Two computers, One Keyboard and Monitor: Years ago, I had a device that let me use two computers with one keyboard, etc. Then it stopped working. I tried others, with no luck. Now...

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Years ago, I had a device that let me use two computers with one keyboard, etc. Then it stopped working. I tried others, with no luck. Now, Stardock is offering that capability for $19.95. There are no cables, so it must operate through your network. Tempting. I can try it for free, buy even $19.95 is worth a try.

I know I can theoretically access other computers on my network, but it's generally easier said than done. I think that would be the key to getting it to work - having all computer on your network easily accessible. Easier said than done.

By the way, Stardock has a nice product called Fences that lets you put Desktop icons into boxes so you can organize them by type.

https://www.stardock.com/products/multiplicity/?utm_source=software-promo&utm_medium=email&utm_content=getitnow-btn&utm_campaign=mult-promo-mar2021&utm_term=mult-promo-mar2021-30248#comparison

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

jerryc41 wrote:

...
...
By the way, Stardock has a nice product called Fences that lets you put Desktop icons into boxes so you can organize them by type.
...

Sounds like a solution to which there is no problem.
I just group them on the screen, usually in rows.
Or one can put them in a folder in Windows,
but then one has to open the folder to see/use them.
Extra needless step.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

Longshadow wrote:

Sounds like a solution to which there is no problem.
I just group them on the screen, usually in rows.
Or one can put them in a folder in Windows,
but then one has to open the folder to see/use them.
Extra needless step.

My solution to frequently used application icons is to put them on the Taskbar. I seldom use the ones on my desktop or even look at my desktop.
It's a personal choice and convenience.
Mark

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

markngolf wrote:

My solution to frequently used application icons is to put them on the Taskbar. I seldom use the ones on my desktop or even look at my desktop.
It's a personal choice and convenience.
Mark

I have eight down there.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

Longshadow wrote:

I have eight down there.

Now, you made me count mine! 27!
Mark

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

markngolf wrote:

Now, you made me count mine! 27!
Mark

That's a few...
The only reason I have them on the task bar is that I won't have to shrink windows to get to the desktop to get to them.
just saves a step or three.

johngault007 Loc: Florida Panhandle

It looks like a fancy (and probably slightly more secure) version of Remote Desktop, which is freely available for any mainstream operating system. If you are just messing around with it, you might want to try what is already loaded with your system and see if it meets your needs. Just make sure your system is up-to-date and you use strong authentication and passwords for the RDP protocol.

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

Longshadow wrote:

That's a few...
The only reason I have them on the task bar is that I won't have to shrink windows to get to the desktop to get to them.
just saves a step or three.

I added a 2nd monitor to my setup about 10 years ago. I do not think I could ever go back to a single monitor.
As a result, I never have to "shrink" windows. My 2nd monitor is an extension of the main monitor.
I certainly understand your preferences.

Mark

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

markngolf wrote:

I added a 2nd monitor to my setup about 10 years ago. I do not think I could ever go back to a single monitor.
As a result, I never have to "shrink" windows. My 2nd monitor is an extension of the main monitor.
I certainly understand your preferences.

Mark

Umm, I use two monitors also, but usually have more that two apps running at a time for various tasks (HTML editing, genealogy work, photo editing, ... .
I think I would not trade that second monitor for anything. Luckily the monitor sizes allow tiling.

Muddyvalley Loc: McMinnville, Oregon

I use an MX Master 3 mouse, & MX Keys keyboard. By Logitech. You can switch between 3 different computers with both with the press of a button on either the mouse or keyboard. Wireless & rechargeable. I plug in the usb every few weeks to recharge them. They will work when plugged in if the battery dies, but it never has so far. The mouse is the best I've ever had. I've been using two monitors for years now, and rarely 2 computers, but it's nice to have the options.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Longshadow wrote:

Sounds like a solution to which there is no problem.
I just group them on the screen, usually in rows.
Or one can put them in a folder in Windows,
but then one has to open the folder to see/use them.
Extra needless step.

Actually, it was originally a solution to a problem. For some reason, my desktop icons kept moving around the screen. Several people here suggested getting Fences. That not only solved the problem, but I like the way I can organize the icons. I have very little in my Taskbar. To each his own. : )

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

markngolf wrote:

I added a 2nd monitor to my setup about 10 years ago. I do not think I could ever go back to a single monitor.
As a result, I never have to "shrink" windows. My 2nd monitor is an extension of the main monitor.
I certainly understand your preferences.

Mark

Although I like the idea, I don't have the room. I'm working on a computer roll-top desk, and the 27" monitor will just about let me open the little drawers on either side of the desk. I like this desk because of all the drawers, large and small, which are perfect for storing computer-related items.

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

jerryc41 wrote:

Actually, it was originally a solution to a problem. For some reason, my desktop icons kept moving around the screen. Several people here suggested getting Fences. That not only solved the problem, but I like the way I can organize the icons. I have very little in my Taskbar. To each his own. : )

I only have 8 objects in my task bar.
The only movement my icons make are when a program has been updated. (It usually replaces the icon.)
I guess if they need the fences...
Mine are in rows and they stay.
Yup, whatever floats your boat.

edwdickinson Loc: Ardmore PA

jerryc41 wrote:

Years ago, I had a device that let me use two comp... (show quote)

Jerry,
Free solution, Chrome Remore desktop. https://remotedesktop.google.com/

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

jerryc41 wrote:

Although I like the idea, I don't have the room. I'm working on a computer roll-top desk, and the 27" monitor will just about let me open the little drawers on either side of the desk. I like this desk because of all the drawers, large and small, which are perfect for storing computer-related items.

I understand. I had a beautiful oak roll-top when I lived in NC. I was very happy to sell it. After a while, I was sorry I had bought it because I found it very restrictive and confining. As you said, "To each his own". I hope you solve the keyboard issue.

Mark