KVM Switch Help

[Rand Dusing]

My Dad has a Belkin KVM switch and it doesn't work. For example, he has it on his labtop and then switches over to his desktop. But when he tries to switch back to his labtop he has to unplug and then replug everything back in. How do I fix this?

does the laptop have two connectors to allow both a mouse and keyboard?

[StealthyV]

it's possible the kvm switch isn't getting enough power. does it draw power from the keyboard ps/2 socket, or is it a plug-in version? my kvm switch is keyboard ps/2 powered (a 2-port kvm) and does not need the (optional) power adapter.
another issue people have with kvms is switching while booting. try plugging the "port one" into your desktop machine, and "port two" into the laptop. boot the desktop machine and let it fully boot before you switch over to the laptop. boot the laptop. can you switch back and forth now?
it's possible you're having problems due to unshielded kvm cables. the cables themselves should be no longer than 6' due to signal strength issues, and should be of the Shielded variety.
be sure that the puters are using the ps/2 (do kvms have usb options?) ports, and that they're not loose.
it could be the actual switch that's the problem, and you might want to try using it on another puter setup, or buying a new one, keeping the receipt for a return.
good luck, and if you continue to have problems, there's always Google

~Branson

[real peter smith]

These are Known issues with Belkin KVM switches.
try find your answer in groups.google.com and search there for Belkin Problems. if your father is a bussy man and has no time for this problem , as an IT proffesional i reccomand the "SuperVisor Smart 2" from MINICOM, this product will actually work without any problems. (more information on WWW.MInicom.com) i use this product with my Dell X300 Laptop and my Home Desktop With no problems.