BleepingComputer.com: Will an RJ45 Splitter work for my purpose?

Scenario;

I have (1) Ethernet cable into the living room. I need to connect that single cable to a HTPC & also an Xbox 360. Will will only be using one device at a time. I see there are those RJ45 splitters available, some for around a couple bucks on ebay.

Will one of the splitters work for what I want to do? I keep reading conflicting stories on the web. Thought I would ask the experts here! i know I can make up a cable w/ wall jacks & all that, but I want to take the easy way out at this time; maybe a more permanent installation later.

Thanks guys!

I haven't seen these used for a while now, I guess everyone jumps on the wireless bandwagon when they run out of copper links.

Last time I looked, you need a splitter at both ends, effectively they are just taking four wires out of the 8 in the CAT5 cable and each using these independently.
You need a matching unit at the other end, otherwise one connection has nowhere to go as it will be coming out on unused pins.

The short answer is yes the splitter would work if you buy or make special cables.

OR

You could just buy this. You plug the wire coming in from the other room into one of the ports and plug 2 wires into other ports and plug the other ends into the devices.

Thanks for the replies.

I was thinking of using a switch like the one in the link, but I am running out of outlets! With several game units plugged in, DVD player, pc, monitor & other items it doesn't take long. But in the long run, I suppose the switch would be my best bet, since I want this to be a hassle free setup, no special cables, etc.

power strip = your friend lol