KVM Switch -[ with a USB Keyboard ]

[mattx]

Does anyone know if you can use a normal KVM switch but use a USB to PS2 converter on one end as the keyboard I need to plug in - [ a chunky style kids keyboard with migrane creating coloured keys ] is USB ?

If not, a possible alternative...?

[superfletch]

I don't see any reason this shouldn't work - try it.

[Zimmer]

It works for our D-Link KMV's no problem

[mattx]

Thanks - I'll go ahead and order a KVM then !!

[leco]

I have a couple of KVMs with just such a set up - usb to ps2 converter. They both work fine.

[Dom_]

EDIT: just reread your original question... I bought some cheap ones off ebuyer for about 20 quid (can't remember the make) and they wouldn't work with the convertors

[john]

MY Belkin one is iffy, works maybe 80% of the time then others drops out, unplug it all and leave for 30 mins then back together and it works fine, so maybe worth trying to get a different keyboard connection?

[FN-GM]

Some keyboards don't work full stop with converters. If it doesn't work at first try another keyboard.

[SYNACK]

If you are talking about those little converters like the ones on the MS mice it will depend entirely on the keyboard as it is up to the keyboard internals to identify that it is running off PS2 rather than USB and deal with the signals appropriatly. The easiest way to test would be to try the proposed converter with a pcs ps2 ports and the keyboard, if it works on that setup it should work with the KVM - or just plug it into the KVM if you already have it.

 

The easiest and best option may be to just get a KVM that takes USB keyboards and mice, I have used a couple and they seem reliable. Here is what google brought up for the UK:

 

Aten 2 Port USB KVM Switch with Speaker Support - Misco.co.uk

 

[ame=http://www.amazon.co.uk/Belkin-Switch2-USB-KVM-PC/dp/B000HA45XG]Belkin Switch2 USB KVM For PC: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics & Photo[/ame]

 

Buy an IOGEAR MiniView Micro USB PLUS KVM Switch, #GCS632U - eXpansys UK

 

USB + PS2:

KVM Switch - LINDY CPU Switch USB with PS/2 (PC & Mac), 4 Port | USB & VGA | Switches (Listed by Connection Type) | KVM | LINDY UK

Edited January 6, 2009 by SYNACK

[EduTech]

We use one for our keyboard, and it works ok.. but there are a few keyboard that dont work. mainly the cheaper version's.

 

were looking to upgrade ours soon though

 

James.

[Andrew_C]

I use a couple of the Belkin USB 2 port kvms. Occasionally, it will decide that I am only allowed to use one of the PCs. To cure this, both PCs need to be UNPLUGGED from the mains and then reconnected. As they are rack-mounted this is more than a bit of a chore!

[SpuffMonkey]

On a similar note - I'm after an 8 port (or more) KVM that can connect to servers that have PS2 or USB keyboard and mouse connections - any recommendations?

[john]

My Lindy ones that ive used in the past have given no issues at all, very reliable and I'd buy them again, bit costly but they were very good.