Dilemma: You run a small business, have four computers running different operating systems and applications, but only have space for one monitor, mouse and keyboard.

Solution: The new Masterview four-port KVMP switch from ATEN Technology.

I've been playing with the Masterview CS-1764 ($299.99), which is now tucked away in a corner of my computer desk and allowing me to switch between four computers at the push of a button.

The unit comes with four DVI-D cables and allows you to share a flat screen monitor, two USB devices (printers, scanners, etc.), a mouse, keyboard and multimedia audio with up to four PCs or Macs. Also every DVI cable comes with USB and audio connections allowing you to use specific devices connected to each computer. You can even share a digital camera.

The only drawback here is that this model only allows you to use DVI (digital visual interface) cables, so only those of you who have computers with DVI interfaces and flat screen LCD or plasma monitors need apply.

Other features include:

• Computer selection from front panel switches or hotkeys.
• Independent PC, peripheral and audio functions, regardless of which computer you select.
• It's USB 1.1 compliant (not 2.0).
• It supports transfer rates of up to 12 megabytes per second.
• It can monitor all four computers in autoscan mode.
• It supports Windows and Macintosh operating systems.
• The firmware is upgradeable. Just attach the upgrade cable.
• It can handle up to 1600 x 1200 video resolution without a problem.

For more information, or to find a KVM switch that can handle standard VGA or SVGA monitors, check out the company's Web site at www.aten-usa.com.

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