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geekhack Community => Off Topic => Topic started by: aernan on Wed, 15 February 2017, 17:36:19

Title: KVM built into Keyboard
Post by: aernan on Wed, 15 February 2017, 17:36:19

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

Title: Re: KVM built into Keyboard
Post by: jal on Thu, 16 February 2017, 20:32:32

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.

Title: Re: KVM built into Keyboard
Post by: tp4tissue on Fri, 17 February 2017, 07:04:28

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

Title: Re: KVM built into Keyboard
Post by: Findecanor on Fri, 17 February 2017, 07:24:46

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.

Title: Re: KVM built into Keyboard
Post by: Leslieann on Fri, 17 February 2017, 17:31:11

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.

Title: Re: KVM built into Keyboard
Post by: MaNiFeX on Mon, 20 February 2017, 00:58:49

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