Need a Device or Two

[maxximilian]

Hi,

I am looking to have 3 computers share a single monitor. Requirements as follows:

1. Only one computer output needs displayed at any given time.
2. All computers are on....even if not displayed.
3. Able to switch display of computers easily, without having to reboot any of the machines or climbing under the table.
4. If monitor has built-in speakers...they would also be shared.

Also looking for a way for all 3 computers to share a single keyboard/mouse.

Basically, I need all three machines to do different things, but need to cut down on the desk space they take up. Plenty of room on the floor for the towers...but desk too cluttered.

Do these devices exist? Recommendations?

[jdc2000]

You need a 4-port KVM switch. Things to consider:

Do all computers use a USB keyboard and mouse?
Do you need to share USB devices or speakers.

Link:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...G&PageSize=100

[Steve R Jones]

Might want to consider remote desktop.

One main machine that can connect to others on demand.
Heck, you could even connect to the other two at the same time... Some of this would depend on what OS you're using...

And there are tons of other apps like LogMeIn that would work too.

[maxximilian]

All machines would share a single USB wireless keyboard/mouse and the monitor. No printers, scanners or anything else. In fact, they wouldn't even be networked. Just sharing hardware. Not sure about speakers since I haven't gotten the monitor yet and not sure what it will have. Just in the planning stages right now.

Thanks for the link. Why the huge variance in prices? Are there certain specs I should be looking for?

[maxximilian]

Might want to consider remote desktop.

One main machine that can connect to others on demand.
Heck, you could even connect to the other two at the same time... Some of this would depend on what OS you're using...

And there are tons of other apps like LogMeIn that would work too.

I looked at software solutions, but prefer a hardware solution unless it gets too expensive. BTW....I tried Splashtop for an Android tablet....couldn't make it work for some reason. Then again, I likely screwed something up.

[jdc2000]

Price differences are due to a variety of reasons, not just quality. Check the reviews on NewEgg for any unit you are considering to see if users found something you might want to be aware of.

[Midknyte]

USB wireless keyboard/mouse and the monitor

Wireless might be a problem on KVMs, especially if you need to install driver software. The basic keys will probably work, but any special keys or mappings might not.

The fact that you want audio will also drive the price up. You need to get the accompanying cables to go to your PCs. Adding audio means adding audio KVM cables.

For Android, try Teamviewer. It's free.

[maxximilian]

Yeah, I was just looking at this one (cheap) and noticed two USB ports for keyboard and mouse. BUT....wireless has a single USB connector for the receiver, so it is neither keyboard or mouse....but both. Not sure how it can work on this device.

http://www.amazon.com/TRENDnet-4-Por...rds=kvm+switch

[Midknyte]

Like I said, you're probably asking for trouble with wireless input devices on a KVM. Make/model might help.

The other guys will have to help you with shopping sites for now.

[maxximilian]

Well, worst case, wireless is not a deal breaker if it means I can get a switch for cheap. I have USB wired hardware in the closet somewhere.

[Train]

Just make darn sure the KVM has the cables needed. They are a spendy addition sometimes.

[jdc2000]

Links:

http://www.iogear.com/product/GCS1734-KM1/

http://www.amazon.com/IOGEAR-Platfor.../dp/B001DNZMTC

http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/24...keyboard-mouse

Note: read the reviews at the last link. Some wireless keyboards and mice may work OK, others will not.

[maxximilian]

Thanks for the help gang. Got a good idea where I am headed now.