KVM suggestions

[AMDPwred]

I have a Logitech MX 5500 keyboard and mouse and an Apple Cinema (DVI) that I'd like to be able to share between my Windows 7 desktop and an older Linux server that I run from time to time. About 10 years ago I had a KVM switch that worked OK but couldn't handle USB (the dongle for the MX 5500 connection is USB) or DVI.

I'm wondering how current KVM switches work compared to what I've used in the past. Back then, getting the keyboard/mouse and monitor wasn't always a sure thing if you happened to have booted one of the machines when the switch wasn't active on it.

Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[rudder]

I use a KVM by Linkskey. I uses the analog version here at work, but they have a DVI version. USB/audio etc. I am running win7 64 bit. Although you do not need to load drivers... if you want to switch with a hot key you have to load the software.

This is what I use:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817402017

The dvi version is more $$$ and not as well reviewed... so ymmv.

 

[pcgeek11]

I use the IOGear Manual 4 port kvm. Never any problems.

http://www.iogear.com/product/GCS1734/

 

[joecool]

i think it's a lot better these days. i've never had a problem w/my iogear and i just bought a rosewill 2 port for $20 from newegg that is working fine. only complaint w/the rosewill is the cables are kinda short.

 

[mfenn]

Yeah, DVI KVMs are great but they are $$$.

 

[joecool]

i tried my new 24" viewsonic w/dvi and analog and really couldn't see a difference. i'd stick with the analog kvm if $ is a consideration. i have and i don't think i'm missing anything.

 

[WT]

I use the IOGear Manual 4 port kvm. Never any problems.

http://www.iogear.com/product/GCS1734/

+1 IOGear Extreme - USB/PS2 and audio. I use this at work and wish I could afford one for at home too.