Advantages: Advantages: Cheap, all in one solution Disadvantages: No manual overide or audio support
has USB connections for the keyboard and mouse although Belkin do a range of KVM's so you can probably find a PS/2 equivelent if you have that sort of mouse/keyboard. The PS/2 models also include PS/2->USB adaptors so you'll also need those if you have a USB mouse and PS/2 keyboard. This particular model has no support for audio so if you need to also have your microphone and speakers switch from PC to PC, look elsewhere.
The monitor, keyboard and mouse are then connected to the KVM to complete the set up. One bugbear is that like the vast majority of KVMs, this Belkin unit has cables going in one end and out the other making it difficult to place on a desktop without having cables hanging out everywhere. However, there is no reason why you can't just tuck it out the way out of sight as it has no parts you'd normally need to access ...
Advantages: Cheap, all in one solution, audio support Disadvantages: No manual overide
of leads in to each PC. The F1DL102P has PS/2 leads for the keyboard and mouse but a USB version is also available. The audio support is limited to a single stereo jack and microphone input but given the market this is aimed at, I can't really see the lack of multi-channel audio support to be a problem.
The monitor, keyboard and mouse are then connected to the KVM to complete the set up. One bugbear is that like the vast majority of KVMs, this Belkin unit has cables going in one end and out the other making it difficult to place on a desktop without having cables hanging out everywhere. However, there is no reason why you can't just tuck it out the way out of sight as it has no parts you'd normally need to access. The leads were of a generous length allowing some room to manoeuvre on PC placement.
Features
As noted, the Belkin supports ...
Advantages: price, simplicity Disadvantages: no USB keyboard/mouse connector
This product does exxactly what it says on the tin.
It lets you view and control two computers from one monitor, keyboard and mouse.
It is PS2 only though and not USB - so if you have a very new PC without PS2ports then this one is not for you - look on this site for one with USB connectors.
Switching between machines is simple, just one key press to switch.
One word of warning, if you plan to use this to just connect up the monitor cable and not use the keyboard and mouse connections (as I tried) it will not work as the device needs to collect power from all 4 connectors. With just 2connected it suffers from lock ups. Tech Support soon helped me sort this out though ;)
When connected as specified however it works perfectly! ...
Product Information for "Linksys ProConnect Integrated KVM 2-Port Switch KVM2KIT - KVM switch - 2 ports" »
Kvm
Keyboard / Mouse Interface
PS/2
KVM Local Users Qty
1 local user
Max Resolution
1920 x 1440
Manufacturer's product description
The Linksys ProConnect Integrated KVM 2-Port Switch lets you take instant command over two PCs - all from a single keyboard, mouse, and monitor! For your convenience, it even comes with built-in cables to meet all your connection needs. Switch between PCs with a quick, two-key action, or use the automatic scan feature to easily monitor both computers. The KVM Switch eliminates those pesky, cable-swapping duties while saving you desktop space and hardware costs. Because it doesn't use software, the KVM Switch is compatible with all major desktop and notebook computers. It's the perfect choice for the home, office, or anywhere else you work with two PCs at the same time.
Related tags for Linksys ProConnect Integrated KVM 2-Port Switch KVM2KIT - KVM switch - 2 ports »
