KVM Switch Setup Diagrams: How to Connect 2 or 3 Computers to 1, 2, or 4 Monitors

If you're trying to manage multiple computers with one keyboard, mouse, and set of monitors — and you're not sure what works together — you're in the right place.

If you use multiple computers and want one setup to manage them all, the Avico KVM Switch can do it. It lets you control up to two computers directly — and with the right setup, even three — using one keyboard, one mouse, and up to two shared monitors. With additional connections, it can also support up to four monitors total.

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What the Avico KVM Switch Does for Mac, Windows, and Docking Stations

Looking for a KVM switch that works with a docking station, webcam, and dual monitors across Mac and Windows? The Avico KVM Switch was built to solve those exact problems for remote workers and home offices.

• Dual monitor extended display on both systems
• Mac, Windows, and Linux
• USB webcams, microphones, speakers, and storage
• Wireless keyboard and mouse using a USB dongle
• 4K video at 60Hz through HDMI 2.0

You can also connect a third computer or a fourth monitor by using a dock or manual HDMI switch alongside the Avico unit.

Setup Diagrams Using the Avico KVM Switch

1. 2 Computers, 1 Monitor

Use Case: You want to switch one monitor and one set of USB devices between two computers.

Diagram:

• Connect HDMI 1 from each computer to the KVM
• Leave HDMI 2 ports unused
• Plug your monitor into the KVM HDMI output
• Connect your keyboard, mouse, and USB devices to the USB ports on the KVM

2. 2 Computers, 2 Monitors (Dual Monitor KVM Switch Setup)

Use Case: You want full extended display on both computers and to switch both screens together.

Diagram:

• Connect HDMI A and HDMI B from each computer to the KVM
• Connect two monitors to the HDMI outputs
• Plug your USB devices into the KVM

4. 2 Computers, 3 Monitors (Triple Monitor Setup with Two KVMs)

Use Case: You want to switch all three monitors and your USB devices between two computers, using two KVMs. The second KVM only handles one monitor instead of two.

Diagram:

• Connect HDMI A and HDMI B from each computer to the main KVM (Monitors 1 and 2)
• Connect a third HDMI from each computer to the second KVM (Monitor 3 only)
• Connect Monitor 1 and Monitor 2 to the main KVM’s HDMI outputs
• Connect Monitor 3 to the second KVM
• Plug all USB devices into the main KVM
• Press the switch button on both KVMs to toggle between systems

All three monitors switch between both computers. USB devices follow the main KVM.

3. 2 Computers, 4 Monitors (Advanced KVM Setup with Docking Station)

Use Case: You want to use four total monitors, two for each computer. This setup gives full extended display across all monitors.

Diagram:

• Each computer needs 4 video connections. Desktops usually have these; laptops will need a docking station.
• Connect HDMI 1 and 2 from each computer to both KVMs (4 HDMI total)
• Each KVM controls 2 monitors (total of 4)
• Plug your USB devices into one KVM only
• Press the switch button on both KVMs to switch

This configuration gives you full control of four monitors with USB devices following the active system.

4. 3 Computers, 2 Monitors (Multi-Computer KVM Configuration)

Use Case: You want to switch between three computers using two shared monitors and one set of USB devices.

Diagram:

• Connect Computer 1 directly to KVM A (main)
• Connect Computers 2 and 3 to KVM B (secondary)
• Connect HDMI and USB outputs from KVM B to an input on KVM A
• Connect monitors and USB peripherals to KVM A

How it works: Use KVM A to toggle between Computer 1 and KVM B. Then use KVM B to toggle between Computer 2 and 3. USB and monitors follow the selected system.

If your setup is more complex, submit your device list and we’ll send you a step-by-step plan.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• USB devices won't switch? Be sure they’re plugged into the KVM's USB ports, not just the monitor.
• Using Bluetooth? Use a USB dongle instead to ensure full switching.
• Using HDMI adapters? Most are one-direction only. Confirm the input/output direction.
• Mac user? You may need a DisplayLink dock to enable two external displays.

Get Setup Help for Your Dual Monitor KVM Configuration

Each Avico KVM Switch includes a step-by-step guide and labeled ports. If you're using one of the advanced setups — like four monitors or three computers — we recommend checking with us first.

Need help? We’ll review your devices and send you a custom setup plan. No guessing, no trial and error.

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