0

I have a not-so-small number of computers (say, 5) which I want to access with a single keyboard, USB and monitor. I can get an 8-port KVM switch, which is a pretty expensive piece of hardware; however, in theory, I should be able to cascade KVM switches: Have one 4-port KVM switch between 2 other KVMs (a 2-port and a 4-port).

Is this doable (with typical off-the-shelf switches and cables)? Has anyone had experience doing this?

Notes:

  • I'm interested in USB-only for the keyboard and mouse, and either VGA or DVI for the display. Audio and PS/2 connections are irrelevant for me.
  • I don't need to be able to switch desktops using special keystrokes. Manual KVM-front-panel switching is good enough.
Improve this question
2
  • "I should be able to cascade KVM switches" -- Is this a statement or a question? In theory, you cannot cascade KVM switches like you can Ethernet switches. The first KVM switch will intercept all the special keystrokes to switch PCs and not pass them down to lower-tier KVM switches. This cannot possibly work unless you stick to using the manual front-panel switches.
    – sawdust
    Commented Oct 31, 2013 at 22:00
  • @sawdust: Clarified.
    – einpoklum
    Commented Nov 1, 2013 at 6:26

0

Reset to default

You must log in to answer this question.