Re: OT: KVM switch with Debian Lenny
Mark wrote:
> Would love to hear other's input as well.
I went through two (?) mail order KVM's and then a half dozen more from
Fry's Electronics before coming upon an IOGear MiniView 8 Port PS/2 KVM
Switch (model GCS78):
http://www.iogear.com/product/GCS78KIT/
IOGear also makes a PS/2 mouse and PS/2 keyboard to USB adapter (useful
for laptops and computers lacking PS/2 connectors) (model GUC100KM):
http://www.iogear.com/product/GUC100KM/
It's my understanding/ belief that the underlying problem with KVM
switches, etc., is 10+ years of non-standard/ evolving/ proprietary
hardware signaling/ software communications protocols by the various
keyboard, monitor, mouse, motherboard/ chipset, and/or operating system
vendors. Solving this nightmare is a non-trivial feat of engineering.
So, my Keytronic PS/2 keyboard, Microsoft Optical Wheel Mouse (USB with
USB-PS/2 adapter), and Nokia 445XiPlus monitor may be part of my good
luck. I've plugged in many makes and models of computers and/or
motherboards, with many versions of Windows, Linux, and BSD, over
several years without any trouble. My monitor maxes out at 1600x1200 @
85 Hz; the GCS78 causes no visible degradation.
I purchased and installed an IOGear 2-port KVM switch for a client and
it worked flawlessly.
Unfortunately, technology marches on -- PS/2 mice and keyboards are
being replaced by USB, and VGA video is being replaced by DVI/HDMI.
Given the GUC100KM, I might be able to throw DVI/ HDMI/ VGA adapters at
the problem. Another option is to limit my hardware choices. At some
point, I'll need to upgrade the KVM.
Audio in/ out (microphone/ speakers) is something that I haven't solved
adequately. Ideally, I'd like a 8x8 mixer patched so that the line out
of each computer is summed at the line in of all other computers (e.g.
no feedback loops). I presume KVM switches with audio patch the
selected computer to one microphone and one set of speakers, and the
other computers are muted.
Given my good experiences with IOGear, I'd suggest that you try their
products.
HTH,
David
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