SmartAVI 4-Port HDMI/USB2.0/Audio KVM Switch. Includes: HKM-04 and PS5VD4A

Question: Hello, I have two laptops and limited work space on my desk. Can I use this to connect the two laptops to one HDMI monitor and use one wireless keyboard and mouse?
Answer: In theory you would be able to use your wireless keyboard and mouse. Please note that laptops and wireless technology are hit and miss with KVM switches and cannot be guaranteed. We have seen success using wireless with KVMs that use an integrated USB 2.0 hub, to attach the wireless to, such as this one.

Question: It's my understanding that HDMI 1.3 and later support 2560x1600 video. This switch is listed as HDMI 1.3b compliant but the maximum resolution shown is a mere 1080p (1920x1080). Will this switch support a 30" monitor at 2560x1600?
Answer: We are still waiting on confirmation of the reported specs for this device from the manufacturer. Unfortunately, the datasheet, manual and manufacturers website all state resolutions up to 1080p. Without confirmation from the manufacturer, we would assume a max. resolution of 1080p.

If we hear differently, we will update this post and the specifications for this product on our website.

Question: I have 4 computers and two monitors, can I use this is conjuction with an HDMI splitter to connect both displays to the switch so I can have dual dispaly's?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Unfortunately no, this switch will not function as a true dual monitor setup. When used as described, with an HDMI splitter, the display output would be mirrored on both monitors, rather than be a true dual monitor setup where the desktop could be extended across both monitors. To function as true multi-monitor setup, you would need a multi-monitr KVM with separate video inputs and outputs for both monitors. See: https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/dual-head-kvm-switch.html

Question: I have 5 computers and want to know if two 1x4 HDMI/USB KVM devices can be chained together?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. According to our SmartAVI representative, you should be able to daisy-chain these units. However, the engineering team was out of the office and won't be back until Monday, so the sales rep could not 100% guarantee that it would work. We should here back on Monday and will update this post when new information is available.

Question: Hi! If I connect USB Bluetooth dongle to this switch's USB HUB, will it work?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. I have confirmed with the manufacturer that it will work.

Question: I see in the picture that this unit has an IR receiver. Can IR be used to select inputs? Does it come with a remote? Can one be purchased separately?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. This unit does have a built in IR receiver. The remote [RMT-2] is an optional accessory. The RMT-2 can be found here: https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/rmt-2.html.

Question: Can the 3.5mm Stereo Audio be used for a microphone instead of headphone? Can the signal flow in an opposite direction?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Unfortunately no, the headphone jack is strictly for audio out. Also, the signal flow is one way.

If you require microphone sharing, there is an Aten 4-port HDMI KVM that includes a microphone support: https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/cs1794.html.

If by reversing the signal you are wanting to access a single computer from 4 stations, you may be interested in looking into a reverse KVM. We have a selection of some reverse KVMs here: https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/reverse-kvm.html.

Question: Can this unit be accessed by keyboard "Hot Keys" to switch between computers?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Unfortunately, no; this device does not support Hot key switching. Switching between ports is accomplished through the front panel select button or via the optional infrared remote control.

The remote control is SmartAVI part number RMT-2 adn can be foudn here: https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/rmt-2.html.

Question: I have bad experience with others KVM switch-boxes, that does not supprt switch between different types of computers (Mac, Windows 8 and Windows7). Does this switch-box support Windows 7?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. According to the manufacturer, this device will support Windows 7, Windows 8, and Mac in a mixed environment.


Question: Have you gotten any feedback about this switch supporting 2560x1440 or 2560x1600 yet (as per the question below)?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. We just received confirmation that the HKM-04S will only support resolutions up to 1080p (1920 x 1020). For higher resolutions, SmartAVI now has the HDN-4Plus supporting resolutions up to 4K Ultra HD (3820x2160 @30Hz). You can view the HDN-4PLus here: https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/hdnet-4plus-s.html.

Question: is there new firmware for the gcs1794
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Unfortunately, we are not aware of nor could we locate a firmware update for the GCS1794.

Question: was it ever determined if in fact two units could be daisy chained togther?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry and your patience. We have just heard back from the manufacturer on this. The units can be daisy-chained on the HDMI signal, but the USB connection would not be stable as it would require a hub connecting to a hub. Additionally, the other inputs would require switching twice - we assume once to the daisy-chained switch, then to the actual input on the secondary switch. So, while it may be possible, it does not seem practical.

Question: Is there an area on your website where I can view or download technical manuals for the HKM-04S?
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Though limited in nature, the only user manual we have access to for this device can be viewed here: http://www.smartavi.com/assets/files/m_HKM-04_Manual.pdf.

Question: I have a Mac mini circa 2014 and a Mac G5 circa 2006 and I want to connect them to the monitor I bought with the G5. I don't know how to identify the type of monitor cable connectors. I do have an adapter that will allow me to connect the old monitor to the mini. It is not an HDMI connection to the mini, it is the other, smaller ports on the back of the mini.
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry,

Newer MACs typically have Mini DisplayPort connections - however some older iMacs have Mini-DVI or VGA connections.

To find the exact specifications of your computers, you can use this apple support page (click Browse by Product).

Alternatively, you can compare the look of different video output ports using this nifty illustration.

If you would like a recommendation based on your setup, please feel free to contact your KVM Switches Online sales representative directly at 1-877-586-6654, at sales@kvm-switches-online.com, or via our online Chat functionality.