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Switch KVM switch for DVI and VGA

Discussion in 'KVM' started by Lou Pappa, Feb 24, 2014.

  1. Lou Pappa

    Lou Pappa New member

    I am looking for a KVM that I can share a monitor with DVI to a laptop and VGA to a desktop. I also need to share a keyboard and sound. My problem is finding a KVM that can handle the monitor.
     
    Lou Pappa, Feb 24, 2014
    #1 + Quote Reply
  2. KVMGalore Expert

    KVMGalore Expert Staff Member

    To confirm we correctly understand your setup and to clarify some variables - please review and respond to the following:

    1) Your laptop has DVI? What type of DVI?

    2) Your desktop has VGA?

    3) You're looking to share a monitor, keyboard and audio via a KVM switch with your laptop and desktop. What type of video input does your monitor have?
     
    KVMGalore Expert, Feb 24, 2014
    #2 + Quote Reply
  3. Lou Pappa

    Lou Pappa New member

    I have a NEC Multisync EA241wm monitor with both VGA and DVI ports. I would like to use the DVI port to the KVM for my laptop and the VGA port for my Dell OptiPlex desktop.
     
    Lou Pappa, Feb 24, 2014
    #3 + Quote Reply
  4. KVMGalore Expert

    KVMGalore Expert Staff Member

    A KVM switch has only one video output. Your monitor can accept only one video input (even though it has 2 connectors).

    Since DVI (digital video) is not compatible with VGA (analog video), we need to know what type DVI you have: DVI-I or DVI-D. This will help determine whether or not you will need a video converter.

    (Learn more about mixing DVI and VGA with a KVM switch, and the differences between digital and analog video)

    Please advise the following:

    1) What type DVI does your laptop support?

    2) What type DVI does your monitor support?
     
    KVMGalore Expert, Feb 24, 2014
    #4 + Quote Reply
  5. Lou Pappa

    Lou Pappa New member

    Thank you for your response. I spoke with Dell and am adding a DVI graphic card to my desktop so I will have both units with DVI capabilities. Thanks again for straightening this out for me. I think the graphics card is the best way to go.
     
    Lou Pappa, Feb 24, 2014
    #5 + Quote Reply
  6. KVMGalore Expert

    KVMGalore Expert Staff Member

    [​IMG] Leveling the playing field (having all your computers with compatible video output) will certainly make things easier.

    Once you are DVI across the board, you can use any DVI KVMA switch.
     
    KVMGalore Expert, Feb 24, 2014
    #6 + Quote Reply
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