I need a KVM switch that can switch between Powerbook and PC

Question

Level 1

14 points

I need a KVM switch that can switch between Powerbook and PC

I'm an MIS major, and we're starting to get into Linux and Microsoft Visual Studio... things my Powerbook just can't do. So anyway, I've ordered a computer from Dell last night with a 20" Widescreen monitor. I want to use a KVM switch so I can use both computers with the new monitor.

Two things:
* I can't have the Powerbook shut off when I switch to the PC. I plan to run the Powerbook when it's shut, so it needs to have a connection while things aren't connected to it. Can KVM's do this somehow?
* I'd prefer to be able to use DVI instead of VGA. Can I do this as well instead of having to convert EVERYTHING to VGA?

Thanks!
-Matt

Posted on Sep 22, 2005 10:36 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Sep 23, 2005 12:13 AM in response to Matt Dell

Does the Dell have >1 input? In this case, you don't really need a KVM if all you're doing is switching video (not audio of keyboard). Most panels have at least a DVI and a VGA input.

Most KVMs I'm aware of will switch DVI or VGA but not both; Belkin have one for about $60, which will also do and audio.

HTH, Tim

Reply

Answer 2

Matt Dell Author

Level 1

14 points

Sep 23, 2005 12:22 AM in response to Tim Hill1

Well I do need KVM functionality, so that wouldn't really help even if it did have dual inputs. I still would like a definite answer to the problem with the Powerbook going to sleep once I switch to the PC. Will the KVM emulate a signal to the Powerbook even when it's not being used?

Are there any $60 DVI KVM switches? Because all I see are VGA ones and I'd like to take advantage of DVI if I can.

-Matt

Reply

Answer 3

Sep 24, 2005 3:32 PM in response to Matt Dell

Yes, Apple resell the Belkin KVM that has DVI/USB/audio switching for two computers. It's about $65 if I recall. We've used a few here with no problems, except that, being USB, you will need a PC that can handle a USB keyboard (most do these days, though the BIOS may get a little fussy).

I don't think the Belkin switch is "smart" -- the Mac will see the peripherals appear and disappear (as will the PC). However, with DVI and USB this isn't a big deal, as I said, we've done this fine (Mac+PC sharing KVM) with no problems.

--Tim

Reply

Answer 4

Matt Dell Author

Level 1

14 points

Sep 24, 2005 6:32 PM in response to Tim Hill1

Well I NEED the KVM to be "smart," otherwise my Powerbook is going to go to sleep everytime I switch. Having DVI isn't essential, I suppose, so I'd prefer to have a "smart" VGA KVM than a regular DVI KVM.

Unless there is a "smart" DVI KVM that doesn't cost over $100.

-Matt

Reply

Answer 5

Matt Dell Author

Level 1

14 points

Sep 25, 2005 11:49 PM in response to Matt Dell

This software solves my sleep problem: http://www.macupdate.com/info.php/id/10564

Now I just need a standard KVM. 🙂

Thanks!
-Matt

Reply