Slashdot Mirror
USB And PS2 Ports On KVM Switches?
An Anonymous Coward asks: "I am regularly working with multiple computers and have given in to the fact that I need and will buy a KVM. However, I am in need of a device that can switch both standard PS2 (mouse & keyboard support) and also USB. From my searching I have found KVMs with Monitor + USB or Monitor + PS2, but not all three. Does anyone know if such a USB + PS2 + Monitor KVM exists?"
Why do people insist on using KVM switches? Linux and most other UNIX(es) systems support serial consoles. Run the serial port to a concentrator, then those who need to can get DIRECT access to the system console from their desktops. Some motherboards support this and let you get into the BIOS via the serial port.
/. and drinking coffee.
There's only two times where you actually NEED a KVM switch:
1) You have to do something at the machine that requires you to be there, like an OS install. Even that can be worked around. Pop CD in drive, walk back to desk, install while reading
2) You're using NT. No serial console support there. The less said about this, the better.
Seriously, look at the rack space used up by kvm switching gear and monitor and keyboard and mouse, the problems involved with having only one crash cart in a cage, or having to shlep your butt into work at 3AM to reboot a machine you could have done from home.
(Yes, there are monitors and keyboards that will fit in a 1U space. $$$ and still has the limitation that you can't get direct access remotely.)
OMIGOD!!! You've just stumbled onto the biggest secret from the connector conspiracy!!! USB is nuthin' but a repackaged PS2 port!!!!!!
Naah, it's the mice that are bilingual... they speak both PS2 and USB protocols - just like the old days when they spoke PS2 and SERIAL.
---
Inanimate Carbon Rod thanks you for your support. See you in 2004!