Hardware Review: Iogear MiniView Micro USB PLUS KVM Switch - GCS632U
I keep around 8 computers on my desk(s) for testing, using different operating systems, my servers, and so forth, and having all the monitors for them was really getting to be a drag. So, for my primary PC and Mac, both of which are USB, I've been looking for a USB KVM (that is, a switchbox that shares one keyboard, mouse, and monitor with two or more computers). The key requirement here is that it can't fuzz or blur my monitor, since I run very high resolutions on a 20" flat-CRT-type monitor.
My first attempt at a good KVM is the Iogear MiniView Micro USB PLUS KVM Switch - GCS632U, and while it does perform as promised, the video ghosting and burring is horrible above 1024x768. I have a similarly priced PS/2 model (GCS14) from Iogear for my testing machines, and the video images are much clearer. I'm assuming that the electronics for the two are similar, so I'm pretty sure the difference is because of the video cables.
The GC632U uses permanently embedded video cables, as opposed to separate cables, and they are very thin and the lack ferrite chokes (those little metal rings on either end of the cable that suppress electronic noise). The PS/2 model uses somewhat thicker cables that must have more shielding, and the image is much better.
This really is a shame, because otherwise it works great. It maintains the illusion that a mouse and keyboard are connected to the computers at all times, so there's no "disconnect/reconnect" waiting with the peripherals when you switch between computers. It is also compact, looks nice, and is under $80.
I'm currently testing some other USB KVMs for my personal use - stay tuned for the results.
