a built-in microphone/audio support; and hot keys, which act as short cut keys for selecting ports. Beware that the price of the KVM switch increases with additional features.
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Look for advanced features such as a "Time Out" that automatically disconnects inactive users from the KVM switch.
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Ensure that the KVM switch has security features such as setting permission levels and establishing access rights to ports. These are useful in managing users who access their computers through the KVM switch.
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Decide which features you'd like to have in your KVM switch and compare prices based on selected features.
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Tips & Warnings
Browse through online buyers' guides to learn more about KVM switches' features, types, brands and pricing. Some of the well-known buyers' guides include MySimon, NexTag and WindowsMarketplace (see links below).
