KVM built into Keyboard

[aernan]

I have a possibly silly idea. Are there any keyboards that have two outputs with the a Keyboard Mouse switch directly into the keyboard?

[jal]

Never seen one. And it would still be missing the 'M', which is a bit problematic. I mean, I have done things with computers blind, but that was command line, and an absolute last resort.

Building in monitor support would (a) be really complex engineering - anything beyond VGA ranges from complex to very complex and high bandwidth, and modern standards like DP involve DRM, which means licensing.

And (b), that would be a really funky-looking, chunky keyboard. The heat-sinks could be fun decorative elements.

A while back I was considering the possibility of a self-bugging keyboard. Insert your own thumb drive, and have it record all your keystrokes as a last-ditch backup. That would require more than a Teensy offers.

[tp4tissue]

i think they don't do it because of how many cables you'd end up with on the table.

[Findecanor]

What would be the purpose?

Many KVM switches allow switching between hosts using a key-combination, which allows you to have the switch out of the way. There is also software that acts as a virtual KVM switch but that requires of course that both machines are running.

[Leslieann]

I would rather spend $200 on a cheap 4 port kvm and enjoy my nice keyboard than have 20 cables on my desk connected to a keyboard I had few choices on, and paid $1000 for.

KVMs are not cheap, especially with even  remotely newer technology in them, then add a cheap, over priced keyboard (they can't buy in bulk), and your $200 4port KVM just became a $1000 bit of equipment that eats cables (keyboards move around, which is bad for things like shielded DVI cables and such).


Remember, a 4 port KVM has a minimum of 15 cables attached, integrating the keyboard only saves you one cable, are you sure you want that on your desk?
Just buy a KVN with a key switch toggle and hide it under your desk, you will be much happier.

[MaNiFeX]

Not exactly what you are looking for, but BAM: https://www.cybernetman.com/en/all-in-one-pc/keyboard-pc