please help me choose HARDWARE setup device from VETRA

[Vetra]

Switch caster 8 ports $359 - $500 ish not sure which I need or even the differnece in them

As you noticed there are a range of options and prices for the VIP-808 switchcaster. Here is a brief description of the differences.

VIP-808-KM-B: base model number - connects one keyboard and mouse to up to 8 PCs. Will switch to a single PC or broadcast to all PCs simultaneously. See http://www.vetra.com/808B_text.html for more features.

Add -X option: expansion. Allows more than one switchcaster to be linked together so you can control more PCs. If you ever want to box more than 8 characters, you need it.

Change -KM to -KMV: adds video switching. Allows a single monitor to be switched between the PCs as well. If you'll only use the switchcaster for gaming, you don't need it; the monitor takes too long to re-sync after switching, but if you ever want to use the switchcaster as a conventional KVM switch later on, you'll want it.

Add -DE option: direct entry. Has 8 pushbuttons on the front face of the switchcaster so you can change channels directly by pushing a button. With or without it, you can always change channels from the keyboard. You probably don't need it.

If you have any questions about our products and features or would like help configuring your system, please feel free to contact us directly.

- Paul