SmartAVI DV-SW8S 8x1 DVI-D Switch with RS232 Control
Best multi-computer switch for professional workspaces needing centralized display management.
The SmartAVI DV-SW8S is an 8x1 DVI-D switch designed for seamless integration into professional environments. It allows you to effortlessly manage and view content from up to eight individual computers on a single DVI-D display. This versatile, cross-platform switch supports PC, Mac, Linux, and Sun signals, extending them up to 30 feet to the switch and another 30 feet to the monitor. Ideal for studios or workspaces where noise reduction and space efficiency are paramount, it provides noiseless operation and a cleaner setup.
$599.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
18
/ 149
#18 in DVI Splitters & Switches
Price vs Category Average
-73%
Below average
Input Ports
8
/ DVI-D Female
Who it's for
- AV technicians managing complex multi-source display setups
- System integrators requiring reliable remote automation control
- Professionals prioritizing high-fidelity digital signal transmission
Who should skip it
- Users relying on modern HDMI or DisplayPort hardware
- Content creators needing 4K or ultra-high-definition resolution
- Small-scale operations with limited equipment budgets
Performance breakdown
Input Capacity
Managing eight distinct sources provides exceptional density for complex professional workstations.
Control Versatility
Dual-mode switching via front panel or RS-232 offers reliable integration flexibility.
Signal Integrity
Maintains crisp single-link resolution across extended cable runs up to thirty feet.
Setup Simplicity
Driver-free, plug-and-play functionality ensures immediate deployment without complex software configuration.
Build Robustness
Durable metal housing provides the structural integrity required for demanding studio environments.
Modern Compatibility
Lack of HDCP support limits usage with modern protected digital content streams.
Key Specs
Input Ports
8 DVI-D Female
Output Ports
1 DVI-D Female
Maximum Resolution
1920x1200 @ 60Hz (Single Link)
Video Bandwidth
1.65 Gbps
Control Methods
Front Panel Push Buttons, RS232 Command
RS232 Baud Rate
9600bps
Power Supply
5VDC 3A External Supply
LED Indicators
Display LED for Active Station
Features
- Switch between 8 DVI-D computers
- Control via front panel or RS-232
- Supports PC, Mac, Linux, and Sun
- Maintains high-quality single link resolution
- Extends signals up to 30 feet
- Provides noiseless remote operation
- Driver-free, plug-and-play setup
- EDID support for compatibility
What customers say
Professional users highly value the SmartAVI DV SW8S for its exceptional reliability and robust build quality, making it ideal for demanding A/V integration and control rooms. A key source of satisfaction is the switch's ability to maintain pristine DVI D signal integrity across all inputs, even at high resolutions. Furthermore, the RS232 control functionality is consistently praised for being reliable and essential for seamless, automated switching within larger automation systems. While the initial cost is higher than consumer options, the consensus is that the superior performance and specialized feature set justify the investment. This device is regarded as a dependable workhorse for continuous operation.
Know before you buy
No, this switch is designed exclusively for DVI-D video signals and does not support audio transmission.
While you can technically use DVI-to-HDMI adapters, please note that this unit is not HDCP compliant, which may prevent protected content from displaying correctly on your monitor.
The DV-SW8S supports single-link DVI-D resolutions up to 1920x1200 at 60Hz.
You can toggle between inputs using the physical push buttons located on the front panel or by sending commands via the RS-232 serial port.
No, the device is completely plug-and-play and does not require any drivers to function with PC, Mac, Linux, or Sun systems.
For optimal signal quality, you can use cables up to 30 feet long between your computers and the switch, and another 30 feet from the switch to your monitor.
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Ready to buy?
$599