1. Product Overview
The ABLEWE 2-Port HDMI KVM Switch allows you to control two computers using a single set of peripherals: one monitor, one keyboard, and one mouse. This device is designed to streamline your workspace, making it more efficient by eliminating the need for multiple peripheral sets. It supports Ultra HD 4K resolution at 60Hz, ensuring a clear and vibrant visual experience. The switch is driver-free for most operating systems, offering a simple plug-and-play solution.
Figure 1.1: Overview of the ABLEWE 2-Port HDMI KVM Switch setup.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package to ensure all items are present:
- 1 x ABLEWE 2-Port HDMI KVM Switcher
- 2 x 1-meter USB 2.0 Cables
- 2 x 1-meter HDMI Cables
- 1 x USB-C Power Cable (for stable performance)
- 1 x User Manual
Figure 2.1: Included accessories with the KVM Switch.
3. Product Diagram
Familiarize yourself with the ports and indicators on your KVM Switch:
Figure 3.1: Front and rear view of the KVM Switch ports.
- Output Side (Front):
- Keyboard Output (USB-A): Connect your keyboard here.
- Monitor Output (HDMI): Connect your single shared monitor here.
- Mouse Output (USB-A): Connect your mouse here.
- Input Side (Rear):
- PC1-USB (USB-B): Connect to PC1's USB port using the provided USB cable.
- PC1-HDMI (HDMI): Connect to PC1's HDMI output using the provided HDMI cable.
- PC2-HDMI (HDMI): Connect to PC2's HDMI output using the provided HDMI cable.
- PC2-USB (USB-B): Connect to PC2's USB port using the provided USB cable.
- Power (USB-C): Connect the provided USB-C power cable for stable operation, especially with high-resolution displays or power-hungry USB devices.
- Top Panel:
- Switch Button: Press to switch between PC1 and PC2.
- LED Indicators (Green/Blue): Indicates which computer is currently active (Green for PC1, Blue for PC2).
4. Setup Instructions
Follow these steps to set up your ABLEWE 2-Port HDMI KVM Switch:
- Connect Peripherals to KVM Output:
- Connect your USB keyboard to the 'Keyboard Output' port on the KVM switch.
- Connect your USB mouse to the 'Mouse Output' port on the KVM switch.
- Connect your HDMI monitor to the 'Monitor Output' port on the KVM switch using an HDMI cable.
- Connect PC1 to KVM Input:
- Using one of the provided USB 2.0 cables, connect a USB-A port on PC1 to the 'PC1-USB' port on the KVM switch.
- Using one of the provided HDMI cables, connect the HDMI output of PC1 to the 'PC1-HDMI' port on the KVM switch.
- Connect PC2 to KVM Input:
- Using the second provided USB 2.0 cable, connect a USB-A port on PC2 to the 'PC2-USB' port on the KVM switch.
- Using the second provided HDMI cable, connect the HDMI output of PC2 to the 'PC2-HDMI' port on the KVM switch.
- Connect Power (Optional but Recommended):
- Connect the provided USB-C power cable to the 'Power' port on the KVM switch and to a 5V 2A USB power adapter (not included) or a powered USB port. This ensures stable performance, especially with high-resolution displays or multiple USB devices.
Figure 4.1: Visual guide for connecting your devices to the KVM Switch.
Figure 4.2: Connecting the USB-C power cable for enhanced stability.
5. Operating Instructions
Operating the ABLEWE 2-Port HDMI KVM Switch is straightforward:
- Power On: Ensure both connected computers are powered on.
- Initial Connection: Upon initial connection, the KVM switch will automatically detect the active computer and display its output on the monitor. The corresponding LED indicator (Green for PC1, Blue for PC2) will illuminate.
- Switching Computers: To switch between PC1 and PC2, simply press the large circular 'Switch Button' located on the top of the KVM device. The LED indicator will change color to reflect the newly active computer.
- Driver-Free Operation: The KVM switch is designed for driver-free operation on Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS. Simply plug in your devices, and the system should recognize them automatically.
Figure 5.1: One-button switching and LED indicators for active PC.
Video 5.1: Demonstration of the ABLEWE KVM Switch in action, showing connections and switching between computers.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your KVM switch, please refer to the following common solutions:
- No Display or Flickering Screen:
- Ensure all HDMI and USB cables are securely connected to both the KVM switch and your computers/monitor.
- Try using different HDMI cables, as faulty cables can cause display issues.
- Connect the USB-C power cable to the KVM switch and a 5V 2A power source. Insufficient power can lead to unstable video signals, especially with 4K resolution.
- Verify that your monitor supports the resolution and refresh rate (e.g., 4K@60Hz) being output by your computers.
- If applications move to a different monitor after switching (common on Windows), this is often a software behavior and not a KVM fault. Adjust display settings on your PC to manage window placement.
- Keyboard or Mouse Not Responding:
- Ensure the keyboard and mouse are plugged into the dedicated 'Keyboard Output' and 'Mouse Output' ports on the KVM switch.
- Check the USB connections from the KVM switch to both PC1 and PC2.
- Some wireless keyboard/mouse combos may require their receiver to be plugged into the dedicated mouse or keyboard port, or sometimes a general USB port if available.
- On Mac OS, if a "Keyboard Setup Assistant" window appears, simply quit it. This is a common prompt when a new keyboard is detected, even if it's the same one via the KVM.
- Slow Switching Time:
- A switching time of 3-5 seconds is normal for this type of KVM switch as it re-establishes connections.
- Intermittent Functionality:
- Ensure the KVM switch is receiving adequate power via the USB-C power port.
- Avoid connecting USB hubs directly to the KVM's peripheral ports, as this can sometimes cause instability. Connect peripherals directly.
- Rebooting the computers and the KVM switch (by unplugging and replugging the power cable) can often resolve temporary glitches.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | KVM-Switches |
| Brand | ABLEWE |
| Connector Type | HDMI, USB |
| Number of Ports | 2 (for computers) |
| Video Resolution Support | UHD 4K@60Hz, 4K@30Hz, 3D, 1080P and lower |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP, Mac OS, Linux, Chrome OS |
| Control Method | Push Button |
| Power Input | USB-C (5V 2A recommended for stable performance) |
| Item Dimensions (L x W x H) | 7.87 x 4.72 x 1.18 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.6 ounces |
| Color | Black |
8. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your KVM switch, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Keep the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
- Avoid exposing the switch to moisture or liquids.
- Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Ensure cables are not bent sharply or under excessive tension to prevent damage to the connectors or internal wiring.
9. Warranty and Support
ABLEWE provides lifetime technical support for this KVM switcher. If you encounter any problems or have questions, please contact ABLEWE customer service for assistance.
