SmartAVI DVNET-4P: 4-in-1 DVI-D/USB 2.0/Audio KVM Switch

The DVNET-4P is a versatile, cross‑platform 4×1 KVM switch designed to let you share a single DVI monitor, USB 2.0 keyboard and mouse, and stereo audio between four computers with effortless precision. Engineered for professional environments, it supports Mac, PC, Linux, and Sun systems, delivering reliable performance for workstations, data centers, classrooms, and digital signage deployments. With RS-232 and infrared compatibility, remote management via software is practical and scalable, enabling smooth control from a distance or integrated into automated workflows. Whether you’re consolidating multiple servers or pairing a handful of workstations in a compact desk setup, the DVNET-4P delivers crisp video, responsive input devices, and clear audio in a simple, organized package.

• Seamless multi‑computer sharing — Operate up to four computers from a single DVI monitor, USB keyboard and mouse, and stereo audio. Use front‑panel buttons, keyboard hotkeys, IR remote, or RS‑232 commands to switch between sources quickly, reducing downtime and boosting productivity in busy control rooms or development labs.
• High‑quality video and audio — Supports DVI‑D video with strong EDID handling to preserve display quality at your chosen resolution. The built‑in audio path enables stereo sound from any connected computer to be routed through the shared audio outputs, ensuring a synchronized multimedia experience across all devices connected to the switch.
• USB 2.0 HID support — Share your USB keyboard and mouse with four different computers without reconnecting cables. The DVNET‑4P provides reliable USB 2.0 compatibility for fast, responsive peripheral input, plus broad compatibility with modern keyboards, mice, and other USB Human Interface Devices.
• Flexible control options — Choose from multiple control methods to match your workflow: front‑panel push buttons for instant port selection, hotkeys for quick keyboard switching, IR remote for convenient remote operation, and RS‑232 for integration with automation software or centralized management systems.
• Cross‑platform compatibility — Designed to work across Mac, PC, Linux, and Sun systems, ensuring broad interoperability in mixed environments. This makes the DVNET‑4P an ideal solution for workstations, labs, and enterprise networks that rely on diverse operating systems.

Technical Details of SmartAVI DVNET-4P

• Video and peripherals — 4× DVI‑D inputs to connect four computers, 1× DVI‑D output to drive a shared monitor; USB 2.0 interface for keyboard and mouse; stereo audio path for universal speaker or headset output.
• Control interfaces — Front‑panel push buttons, AI‑friendly hotkeys, IR remote control, and RS‑232 serial control for remote management and automation integration.
• Resolution support — High‑definition video up to standard PC monitor resolutions suitable for most business, educational, and creative applications (commonly up to 1920×1200); EDID pass‑through helps maintain display fidelity.
• Power and connectivity — External power supply required to operate the switch and maintain stable performance across all ports; dedicated cables connect each computer’s DVI, USB HID, and audio lines to the DVNET‑4P for reliable switching.
• Platform compatibility — Mac, PC, Linux, and Sun systems are supported, enabling heterogeneous environments to share a single display and input peripherals seamlessly.
• Management and automation — RS‑232 and IR control enable integration with remote software and automation workflows; remote software access provides convenient, centralized device management in larger deployments.
• Physical design — Compact, rack‑friendly chassis designed to fit onto desks or within equipment racks, with a straightforward cable layout to minimize clutter in busy AV or IT spaces.

How to install SmartAVI DVNET-4P

Setting up the DVNET‑4P is straightforward and designed to minimize downtime. Follow these practical steps to achieve reliable cross‑platform sharing of a single display and peripherals among four computers.

• Connect your display: Attach the DVI cable from your monitor to the DVNET‑4P’s DVI‑D output. Ensure the monitor is configured to the preferred resolution and refresh rate that your operating systems will support.
• Link the computers: Use four DVI cables to connect each computer’s graphics card to one of the DVNET‑4P’s DVI‑D inputs. This creates the four source channels that will be selectable via the switch.
• Attach peripherals: Connect a USB keyboard and USB mouse to the DVNET‑4P’s USB ports. If your setup uses multiple USB devices, you can share a USB hub per your device’s capabilities, keeping essential USB HID devices connected for all computers.
• Route audio: Connect each computer’s audio output to the DVNET‑4P’s corresponding audio inputs if available, and connect the switch’s audio output to your speakers or amplifier. This ensures synchronized audio across the selected computer source when you switch inputs.
• Power and boot: Connect the external power supply to the DVNET‑4P and power on the device. Power on all connected computers. Given EDID and hot‑plug behavior, allow a moment for the system to stabilize as devices negotiate display settings.
• Switching and verification: Use the front‑panel buttons to cycle through the four input sources, or use your chosen control method (hotkeys, IR remote, or RS‑232) to validate that video, audio, and USB HID inputs switch cleanly between computers. Confirm stable display and responsive input on each active source by performing a quick task, such as opening a document or web page on each computer in turn.
• Software and integration (optional): If your workflow requires centralized control, install or configure the remote software that interfaces with the DVNET‑4P via RS‑232. This enables scheduling, automated switching, or integration with a broader AV/IT management system. Ensure you follow your software provider’s instructions for establishing comms with the KVM switch.
• Maintenance tips: Keep cables neatly arranged to reduce strain on ports. Periodically check for firm connections and test the switch’s hotkey and remote control functions. If you encounter resolution issues, verify the EDID settings or try a different USB port for the keyboard/mouse to rule out peripheral compatibility problems.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the DVNET‑4P best used for? It is ideal for environments where four separate computers must share a single display, USB keyboard and mouse, and stereo audio—such as server rooms, design studios, classrooms, and multi‑seat workstations—while preserving input responsiveness and display quality.
• Which operating systems are supported? The DVNET‑4P supports Mac, PC, Linux, and Sun systems, making it suitable for mixed‑OS environments. Always verify driver and hardware compatibility for USB HID peripherals on your specific OS version.
• Can I control the switch remotely? Yes. The device offers RS‑232 control and infrared (IR) remote compatibility, enabling software‑driven management and integration with automation workflows. You can also use front‑panel controls and hotkeys for local operation.
• What resolutions can I expect? The DVNET‑4P supports high‑definition DVI‑D video, typically up to 1920×1200, with EDID pass‑through to help ensure the monitor negotiates the best common resolution across all connected computers. Check your monitor’s capabilities to confirm the exact supported modes.
• Do I need an external power supply? Yes. An external power supply is required to operate the switch and maintain stable performance across all four input sources.
• Is audio sharing supported? Yes. The unit routes stereo audio from any connected computer to the shared speakers or audio system, enabling synchronized audio when switching sources.
• Is it possible to upgrade or expand beyond four devices? The DVNET‑4P is designed as a fixed 4‑port cross‑point KVM switch. If you require more sources, you would need a different model with a higher port count or a modular solution.
• Will EDID affect display quality? EDID pass‑through helps maintain the best possible display settings by communicating the monitor’s capabilities to the selected computer. If problems arise, you can usually adjust EDID behavior via the control options or software interface.
• Is there software available for management? Remote software options are available for integration with automation systems, making it easier to script or schedule input switching in larger deployments. Refer to your product’s documentation for compatible software and installation steps.