Need suggestions for improving your KVM switch.
Need suggestions for improving your KVM switch.
I will be working from home for the first time (the dream).
I have a company docking station that will connect to my laptop. It has multiple inputs and can work with my current peripherals.
I don’t want to move the cord from the end of the day from laptop to (c to usb adapter to) PC and was checking some online options.
Most of the suggestions were unclear about the types of inputs and outputs they offered.
The picture below displays my setup with the red boxes representing various peripherals (screen, headset, mouse, etc.).
I think I just need a switch that accepts a USB-C input with two USB female ports so I can use any cords I prefer for the outputs.
Is there anything missing?
Are there any affordable recommendations for a switch like this?
In fact, because the docking station handles most of the installation tasks for my video components and other accessories, I mainly require a USB-C female port with two outputs that can be switched. I’m not sure if any dependable hardware offers this feature.
Ordered a switch and cables.
Checking if it functions properly.
Will share a thorough explanation if successful. Parts arrive on Saturday.
In fact, you should broaden your diagram to encompass every port, plug, cable, adapter, and similar elements. This should clearly indicate the type and orientation of each plug or port. Include the KVM switch ports as well. KVM units come in various setups; if your desired setup isn’t immediately available, a tailored (and costly) KVM might be necessary. You’ll also need to buy connecting cables that match the plug and port specifications. Since you’ve already ordered the switch and cables, you might have a preliminary sketch. If not, create one before unpacking everything. This can help save time and effort if any component needs to be returned or replaced.
I'm not certain about that arrangement...
I anticipate the laptop being positioned in the dock, specifically the "orange" model on the "brown" station.
Connections would then focus on the KVM switch, which should have at least one HDMI/DP input for video from the desktop. The laptop's HDMI/DP output would link through the dock without any cables.
Inputs for keyboard and mouse would flow via the KVM switch to either the desktop dock or the laptop dock, depending on selection.
A single HDMI port and one DP port, together with an audio output, would handle monitors 1 and 2 plus the headset or speakers.
The setup seems similar to the example provided—feel free to adjust your diagram using it as a reference.
Make sure to mark all ports, cable connections (both ends), and the type of each port clearly.
Uncertain about the necessity of the USB-C female adapter; it might not be required if the laptop is docked.
It could be an oversight or a detail I missed, but it's better to verify and confirm the configuration.
Thanks for the feedback. I mentioned a docking station but it functions more like a USB hub. Dell labels it as a dock, though its only outputs are a USB-C and display cable. It seems quite similar to other models. I likely wouldn’t have purchased it, but since I already own one, I might try using it. The "Admittedly cheap" switch I tested also includes a USB-C/display cable for input. It appears the concept was to connect the monitor directly into the switch and switch accordingly. If it doesn’t work, I can return it and risk losing about 30 dollars from my Amazon credits.
It appears both devices emphasize USB applications rather than functioning as genuine KVM switches. Many aspects of connectivity and usage seem lacking in detail. Additional documentation and diagrams through User Guides or manuals would be helpful. Please review the reviews and questions provided: https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-doc...gs_section. Consider checking the link shared in Post #6 for more similar examples and diagrams. Update your diagram to include all ports, cable types, connections, and other relevant details. You might be able to create a functional setup that suits your needs, but be cautious about potential loops in electrical, network, video, or audio paths.
Update the information accordingly. The switch functions with all USB devices linked to the HUB, including the female-female USB-C setup. Display port devices operate correctly when connected to the laptop port. However, they fail on the PC, which was a prior problem before the switch was implemented. I plan to investigate the dock's drivers and other settings, but it seems the issue likely lies in the software configuration.