StarTech 4 Port Black USB KVM Switch Kit with Cables and Audio

2015-09-09T20:00:00

I still own an old StarTech KVM switch (with PS/2 ports) which did not needed any software to be installed on the computers. To switch from one computer to another, all I had to do was press ctrl twice and the number of the port (ctrl, ctrl, ). All the keys were intercepted by the switch. With that new version, I have to install the software and the combination of keys still goes to the computer, generating unwanted key strokes. To prevent the software installation and the unwanted key strokes, I can use 'scroll lock' twice', but if I want to go from computer 1 to computer 4, I have to go through computers 2 and 3. I know that I can use the buttons, but I installed the switch out of sight under the desk. Other than that, the switch is doing what it is suppose to do.

KissNation

Originally posted at

2014-04-07T20:00:00

Has worked flawlessly with Windows XP. A few gliches with Windows 8.1, though; occasionaly the shared monitor displays an incompatible resolution and refresh rate; the only solution is to reboot the Win 8.1 computer.

Peter

Originally posted at

2014-03-17T20:00:00

I spent quite a time trying to find the 'perfect' solution to my needs!!! I have a desktop PC running windows 8 64bit. I have a laptop running windows 7 32bit. I use a Microsoft Sidewinder X6 wired keyboard and a wireless Logitech M570 trackball - I'm sure you can work out what I want to do!! However, I could not find any similar answers on the wonderful web anywhere, so I bit the bullet and bought this item........ Well it worked, and works flawlessly. There are buttons on the KVM for switching, or a small software program (included) for soft switching which also works well. The leads included are quite long, but not long enough for my purposes, so a simple VGA extension cable does the job as my laptop is a about 3 metres away. It is a non powered KVM and all required leads are included. Personally, I KVM with a 40" HDTV (yes, through VGA not HDMI) sometimes I disconnect the VGA lead from my laptop and leave the USB cable connected so that I can still use the keyboard and mouse whilst viewing the laptop screen. If I had a slight grumble - it is that I often put my desktop in sleep mode and with the KVM connected it takes a few extra seconds for the signal to get to the TV ( about 7 seconds more ) If you do put a computer to sleep or power down, the KVM does not auto switch to another device, you have to press the buttons on the unit itself. Finally, as all of my devices are connected to the HDTV by optical audio cable, I have not used the included audio cables, however, I have no doubt that they will work! UPDATE: Now I found this incredible............. The supplied leads, have a VGA one end (plugs into KVM switch) and VGA and USB at the other end. Obviously the VGA does the visual and the USB does the mouse and keyboard........... so I tried something I plugged another spare KVM lead (4 included in box) into my 3rd spare port on the KVM and at the other end - the USB only (not VGA plug) into my Playstation 3. IT WORKS!! I now use my PS3 using the Sidewinder and Logitech wireless mouse - Ideal when writing messages. As you do not have the ability to install the software, you have to use the manual KVM switch to swap over, but hey - big deal. Now, I was not expecting that from the KVM - It's the Dog's Bo**ox, If I could give it 10 stars I would!!!! Hope this helps someone :)

Tazzy

Originally posted at

2014-03-04T19:00:00

Bought this recently and had a small technical problem which turned out to be with my machine. The Tech guys were great, patient and methodical in sorting the issue. Very professional outfit.

Humbug

Originally posted at