On 5 Jun, 20:27, LakotaSil...@gmail.com wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I just purchased a Belkin KVM switch in order to switch between two
> computers at my workplace.
>
> One computer is a very, very old Gateway (over 8yrs old) that runs
> Microsoft Server 2000. There is a program installed on that computer
> that my manager refuses to lose access to, which is why that computer
> isn't out in the trash by now. (We don't have the install CD for the
> program any more, and I can't find them for purchase.) Basically,
> getting rid of that computer is not an option, but our company
> software won't run on it, so that's why I needed to buy the new
> computer.
>
> The other computer is a brand-new Dell.
>
> I purchased a PS2 Belkin KVM switch even though the Dell only has USB
> ports, as I intended to use PS2-to-USB adaptors to plug the cables
> into the Dell.
>
> When I try to use the switch, the old Gateway functions just fine.
> When I switch to the new Dell and try to boot it up, it gives me a
> keyboard error, and the keyboard won't work.
>
> Does anyone have any ideas about what I might try to get the switch
> working?

well, it's blatantly obvious what you can try.
Try booting the gateway up alone.
Try booting the Dell up alone.
Connect them to the same port so it is a fair test.

Is it still the case that one boots and one doesn't?

Now less obvious..

I would now ask what is the difference between the Dell and Gateway,
in relation to the KVM.
I would consider 5V SB, and PSU. And your USB-Ps2 adaptor.

PSU-
If it is safe to change the power supply of a or the Dell, for another
PSU that works with the KVM e.g. the one from the gateway, then do so.

5VSB-
Is 5VSB coming out of one and not the other. 5VSB can confuse KVMs.

5VSB is the voltage that comes out the machine when it's off. Some
machines are set to do this.

It can be on ps2 and/or usb.

Not sure a good way to test this. It's easy to test with a ps2
keyboard in a ps2 port. The lights of a ps2 keyboard flash
immediately when it is plugged in. I can't remember how to test for
USB 5VSB.
You do it when the computer's off. See if you get a light from the
equipment. Some equipment lights up as soon as it is plugged in.
Maybe the bottom of an optical mouse.. Or a USB torch if you have one.
I have tested with a multimeter before too.

USB-PS2-
Is the USB-Ps2 adaptor working. Try using the Dell with it, without
the KVM switch.
(It is a small one, right? The big ones can need drivers, and would
prob not be right for this)

I don't know if it makes a difference, but where have you put this
adaptor. Have you put it in the dell machine, or in the KVM switch ?
(it would depend of course on the gender of it.. I would guess you put
it in the Dell. So a female ps2 sticks out the dell. (for you to plug
the ps2 cable in) Those are probably more common).
If you put it in the KVM switch, It could be that the ps2-usb adaptor
and KVM switch are picky and not working nicely.. You could test it by
using your Working Gateway machine with the adaptor.
Try using the adaptor with the Gateway. See if it works with it. If
it doesn' t have a USB port, then you could use a ps2-USB adaptor in
the gateway. To get a female USB thing sticking out of it. Then you
could do it.