Switch

A device that allows controlling (or viewing) multiple devices connected to its ports from one console or screen. The switch provides the user with the ability to switch from one port to another, thus controlling (or viewing) the device connected to that port, typically one port at a time.

Most common switches may include:

• HDTV Switch – Connects multiple sources (DVD player, set-top box, etc.) to be viewed on one HDTV screen.
• KVM Switch – Connects multiple computers to be controlled by one console (monitor, keyboard and mouse).
• Serial-Console Switch – Connects multiple (networking) serial devices (routers, Ethernet Switches, etc.) to be controlled by one ("dumb") terminal.
• Video Switch – Connects multiple video sources (computers or home-theater devices) to be displayed on one display.