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ulttimac console adaptors+plus a KVM
KDOG:
I was wondering If anyone has used a kvm with console adaptors(video and controllers) and a PC. using a d9200 or imperial.
Minwah:
What's a KVM?
pmc:
KVM = Keyboard Video Mouse switch. They are used so that a single set of input/output controls can manage many servers/PCs. It's a necessary concept for a world where Windows servers are essentially overgrown PCs and managing zillions of servers would otherwise mean that you need zillions of keyboards, monitors, and mice. The good ones let you use keystrokes to initate a "swtich" rather than requiring a physical switch. Perfect for a cab because you could code the switch to respond to a series of button presses.
I have one that I originally planned on using for switching between two PCs in the cabinet. I now have a Dreamcast and MAME PC in there and would love to use the KVM to switch between the two if it's possible to hack. I haven't thought through how to do it yet but figure that combining hacked controls onto the keyboard and mouse PS/2 interfaces would do it but limits you to 11 controls.
-pmc
Minwah:
--- Quote from: pmc on October 10, 2005, 09:58:36 am ---I have one that I originally planned on using for switching between two PCs in the cabinet. I now have a Dreamcast and MAME PC in there and would love to use the KVM to switch between the two if it's possible to hack. I haven't thought through how to do it yet but figure that combining hacked controls onto the keyboard and mouse PS/2 interfaces would do it but limits you to 11 controls.
--- End quote ---
I have designed a system for my cab which allows a one-switch solution to switch between systems (in my case PC, Dreamcast & Xbox). I've made custom leads which have a parallel plug on one end, and a VGA plug, audio plug and PS/2 plug on the other. The parallel end goes into a printer switchbox, and the other plugs into system audio/video outputs, and also keyboard input. I am using Ultimarc console adaptors which makes switching controls much easier (just PS/2 rather than all button/stick connections). Also is a connector for the power button. This works for PC fine, requires modding the xbox and is not possible for DC due to it's non-momentary power switch.
It's a joy just having to switch the switch and have video, audio and controls switched at once. Haven't quite got the Dreamcast finished yet tho...
Sounds like you could use a KVM to do the same...you could use the mouse connector for audio.
pmc:
--- Quote from: Minwah on October 10, 2005, 10:26:46 am ---It's a joy just having to switch the switch and have video, audio and controls switched at once.
--- End quote ---
Sounds awesome. At first, I didn't really care for a "feature" like this. But now I'm getting sick of plugging and unplugging. What happens is that I end up making gaming choices based on how the cabinet is currently set up. Twould be ideal for that to become a "a joy". A KVM is certainly a possible player in that game. Your hack sounds like it does the same thing but in a more interesting way.
Is your switch knob externally mounted?
-pmc