F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop Is there a KVM switch suitable for connecting two computers and two displays?

Is there a KVM switch suitable for connecting two computers and two displays?

Is there a KVM switch suitable for connecting two computers and two displays?

C
chapi89
Member
193
10-30-2021, 03:36 AM
#1
I have a Lenovo Windows 7 Pro desktop connected to two monitors that duplicate the display. I plan to upgrade to a Lenovo Windows 11 Pro system soon and want to easily switch the display input between the two computers with a single button press.

The current setup allows me to duplicate the screen from one computer to the other, but both displays are over 12 years old and still function well. It seems unnecessary for me to include a keyboard and mouse on the switch, as I can connect separate peripherals to each machine. My main goal is simply to change monitor inputs quickly between the two systems.

Have you used a KVM switch for this purpose? If yes, which model do you use and would you recommend it? How stable and reliable is it? How quickly does switching between inputs take? Or are there alternative hardware solutions I could consider?
C
chapi89
10-30-2021, 03:36 AM #1

I have a Lenovo Windows 7 Pro desktop connected to two monitors that duplicate the display. I plan to upgrade to a Lenovo Windows 11 Pro system soon and want to easily switch the display input between the two computers with a single button press.

The current setup allows me to duplicate the screen from one computer to the other, but both displays are over 12 years old and still function well. It seems unnecessary for me to include a keyboard and mouse on the switch, as I can connect separate peripherals to each machine. My main goal is simply to change monitor inputs quickly between the two systems.

Have you used a KVM switch for this purpose? If yes, which model do you use and would you recommend it? How stable and reliable is it? How quickly does switching between inputs take? Or are there alternative hardware solutions I could consider?

X
xSavageAlly
Junior Member
10
10-30-2021, 12:30 PM
#2
The initial step is to clearly define the required connections.
Based on the assumption that there are two of each component, it is essential to illustrate the computers (two), keyboards (two), mice (two) and monitors (two).
The diagram must be accurate but what truly matters is that it contains all necessary cables and links.
It should also display cable types, the gender of the connectors and ports, as well as device port specifications (type and gender).
You will likely need to buy extra connection cables to link the switch with devices, and possibly some adapters too.
For instance, an example configuration "sketch" (not an endorsement or recommendation):
https://superuser.com/questions/179...m-...but-not-dp
https://www.amazon.com/CKL-Monitor-Exten...B07KVJ54X2
(The second link is for two 2-in-1 in the Amazon reference)
You can search online using phrases like "kvm switch connection diagram multiple computers" to find similar diagrams and images.
It’s also wise to opt for a single keyboard and mouse even if you have the choice, as this simplifies setup and may reduce costs and complexity of the KVM switch.
Pay attention to details and use the sketch or checklist to monitor progress: what you already have, what needs buying, and how everything will be linked.
Organize your plan, adjust if needed, and order items as required.
Also keep in mind that those 12 old monitors might be approaching or reaching their end of life, so they could become unavailable at any time.
X
xSavageAlly
10-30-2021, 12:30 PM #2

The initial step is to clearly define the required connections.
Based on the assumption that there are two of each component, it is essential to illustrate the computers (two), keyboards (two), mice (two) and monitors (two).
The diagram must be accurate but what truly matters is that it contains all necessary cables and links.
It should also display cable types, the gender of the connectors and ports, as well as device port specifications (type and gender).
You will likely need to buy extra connection cables to link the switch with devices, and possibly some adapters too.
For instance, an example configuration "sketch" (not an endorsement or recommendation):
https://superuser.com/questions/179...m-...but-not-dp
https://www.amazon.com/CKL-Monitor-Exten...B07KVJ54X2
(The second link is for two 2-in-1 in the Amazon reference)
You can search online using phrases like "kvm switch connection diagram multiple computers" to find similar diagrams and images.
It’s also wise to opt for a single keyboard and mouse even if you have the choice, as this simplifies setup and may reduce costs and complexity of the KVM switch.
Pay attention to details and use the sketch or checklist to monitor progress: what you already have, what needs buying, and how everything will be linked.
Organize your plan, adjust if needed, and order items as required.
Also keep in mind that those 12 old monitors might be approaching or reaching their end of life, so they could become unavailable at any time.