Two computers with one monitor, keyboard and mouse.
Nov 14, 2017 06:54:25 #
Please recommend good switch that you have experience with.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
Nov 14, 2017 07:02:36 #
dannac wrote:
Please recommend good switch that you have experience with.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
I used to use a KVM switch (That's what they're called), but when I switched to new equipment with HDMI connectors, the new KVM switch wasn't reliable. I tried to go back to my old KVM, but that doesn't work, either. Reading reviews on Amazon, it doesn't look like there is a good one available. Since some people like them, they must be either unreliable or equipment specific. After trying several, I have lost faith in them. I loved having my two-computer setup, but I can't do that any more. I have one here and a complete setup in another room.
This is a product in need of a good manufacturer.
Nov 14, 2017 07:14:24 #
Jerry's right a KVM switch. They use to be a mess with the wiring with the older larger pins but today with USB and HTML wiring it's a little easier. B+H and Amazon have a number of them you can choose from based on your wire configuration. I've had as many as 4 computers hooked up to one set of screens with a single keyboard and mouse and a single KVM switch. The hardest part is remembering which computer your on.
Nov 14, 2017 07:23:05 #
I might order this one and give it a try.
https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B004YCUDMU/ezvid02-20
EDIT: Whoops! I see I bought it in April of this year, and I guess it didn't work.
https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B004YCUDMU/ezvid02-20
EDIT: Whoops! I see I bought it in April of this year, and I guess it didn't work.
Nov 14, 2017 07:23:18 #
Perhaps go wireless? Logitech wireless receivers can be paired with their wireless keyboards and mice. It would mean purchasing 2 mouse and keyboard setups, but both receivers could be paired with the one set you wish to use. Plus, having a spare mouse and keyboard is a bonus.
Nov 14, 2017 07:23:53 #
WayneT wrote:
The hardest part is remembering which computer your on.
I set different screen colors to remind me which one I was using.
Nov 14, 2017 09:55:18 #
MichaelH
Loc: NorCal via Lansing, MI
Flex9050 wrote:
Perhaps go wireless? Logitech wireless receivers can be paired with their wireless keyboards and mice. It would mean purchasing 2 mouse and keyboard setups, but both receivers could be paired with the one set you wish to use. Plus, having a spare mouse and keyboard is a bonus.
This is the least expensive plan. Here is a Logitech Keyboard that pairs with 3 devices (and is very handy with handheld devices also): Logitech - K480. And two bluetooth mice and a monitor with a front panel switch for multiple connections and you are set. A KVM would be marginally more simple to switch between the computers.
Nov 14, 2017 10:54:43 #
I've been using a
Tripp Lite 4-Port Desktop KVM Switch, USB, VGA HD15: Model B006-VU4-R since 2014 with no problems.
Does not have HDMI but works great with VGA and USB - you need to order either 6' or 10' cable lengths with this unit.
Tripp Lite 4-Port Desktop KVM Switch, USB, VGA HD15: Model B006-VU4-R since 2014 with no problems.
Does not have HDMI but works great with VGA and USB - you need to order either 6' or 10' cable lengths with this unit.
Nov 14, 2017 11:11:50 #
Jerry and Wayne ... thanks I will check out the KVM units.
Flex9050 and MichaelH ... thank you, had not even considered that option.
Shellback ... thanks for the info and link.
Flex9050 and MichaelH ... thank you, had not even considered that option.
Shellback ... thanks for the info and link.
Nov 15, 2017 07:59:47 #
dannac wrote:
Please recommend good switch that you have experience with.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
before investing in a switch try wireless keyboard and mouse, you can move the receiver from one computer to the other, since you don't want both on at the same time, won't wprk with two on simultaneously, Bob.
Nov 15, 2017 11:24:55 #
jerryc41 wrote:
I might order this one and give it a try.
https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B004YCUDMU/ezvid02-20
EDIT: Whoops! I see I bought it in April of this year, and I guess it didn't work.
https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B004YCUDMU/ezvid02-20
EDIT: Whoops! I see I bought it in April of this year, and I guess it didn't work.
Damn, Jerry! I now proclaim you more absent-minded than me!
Nov 15, 2017 11:42:19 #
Nov 15, 2017 12:15:45 #
WalterW
Loc: Parrish FL
No need for hardware - here is a software solution that may work for you. I have used it and it works. https://symless.com/synergy
Nov 15, 2017 14:38:50 #
AirWalter
Loc: Tipp City, Ohio
I have been using a Rosewill KVM switch for at least 5 or 6 years with no problems at all. One computer is still windows XP and the other is windows 7. Just touch a button on the desktop and it switches computers right away. Both of my computers are normally on at the same time. Best place to buy them is from Newegg.com.
Nov 15, 2017 16:11:30 #
dannac wrote:
Please recommend good switch that you have experience with.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
I want to use this setup more as a space saving solution,
both computers would seldom be on at same time.
This is what I use. It will take 4 computers. I use it on 3.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F3VHV8/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
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