IOGEAR has taken several significant steps in offering consumers eco-friendly and green products and as a company we remain committed to our responsibility to the environment.

A key product line that assists in these efforts is our KVM line. Not only are these products convenient for you, but they save on waste and energy by eliminating the need for excess gadgets and the amount of energy running through them!
By allowing users to control several devices with our KVM offerings, IOGEAR has eliminated the need for nearly 30 million keyboards, mice and other excess products.

Here’s what we’ve accomplished in 2008 – aggressively removing harmful chemicals such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and brominate flame retardants (BFR), from our products. Our solutions are now 80% free of these substances. We have worked hard to ensure 70% of all IOGEAR products are Energy Star or CEC compliant. Additionally, the majority of IOGEAR product packages are made from recycled materials and plastic without UV coating and all marketing collateral is made from recycled materials and soy and vegetable based inks.

We also remain committed to our Road to a Million Tree program in which we will plant a tree for every product sold on IOGEAR.com and through our GREEN initiative partners we will plant two trees for every KVM product sold.

We can’t wait to see the results of our green campaigns in 2009!

What gadgets help you stay green?

Cheers,
The IOGEAR Team

As the price of computers continues to fall and computer performance increases, what does this mean for consumers? Many dated computers are set aside, stored in closets, basements or even garages when they still have plenty of life left to them.

Utilizing a KVM switch – an acronym for keyboard, video and mouse – is one way to breathe some fresh air into the life of an older or non-utilized computer without the expense of upgrading. At the core, a KVM switch allows you to share a keyboard, monitor and mouse amongst multiple computers and switch between computers at the touch of a button or with a keyboard shortcut.

KVM switches have been utilized in the business world for years as they are an extremely efficient way to monitor banks of servers oftentimes tucked in small cabinets with no room for multiple monitors or the confusing mess of endless keyboards and mice. 16-port KVM’s can be daisy chained to each other for up to 256 connections allowing ultimate control. KVMs are great solutions for businesses, and now the technology has trickled into the home, and for very good reasons.

Home computers serve many purposes and for today’s children they are one of the best interactive learning tools available. Allowing children on a home computer opens up risks for accidentally deleted files, documents and folders moved to the wrong place or other unintentional errors. With an older unused tower, a simple 2-port KVM with remote is a perfect solution.

Simply connect the keyboard, mouse and monitor to the KVM switch, then take the set of wires coming off the side and plug one into the main computer and the other into the older computer for the kids. A remote button can be mounted under a desk, away from their view to switch between computers. When the kids want to use a computer, simply touch the button on the remote and the keyboard and mouse will control their computer using the same monitor. This is an easy way to keep them off your computer and eliminates the fear of them screwing something up by accident.

The other advantage is cost savings. With KVMs there is no need to purchase an extra monitor for a second computer, thus saving money and energy consumption over time.

Utilizing KVM switches isn’t just restricted to connecting your old computer up with your current monitor for space and money savings, they can be used for other purposes too. Netbooks have recently become one of the biggest new markets for computer manufactures because of their low prices and ultra-portable design. The upside to netbooks, their ultra-compact design, is also their downfall. Most netbooks have a screen smaller than 10 inches which is great for quickly checking email or Web sites on the go, but not so much fun if you have an hour or two of email to read or need to view a Google map at a decent size.

By using a KVM for laptops users can connect netbooks and laptops to an external monitor, allowing them to easily use a larger screen when at the office or home. This particular switch also comes with software and an on-screen menu to easily transfer files between your home / work computer and netbook or laptop, perfect for migrating data from a day in the field onto the destination computer. The small size of the KVM fits unobtrusively into any laptop or netbook bag.

KVM switches are one of most efficient ways to utilize multiple computers, expand existing computers to span monitors and enhance a portable computer without the need to purchase extra hardware. This is a direct cost savings and users can give life to older or under utilized computers and add productivity to their workflow.

The search for the ultimate game-changer in technology is still on, many have tried, but where we use our apps has changed more than the apps themselves lately. Six months ago we did a roundup covering several popular models of what we consider the game-changer of 2009, Netbooks. Here we update what we found in our previous roundup and then look at the hardware you need to get the most out of your Netbook experience.

Bridging the gap between smart phone and laptop computer, these lightweight, ultra-portable, power-house Netbooks are finding a way into more homes, offices, briefcases and purses this year. One of the front-runners from the Netbook roundup was the Dell Mini 9. Partly due to a large advertising budget combined with funky colors and the ability to run OS X software, sales of them quickly took off.

Dell had so much success with the Mini 9 they launched the Mini 10 and Mini 12 (though the Mini 12 was discontinued), with more colors and configurable options. Solid state hard drives continue to grow in size but drop in price, increasing value, along with other features found in these Netbooks. The Mini 9 starts at about $230 for a feature-rich computer and has stayed aggressively priced, compared to the market, while the Mini 10 weighs in near $300.

Asus, a pioneer in the Netbook space, continues to dominate the market with the Eee PC. With more than twenty models currently available in sizes ranging from 7” to 10” and now a new touch-screen tablet, Asus continues to move forward with innovative design and development.

While new technology is implemented into Asus Netbooks to make them thinner, lighter, faster, have more storage and better graphics, the price has stabilized at around the $200-250 level. Considering an unlocked smart phone often runs twice this price and full sized laptops can be double or triple the price, the value in these Netbooks really starts to shine through.

The aggressive pricing of the major Netbook manufactures continues to push smaller companies to offer unique features, special promotions or try to carve a niche out for themselves. BenQ released a selection of Netbook / laptop hybrids in the 12” range, bridging the gap between the 10” Netbooks and 14” laptops. Better known for memory, OCZ Technology released a 10” DIY Netbook called the Neutrino, aimed at being more customizable. Some assembly is required, but this was done on purpose to keep the price down.

Netbooks can be so much more than a bridge between smart phone and desktop computer. The Asus touch-screen tablet is evidence of that, with the ability to easily show clients work, share the screen and let the ideas flow through.

Keeping your Netbook in sync with your home and office computer is often required, and the USB Laptop KVM is the perfect accessory to help facilitate this. An on-screen manager lets you access either computer to share files when connected via the USB adapters and you can utilize the full sized desktop monitor from your Netbook too. Small, sleek and unobtrusive, this KVM is an essential additional to both home and office settings.

Maximize your Netbook’s screen with a Wireless Audio / Video Kit, making a 9 or 10” screen 54” within minutes. This breakthrough product uses ultra wide-band (UWB) technology to transmit 720p HD video from your Netbook to your HD television or monitor, wirelessly! Streaming your favorite movies, TV shows and music from your Netbook now makes it a home media center that you can control right from your couch, up to 30’ away.


Keep a clean and clutter free workspace, living room and office by eliminating Netbook cable clutter. Adding a Wireless USB Hub & Adapter can transform your Netbook into a serious wireless workhorse, without tripping over cables. Installation is simple and straightforward and will allow the connectivity of USB powered devices from up to 30’ feet away. Attach a printer, scanner, hard drive and just about anything else that’s USB powered and never worry about a tangled cord mess on or under your desk again. Because all that gets plugged into the Netbook is a USB transmitter, picking up the Netbook and taking it with you is easy, and syncing to the USB devices when you come back is a snap.

Like most new products to the marketplace, Netbooks are still finding their way into our lives and will endure more changes, features, size and configurations to meet our needs. Less and less 7” models are available because users deemed them too small to use, while the eight and nine-inch models become top sellers. Users are also realizing that having a 500 GB hard drive in a super-portable isn’t always needed, especially when utilizing products like the USB Laptop KVM to off-load and transfer files, or attaching an external hard drive to a Wireless USB Hub. Integrating, utilizing and maximizing your Netbook with IOGEAR products allows you to be more productive at home and in the office with less wasted time, which is always the goal and now it is easier than ever.

IOGEAR recently launched a Web page dedicated to consumers looking for a solution to control and work on two separate PCs – with one being a laptop, or netbook – at the same time through one screen, keyboard and mouse.

The USB Laptop KVM Switch provides users the ability to save money, space and resources by consolidating multiple computers into one as well as increasing the efficiency and performance of the computer with the switch.

The new site provides users with a gallery of product photos as well as lifestyle examples of how to use it, a list of all the features, technical details and a clear description of how the product works.

For more information on how the USB Laptop KVM Switch works, please see the setup description here.

Check it out and let us know what you think about the technology!

Cheers,
The IOGEAR Team

IOGEAR’s USB Laptop KVM Switch allows users the convenience of controlling a second computer without the hassle of extra cords, re-configuring their home network or installing expensive software that can slow down their computers.

Customers can simply pull the device from the box and plug one end into the main PC’s USB port and the other end into the second PC’s USB port, no matter if it’s desktop to desktop, desktop to laptop, desktop to Netbook, laptop to desktop or laptop to Netbook.

The USB Laptop KVM Switch is revolutionizing the industry as it’s the first-of-its-kind for its design for end consumers with multiple PCs especially the mobile user.

Watch this video and see how easy it is. All you have to do is plug it in; it’s that versatile and easy!

How would you use the USB Laptop KVM Switch?

Cheers,
The IOGEAR team

KVM customers’ needs run the gamut and so do the various products available in this category. IOGEAR alone offers a variety of options for customers depending on their needs and whether the KVM is for the home or for the office.

We provide consumers with affordable, easy-to-use KVMs so that they can effectively control multiple computers in their home. These products are straightforward and allow the users to seamlessly control their computers with this innovative technology.

Many companies also use KVMs to cut down on costs, by allowing several different computers to be controlled by one monitor, one keyboard and one mouse. Businesses utilize KVMs in order to consolidate, control and manage their technology.

This article may offer more insight into how KVMs work.

Also, visit the IOGEAR site for more information about the various types of KVMs. Check out this KVM Product Selector and see which KVM best matches your household set-up.

Would you utilize a KVM more at the workplace or in your home?

Cheers!
The IOGEAR team

Many homes and businesses need to operate multiple computers or servers to accomplish daily and operational tasks. The challenge is when one needs to monitor and use many computers in one location while conserving space and increasing efficiency.

Even with today’s thin flat panel monitors, putting a dozen in one location can be overwhelming, not to mention keyboards and mice sprawled all over the desk. The solution for this problem is rather elegant, a keyboard video mouse switch, often referred to as a KVM switch for short.

Pictured: GCS1716KIT

KVMs consolidate many computers to run off one common monitor, mouse and keyboard, switching between computers via a pushbuttons on the front of the device, an On Screen Display (OSD), or with hotkeys on the keyboard. IOGEAR offers this solution with an added advantage. Cascading, with the 16 port KVM you can cascade 2 levels and connect up to 16 KVMs to centrally control up to 256 computers from one station (a.k.a. console).

Custom ASIC provides auto-sensing of computer positions; so no manual DIP switches need to be set.

This KVM can control legacy equipped units with PS/2 ports or modern computers with USB ports and is fully cross-platform compatible, supporting Windows, Mac, Linux and Sun Solaris systems. It’s also rack-mountable and will only take up a 1U spot in your rack. The GCS1716KIT’s additional value is its included cables which make it a complete out-of-the-box solution.

LED lights on the front panel indicate what computers are powered on and what the active computer is. A USB port on the front of the KVM can be used for system upgrades or to easily share a peripheral, such as external hard drive. The KVM provides a maximum display resolution of 2048 x 1536, meaning even graphic designers can utilize this switch.

In cramped server closets, utilizing a KVM is essential; IOGEAR’s solution requires the least amount of space with the most expandability. Mounting this in a standard 19” 1U rack slot means keeping the unit right in line with your other servers. For home users running several computers on one desk, a KVM would create desk space by removing the number of duplicate peripherals (keyboards / mice) taking up space.

Added benefits include a reduced energy bill since only one monitor is needed, increased productivity and an easier, more efficient way to streamline computer management and operations.

Right now the hottest term in computers is Netbook, it’s a combination of Internet and Notebook, and generally refers to laptop computers that have smaller than a 10” screen. For the most part, Netbooks are primarily used for browsing the Internet, email and intended to be small enough to take anywhere.

There is a sacrifice to be made with them, and that is generally in terms of a much slower processor compared to a full sized laptop, smaller hard drives, less RAM and usually a condensed keyboard. Most Netbooks come in well under $500 though, so they are attractive to someone who needs to accomplish a little more than their Blackberry or iPhone can do, but doesn’t’ want to haul their full sized laptop around.

Some interesting features on Netbooks coming out also include facial recognition software for security, built in card readers and built in 3G Internet connections though various mobile cellular phone services.

Following is a roundup of some of the most popular Netbooks on the market today.

MSI Wind

Among the leaders of the pack is the MSI Wind U123H. With a 10” screen, it boasts one of the largest native resolutions of 1024×600. Compared with a 13.3” MacBook that runs at 1280×800, you realize you’re getting a lot of screen real estate for 10”. Other key features are an Intel Atom 1.66GHz processor, 1GB of onboard DDR2 RAM, a built in web cam for video chat, 4 in 1 card reader, 3G communication and Bluetooth. One of the most appealing aspects of the Wind is that it utilizes a standard sized 2.5” SATA internal hard drive, available in 80, 120 or 160GB configurations. This dwarfs some of the other Netbooks. All of this does come at a slight tradeoff though, weighing 2.2 pounds fully loaded, it’s slightly heavier than the competition.

Dell Inspiron Mini 9

The Dell Inspiron Mini 9 is one of the better known Netbooks with prices ranging from $249 for the entry level unit running Ubuntu Linux to well over $500 for a fully loaded unit with Windows XP. You’ll find a smaller screen than the MSI at only 8.9”, but the same 1024×600 screen resolution. Additionally, you will find the same DDR2 memory in the Mini 9, but only 512mb, no card reader, no 3G mobile broadband and a meek 8GB hard drive. In fairness, it is a solid-state hard drive, so battery life should be long (over 6 hours), but 8GB is barely enough to do, well anything with. Dell’s buying power and selling volume helps keep their prices lower than most others, but the lack of extra features is enough to make the lesser-known competition look really interesting.

Acer Aspire One

One of the most customizable and feature rich laptops is the Acer Aspire One, available in 8.9” or 10.1” configurations with enough options to make your head spin. Acer offers dozens of pre-configured models so it should be possible to fill your needs with just about anything they offer. The 8.9” version sports the same 1024×600 screen resolution as the Mini 9, comes pre-loaded with XP Home or the lesser known Linux distro Linpus, options for 120GB / 160GB SATA hard drive or 8GB / 16GB solid state drive, a slightly slower 1.60GHz Intel processor, 512MB of RAM, built in webcam, 3G connectivity and multi card reader. Depending on the configuration you get, battery charge times should last between 2.5 and 4 hours, and prices can range from $299 – $600+.

HP Mini 1000

The heaviest Netbooks of the bunch are the HP Mini 1000 collection, available in several different configurations, they start tipping the scales at 2.3lbs and go up from there. HP has done something unique in that they’ve rolled out their own operating system of sorts, called Mi, short for Mobile Internet, built on top of Linux. The goal is obviously to reduce the overall cost of the Netbook, but the buyer might not be ready to try a whole new interface, and just spend the extra money to get it loaded with Windows XP. Powered by Intel Atom processors, only having 60GB SATA hard drives as an option and lack of some of the other featured packed Netbooks out there, Mini 1000’s are the most lackluster of the bunch. It has a reader for SD cards, no 3g, no webcam and a weight that is 20% greater than most other Netbooks.

Asus Eee PC

If there was a grandfather to the Netbook revolution it would be the Asus Eee PC, offering cheap, small, feature rich Netbooks to the masses. Since their initial launch they’ve continued to lead the way in Netbooks, offering them in countless variations from 7, 9 and 10” versions, SATA and solid state hard drives, card readers, mobile broadband and battery life in some models that will exceed 8 hours. The Eee PC comes with Linux or XP operating systems and most feature the standard 1024×600 screen resolution. Prices also vary from sub $300 to well over $600 depending on configuration.

Accessories

The one thing that all of these Netbooks have in common is that they were not designed to be a primary computer. For the most part, they are intended to be a secondary, on-the-go computer to help you be more productive than a smart phone without the bulk of a full sized laptop. Since most Netbook users will have a need to offload data onto their primary computers on a regular basis, IOGEAR makes a USB Laptop KVM Switch with File Transfer. It allows the user to seamlessly control a secondary computer with a laptop as the console. An onscreen menu system allows you to easily transfer and backup data from one computer to the other and an extra USB port allows for another peripheral to be connected, such as an external hard drive.

Add an IOGEAR Wireless USB Hub and Adapter and you can put up to 30 feet between your Netbook and other devices, such as printers, scanners or external hard drives, to help eliminate cables and clutter. The Wireless USB Hub and Adapter will give you the freedom to move around your home office with your Netbook and still use all the devices you normally would.

Saving money and buying electronics are two ideas that do not necessarily go together. In a recession, it is important to make the right decisions about what to purchase.

Electronics are a part of everyday life, and recession or not, we can’t go without our gadgets. It never hurts to be a smart shopper, and there are some small things you can do to save money on your electronics.

Using the same monitor, keyboard, mouse and speakers for two computers will not only save you the expense of buying them, but also save on your energy bill by only using one monitor for both computers.

IOGEAR has KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switches that do just that! The MiniView USB KVM Switch with audio and cables can be tucked away on your desktop and easily connected to your computers, both Mac and PC.

If you are more mobile and have a laptop or one of those HOT netbooks, you can still utilize a KVM such as out USB Laptop KVM Switch. Our USB Laptop KVM Switch model #GCS661U is easy, fun and powerful at the same time to use. If you transfer files from your laptop to your PC or vice-versa often, there’s a great feature that makes it very simple and secure. Check out this video review to see how it works:

For additional information, see tips and advice on buying consumer electronics from AmazingTechProducts.com.

What kinds of electronics do you use that actually save money? Leave us a comment to let us know what you’re doing to be a smart electronics consumer.

Cheers,
The IOGEAR Team

Whether you read the morning paper, check your news online or head to an electronics store, you are likely hearing a lot of buzz about the latest trend in personal computing, Netbooks.

Netbooks are more compact than traditional laptops, and offer screen sizes ranging from 7” to 10” inches. These devices were created to allow users to utilize Internet browsing and email as well as other Web-based applications in a mobile setting. Netbooks are the perfect computing tool for on-the-go users as they are simple to use, affordable and easy to tote around (they typically don’t weigh more than three pounds).

Netbooks have emerged as the hot product for 2009, and because of that many devices have been created to work with these new computers.

IOGEAR offers the USB Laptop KVM Switch, which easily plugs into a USB port and allows for files to be transferred and copied between your Netbook and Desktop or main Laptop. Now, you don’t have to use the small screen of your Netbook when traveling. You can access documents and view your work from a larger monitor more securely, whether for work or personal use.

Other gadgets that come in handy when using Netbooks are Bluetooth adapters which are great solutions for mobile computing, external keyboards for using your Netbook at home or in the office like IOGEAR’s Spill-Resistant Desktop and external speakers in order to listen to audio from your computer.

For more information about Netbooks, check out this informative piece by GigaOM’s Kevin Tofel.

Cheers!
The IOGEAR team