KVM Cables
If you are looking for a piece of equipment for multiple computers, you’ll want a KVM cable. Their intended purpose is to serve a switch for your keyboard, video, and mouse (hence the name KVM). If you are using more than one computer, this can be useful when connecting such a cable to a control center or a server room.
This guide will go over the main features of KVM cables and what you need to consider when choosing one for your needs. This will be a useful tool when you need something to connect multiple computers to and control them all in one place.
With that, let’s get started with the following.
What are the main features of KVM cables?
Connectors
KVM cables would not be what they are without connectors. They will be useful for when you need to connect them to the KVM switch that will be used for the multiple computers being used. These cables will be for each purpose: the keyboard, monitor, and the mouse.
The cables will be used to pick up and transmit the signals from each part of the computer. Aside from the usual KVM connectors, it can also feature USB plugins as well. This may play a role when you need to add other devices to your setup.
Length
The length of the cable will vary from one to the other. You don’t want it to be too short to where it will be difficult to connect things. At the same time, you don’t want it to be too long so wire management is a nightmare.
It’s important to consider which length will be great based on the distance between the devices that need to be connected to the KVM switch. This can also help with making wire management a lot easier in your server room or computer area.
What to consider when purchasing a KVM cable?
Now that you know some of the main features, we’ll switch gears and discuss what considerations will factor into your decision. Let’s take a look at the following:
What type of KVM cable do I need?
There are three different types of KVM cables on the market. They are VGA, DVI, and HDMI. A VGA cable is the most common.
They are your basic, entry level cables. If you’re expecting to get great image quality out of it, it might not be worth it. For that reason, you may want to consider DVI or HDMI cables.
If you are looking for the best image quality possible, HDMI cables will be your best KVM option. Especially when you are operating modern computer systems that have these ports for all of your monitors.
On top of that, many monitors that are high in quality will all require an HDMI connection. The more robust your system is, the better the connection it needs.
How long should the cable be?
A KVM cable can measure from 3 feet to as long as 100 feet. Once again, you’ll want to take into account the distance between the computers and the KVM switch you are using. Wire management should be simple enough.
Meanwhile, you don’t want to stretch or bend the wires. Enough damage can render the cable useless. You want the cable to be sturdy while functional. Be sure to do the proper measurements before you decide which cable will best fit your critical needs and preferences.
How much bandwidth do I need?
Bandwidth is an important part of a computer’s operation. Especially when you need to transmit as much data as possible. Image quality will also play a role in how much bandwidth you need.
The higher the amount, the better. Therefore, you get better image quality and faster data transfer. This is one feature where you need to place your most critical needs over all else.
Yes, there are lower bandwidth cables on the market. However, they are good enough to handle the basic tasks. If you are using a computer for more intensive tasks, then you’re going to need a KVM cable that will command higher speeds for quicker data transfers.
What build quality will I need?
KVM cables will be in an environment where plenty of wear and tear factors will exist. So it is important to make sure that the build quality is sturdy enough. As mentioned before, damaged cables will do you no good.
That’s because it can slow down performance and even cause data transfer to be slower. Most of the KVM cables that are being used are made from high quality materials. They will be designed to last a long time while being able to withstand an environment that would otherwise cause rapid wearing and tearing of equipment.
This should also be one reason why you should never go for the cheapest option. With that said, let’s discuss our final consideration.
What are my options for my price range?
That answer depends on what you’re looking for in KVM cables. It’s important to place your critical needs above anything else. From there, you’ll want to find the best performing KVM cable that will fit your budget while meeting those needs.
If you go for the cheapest option, the performance will be disappointing. So will the overall build quality. What may start out as decent in terms of speed and performance will suffer later on thanks to the wear and tear of the cable themselves.
Final Thoughts
KVM cables can get the job done for when you need to connect everything to your KVM switch. You can be able to control multiple computers with the devices that can control almost anything. Be sure to use this guide to your advantage so you can find the best cable possible for your needs.
It’s always a good idea to consider one based on your budget. Once again, the performance and quality should also be something to focus on. Find one that will satisfy your most pressing needs and make sure it serves you well in the long run.
