Review on IOGear GCS1772 2-Port Symphony KVM Switch: USB Video Card, Hub, Cables (Grey) by Philip Berry

I am a professional developer and familiar with off the shelf KVM. I was looking for one for home use and was generally disappointed with what I found. The DVI version of IOGear didn't work for me. The IOGear DVI KVMP 4-port switch with GCS1764 audio and cables and the Belkin offering were complete rubbish. Belkin F1DG102U 2-Port Audio KVM Rocker Switch (USB port) But I installed this type and it works great. Switches quickly, intelligent enough to convince a booting computer that the mouse and keyboard are connected, intelligent enough to trick a shutting down computer into thinking the mouse and kbd are *yet* connected (i.e. no "windows is looking for a Drivers for your new device" - it works almost instantly!) I was concerned that the non-standard peripherals I use might confuse it - but they didn't. I use a Logitech G9x mouse and a smart keyboard with lots of extra keys. No glitches, the mouse and kbd extras work just fine Pretty cool and functional: - the cables are long enough that your computer doesn't need to be 15cm from the desk - even longer cables are available from IOGear if you really need legroom - the Switches are well lit and it's easy to see which computer is focused - it also toggles audio and USB - there are front USB ports within easy reach - also toggles your network connection. (although I prefer to use a router so none of the computers lose connection when I hop back and forth) - You even have the option to have computer A use kbd and monitor while B plays music through the speakers (okay, I I rarely use this last feature and I don't like the fact that you have to hold the button down for a while to switch speakers - a little potato.) Glad, Joy, Joy!