Switchview MM1 4 Port PS/2 USB KVM Switch USB 1.1 Hub with Audio
From Avocent
The all-in-one Avocent SwitchView multimedia desktop KVM switch lets you switch between USB or PS/2 systems, share your USB devices and control multimedia applications. The SwitchView MM1 model provides independent switching for KVM and two USB 1.1 hub ports. With the SwitchView multimedia KVM switch, you can use one compact device to control multiple PCs and share access to your USB devices; digital camera, CD ROM, PDA, scanner or printer.
- Brand: Avocent
- Model: 4SVPUA10-001
- Platform: Windows
- Format: CD
- Original language: English
- Dimensions: 3.30" h x 10.10" w x 11.60" l, 2.20 pounds
Really supports both old (non-USB) and newer (USB) systems!
We purchased this particular device to take care of two old (non-USB) servers, and a newer one that has USB, but has no PS/2 ports whatsoever...
All three machines are working fine now with a single keyboard and mouse pair. No surprises - recommended for hybrid environments.
ADVICE: The device has both USB and PS/2 ports on the front panel for attaching the keyboard and mouse. If you attach at least one PS/2 computer to it, make sure you also use PS/2 keyboard and mouse!
It did not work for us with a USB keyboard/mouse pair: none of the old PS/2-type computers could see the keyboard or mouse, despite several reboots etc. Looks like it's "upconverting" PS/2 to USB correctly, but doesn't work the other way round (USB to PS/2).
We do not think it's a big problem, though - just be aware and connect older peripherals...
NOTICE: Do not get scared when you get the device, and it has NO PS/2 ports on the rear! (We originally thought that something is wrong, or we ordered a wrong model.) It DOES really support PS/2 computers, but it's all implemented through custom cables (you can only use cables designed for this particular device, also sold on Amazon). The cable has a Video and 2 PS/2 connectors for keyboard and mouse one one end (computer), and ONLY a SINGLE Video connector on the other (connected to the KVM switch itself). Obviously, this particular connector has additional wires that account for transmitting signals to and from PS/2 devices through the KVM-side Video port without adding PS/2 ports on the rear of the KVM switch to save space.
Good thing: You can choose the computer that "shares" its USB devices from the front panel, and the devices attached can really be accessed by all USB-enabled computers...
Highly recommended.
