120HZ! FOR REAL!:
I was looking for a 2 port KVM that was DL-DVI compatible. At the time I couldn't afford a 1440P monitor but wanted to make sure I could use one some day. I ended up getting a 120Hz 1080P monitor (VG278H) instead. Only after it came did I realize that the specs for this KVM didn't say it supported 120hz. Guess what? It works anyway! [Note: 120hz at 1080p requires DL-DVI]
I'm very happy with this thing. As far as keyboard emulation, I did what other posters here suggested and just used the built-in 2 port switchable hub for my keyboard and mouse.
A WORD ON CABLES:
One possible flaw: initially I was using a mix of DVI cables. Certain cables are just too wide due to the plastic around the plugs. You can jam it in anyway but that's probably a bad move. I swapped to "Nippon Labs Premium 10' Dual-Link Model DVI 10 DD" which I got for $10 each. I call this a "possible" flaw as if it allowed for wider cables they'd have to expand the box size, and I call the smaller size of the 2 port a real plus. That'd be like saying you're happy the world is round but sad that it isn't flat.
KEYBOARD EMULATION VS "AUXILLARY" USB PORTS:
The thing comes with 4 USB outputs: emulated keyboard, emulated mouse, and a 2 port hub that has to be detected by your OS each time you switch. This is basically the only way they could do this (not a design flaw, just the way things are). People on the reviews here said they had problem with the emulated keyboard port and suggested using the Aux ports, so I did not even attempt to use it for 99.9% of my tasks (please refer to their reviews).
The only problem is that if you switch into, say, the windows installation process or if you're switching to a sleeping computer, the keyboard hooked to the "auxillary" usb port may not get detected (it's about 50/50 on my machines). It's as if I just plugged the keyboard into the computer (which is exactly as one might expect).
I have a spare keyboard I keep hidden away for when I need it.
SIDE NOTE ABOUT CONSTRUCTION:
Also (not a big selling point but it's cool), this thing is easy to open. Since I'm not using the hot keys for switching between computers, I soldered in an external button-switch I keep hidden under my desk to toggle between computers. The insides are really well put-together by the way. It's easy to disassemble and put back. Best part: No "warrantee void" sticker keeping the thing closed!
SUMMARY:
I have to give this thing 5 stars: Robust construction, has features that aren't documented (120 hz!!! OMGGGG), works pretty much as you'd expect. I defer to others about the USB keyboard emulation problems. For me, this thing did all I expected and more.
| Connector Type | Usb |
|---|---|
| Brand | StarTech.com |
| Terminal | Graphical |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 3.94 x 6.3 x 1.57 inches |
| Actuator Type | Push Button |
| International Protection Rating | IP54 |
| Number of Positions | 2 |
| Controller Type | Push Button |
| Connectivity Protocol | Usb |
| Color | Black |
| Wattage | 50 |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Number of USB 2.0 Ports | 6 |
