f13.net forums - KVM switch...or why can't I find...

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July 22, 2025, 06:21:32 AM

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Hi, I'll give you the set up I have and what I need, hopefully someone has an idea on what to use.

Both computers are upstairs, downstairs (approximately 30 feet) is the HDTV LCD, I want to just hook up one of the computers to it. The TV has VGA input so that isn't a problem, but short of picking up the computer and carrying it downstairs each time isn't fun. So, I'm looking for a set up, where I can switch between the inputs downstairs and upstairs.

VGA input to TV
Audio to TV
Mouse
Keyboard
Headset (earphones and mic)
Would be great if I could find a box that would let me plug all of the downstairs into that, then run a cable up to my computer, then split it back into the ports. Would be even better if it has a way to keep all of my dual items and switch back and forth with a single switch.

I've found 30 ft cables for KVM male to male, then could hook it up, but would still be switching back and forth.
Thanks!

Thanks, that was part of the frustration, everything was set up for university, teaching, or business, and wanted an arm and a leg. Building a third computer might be cheaper. Plus less of a hassle with wires running hither and there.

I did find:
Belkin not a bad price, but it is the only one I've found.
Cables cost almost as much too.
That would work but no sound switching or headset support.
Wonder if I can include 2 computer upgrades and a new computer (for a total of three) in a student loan.

Look for the details of the KVM as well. My roommate bought one to separate his gaming machine and his downloading comp (extra cpu laying around) and he ditched the setup because the KVM wouldn't let him press more than 3 buttons at a time, which made gaming quite annoying.

The problem is that Cat5 doesn't have the bandwidth to support high resolution video.

You can do it with 3 wires, by extending the Keyboard+Mouse, Audio, and Video separately:

Keyboard+Mouse: Get this adapter, and a 50 ft. Cat5 cable from your local RadioShack.

Audio: Either use two of these with a coupler in the middle (RadioShack), or convert to RCA and use RCA cables again with couplers in the middle.

Video: At the computer, split the DVI video output (if you have DVI). If you don't have DVI, you'll have to convert VGA to DVI first. Then convert DVI to HDMI. Then use long HDMI cables (like this, this, or this), with HDMI extenders to reamplify your video signal either in the middle or at both ends. The HDTV LCD should have HDMI connectors on it for the extended cable to plug in.

The KM extension costs about $110 (adapter plus cable), the audio cabling costs $15 or so, and the video extension will probably run you $120 or so in cables and the various adapters, so you're looking at $250 or so. Assembly definitely required.

EDIT: oh yeah, as for the switching back and forth, if you use splitters at the computer for everything, you shouldn't have to unplug anything it should just work all connected. At the HDTV LCD, I don't know how many inputs it has.

At 30ft you're pushing it, but have you tried wireless keyb/m? You could always try it and then return it to Alliteration Electronics is it doesn't work.