Wanting to enhance my 4-port Belkin DVI-D KVM to achieve a minimum resolution of 2560x1440 at 60Hz.
Wanting to enhance my 4-port Belkin DVI-D KVM to achieve a minimum resolution of 2560x1440 at 60Hz.
I continued working with an older Belkin 4-port KVM featuring DV-D. I think the model I’m using is:
https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/f1dd104l.html
My constraints are a maximum of 2560x1440 at 30 Hz. Ideally, I’d like to upgrade my setup for a 4K display at 120Hz. But this seems to restrict my choices even more.
I currently rely on using DP ports and converting the KVM output to DVI. I’m also switching from analog audio out to digital. Moving toward a USB-based audio solution would be ideal.
So far, I’ve found options from TESmart (4K 60Hz or the more costly 4K 120Hz models). It might be that the 120Hz version is unnecessary since I don’t play games much.
I also discovered Monoprice, TrippLite, AV Access, and Starlink—though I suspect they’re limited to 4K 60Hz.
It seems KVM units can quickly become expensive. What are the best brands for a home office setup?
The unit includes DVI, audio, and USB ports. It’s performed surprisingly well with various new PCs and laptops.
My current devices:
- Laptop: HP EliteBook 8 G1i 16 (with HP dock)
- PC: XPS 8040
- Server: older Lenovo Thinkserver.
Display:
Eizo 2750: 2560x1440 at 60Hz
Connections:
- I have a displayport to DVI cables (on the KVM side)
- USB-A to USB-B for keyboard, mouse, etc.
- Audio speakers: analog output from devices directly into the KVM. Speaker cable goes into the KVM (speaker: Edifier e25 – I don’t think it supports USB digital). I really appreciate the option to switch quickly without relying on Bluetooth.
My main motivation for upgrading is simply to use 60Hz on my display.
Currently, I’m limited to 29Hz, but everything else functions fine. Also, I value the capability to switch audio sources with the keyboard.
I would appreciate some guidance on an upgrade path that reduces the number of add-on devices and cables. I realize many newer KVM models no longer support audio switching.
The issue is that the DVI-D dual link was dropped. You might need to switch to HDMI or DP to achieve your goal.
Absolutely, I'm fine with using DP or even an HDMI adapter. In fact, I switch from DP to DVI adapters just for my older KVM setup. My laptops and computers all support DP.
The dual-link DVI adapter is uncommon and costly. The issue begins with DVI dual-link...
I don't want to rely on DVI anymore. I only used it since my previous KVM model included DVI.
You should identify the output types your PC and laptop can handle... It essentially requires HDMI or DP connections. Next, locate a KVM that matches your needs. Monoprice offers a broad range. For instance --
https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=42643
In addition to its functionality, I’m also seeking opinions on the "quality" of different brands. Feedback usually leans negative for all KVMs. However, some have issues like slow switches or missing EDID, which can cause icons to rearrange on screens.
Also, is the Monoprice model the same as the Tripp Lite /Eaton model?
https://tripplite.eaton.com/4-port-hdmi-...r~B005HUA4
at least a single-money option wouldn't represent a significant investment...