KVM Switch and multiple USB ports

[sjharrison]

Hi i have a kvm switch which is plugged into my Windows 7 laptop and chromebook. I have plugged a multi usb device into the kvm switch so that i can have more than 2 usb devices to use on both computers. It works fine on the chromebook but it isn't working on the windows laptop. I've plugged the multiple usb device into all usb ports on the laptop so that the driver is updated but still no luck, any suggestions?

 

[Karsten75]

Try a different switch?

 

[juiceclone]

I have discovered that even though a usb keyboard or mouse WILL work correctly when connected to the comp directly, they may not work or will delay or stop the boot process when running thru a KVM switch. It seems necessary to use only "generic/plain" keyboard and mouse to stop the boot hang problem. My Microsoft wireless mouse was the total cause of this problem when used thru an electronic KVM and then thru another KVM with all mechanical switches. A "lighted" keyboard and another with the "special" keys that take you to your home page..etc, also gave some trouble! Seems counter-intuitive, but try different mouse and/or keyboard into the KVM and see if that does it. :>)

 

[prokvm]

Hi, Sjharrison. What KVM switch you have with this issue ?
I guess both Karsten5 and Juiceclone's suggestions are correct. You either find a better switch or use simple keyboard and mouse which your switch can "emulate". More than 90% KVM switches in the market are based on emulation technology which just emulate the simple/basic keyboard and mouse. If you must use better keyboard and mouse, then find USB DDM KVM switches which can do the dynamic device mapping to solve most of the device compatibility issues.