2 computers - 1 monitor - Help

[TheJackal]

I have two computers, but only 1 monitor, 1 keyboard, and 1 mouse, and I am getting really tired of crawling behind the desk everytime that I want to use a different computer. So what I want to know is, is there an adapter, or switch out there that will allow me to use 1 monitor, keyboard & mouse with 2 computers?

[andyms18a]

we have swich boxes in the uk to do this at pc world but i dont know if available in canada if you have a local computer shop thay will be abble to help you

[Iman74]

Be careful though; I have used those 30 dollar switch boxes, and they are more trouble than they are worth. I had one that I finally lost my temper on and put a huge dent in it (I was boxing during that period of my life so you can just imagine how bad that dent was). Well I found a switchbox that works all the time. It's a little pricy but it pays itself everytime it works (which is everytime I press the button). Actually I'm using it now. Without further ado <a href="http://www.emscomputing.com/ProductInfo.asp?v=F8&idproduct=12632027">Cybex</a>
Now keep in mind, if UR a USB M&K user then I am sure you can find a USB Cybex switchbox. You are better off doing price comparisons on www.pricewatch.com to find exactly what you need. Good luck. Oh just for comparison, I paid 200bucks for mine.

[Fastfly]

Supports 100lbs Moniters.



Thats going to take a hefty punch :)

[Force Flow]

Those switch boxes are quite convienient sometimes. I don't think you'll need to shell out $200 for one of them, though. I used a 4-way switch box (cost about $100) with just one problem. It wouldn't take the mouse in the NT workstation. So, I had two mice hanging around.

Anyway, I don't think you should have too much trouble with one...just as long it is fairly decent.

[TheJackal]

Thanks for your help guys.

[glc]

You need a "KVM" switch - Startech.com has some reasonably priced ones.

[DrZaius]

I'm using an IOGear electronic KVM right now and I like it a lot. It's has the cables built in and cost $50US.

[redbaron_snoopy]

I'm using KVM. Works very well.
Avoid those cheapo boxes. I tried it once and shadows appear on the monitor - too much noise.

[cobra]

I use a linksys 2 way kvm
I got it about 2 1/2 years ago for about $79.
Make sure you get one that comes with cables!

[TheJackal]

Thanks for all of your input... I think that I am going to go with one of the switches from StarTech.

[Floppyman]

What does everyone here think of Belkin KVM switches? Are they of good quality? Thanks.

[Tuf]

I've seen a lot of the Belkins around and the people that use them seem to be happy with them. You want to make sure it will support the resolutions you run. You also want to find out how much it will degrade your video signal. I've seen some KVM switches that are really good and some that aren't so hot.

I have yet to see one that handles USB well but I have only been around but a few that had that capability.

[glc]

Belkin KVM's are good - Startech's are cheaper.

[Floppyman]

I see a lot of Belkin KVM switches used in the classrooms here. From what I've seen they tend to work out pretty well. How much should I expect to pay for one nowadays? Thanks again.

[HAL9000]

I use a Startech unit. With cables, it ran me about $120CDN. I find it extremely convenient and have been running it for two years without incident.

[Tuf]

I don't look over there very often but I saw some on eBay a while back that were selling very reasonable. It wasn't just one seller either there appeared to be several resellers that had them.