Re: Video / Windows XP

[Matt Ion <soundy@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bob La Londe wrote:
> OK.  I ordered in a couple KVM switches to try.  They are a bit more
> expensive than other switches aren't they?  Well, if it works.  I told the
> customer yesterday what he was upto so far for costs on having me setup his
> systems, and he didn't baulk too much.

A proper active KVM switch IS more expensive than a simple switchbox,
because it contains electronics that generate mouse and keyboard
"presence" signals to the computers that aren't in use.  This also
allows you to start or restart those computers without being switched to
them.

One thing to consider is that the KVM should also be able to handle your
monitor bandidth, especially if you're running any of the systems at
higher resolutions or refresh rates; remember, it's not just a set of
physical contacts anymore, but a set of signal buffers that the video
has to pass through.  Also be sure to use quality shielded VGA cables
(if your KVM doesn't have them built-in); the cheap ones will cause
ghosting.

I got a killer deal on a 4-port "EUSSO" KVM for CDN$100 a couple years
ago, because it was a disconinued unit, but anything over a basic 2-port
WILL tend to be fairly expensive.


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