I'm running 3 servers and not sure who makes good quality KVM switches. A recommendation for a cheap 4 port KVM switch to improve my keyboard handling, would really help.
I have an old home-use KVM already but it works by disconnecting/reconnecting the USB hub as it switches, so the servers are constantly redetecting and reconnecting the KVM's hub and keyboard (causing console spam and slowness!) and keyboard connectivity is very poorly handled.
I've looked up full DDM switches but they start around £250 which I can't justify. Is there anything in between? I've tried to understand the classes of KVM switch but it's still confusing which kind I'm actually after.
In terms of connection, the devices are pretty simple: standard wired USB keyboard, standard wired USB mouse, and a monitor at the moment 1280 x 1024 but ideally up to 1920x1200 "just in case" I upgrade it. But the keyboard handling is the priority as I don't have anything that handles KB switching nicely. (I can handle VGA/DSUB monitor connectivity and if it doesn't cost too much more I'd like to know of a digital alternative - DVI or displayport.) The KVM box format is less important but smaller is better.
I'd ideally like to handle rebooting multiple machines together so I don't have to wait 3 minutes to reboot one then the next, but if getting video magic/DDC/EDID emulation (or whatevers needed for better monitor handling) in the same KVM as decent KB handling will add a lot to the cost, then it's not essential, I'll take a cheaper KVM that handles the keyboard nicely.
(Basically, as long as it handles simple video correctly - I won't be using multiple monitors or swapping monitors in use, although I might need to briefly disconnect/reconnect the monitor I'm using now and then. Even a little latency isn't a problem. The crucial factor is that good keyboard handling when switching between servers is important.)
Other than that, it's mostly about price. I'm happy buying secondhand if I knew what to look for, but I suspect this is one of those product types where you only find how well it works if you know who makes them well, or after you buy.....