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Product:
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StarTech PC Switcher KVM Switch |
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Price:
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$60 (CAN) / $48 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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ADPmods
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Author:
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Shatterstar
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Date:
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December 16th, 2003
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Rating:
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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After booting up both systems I was able to switch the control of the keyboard, mouse and monitor on the
PC Switcher KVM Switch simply by pressing the Ctrl button twice followed by either "1" or "2" which
controls PC-1 and PC-2 respectively. Consumers should note that you must press the Left Ctrl button in
order to switch control, since the Right Ctrl button will not work.
To start Auto-Scan mode, simply press [left] ctrl + [left] ctrl + F1 and to end it you press [left] ctrl
+ [left] ctrl. By pressing [left] ctrl + [left] ctrl + F3 toggles the interval between 3 (default)
seconds, 8, 15, and 30 seconds.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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To find out which computer is currently in control, StarTech has added a two-position LED display, which
you can see from the top of the PC Switcher KVM Switch. The LED's are ideal for a quick verification,
thought if you decide on hiding the switch; this may be harder to see. While using the PC Switcher KVM
Switch, I tried disconnecting and connecting various computers with different operating systems, I was
able to test the Plug and Play feature of the switch. After trying four different computers, including
one that I needed to troubleshoot there were no problems and the switch worked every time.
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Conclusion:
The StarTech PC Switcher KVM Switch is a great tool, which is ideal for anyone who is constantly switching
a monitor, keyboard or mouse from one computer to another. Consumers will find that the size of the switch,
ease of installation and simple operation saves both time and effort. The PC Switcher KVM Switch can be
used to quickly connect a family member's computer for troubleshooting, or for working on a second
system. While the product works as advertised there are few things that could be improved on such as
support for USB devices and more than two computers. The LED indicators do provide an instant
indication which PC is currently active but as previously mentioned if this switch is tucked away behind
a pair of computers it will not be seen. Overall, I'm rating the PC Switcher KVM Switch a final rating
of 8.5 out of 10.
If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the ADPMods
website for more information or discuss them in our forums.
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Pros:
- Small and light weight
- Rugged design and easily hidden
- Supported by all Operating Systems
- Built-in KVM cables
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Cons:
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