How many computers do you have? One? Planning on building another one, but don't want to spend another 100+ dollars on another monitor? We have found your answer! Most KVM's (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) out there aren't cheap, they are about the same price as some low end monitors. I found a KVM from Zonet that includes all the cables and everything you need for less than 50 bucks. What I have in front of me will save you a good chunk of change. It's the Zonet 2 port KVM3002.

The KVM3002 is the 2 port version, which allows you to connect two PC's to 1 keyboard, 1 mouse, and 1 monitor. This saves you the trouble of fumbling around with separate peripherals. It's also good for those whose computers are confined to small rooms, such as mine.

For a list of specifications please visit the ZONET home page. Click here

The package will contain everything you need to get started. It includes your KVM, a manual, and all the necessary cables to plug it in and go. Every thing is neatly packed and even the cables are bound by plastic zip ties to keep clutter to a minimum.

Installation is pretty much a breeze for anyone. It is setup just like the back of most computers with a color coded input/output system. You turn your computers off, plug the PROVIDED cables into the systems and the KVM, then you plug your monitor, mouse, and keyboard into the KVM. You are done. Turn on your system and get ready for easy switching.

Using the KVM couldn't be simpler. To switch from one computer to the next, you have a couple of options.

• Use the provided button on the KVM
• Hit the scroll lock button twice then the number of the system you want to switch to (i.e. 1 for the first system, 2 for the second system - 2 port, or 1, 2, 3, 4 for the 4 port)
• Hit the scroll lock button twice and the up arrow or down arrow.

There are some other options laid out very nicely in the 1 page manual. These options include turning off the beeper sounds when switching PC's(scroll lock twice, then the B button); which I happen to like left ON. It also includes the option to "Auto Scan" (scroll lock twice, then the S button) through all the systems plugged into the KVM. I can't find a use for this when you are using a 2 port KVM. On the 4 port maybe, but unless you are the Admin of a nice little network in a good sized business I don't see a use for it. I do, however, adopt the philosophy "it's better to have more, than not enough".

Overall, this is a product I couldn't live without. I have priced other KVMs out there and most were much more expensive; or were cheaper and didn't include the cables thus making the TOTAL cost more when adding in the price of the necessary cables. I have yet to find one fault with this piece of hardware, and I have been using it for over a month now. I would like to see some company that will come out with a KVMA - Keyboard/Video/Mouse/Audio so I don't have to have 2 sets of speakers as well.