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The problem comes when you don’t have any power outlets near where you are planning on positioning your switch. Each here works with one monitor (see below for some dual-monitor suggestions) and allows you to switch among two or four PCs using one set of peripherals. They all use HDMI cables (instead of VGA or DisplayPort, although you can definitely find KVM switches that use those). Most newer computers and monitors connect via HDMI for superior sound and image quality. For the least hassle, you'll want to choose a KVM that works natively with the video outputs of all connected PCs (assuming they all support one in common!) to avoid having to deal with clumsy adapters.
Ok, so you have decided you want to go down the route of using PoE to provide power to your network switch, but what exactly do you need to get everything set up? Most of us begrudgingly accept that switching between or among several computers requires some amount of cable swapping, moving devices around, or other general awkwardness. But with a KVM switch (the KVM short for “keyboard, video, mouse”), you can leave those bothers behind and save time, space, and money. Not to mention, a whole lot of hassle.
Devices equipped with this feature automatically detect the length of connected Ethernet cables and adjust power usage accordingly. The shorter the cable length, the less power it consumes. This two-PC-capable KVM switch uses HDMI for the connection to the primary monitor's input, as well as to the outputs from your connected systems. (Credit: Kyle Cobian) A software KVM can offer distinct benefits over a hardware solution. You can avoid the tangled web of cables, as well as switch between or among PCs through hotkeys or an app, rather than pressing a physical button (although some hardware KVMs offer hotkey-based switching, as well).
Even with a managed switch that may require some additional setup, once you have given it power you can turn it on and begin the setup process. PoE injectors do require AC power, so why use one of these when you could just plug your switch into the mains?
Apple cancelled this, now what?
Once you've assessed ports and peripherals, consider your home setup. Where will you put the KVM box? How long do the cables need to be to keep your space de-cluttered? Will you be able to press a button on the KVM to switch PCs, or do you need a remote? If you need a remote, do you want a wireless one, or will a wired unit do (connected to the KVM switch by a cable)? To help walk you through it, we tested six basic KVMs for ease of use and setup. This KVM from IOGear has the same core features as the previous one: wired remote, two USB ports, and permanently attached input cables. Beyond that, the standout feature is superior video and sound quality, hence the higher price. For video, it provides support for up to 4,096 by 2,160 at 60Hz, whereas the previous IOGear KVM supports 1,920 by 1,080 at 60Hz. The devices that can function using PoE are referred to as power sourcing equipment (PSE), powered devices (PDs), or sometimes both. The device responsible for transmitting the power is the PSE while the device being powered is the PD. Just like with wireless and other protocols, there are standards in which PoE must meet. The two most common ones are known as 802.3af and 802.3at.
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