I've just started working from home and bought a KVM switch to toggle between my personal and work computers. However, I'm facing a problem: my work PC only has HDMI outputs, and one of my monitors also only supports HDMI. While the DisplayPort connections work fine, I can't seem to get the HDMI setup to function properly. Is there a solution for this, or am I out of luck?
5 Answers
If you plan to use a second monitor but only need to share keyboard and mouse between them, consider using Microsoft's PowerToys with the 'Mouse without Borders' feature. It's a free tool that lets you seamlessly move your mouse and keyboard between your personal and work machines without needing to toggle anything! Just check with your workplace to see if it's okay to install.
This KVM setup being finicky with HDMI is pretty strange since that's one of its main jobs! You might want to check for a firmware update for the KVM or try switching the monitor connections around. If it continues to give you trouble, returning it for a more reliable model may be the best option.
You know what? The only KVMs I trust are from LevelOneTech. They seem to be the most reliable.
It sounds like the DP to HDMI adapter isn't passing your monitor's EDID settings through the KVM. To avoid this issue, you should use either DP to DP or HDMI to HDMI directly on both ends of the KVM, without any adapters. Sometimes, KVM switches don't handle EDID information well, which might explain your problem. I've had similar experiences even with high-end brands like Belkin.
To resolve the HDMI issue, I recommend getting an "active" HDMI to DisplayPort adapter, not just a regular cable. It needs to have power to effectively transmit the signal through the KVM. Here’s one link to check out: [Active HDMI to DP Adapter](https://www.amazon.com/Shuomeng-HDMI-DisplayPort-Adapter-60Hz/dp/B0C9Q6BJVT/). You might also need a second one to connect from the KVM to your HDMI monitor. Look for products labeled "active" to ensure they work properly! If you want to try a budget fix, just get the first one and see if it resolves the issue before investing in additional adapters.
I hear you! But this job isn’t paying enough for a LevelOneTech KVM, and I honestly picked this one based on decent reviews without knowing much about KVMs.