Product Description
A faster way to connect! Once again, IOGEAR raised the bar on quality KVMs. These desktop PS/2 KVMs feature the latest in micro-design and technology. Setup is fast and easy; simply plug cables into their appropriate ports. The 2 PS/2 console ports are on the front of the unit for easy and convenient access. IOGEAR's MiniView SE GCS84B provides two convenient methods to access the connected computers: use push-button selection switches, located on the unit's front panel; or type Hot Key combinations from the keyboard. There is no better way to save time and money than with IOGEAR's MiniView SE GCS84B.
Customer Reviews:
Obtrusive Keyboard Shortcuts.......2007-12-13
Functionality is marred by a bad choice of keyboard shortcuts.
I bought this after being pleased with a two-port model by the same manufacturer.
However, the keyboard shortcut was well selected for the two-port model (Print screen, I think). But, this one uses the control keys, and that's a big problem. Accidentally bounce the control keys a couple of times and you'll end up connected to the wrong computer. For games that use the control key to fire or such, the situation is hopeless. Imagine having the KVM switch to another computer in the midst of a heated battle on that game level that you worked so hard to get to. Oh, the agony of defeat. But you won't have to watch; the monitor has been switch away.
Unfortunately, the computer industry has developed a fear of dip switches. But, if ever there was a place to have dip switches, it would be on KVM's to disable really stupid keyboard shortcut assignments.
Yes, we want freedom of choice. Give us our options; give us our dip-switches!
It's a pity that such fine quality electronics is marred by stupid design choices and a lack of options. And, while the box is both pretty and rugged, rectangular boxes are stackable and more easily mounted to other things.
Minus 2 stars for bad keyboard shortcuts.
Minus 1.5 stars for lack of choices.
Minus .5 stars for frilly case.
I now have a couple of SVIEW04 units, which I'm quite happy with, and I'm ordering a third. But, the memory of this foolish thing fades slowly.
Very good PS2/VGA KVM.......2007-11-25
It's only DB-15 for video and PS-2 for mouse and keyboard. If that's not what you need then move along.
But if you need a PS-2 KVM, this is the one you want.
I've used various KVM solutions over the years (Raritan, Belkin, Black box, etc.) and this one is very good. Quite frankly, for the money you're not going to get anything better.
Switching from computer to computer with CTRL-CTRL (left or right, depending on whether you want to switch down or up in number) works great.
Like any product, there are some gotchas:
- It seems to have killed macro ability on my Gateway2000 AnyKey keyboard
- The cables that came with it are OK, but they are cheap. If you have issues with your display being a bit fuzzy or unstable, try swapping out the VGA cabling. On my setup it helped a great deal.
P.S.
If you have a laptop, or any other PC that doesn't have the PS2 mouse/keyboard hookups, get the IOGear GUC100KM unit, it works flawlessly.
Also if you are looking for a wireless mouse that supports PS2 connectivity, the Logitech LX7 is also a great product that works with this KVM.
Good but not Perfect.......2007-02-06
Everyone's raving about this KVM, and compared to a lot of the cheap, home-use KVMs out there, the IOGear BCS84B is definitely very nice. It's a solid piece of equipment, switching from one machine to another is very fast and simple, and the 4 cables are nice indeed.
However, I do have a few issues with this device. First of all, placing the keyboard and mouse inputs on the front of the device was an idiosyncratic decision to say the least. Computer users long ago learned to route all cables under and around things. For me, this front mounting of keyboard and mouse connections means I've got cables coming out from behind my desk and hanging along the side in an ugly and annoying way.
The larger issue I'm having, however, is getting the KVM to work with the new Dell Desktop I bought. The new desktop does not have PS/2 connections, but this is no problem because I've got some adapters that work just fine, so long as I plug the keyboard and mouse directly into the desktop. However, if I do run the keyboard and mouse into the KVM and then run the KVM cable through the adapters and then into the Dell, Windows doesn't recognize the devices!
This is a major limitation as many new desktop computers no longer have PS/2 connections.
A very good KVM switch.......2007-01-04
This is the first KVM that I have used and it has performed flawlessly.
* BUY IT.......2006-11-05
Tired of being lied to about operating systems that can "multitask"? Get this and get some serious work done. Put up to four computer boxes next to your current KeyVidMouse setup. Put this 4-port KVM switch + a 4-port router and a hi-speed Internet connection and you are cookin'! It's so simple and effective it almost brings tears to my eyes.
You could take a few of these babies and a load of computers and make a nice server farm, all before breakfast!
Seriously, I love this thing, it only costs $100, and it doesn't need it's own power, it looks good, blah blah blah.
Product Description
The D-Link DKVM-4K is a 4-port PS/2 based KVM switch for controlling up to 4 computers using a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The DKVM-4K minimizes clutter on your desktop with its sleek, compact design. Ready to work right out of the box, the DKVM-4K requires no drivers, extra power supplies, or accessories and is compatible with all Windows Operating Systems.The DKVM-4K is convenient and simple to use with features such as: at a glance LED indicators for computer status, hot keys and push buttons for switching between computers, included 6' standard cables, and an autoscan mode for automatically detecting computers connected to the switch. You get added flexibility with the DKVM-4K's hot plug capability - add or disconnect computers simply by unplugging the cables without having to power down your computers! Versatile, portable, and convenient, the D-Link DKVM-4K can be easily integrated into your existing desktop environment at home or in the office.
Customer Reviews:
Blurry Image.......2007-04-07
I'm using an Eizo S2100 lcd monitor and an ATI FireGL V3100 adapter. At 1600x1200, the image is noticeably blurry compared to connecting the monitor directly. Using the phase adjustment on the monitor, I could clean up the image enough to be usable, but it is still not as sharp as before. If image quality is important to you, you will probably want to choose another KVM.
Average KVM switch.......2007-02-19
This KVM switch connects up to four computers as expected. Two cables are provided, the other two you have to buy yourself, and be sure to get Male-to-Male KVM cables (not all KVM cables are the same).
Biggest limitation of this KVM: The video quality is not good enough to support a 1600x1200 resolution on my normally-crisp 19" Insignia CRT screen. I had to drop my resolution down to 1280x1024, and now it is good enough to get by.
The beeping problem is well documented here. I don't mind it, but it could annoy some. Basically, there are two beeps when you switch computers. By pressing "Scroll-Lock", "Scroll-Lock", "B" you can reduce it to only one beep, but you can't completely silence it as hoped.
I am keeping the product because it is priced well for what it can do. But if you are a stickler for a sharp picture at higher resolutions, you may need to look elsewhere.
Use the D-Link DVKM-4K 4-Port KVM at work - Excellent.......2007-01-19
Just bought and received (within 2 days of purchase) the D-Link DVKM-4K 4-Port KVM switch.(I have an additional third cable that does not come with the switch). I'm using it at home with two desktops and a laptop with a port replicator. Been using the switch at work in a small server room. We never had a problem with it. Actually got used to hearing the beep so we never disabled it. Tried to disable the beep at home, but toggle in the instructions doesn't work. No big deal. Monitor is a Dell 17" flat screen LCD. There is no image degradation. Mouse (PS2)and keyboard (PS2) are responsive. I recommend this product.
Great Expectations.......2006-11-15
I expected a high quality product from D-Link. This products exceeded my expectations.
It did good.
Annoying beep.......2006-11-13
There is an annoying beep emitted from the box when switching between computers. What is even more annoying is that the manual says the beep s/b turned of when entering SL SL + B but the toggling does not work. What is most annoying is that I found another reviewer (not on Amazon) with the same problem....so it appears to be a design defect.
I called their help line and got a moron and it took me over 20 minutes to explain the situation to him (after waiting almost an hour in the queue). His only advice was to return it and get a new one....but as stated above, I think this is a design defect.
Still in all it is better the IOGear KVM and the Belkin KVM both of which I returned for defects in the major functionalities.
"When mediocrity is the best you can get, do we need to redefine mediocrity?"
Product Description
SwitchMan is a unique KVM switch that combines advanced, professional-grade technology with an easy-to-use design that fits naturally on your desk. Color-coded connectors and premium, ultra-thin coax cables make installation easy. The SwitchMan KVM allows control of up to four computers from a single keyboard, video and mouse.SwitchMan's COMBO models have a built-in USB 2.0 Hub, which allows the sharing of multiple USB-supported devices, including scanners, digital cameras and printers to be shared among multiple computers. Plus, the SwitchMan COMBO models offer audio switching functionality that lets you share a single microphone and stereo speakers among multiple computers.SwitchMan includes the same bulletproof reliability as all Raritan enterprise class products used in over 50,000 data centers worldwide. Raritan's KVM switches are designed with "keep-alive" circuitry that eliminates annoying mouse and keyboard lock-ups when switching between computers. No matter how you use SwitchMan, you'll enjoy smooth, flawless start-ups, switching and operation.
Customer Reviews:
This just does NOT work........2007-10-11
Support agrees that it doesn't work with Dell computers and keyboards and yet won't replace it. There is no way to upgrade the firmware.
Safe bet is NOT to buy it...
NEVER UPDATED, BARELY SUPPORTED.......2007-07-25
This product was released in January of 2005 with support for a very small number of keyboards and mice. In the 2-1/2 years since, it has never been updated for any new input devices!
Amazon would not allow me to publish a link in my review for the pdf doc that lists the supported devices, so I have loaded a screen shot above.
It especially will not support USB keyboards/mice that have expanded SW-based capabilities.
Product Description
The Altusen 16-port high density KVM switch offers a highly efficient network management solution. Specially designed high density console connectors allow a 16 port KVM switch to use only a 1U high rack space, and control up to 512 computers through daisy chaining. This switch offers many advanced features such as an intuitive OSD (On Screen Display), Hot Keys, excellent video resolutions, 2 level password security for users with different security clearance, flash ROM for firmware upgrade, remote console and more.
Product Description
Introducing the Master View ACS-1216A that allows you to access and control up to 512 computers from a single keyboard-monitor-mouse console. PRODUCT FEATURES: A single console controls up to 16 computers; Daisy chain up to 31 additional units to control up to 512 computers from a single console; Autosensing of station position on daisy chained installations - no need for manual dip switch setting - front panel LED indicates station position; Port names automatically reconfigured when station sequence is changed; No software required; Convenient computer selection via intuitive on screen display (OSD) menus; Autoscan feature for monitoring user-selected computers; Hot pluggable - add or remove computers without having to power down the switch; Two level password security: only authorized users view and control the computers; allows up to four users plus an administrator with separate profiles for each; Two level logout - manual and timed; Firmware upgrade through flash ROM; PS/2 keyboard and mouse emulation - computers boot even when the console focus is elsewhere; Supports PS/2 compatible mice, Microsoft Intellimouse Explorer, Logitech Firstmouse+; Superior video quality - supports resolutions of up to 1920 x 1440; Rack mountable in 19" system rack (1U).
Product Description
Introducing the Master View ACS-1208A that allows you to access and control up to 256 computers from a single keyboard-monitor-mouse console. PRODUCT FEATURES: A single console controls up to 8 computers; Daisy chain up to 31 additional units to control up to 256 computers from a single console; Autosensing of station position on daisy chained installations - no need for manual dip switch setting - front panel LED indicates station position; Port names automatically reconfigured when station sequence is changed; No software required; Convenient computer selection via intuitive on screen display (OSD) menus; Autoscan feature for monitoring user-selected computers; Hot pluggable - add or remove computers without having to power down the switch; Two level password security: only authorized users view and control the computers; allows up to four users plus an administrator with separate profiles for each; Two level logout - manual and timed; Firmware upgrade through flash ROM; PS/2 keyboard and mouse emulation - computers boot even when the console focus is elsewhere; Supports PS/2 compatible mice, Microsoft Intellimouse Explorer, Logitech Firstmouse+; Superior video quality - supports resolutions of up to 1920 x 1440; Rack mountable in 19" system rack (1U).
Product Description
Tripp Lite's 4-port KVM Switch Kit is the optimal solution for controlling 4 computers from one keyboard, mouse and monitor. Switch between computers simply by entering an easy hot key combination on the keyboard or by pushing the selector switch on the unit itself. The compact desktop design allows you to put the switch within easy view so that you can see the status LEDs. Installation is a snap - just connect the PCs to the switch using the cables provided. No software or complicated set-up procedures are required. This PS/2 switch can be used to control a USB, Sun or Mac computer when adding the appropriate adapter. Rugged metal design.
Customer Reviews:
Plenty to like.......2007-05-08
There is plenty to like. First off it works well, and isn't that the main thing. One of the things I like the best is that it is able to power itself from the cables connected to the PCs and KVM so there is one less 'wall wart' to try and find a place to plug in. The 'combined cables' are a mixed blessing. From a neatness and reliability standpoint they are great. But that makes them proprietary, so you need to buy all new cables for this ... even if you have some sitting around. I also dislike the fact that they do not include any of the PC side cables. While I understand that including 4 cables would be a waste for many, the fact that I am buying the unit means that I have at least two PCs that I want to connect. So I would think that it would make sense to include 2 PC cables in the package. But that is just a minor rant since, in reality, the cost of the cables would be paid in any event.
Bottom line, it is my favorite of all the KVMs that I have used over the years.
BEWARE! Non-standard cables!.......2005-11-13
It turns out that this doesn't work like normal KVM switches: it uses special non-standard adapter cables, which apparently aren't necessarily available on amazon.com, or if they are cost a lot. So you can't replace your existing 2-port KVM with this one, for example, and reuse the existing cables. And you may not even be able to use THIS KVM because you may not be able to find the cables you need. This KVM switch only comes with ONE cable to attach to your mouse, keyboard, and video; you have to buy at least two additional cables to make this KVM switch functional.
So once you factor in the cost of the extra special-built cables you have to buy (assuming you can even find them), this KVM is VERY expensive. I'm returning mine. It would be nice if the item description bothered to mention the special cable type requirement.
Product Description
Tripp Lite's 2-port KVM Switch Kit is the optimal solution for controlling 2 computers from one keyboard, mouse and monitor. Switch between computers simply by entering an easy hot key combination on the keyboard or by pushing the selector switch on the unit itself. The compact desktop design allows you to put the switch within easy view so that you can see the status LEDs. Installation is a snap - just connect the PCs to the switch using the cables provided. No software or complicated set-up procedures are required. This PS/2 switch can be used to control a USB, Sun or Mac computer when adding the appropriate adapter. Rugged metal design.
Product Description
CompuSwitch KVM Switch is the affordable choice and the perfect KVM switch for desktop or rack mount installations where a single user can access and control up to eight PCs from one keyboard, monitor and mouse.With CompuSwitch, you can eliminate the cost and clutter of unnecessary equipment, reclaim space and improve your operational productivity. CompuSwitch runs on multiple platforms and operating systems and it is ideal for corporate server rooms and computer test labs.
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