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StarTech 4-Port Black PS/2 KVM Switch Kit with Cables (SV411K) by STARTECH.COM
Digital Photo Product DetailsManufacturer: STARTECH.COM Audio: English (Original Language) Format: CD Platform: Windows Model: SV411K Color: Auto scan interval: 3, 8, 15, 30 seconds Product features: - All in one KVM kit includes four 3-in-1 cables for a complete out-of-the-box solution
- Compact, space efficient form factor makes this product perfect for desktop applications where space is limited
- The KVM draws power from attached computers so no external power supply/outlet is required
- Unique 3-in-1 cables included prevent keyboard and mouse connectors from becoming loose
- Supports PS/2 keyboard and mouse emulation for error-free PC boot
- All cables are connected to the rear for a more secure and neat connection
- Keyboard and mouse allow for hot plugging without having to turn either the KVM or the PC off
- Supports M/S IntelliMouse(Pro), Explorer, Optical mice
Accessories:
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of StarTech 4-Port Black PS/2 KVM Switch Kit with Cables (SV411K)Customer Review: Cheap, yet very effective Summary: 5 Stars
When I worked at my university's computer repair center, we used this KVM exclusively. I don't know how that came about, but I do know that when the time came that I needed a KVM of my own, this was first on my mind.
I think I paid 60-something for it, including shipping. It's the second KVM I've ever bought - the first being a TrendWare TK-400 series, purchased from Newegg. This serves as the primary basis for comparison.
Pros (for the StarTech, not the TrendWare):
* Doesn't beep when you change ports - thank you!
* Included cables are less stiff, and a bit more compact, so they're easier to manage when running them through a tight space (say, behind a desk), or packing/unpacking them (if you move the KVM around a lot).
* These cables plug in all on one side, with one more side being used only for the two "terminal" PS/2 ports. VERY nice not to have the cables veer off in all four directions like they do with the TrendWare. Even though the TrendWare is the same physical size as this StarTech device, the latter takes up much less room on my desk with the cables all going in the same direction.
* Control the selected port with your keyboard - ctrl-ctrl-<X>, to go to the Xth port. My TrendWare used a Scroll Lock double-tap instead, which really is more of a philosophical problem than a practical one. Scroll Lock is a toggle key - it shouldn't be used as a command key, in my opinion. Like I said - philosophical.
* Like the TrendWare, there is a button on the unit itself to switch ports, though I never feel the need to use it.
Cons:
I can't really think of any. My fairly simple needs are more than met by this device. It'd certainly be cool if it had ports for dual, simultaneous, independent terminals, but if you search for KVMs with that feature, you will notice that they're all high-end and quite expensive.
Resolution note: I've never used this KVM higher than 1280x1024 @ 60Hz, so I can't attest to its performance at higher resolutions or refresh rates.
Conclusion:
The StarTech SV411K is a simple 4-port VGA-and-PS/2 KVM that gets the job done reliably. If you want to control four machines from one monitor, keyboard, and mouse, this little guy ought to do the trick.
There are a lot of crappy consumer-end KVMs that are in the same price range or above (check out Belkin's cheaper offerings). This particular KVM seems to... just do the job right.
Description of StarTech 4-Port Black PS/2 KVM Switch Kit with Cables (SV411K)The SV411K 4 Port Black PS/2 KVM Switch Kit with cables lets you control four computers using a single keyboard, mouse and VGA monitor and offers both hotkey and top panel push-button operation for simple switching between connected computers. Designed to integrate seamlessly into any environment, the KVM switch offers a small footprint design (roughly the size of a deck of playing cards) and draws power from the connected computers, so it doesn't require an external power supply. Delivering dependable and convenient control of multiple computers from a single peripheral station, the KVM switch supports video resolutions of up to 2048 x 1536 and includes 3-in-1 (PS/2 and Video) cables to provide a complete, out-of-the-box KVM solution. Backed by a StarTech.com 1-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.
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