KVM switches are useful for controlling multiple computers with a single set of input and output devices.
The letters stand for Keyboard, Video and Mouse and the KVM switch will connect these devices to your chosen computers.
There are different types of KVM switch available and so it helps to know what you are looking for.
Price will be a factor when deciding which switch to buy, but features should be a higher priority.
You will need to bear in mind the number of computers that you want the switch to control and the type of ports that they use.
The most common (and cheapest) KVM switch allows connection to two computers but there are more expensive switches available that can handle as many computers as you need.
You will also need to know what operating system your computer uses as the switch will need to be compatible with it.
It is a good idea to purchase a KVM switch that supports all standard screen resolutions so that it can be used with all computers in your network.
Make sure that it comes with security features too as you may want to set permissions and access levels.
Cable length can also be a factor when choosing a switch, so make sure that you get something long enough to suit.
Extra features that you may want to have are a facility to automatically disconnect from the computer when inactivity is detected, an LED to tell you which computer the switch is using and the ability to manually select a port.
The KVM switch may have a dial or button on the device itself or the switching can be done using a keyboard hot key in more expensive devices.
Some KVM switches may also have a speaker output, allowing you to share speakers on your network.
KVM switches are really useful devices but to find the one to suit you requires a bit of research.
When you find the right KVM switch, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
The letters stand for Keyboard, Video and Mouse and the KVM switch will connect these devices to your chosen computers.
There are different types of KVM switch available and so it helps to know what you are looking for.
Price will be a factor when deciding which switch to buy, but features should be a higher priority.
You will need to bear in mind the number of computers that you want the switch to control and the type of ports that they use.
The most common (and cheapest) KVM switch allows connection to two computers but there are more expensive switches available that can handle as many computers as you need.
You will also need to know what operating system your computer uses as the switch will need to be compatible with it.
It is a good idea to purchase a KVM switch that supports all standard screen resolutions so that it can be used with all computers in your network.
Make sure that it comes with security features too as you may want to set permissions and access levels.
Cable length can also be a factor when choosing a switch, so make sure that you get something long enough to suit.
Extra features that you may want to have are a facility to automatically disconnect from the computer when inactivity is detected, an LED to tell you which computer the switch is using and the ability to manually select a port.
The KVM switch may have a dial or button on the device itself or the switching can be done using a keyboard hot key in more expensive devices.
Some KVM switches may also have a speaker output, allowing you to share speakers on your network.
KVM switches are really useful devices but to find the one to suit you requires a bit of research.
When you find the right KVM switch, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.