Using a USB switch as a full KVM

bionsystem 4 hours ago | parent | next [-]

I got a DeLock KVM switch recommended by the shop vendor (who actually did spend a good 15 min understanding my need and doing web searches), and quickly confirmed by ChatGPT as a solution to my need (plug the work macbook alongside my personal linux tower, no exchange of data between hosts, no driver needed, and do a KVM switch).

I actually end up using 2 mice and switching the keyboard from bluetooth (for the mac) to usb (for the linux) because I can't get usb working through the HDMI. And the screen is limited to 120hz (instead of 144hz) because of the switch quality or the HDMI cables, I do not know (it lights up and works for a minute and then goes black a few seconds every few seconds, losing sync).

In the end it is more tedious and less featureful than just plugging the mac to the screen via a USB to HDMI cable, switching everything from the screen (and doing the same mice / keyboard juggle than above), because at least I would get the 144hz and save the 150€ from the switch. I can't return it anymore because the 15 day window has passed so I still use it, it's a little bit easier to switch from the remote control than from the screen anyway, but that's expensive just to switch from a different button.

	▲	ProllyInfamous 24 minutes ago \| parent [-]
		After thirty years of attempted-KVM, I finally stopped leaking $hundreds$ on hardware – and instead just bought a bigger desk. With a VESA-mounted LCD I have enough physical desktop space for three full-sized keyboard/mice combos (and don't have any disconnect/phantom issues common with KVM switching). Without the NUMPAD, two would fit on most desks, IMHO. ---- Of course I also recommend having multiple physical desktop spaces, set up for certain routine tasks (e.g. billing/taxes, music/media/TV/hub). Don't know how I used to operate on a single 13" laptop!~ ---- >120hz (instead of 144hz) Can you actually notice a difference? My LCD supports both and I use the lesser one just because it reduces energy consumption. I think I can tell between 60Hz/120Hz.

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r0xsh an hour ago | parent | prev | next [-]

I'm using this kind of setup since ~ 3 years and i'm super happy with it. But used "another" approach with udev rule, you can find it there: https://gist.github.com/r0xsh/8dbaf16231ad01028a255bd80bcbd7...

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Domenic_S 5 hours ago | parent | prev [-]

I use this usb/dp switch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098TVP9ZL

no monitor switching needed, although i did hook up a hub for more usb ports.