[NTLUG:Discuss] linux console

[Steve Baker]

Greg Edwards wrote:

> I use KVM (Keyboard/Video/Mouse) switches that solve the many computers 
> single chair problem nicely.

I've had problems with some older KVM switches and some keyboards and mice.

A decent KVM makes sure that power to the mouse and keyboard is never
removed - even momentarily as you switch.  However, the crappier KVM's
don't do that.  Even so, you generally get away with it because most
keyboards and mice don't mind being 'reset' like that.  However, with
some KVM's and some keyboards and mice - I've had problems.

Also, some graphics cards interrogate the monitor on startup to ascertain
desired frame rate, line rate, etc.

We've also had problems where a system will come up with a different
graphics setup when the PC is booted with the KVM connecting it to
the monitor versus booting the same PC with the KVM connecting the
monitor to a different PC.

When they work, KVM's are great...when they don't - they suck.

I would set up the BIOS on your DNS PC so it'll boot without keyboard
or mouse - forget about messing with a KVM - just access it via the network.

---------------------------- Steve Baker -------------------------
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