kvm
KVM Troubleshooting: How to Solve Resolution & Refresh Rates
Troubleshooting Key Takeaways for KVM Display Issues
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KVM switch resolution issues are often caused by cheap adapters or monitor limits, not the KVM.
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Check your monitor’s manual for true specs; manufacturers may advertise misleading refresh rates.
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Use quality adapters from the Avico Approved Adapter List.
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Adjust display settings in Windows and Mac to fix KVM display resolution issues.
Introduction: Fixing Your KVM Display Problems
If your monitor isn’t displaying correctly with your KVM switch, it’s likely a refresh rate or resolution issue. These problems often arise from using low-quality adapters or when the monitor’s HDMI ports are limited. Thankfully, these issues are usually easy to fix.
In the video below, we'll quickly explain the problem and give you simple steps to resolve it:
Step 1: Check Your KVM Monitor Compatibility
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Look up your monitor’s instruction manual.
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Important: Manufacturers often advertise high refresh rates but only support them at lower resolutions. Be sure to check your monitor’s manual to confirm what refresh rates are actually supported at your desired resolution.
Step 2: Verify Your KVM Adapters for Display Issues
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Low-quality adapters can cause KVM switch resolution problems by limiting the signal quality.
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Use adapters that meet the necessary specifications for your setup. To avoid these issues, check out the Avico Approved Adapter List.
Step 3: Inspect Your KVM Setup for Resolution Problems
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Ensure all cables are securely connected to the KVM switch and monitors.
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If you're using the Avico 2x2 Dual Monitor KVM, make sure you’ve followed the setup instructions provided.
Step 4: Adjust Your Display Settings for KVM Troubleshooting
On Windows:
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Right-click your desktop and select "Display Settings."
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Scroll down and click "Advanced display settings."
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From there, choose your refresh rate from the dropdown and make sure it matches your monitor's specs.
On Mac:
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Go to System Preferences > Displays.
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Hold the Option key and click "Scaled" to see additional options.
Mac users have more limited refresh rates, but you can check what's available by opening Terminal and typing the following command. This will show you all supported resolutions and refresh rates.
system_profiler SPDisplaysDataType | grep Resolution
Helpful KVM Troubleshooting Resources
Need more help with your KVM switch setup? Check out these guides for detailed, step-by-step instructions:
Next Steps in KVM Troubleshooting
If these steps didn’t solve the issue, visit our guides linked above for further troubleshooting. We’ve provided detailed articles to help you make the most out of your KVM switch setup.