IOGEAR Announces USB Laptop KVM Switch

 IOGEAR, makers of connectivity products that link up USB, video, and networking devices, has just announced their latest KVM Switch. KVM (short for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse) is a hardware and software technology solution that allows you to control multiple computers from one set of peripherals. This new USB Laptop KVM switch connects to any two computers via USB (laptop-to-laptop, PC-to-PC, or laptop-to-PC), so you can control one system from the other as a console. The software embedded in the Switch's firmware adjusts for desktop resolution scaling and also facilitates drag-and-drop file transfers via a shared temporary window. An extra USB 2.0 port on the switch allows for extra device sharing, such as with an external hard drive. No extra power supply is required, and the entire cable stretches a total of nine feet (three feet on one end, six on the other). The USB Laptop KVM Switch goes on sale today for $129.95.

Irvine, CA – August 25, 2008 – Consumers can now easily access another computer using their laptop with IOGEAR’s USB Laptop KVM Switch. The product is the first KVM switch that enables a laptop to replace the traditional keyboard, mouse and monitor on a second computer. The product is on display at RetailVision, August 25-28, 2008, at booth #603.

For on-the-go users, the USB Laptop KVM Switch provides file transfers and convenient switching between a desktop or a secondary laptop. The product simply connects two computers via USB 2.0 ports and enables individuals to manage both computers with the laptop. The product also comes with built-in file transfer utility software that lets consumers drag and drop files or create backup copies between machines.

In addition, the USB Laptop KVM Switch contains an integrated USB 2.0 port to connect devices, such as printers, scanners, external hard drives, digital cameras, speakers, MP3 players and Webcams, which users can access directly from the laptop. Using a laptop as the console eliminates energy- and space-consuming desktop keyboards, monitors and mice. The USB Laptop KVM Switch also features desktop scaling that modifies the desktop computer’s resolution to be compatible with a laptop screen.

“Our USB Laptop KVM Switch provides laptop users a simple space- and device-saving solution compared with traditional KVM switches. It also makes file sharing easy, sparing users from having to set up a network,” said Miranda Su, executive vice
president at IOGEAR. “We strive to develop innovative technologies that address growing consumer needs. The laptop is the preferred device for mobile computing and we make it easier for road warriors to bridge the gap between their on-the-go, home and work lives.”

The USB Laptop KVM Switch is compatible with Windows® 2000, XP and Vista operating systems. The product is available immediately for $129.95 MSRP from all major catalog and online resellers, as well as select retail outlets.