Reverse KVM Switch?

[AB8SG]

What I want to do is switch my keyboard, video and mouse from my desk tower to my operating position. Fifteen feet or so would be all the wire I need. My problem: KVM switches, at least those I've found so far, are designed for controlling multiple computers from one keyboard, monitor, etc. My current solution is using my laptop at the shack table, but I'm crowded for desk space, and the laptop is awkward to use.

[WA7KKP]

Most switches of this order, are simply passive contacts, and should work either way with no problem. if it is an active electronic switch then you're out of luck.

With 15 feet of cable, you may discover that your monitor won't look too spiffy -- SVGA signals are NOT tolerant of long cables; I wouldn't go over 10 feet in any circumstance.

Gary WA7KKP

[KL1ZB]

Quote[/b] (AB8SG @ Dec. 18 2007,05:02)]What I want to do is switch my keyboard, video and mouse from my desk tower to my operating position. Fifteen feet or so would be all the wire I need. My problem: KVM switches, at least those I've found so far, are designed for controlling multiple computers from one keyboard, monitor, etc. My current solution is using my laptop at the shack table, but I'm crowded for desk space, and the laptop is awkward to use.
Unfortunately the low end KVM's don't do this, none that I have seen anyways. The high end do but cost a lot more and usually made to handle 15+ systems.


You need to google for multiuser KVM switch. Here is a link to a single cpu switch that I have used in the past.


http://www.kvmswitchesonline.com/vopex-4kvim-a.html


Edit, here is a link to the newer usb version.


http://www.kvmswitchesonline.com/vopex-usbv-2.html

[WA9SVD]

Cable length can, indeed be a performance/operational problem. But if you use a MECHANICAL KVM switch, there should be no reason you can't connect the switch box as you propose. An electronic or self-sensing switch won't work, however.

[KL1ZB]

Quote[/b] (wa9svd @ Dec. 30 2007,20:52)]Cable length can, indeed be a performance/operational problem. #But if you use a MECHANICAL KVM switch, there should be no reason you can't connect the switch box as you propose. #An electronic or self-sensing switch won't work, however.
Only problem with the mechanical switch box is if you have 2 or 3 displays/keyboards on different floors you need to walk to the switch to make the change. Its nice to be able to make the switch at any of the three keyboards.

[KL1ZB]

Quote[/b] (WA7KKP @ Dec. 18 2007,06:13)]Most switches of this order, are simply passive contacts, and should work either way with no problem. #if it is an active electronic switch then you're out of luck.

With 15 feet of cable, you may discover that your monitor won't look too spiffy -- SVGA signals are NOT tolerant of long cables; I wouldn't go over #10 feet in any circumstance.

Gary WA7KKP
With good SVGA cables you can easily get 20 feet at 1024x768 at 60Hz and it will still look very good.

Edit: If you are trying to run 2560x1600+ at 120+Hz then yes you will run into a length problem quickly.