Computer Switch Boxes Key Terms

Know key terms when you shop for computer switch boxes

Computer switch boxes are any of a number of different devices that allow a computer to connect to two or more devices using the same port. The term can also refer to a device that allows a computer the ability to connect to one or more devices.

In order to make sense of computer switch boxes, you need to know the difference between the various kinds, such as A/B switch boxes and KVM switches. It's also helpful to know the various kinds of connectors and what they connect, including parallel, serial, USB and VGA connectors.

 

A/B switch box

Also known as a manual switch box, an A/B switch box lets you switch between two devices, one connected to the "A" side of the box and the other connected to the "B" side. Most of these devices share parallel or serial devices, since USB hubs can connect many USB devices and share them automatically.
Try: Find a definition of an A/B switch box and other computer terms at Skeeterbytes.

KVM switch box

The letters KVM stand for keyboard, video and mouse. Thus, a KVM switch box is a device that lets you use one keyboard, mouse and monitor to control more than one computer.
Try: Find an explanation of a KVM switch box at Acnodes.com.

VGA cables

VGA, short for video graphics array, is a type of cable that connects a computer to a monitor. This type of connector generally has 15 pins or holes, depending on which end you are looking at.
Try: Check out a glossary of technical terms, including VGA connector, at PlayTool by Mark Allen.

Ports

There are several connectors,often called ports, for computer switch boxes including parallel and serial cables. Parallel cables are bulky cables that you can use to connect a computer to many older style printers. You can use serial cables to connect to many types of devices, including printers, modems, digital cameras and external drives. Newer USB technology is replacing both of these types of cables, but if you have an older device, you may see these types of connectors.
Try: Find a list of types of connections for computers and home audio/visual systems, with their definitions and photos, at Crutchfield New Media.

PS/2 connectors

PS/2 is one of the most confusing connectors because of its name, which is similar to that of an old-fashioned line of computers and also to a type of video game console. This type of connector, however, was standard for keyboards and mice until recently, so if you have an older keyboard or mouse, they probably connect to the computer with one of these.
Try: See a description of a PS/2 connector, including a diagram, at Obsessable.

USB connector

USB stands for universal serial bus, but it looks nothing like the old-fashioned serial cable. One thing this technology has in common with its bulkier predecessor is the ability for two-way communication. You can use USB connectors of various sizes to connect many modern devices, from digital cameras and printers to newer keyboards and mice.
Try: Get a definition of USB connector at PCTechGuide.

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