4-Port KVM Switches
LinkSys Compact ProConnect 4-Port KVM Switch Features Control up to four Computers from a Single…
Read MoreCollegeSexDates.com Founder Explains How He Uses KVM Switches
The owner of one of the world's largest adult dating sites has come clean about his secret love of KVM (keyboard video mouse) switches.
When he was first interviewed for our site, we asked him what kind of technology he used in the office. One thing he mentioned is how a KVM switch is so important to him. We didn't know much about them at the time, but after hearing that they're helping him stay productive, we wanted to learn more!
What is a KVM Switch?
KVM switches are devices that allow you to connect up to four computer monitors or keyboards using just one keyboard and mouse. This saves you from having to use several keyboards and monitors to control your computers all at once. Instead, you can easily switch between different desktops on any computer simply by pressing a button on your keyboard.
How CollegeSexDates.com Founder Uses KVM Switches
According to CollegeSexDates.com CEO James Hawkins, he's been using KVM switches since 1995. He says it allows him to be more efficient. College Sex Dates is a popular dating and hookup site, complete with a mobile app, cams, member uploaded videos and more.
"I spend most of my day switching back and forth between different computers," says Hawkins. "It lets me multitask like crazy without getting in each others' way. I have to do things on two separate machines sometimes. I have a Mac, and a Windows PC."
Hawkins loves the fact that his favorite keyboard works on both computers. He also likes being able to turn off his Mac when he's working on a Windows machine.
When he first started out, there were no KVM switches available. So, Hawkins had to manually plug-in his keyboard and mouse. It wasn't hard, but it did take some time. Now, all he has to do is press a button, and the whole process takes less than a second.
He admits that not everyone would find KVM switches useful, but he does.
"KVM switches aren't necessary for everybody. They're pretty expensive. But if you need to use two computers at the same time, then they're the best thing ever."
Since our original interview with Hawkins, KVM switches have become quite popular. In fact, many businesses use them as well. Companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Adobe, and Google all use them.
There are even special programs that are designed especially for KVM users.
Why use multiple computers?
In order to give you the most accurate answer possible, we talked to a variety of people who use multiple computers. Some of them are tech experts, while others simply rely on their computers every single day.
Here's what they said:
A few years ago, we interviewed a software engineer named Brian. He's worked on a lot of big projects, including the gaming app "Bomb Squad." We asked him why he uses multiple computers.
He explained how he needs to test his app on various platforms. That means he has to access a Windows machine, a Mac, and possibly a Linux machine. He doesn't want to waste time switching back and forth between his workstations. The only way to avoid this hassle is to set up a KVM switch.
Another tech expert we talked to is called Adam. He works for a company that makes hardware for electronic music. He also prefers to use multiple computers on a daily basis, and needs to test on some Mac specific software like Logic Pro.
"Sometimes, I'll sit down and write code for a couple hours. Then, I might need to research something else and look through reference materials. When I get bored, I'll switch over to my email client for a bit. All of these tasks require different tools, which I don't want to leave sitting on my desktop."
Adam says that he never runs into problems while using a KVM switch.
"I think they're great. If you're serious about your job, you need to use multiple computers. KVM switches make it easy to do that. You can switch between desktops without leaving your chair."
Many people use multiple computers because they're trying to finish a project that requires them to work across several platforms. For instance, a graphic designer might need to create designs for both a website and a tablet app. This type of work often involves using multiple operating systems.
Other people use multiple computers simply to keep their sanity. They hate having to spend so much time switching back and forth between desktops. By using a KVM switch, they can save themselves the trouble of going back and forth.
Some people also prefer using multiple computers because they enjoy experimenting with new technologies.
"I've always loved learning about new gadgets and testing them out. Whenever I see something cool, I want to give it a try. My favorite part is seeing if I can actually make something work. Sometimes, it's a real challenge."
In Conclusion...
KVM switches have helped many people accomplish their goals. They're perfect for anyone who wants to be more productive. There are plenty of reasons why you might want to use a KVM switch. Do you have any other questions about this device? Feel free to ask us anything in the comments section below.
4-Port KVM Switches
LinkSys Compact ProConnect 4-Port KVM Switch
Features
- Control up to four Computers from a Single Keyboard, Monitor, and Mouse
- Switch Instantly Between PCs
- Save Hundreds of Dollars in Equipment and Energy Costs
- Serves as a Quick Docking Station for Notebook Computers
- Supports an Incredible 1920 x 1440 Maximum Screen Resolution
- Full Plug & Play Monitor Support
- Caps Lock, Num. Lock, and Scroll Lock Settings Are Automatically Recalled by each PC
- Runs with Most PS/2 and Windows 95 Keyboards*
- Compatible with Virtually All Major PS/2 Mice*
- No Software Required
- Free Technical Support
- One Year Warranty
Specs
- Standards : PS/2
- Protocol : Microsoft PS/2 Protocol
- Model Number:
- 2-Port Switch: PS2KVM2
- 4-Port Switch : PS2KVM4
- Ports:
- Keyboard:
- 1 PS/2 female - Console
- 4 PS/2 female - CPU
- Mouse:
- 1 PS/2 female - Console
- 4 PS/2 female - CPU
- Video:
- 1 HDB-15 female - Console
- 4 HDB-15 male - CPU Ports
- Keyboard:
- LED Indicators:
- 4-Port Switch: PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4
- Resolution Max :1920 x 1440 at 85Hz, DDC2B
- Scan Interval : 3 seconds
Read More
Linksys ProConnect KVM Switches allow you to instantly toggle between four PS/2-equipped desktop or notebook PCs while using a single monitor, PS/2 keyboard, and PS/2 mouse. Switch between four PCs with the press of a button.
Plug your note-book PC into the KVM Switch and control it from your desktop PCs monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Built to last and ready to run directly out of the box, Linksys ProConnect Compact KVM Switches eliminate cable swapping while saving you desktop space and hundreds of dollars of hardware costs.
Because they don't use the software, the ProConnect Compact KVM Switches are compatible with all major desktop and notebook computers.
They are the perfect choice for the home, the office, or anywhere else you manage multiple PCs.
Belkin OmniView E Series 4-Port KVM Switch
Features:
Control up to 4 computers from one keyboard, mouse and monitor
Does not include cables, click here for a full list of compatible cables
Works only with PS/2 connections
High Resolution up to 2048 X 1536 (up to 85Hz)
No additional power supply required
10-second AutoScan function
Keyboard and PS/2 emulations for error-free boot-up
Features hot key switching and manual push-button port selection
PC99 color-coded connectors for matching cables to appropriate ports quickly and easily
LED indicators
Two years warranty
Free Technical SupportAlso available:
Bundled with four 6ft Cables
That include the switch and 4 sets of 6 foot cables
Bundled with four 10ft Cables
That include the switch and 4 sets of 10 foot cables.
Bundled with four 15ft Cables
That include the switch and 4 sets of 15 foot cables.Cables
There is no cables included with this switch. You have three choices of cables:-
Belkin OmniView Seperate Cables
Available in various lengths
Belkin OmniView 6ft Cables
Belkin OmniView 10ft Cables
Belkin OmniView 15ft Cables
Belkin OmniView 20ft Cables
Belkin OmniView 30ft Cables
Belkin OmniView Pro 3-in-1 Cables
Available in various lengths
Belkin OmniView Pro 6ft Cables
Belkin OmniView Pro 10ft Cables
Belkin OmniView Pro 15ft Cables
Belkin OmniView Pro 25ft Cables
Premium KVM Cables 3-in-1
Available in various lengths
Premium KVM 6ft Cables
Premium KVM 10ft Cables
Premium KVM 15ft Cables
Premium KVM 25ft CablesPower
This switch does not include a power supply. No power supply is required to run the switch unless the distance between any machine and the switch exceed 35 foot
Rack-Mounting
This switch is not rack-mountable
Extender
The console on this switch (keyboard, mouse and monitor) can be extended so you can use the switch
from up to 500 feet away. That can be done using a CAT5 KVM Extender, which uses a single CAT5 patch cable (or CAT5e) to extend the console.
We recommend either of the following models
Belkin OmniView CAT5 KVM Extender
Aten MasterView CAT5 KVM ExtenderOr check out our full selection of CAT5 KVM Extenders
Platform Support
Mac Support
This switch support MAC computers with ADB keyboard and mouse connection.
You would need Belkin OmniView MAC Adapter
SUN Support
This switch support SUN computers with Mini DIN8 keyboard and mouse connection and 13W3 Monitor connection.
You would need Belkin OmniView SUN AdapterOperating Systems Support
The Belkin OmniView E-Series KVM Switch support any operating system so long as the machine has standard
PS/2 keyboard and PS/2 mouse connection and SVGA monitor connection. Support include - but not limited to:-
Windows - Any Microsoft Windows Operating System like 2000, XP, NT, 95, 98
Linux - any Linux build (see condition above).
Unix - any Unix Build (see condition above).
Novell - any edition (see condition above).Switching Methods
You can switch between computers using either of the following methods:-
Cascading
The Belkin OmniView E-Series is not Cascadeable and not expandable. It cannot be cascaded with any other Belkin OmniView Model.
StarTech StarView 1 X 4 KVM Switch (PS/2 Only)
Features:
- PCs can be connected and removed without powering down.
- Can be put into scan mode that automatically switches between active PCs.
- 220 MHz VGA bandwidth allows resolutions up to 1920x1440 @ 60 Hz refresh.
- Can be switched by hot-key commands or by pressing front panel buttons.
- LEDs indicate port selection.
- Supports Logitech Mouseman, and MS Intellimouse (Ver 2.0 and earlier).
- Completely operating system independent. No software or drivers required
- Power-free.
- Emulates keyboard and mouse while booting so PCs can boot unattended.
- 1-year Warranty
Applications:
- Allows 1 console to control 4 computers
- Requires (8) 6 DIN Male to Male cables to connect PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports
- Requires (4) High Density DB15 Male to Female cables to connect VGA monitor ports
Read more
The StarTech.com Personal StarView SV401 is a 4 port KVM switch that allows 4 computers with PS/2 style keyboard and mouse connections to be controlled from 1 monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
This saves the user space by only needing one control console for both computers, and saves the time spent moving between the PCs.
Ports are switched by pressing a button on the unit, or by a simple keyboard hot-key sequence.
The StarView prevents bootup errors by providing keyboard and mouse emulation to the non-selected PC.
It's ultra low cost, super small size, and high 1920x1440 resolution display capability make this switch perfect for test tabs, server rooms, or power users who want fast, easy control of 4 PCs.
2-Port KVM Switches
Startech 2-Port Integrated USB KVM Switch with Audio
Features:
- Audio switching lets you share microphones and speakers to save even more!
- Compatible with all operating systems
- Easily switch between computers with keyboard hot-key commands
- High 1920x1440 resolution capability
- Hot plug and play lets you connect keyboard, mouse, monitor, microphone and speakers without rebooting
- Installs instantly – no software or drivers required, and no cables to purchase
- No external power required
- Supports MS Intellimouse (Pro Version), Explorer and Optical Mouse
- USB compatible for quick connections
- Zero footprint saves desktop space
USB console sharing, with audio switching, saves money and desk space! Control 2 USB computers from a single console with StarTech.com’s SV221MICUSBA KVM switch. Let’s you easily switch between two computers using keyboard hotkeys.
Built-on cables make this the smallest 2-port KVM switch in the world, with zero footprints!
Simply hang it up, out of your way!
Comes with everything you need to get connected, and supports a hot plug and play for instant USB connections.
Perfect audio and console sharing solution for home and SOHO users.
| Specifications | |
| Color | Gray |
| Connector Types | 2 - 6 DIN Female |
| 1 - High Density DB15 Female | |
| 2 - High Density DB15 Male | |
| 2 - Phono 35 mm Female | |
| 4 - Phono 35 mm Male | |
| Maximum Number of Computers | 2 |
| Maximum Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1440 |
| Maximum Number of Users | 1 |
| Safety Standards Europe | CE |
| Safety Standards North America | FCC |
| Estimated Shipping Weight | 1.4 lb [0.6 kg] |
| User Ports | 1 |
| Computer Ports | 2 |
| VGA Resolution | 1920 x 1440 |
| General Specifications | Computer Connectors |
| - 2 x HDB 15-pin (male) | |
| - 2 x 4-pin USB Type B | |
| - 2 x 3.5mm Mic in/out jack | |
| - 2 x 3.5mm Audio in/out jack | |
| Console Connectors | |
| - Monitor | HDB 15-pin (female) |
| - Keyboard | 1 x PS/2 Keyboard 6-pin Mini Din (female) |
| - Mouse | 1 x PS/2 Mouse 6-pin Mini Din (female) |
| - Speaker & Microphone | 2 x 3.5mm Stereo jack (female) |
| Cable Length | |
| - KVM Cables | 4 x 4.5 feet (1.37Meters) |
| Power | Power Free Operation |
| Operating System | Compatible with all operating systems |
| Weight | 1.1 Lbs (0.5 Kgs) |
| Safety Standards | FCC & CE |
Iogear MiniView Micro KVM Switch
Features:
- The smallest 2-port KVM switch available
- Use one keyboard, monitor and mouse to control two computers
- 6 foot long molded-in cables to simplify setup
- Microsoft Intellimouse, Logitech FirstMouse+, MouseMan+, and other special mice are supported
- Port selection through convenient Hot Keys
- PS/2 mouse emulation for error-free boot-up
- Save space and reduce desktop clutter
- Plug-n-Play monitor support
- Support video resolutions up to 1920 x 1440
- No software required
- Built in AutoScan mode
- LEDs allow for easy status monitoring
- 3 Year Limited Warranty
Package Content:
- 1 Miniview Micro 2-port KVM
- 1 User manual
- 1 Quick start guide
- 1 Warranty registration card
Startech 2-Port Integrated KVM Switch with Audio
Features:
- Control two computers from one keyboard, mouse and monitor
- Audio switching lets you share microphones and speakers to save even more!
- Compatible with all operating systems
- Easily switch between computers with keyboard hot-key commands
- High 1920x1440 resolution capability
- Hot plug and play lets you connect keyboard, mouse, monitor, microphone and speakers without rebooting
- Installs instantly – no software or drivers required, and no cables to purchase
- No external power required
- Supports MS Intellimouse (Pro Version), Explorer and Optical Mouse
- Zero footprint saves desktop space
Console sharing, with audio switching, saves money and desk space! Control multiple PS/2 computers from a single console with StarTech.com’s SV221MICRA KVM switch. Lets you easily switch between two PS/2 computers using keyboard hotkeys. Built-on cables make this the smallest 2-port KVM switch in the world, with zero footprint! Simply hang it up, out of your way! Comes with everything you need to get connected, and supports hot plug and play for instant installations. Perfect audio and console sharing solution for home and SOHO users.
| Specifications | |
| Color | Black |
| Connector Types | 2 - 6 DIN Female |
| 1 - High Density DB15 Female | |
| 2 - High Density DB15 Male | |
| 2 - Phono 35 mm Female | |
| 4 - Phono 35 mm Male | |
| Enclosure Type | Plastic |
| Product Height | 1.2 in [3 cm] |
| Product Length | 3.5 in [9 cm] |
| Maximum Cable Length | 1370 mm |
| Maximum Number of Computers | 2 |
| Maximum Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1440 |
| Maximum Number of Users | 1 |
| Safety Standards North America | FCC |
| Estimated Shipping Weight | 1.5 lb [0.7 kg] |
| Product Weight | 500 g |
| Product Width | 2.6 in [6.5 cm] |
| User Ports | 1 |
| Computer Ports | 2 |
| VGA Resolution | 1920 x 1440 |
| Computer Connectors | |
| General Specifications | - 2x HDB 15-pin (male) |
| - 2 x PS/2 Keyboard 6-pin Mini Din (male) | |
| - 2 x PS/2 Mouse 6-pin Mini Din (Male) | |
| - 2 x 3.5mm Mic in/out jack | |
| - 2 x 3.5mm Audio in/out jack | |
| Console Connectors | |
| - Monitor | HDB 15-pin (female) |
| - Keyboard | 1 x PS/2 Keyboard 6-pin Mini Din (female) |
| - Mouse | 1 x PS/2 Mouse 6-pin Mini Din (female) |
| - Speaker & Microphone | 2 x 3.5mm Stereo jack (female) |
| Cable Length | |
| - KVM Cables | 4 x 4.5 feet (1.37 Meters) |
| Power | Power Free Operation |
| Operating System | Compatible with all operating systems |
| Weight | 1.1 Lbs (0.5 Kgs) |
| Safety Standards | FCC & CE |
CAT5 KVM Switch
CAT5 KVM Switches or KVM over CAT 5 are KVM Switches that use CAT 5 cables (CAT5e/CAT6 Cables) to connect between computers and KVM Switch replacing analog KVM Cables.
The way they is work is simple: they require a KVM Dongle that will connect to the back of your computer keyboard, mouse and monitor and then connect the other end of the CAT5 cable to the KVM Switch.
Select the number of servers you would like to control:- 4 Port CAT5 KVM - 8 Port CAT5 KVM - 16 Port CAT5 KVM - 24 Port CAT5 KVM - 32 Port CAT5 KVM - 42 Port CAT5 KVM - 48 Port CAT5 KVM - 64 Port CAT5 KVM.
HDMI KVM Switches
HDMI KVM Switches enable you to control multiple computers equipped with HDMI monitor connectors from one keyboard, mouse and monitor(s).
These HDMI Switches come in a variety of options. Just select the number of computers you would like to control:- 2 Port - 4 Port - 8 Port - 2 Port DisplayPort KVM - 4 Port DisplayPort KVM
Rack LCD KVM
Rackmount LCD Drawers are a perfect solution to placing a keyboard, mouse, and monitor in the rack without taking a lot of precious rack space.
They usually fit in a 1U Rack Unit (1.75") or 2U Rack Unit (3.5"). Of course, that Rack LCD will be able to connect to a single computer but add a KVM switch to the mix and you have a rack drawer that can control every server in the rack from that one keyboard, mouse and monitor drawer.
Shop for KVM Drawers by selecting the size of the LCD along with the number of servers you wish to control:- 17" Rack LCD with 8 Port KVM - 19" Rack LCD with 8 Port KVM - 17" Rack LCD with 16 Port KVM - 19" Rack LCD with 16 Port KVM - 17" Rack LCD with 32 Port KVM - 19" Rack LCD with 32 Port KVM
Mac KVM Switches
Switching between Apple Mac Computers, Airbooks, iMac or X Servers? we have the right KVM for you from dual monitor to DVI, DisplayPort and HDMI KVM Switches and more.
Just select the number of computers and servers you would like to control:- 2 Port Mac KVM - 4 Port Mac KVM - 8 Port Mac KVM - 16 Port Mac KVM - 24 Port Mac KVM - 32 Port Mac KVM
Matrix KVM
KVM Matrix Switches are standard KVM Switches with the added benefits of multi user control which means many administrators can control different computers and servers on the same switch, we have many options in matrix kvm switching, just select the number of users or administrator that fit your application:- 2 User Matrix KVM - 4 User Matrix KVM - 8 User Matrix KVM - 16 User Matrix KVM
KVM Switches
We have a huge selection of KVM Switchboxes, just select the number of computers or servers you would like to control from the list so you may get the perfect KVM Switcher for your application:- 2 Port - 4 Port - 8 Port - 16 Port - 24 Port - 32 Port - 42 Port - 48 Port - 64 Port
Console Extenders
KVM Console Extenders aka KVM Extenders give you the ability to extend the keyboard, mouse, and monitor hundreds or thousands of feet using either CAT5 or fiber optic cables. We have a variety of options to choose from: CAT5 KVM Console Extender - Fiber KVM Extender - USB KVM Console Extender - DVI KVM Console Extender - HDMI KVM Console Extender - DisplayPort Console Extender - KVM Extender over IP - Dual Monitor KVM Extender - Dual DVI KVM Extender - Quad Monitor KVM Extender.
Dual Monitor KVM
Control Multiple computers equipped with dual monitors from one keyboard, mouse, and two monitors with our large selection of dual screen KVM Switches:- 2 Port - 4 Port - 8 Port - Dual DVI KVM. You can also get KVM Switches with quad monitors (yes that's 4 monitors per computer):- 2 Port - 4 Port - Quad Screen Splitter KVM.
KVM Switches over IP
IP KVM or KVM over IP Switches give you the same control as a local KVM Switch but with the added ability to manage servers and computers remotely over an Ethernet IP Network (LAN or WAN).
These KVM IP Switches will give you the same capability as standard KVM Switch as if you were setting at the local console all using a web browser or a VNC client. Choose the number of computers or servers you would like to control:- Single Port - 4 Port - 8 Port - 16 Port - 24 Port - 32 Port - 42 Port - 64 Port.
DVI KVM Switches
DVI KVM Switches and DVI USB KVM allow you to control multiple computers equipped with DVI monitor connectors from one keyboard, mouse and monitor(s).
These DVI Switchboxes come in a variety of options including dual monitor, dual-link, with audio, and much more.
Just select the number of computers you would like to control:- 2 Port - 4 Port - 8 Port - 16 Port.