I have a kvm switch vista lap and xp desktop stopped working

The GCS632U is just one KVM switch. But if you're going to check it out, it has actually two separate connections.

It will just switch once you toggle from one computer to another.

Try to power cycle the KVM switch.

1. Shut off both computers.
2. Disconnect the KVM switch from the computers. (make sure that not even a single cable is connected to the computer, even the audio).
3. Leave it disconnected for 10 minutes.
4. Reconnect the KVM and boot up the XP first.
5. Boot up the Vista, try to toggle from one computer to another.
6. LASTLY, shut off the Vista and see if same problem will occur.

If you get the same problem, then you need to contact IOGEAR and have them RMA the device. Because this is the first time that I heard of this problem.

Thank you and good luck!

If you are using a docking station with laptop try directly connecting the KVM cable to the laptop. Also try swapping the cables between the two computers to see if you have a problem with a bad KVM cable. If you have a bad KVM IOGear has a three year warranty on their KVMs and you should be able to contact them to get a replacement.

KVM are not the most reliable and will fail sometimes. The quickest way to get it back is to plug into a different USB port for the one that is active.

Most KVM switches does not have a driver. Because these devices are simply Plug-n-Play and does not require any driver installation.

What you need to do is to check the system requirements for every KVM switches before purchasing it.

Here's the fact:
- PS/2 KVM switches are designed for PS/2 computers keyboard and mouse

- USB KVM switches are designed to work with USB. Meaning, if you're going to use an adapter (PS/2 to USB), there's a big chance that your KVM might not work correctly.

- Most KVM switches does not work properly with docking stations.

- KVM switches are tested to work with wired keyboards and mice.

- You have to make sure that everything is properly connected to the computers if you want your KVM switch function properly.

- Lastly, update the USB driver of your computers (XP and Vista).

- Most KVMs has a firmware upgrade that you may find in manufacturer's Web site.

I think your best bet will be in the ubuntu question page. It has quite a lot of ubuntu info there.

Your switch box will need auxiliary power.

Your problem has nothing to do with the Operating System (Vista), it has something to do with the brand of your computer. I have similar problem before, I have Vista (Dell), but the time I connected another Vista (Sony Vaio), everything worked correctly.

This is what you need to do:

1. You have to make sure that you are using a standard USB keyboard and mouse.

2. Connect first the keyboard and mouse directly to the Vista computer to see if the USB ports of your computer are working properly.

3. You may power cycle the KVM switch by disconnecting it from the computers (including the keyboard and mouse) and leave it disconnected for 2 minutes.

4. Reconnect everything after two minutes and then reboot the computers.

5. Try using different USB keyboard if problem exist after power cycling the KVM switch.

MAYBE THE LAPTOP IS SUCKING THE JUICE FROM THE PORTS ON THE DESKTOP. 

According to their website, the driver is Vista compatible.

When you attempt to switch PC's, do they both stop responding, or just one?

Belkin.com....Switching software update.