Ask Engadget: Best DVI KVM switch?
By Darren Murph 
posted March 19th 2009 11:06PM
posted March 19th 2009 11:06PM
Look out -- it's that time of the week again. What time, you ask? The time when brilliant readers like yourself get a moment to shine as their inquiries are posted up here at Engadget. Feel free to send yours in to ask at engadget dawt com, but first, have a glance at John's dilemma below:"I've been searching for a good DVI KVM switch for a long time. Most of the ones I've read about are either too expensive or have gotten horrible reviews. I was hoping you guys could shed some light on what the best DVI KVM switch you've come across is. My only requirements are high resolution (1,680 x 1,050 or higher), USB for keyboard and mouse and (preferable, although not required) and dual monitor support."
We'd say the challenge is pretty clearly laid out. Now it's on you to think up a good reply and comment below.
I'm using the Linkskey Dual Monitor KVM. Yes its like $189 but it does work at the high resolutions and DUal monitors. Also will switch the USB and 7.1 audio.
Pretty much the perfect solution if you are willing to spend the bucks.
Can even allow the audio from one to play while you use another (such as listening to rhapsody for example)
www.clientsfirst-us.com
mas90, mas200, mas 90, mas 200 sales and implementation
Price: $269.95
Max resolution: 1920 x 1200
K/M ports: USB
Dual monitor extended desktop support
http://sewelldirect.com/Linkskey-Dual-Monitor-KVM-Switch-DVI-VGA-with-7-1-Surround-Sound.asp
Belkin Flip-DVI FTW
I have an Add Logix PowerReach DVI 2G, Firewire Edition. Works fine, even switches firewire. Not sure about the max res. It will be hitting ebay soon however since I no longer need it.
I would suggest Adder KVM switchboxes. They have models capable up to four DVI monitors. They also have USB ports if you want.
Adders are bulletproof.
I've got one that switches four screens with four computers.
Absolutely no trouble in *years*
The other problem with many of the DVI KVMs being advertised here is that they don't support HDCP passthrough, which is required if you want Blu-Ray support.
I ended up piecing my KVM together with separate parts:
-HDMI switch + DVI-HDMI cables from MonoPrice
-Belkin USB device switch. It shares a small, unpowered hub which connects a keyboard and mouse.
-Old RCA audio/video switch (designed for video game systems) to switch audio
Sure, it takes up to 3 button presses to switch, but it cost me way less than $100, and actually lets me have more fine-grained control over what's connected to what. I also don't switch often - perhaps 2-3 times per night. I connect a MacBook, Vista PC, and PS3.
Blackbox by far.
http://www.blackbox.com/Store/Results.aspx/KVM/Desktop/n-4294957929/p-0
I've been through at least 5 different model/brand of DVI+USB KVM including many of the ones mentioned here...
My requirements are:
1920x1200 DVI + USB (audio nice but optional)
4 computers
hotkeys to switch as well as buttons on the KVM
Works with Windows and Linux
Can handle any key combinations/keycodes
Some of my most recent experiences are shown below:
Avocent Switchview DVI - 4.9/5 - What I'm currently using, about once every 6 months or so I might need to power it down completely as it can very occasionally get confused but it's the best by a long way.
Belkin DVI - 2/5 - Rubbish. Doesn't pass certain key combinations, not enough space for the cables to be nicely routed, unrelliable and generally awful. Hit and miss if it would be recognised. Required regular complete disconnection to re-set it.
Dr Bott Moniswitch DVI Pro - Supposed to be one of the best, but I found its overall performance to be quite poor. Good in that it is provided with a full set of usb+dvi cables, but real problems with some motherboards and setups, so overall a failure, returned to vendor for full refund.
I also tried a no-name 2 port, that was about the same standard as the Belkin DVI... not good.
SmartVM offers the best quality of KVM switches including usb kvm switch, dvi kvm switch, ip kvm switch, ps2 kvm switch etc.
Get the Latest KVM Switches by visiting http://smartvm.com/KVM-Switches-C1295.htm
KVM Switch also referred to as Keyboard Video Mouse switch is a device used to connect a keyboard, mouse and monitor to two or more computers. KVM switches save you money, time, space, equipment and power.
Know more about USB KVM Switch http://www.smartvm.com/KVM-Switches-C1295.htm
Here's a tough one.....I run 3 monitors on my main system. a Samsung 22" widescreen in the center, and two 17" 4:3 on each side
I have one system running W7 & Ubuntu and another OSX. I'd like to do the full 3 monitor switch...Any Ideas?
I can't go multi boot or virtual on the OSX, as it is a server, but I do do work on it that I could use the 3 screens..
I will try the software suggestions mentioned in this thread, but I'm concerned about stability and speed...
I've been using an Inland 2-port dvi kvm switch - but it acts squirrelly sometimes and that can be fixed by using a 9V .5A adapter. I got it for < $80 from Fry's and you can find it online for about that price. It's been pretty solid with XP and Vista and Vista and Vista.
Looks like Starview is the latest iteration - these companies change names frequently