KVM
KVM (Keyboard, Video and Mouse) is a method of sharing a single keyboard, monitor and mouse over multiple computers, mainly only controlling one computer at any given time, but some KVM switches do support 4 users. To accomplish this task a KVM switch is required as well as KVM cables, although some smaller switches come equipped with cables attached. The KVM switch works by making each computer think that it is actively connected to a separate keyboard, mouse, and monitor. There is always some function on a KVM switch to decide which computer accepts the input of the keyboard and mouse and displays output to the monitor. When you move the mouse connected to the switch your mouse movement is only echoed to the active computer. The keyboard, mouse and monitor to be used are connected to the switch using their own connections while each computer is connected using a KVM cable.
KVM cables are a split cable with one connector at one end, the end that connects to the switch, which then splits into 3 or more wires and connectors at the other to connect to the relevant device inputs on the computer. The amount of cables required depends on the number of computers used, with switches supporting between 2 and 16 computers, and either 1 to 4 users. These cables come in a variety of lengths from 1 metre up to 25 metres.
Some KVM switches also accept audio input so that more then one computer can use the same set of speakers, although not simultaneously. Most KVM switches use PS/2 ports for keyboard and mouse operations, but more and more are coming with USB support. The major benefit of these devices is that they save users from purchasing a large amount of devices for each computer therefore saving cash and space.
Some of the different KVM cables include:
KVM Cable for KVM Switches with Male VGA & Female PS/2 Connectors - A KVM cable (Keyboard, Video and Mouse) used for connecting a keyboard, video monitor and mouse to specific KVM switches such as the LINDY KVM Switch Classic 8.
KVM Cables for USB & VGA - A KVM cable (Keyboard, Video and Mouse) used for connecting devices via the USB and VGA ports on the computer.
KVM + Audio Combo Cables - A KVM cable (Keyboard, Video and Mouse) with the addition of audio leads allowing the connection of speakers to a KVM switch which supports the sharing of audio devices.
Your
UK
DE
IT
FR
CH
AT
IE
AU
USA
other
