Long KVM cables

[beatle]

I'm interested in some longer KVM cables. I'm thinking I might need 20 ft. or so the way my room is configured. I see some on ebay (some are pricey, however) but I'm unsure what the reasonable limits of a cable will be. Will I get further (pun intended) with a better KVM? I'm planning to use a 4 port Compaq rackmount KVM. I'm not sure of the model.

 

[YOyoYOhowsDAjello]

I'm not sure how these compare to ebay prices, but cablesforless has some longer cables if you want to add them to a KVM switch.

 

[Tu13erhead]

Why not try some free software?

http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview...atid=40&threadid=1546506&enterthread=y

 

[LED]

I remember reading somewhere 4 meters and the signals starts to weakning so if you go longer and it works please LMK as the the cables YOyoYOhowsDAjello linked to look thick and of quality...

 

[beatle]

Multiplicity looks cool for when I have the computers booted up and running properly. Unless I'm wrong, it looks like it works based on IP, which wouldn't be implemented until the OS is loaded.

KVM extenders are really too pricey from what I've seen. I was hoping to get cables shipped for $15, but I'm not sure if my expectations are reasonable. They don't have to be ultra precise with the best quality as the KVM will be close to my main computers. I just have one that I want to put in the corner of the room that I'd only have to touch occasionally.

 

[Zepper]

Signal drop may be too much with long cables. If you're willing to tinker, a nice fast op-amp buffers/line drivers might compensate for the long cables or you might look into Wireless solutions. OTOH, there may be KVMs already built with the line drivers for long cables. Good luck.

.bh.

 

[nweaver]

I had a set of decent 30' ones. But I paid 15 for just the monitor portion of the cables. Not sure of his online prices but SBS in Boise has cables at a good deal. Dennis is awsome, best local shop in boise. Now that I have moved, I am looking for a similar shop.

 

[egkenny]

I have had good luck with NTI cables. Where I used to work we had a bunch of 100 foot ones that gave us no problems.

NTI VGA Extension Cables
http://www.kvm-switches-online.com/nti-vga-extension-cables.html

NTI PS/2 KVM Cable Kits
http://www.kvm-switches-online.com/nti-ps-2-kvm-cable-kits.html

 

[LED]

Thats great to know...thanks egkenny!

 

[dclive]

Here's what I do to resolve the issue - works for everything but gaming and playing videos:
1. Set up the box locally.
2. Turn on MS's Remote Desktop (XP Pro and higher)
3. Log in remotely whenever I want to do anything.

Some of my boxes haven't had a monitor near them in months.

 

[wiftrhett]

I am finding that ps/2 cables don't work past 25 feet. I guess no one really uses kvm cat5 extenders, though they are only about $100 on ebay.

 

[beatle]

"Only $100" is a lot of money.