What are the options for connecting a PC's display, keyboard, or audio over several dozen feet using wires?
What are the options for connecting a PC's display, keyboard, or audio over several dozen feet using wires?
Think about employing a KVM switch – you don’t have to connect two or more computers directly to it.
A PC in one room can be linked via a distance of 35 feet to the Keyboard, Video, and Mouse in another room.
Reminder: Search for "KVM switches for distance" and adjust your search as you gather more details.
There are many options to explore.
It would be useful to outline the needed connections (ports, types, etc.) beforehand.
For reference, here’s what has been working for me so far:
Ethernet Cable (used for about a week now):
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B3UR496
HDMI Cable:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FP2CBBKD
Specifically the 50-foot optical version. Both copper and optical options are available, but the optical one is only offered in sizes up to 45 feet.
3.5mm Audio Cable:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGRW3R3J
USB Cable:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KY9M6P4
USB Hub:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L32B9C2
Currently, I only have a keyboard, mouse, and controller connected via USB. I haven’t tried anything that would handle large or fast data transfers like a flash drive, webcam, or similar. I haven’t experimented with high-power USB devices either, so I’m uncertain about their performance in these scenarios. I’m not sure which AC-powered hub would be best, though I might consider alternatives if needed.
Hope this information helps clarify things. I didn’t explore DisplayPort, and it seems the HDMI cable can also function as Ethernet, though I haven’t tested equipment that uses it for that purpose. The main issue with the optical cable is its fragility around corners compared to copper, and my PC interprets it as a generic monitor connection. It also behaves differently from standard HDMI—optical cables are unidirectional, so you must connect the right end to the correct device. It won’t work backward, and it can’t exceed 60Hz even though my monitor supports up to 144Hz. The description claims 4K at 60Hz, but I’m not sure if that’s the limit or just a marketing claim.
I’m confused about whether a KVM would still need physical connections. The idea is to switch between two computers using the same inputs and monitor, right?
Additionally, I was considering adding a KVM to switch between a second smaller system in the room. I couldn’t find anything suitable that would work with just USB and 3.5mm inputs. I needed a way to switch keyboard, mouse, controller, and audio, but nothing with just USB and three 3.5mm ports worked. Some devices had a single 3.5mm port, which made sense since I’d need two inputs and one output. I also thought about using a hub to combine ports, but it would be complicated—especially with USB outputs. Many of the options I saw had USB-A ports, which would be tricky to connect to a desktop.
Overall, I’m still figuring out the best setup for my needs.
There are numerous possibilities to consider.
Begin by creating a diagram that outlines the connections and functions you need.
Next, search online for "KVM USB switch images diagrams" using your preferred criteria.
Filtering results to images can be beneficial.
It might be simpler to start by searching and then adapt the diagrams you find as a reference for your needs.
You might end up with a KVM switch that leaves some ports unused; just select the ones relevant to your requirements.
You may also need cables, adapters, or gender changers to link everything together.
This is why drawing a diagram is important—helping you visualize the overall picture.
If you locate a KVM switch that seems fitting, check its specifications and operation on the manufacturer’s website.
Follow the User/Guide Manual carefully, noting every detail and fine print.
I already mentioned what I require, just so I can change the USB and 3.5mm audio settings. I also searched for similar products but didn’t find any that match.