How to Work on Multiple Computers Having Only One Keyboard and One Monitor

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How to Work on Multiple Computers Having Only One Keyboard and One Monitor
How to Work on Multiple Computers Having Only One Keyboard and One Monitor
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Here is a convenient way to work with two (or more) computers from one location, without the need to duplicate keyboard, mouse and monitor.

Steps

Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 1
Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 1

Step 1. Determine which method works best for you

Several hardware and software based solutions are available. You need to keep reading to identify which one is best for your personal situation.

Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 2
Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 2

Step 2. A software-based solution requires each computer under control to have a network connection

The network can be a LAN, if it will only be used locally, or an Internet connection, if it needs to be controlled from any computer in the world via the Internet.

Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 3
Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 3

Step 3. Get software and a service for your computers

One such provider is LogMeIn. It offers different levels of service ranging from free to "simple remote control" (LogMeInFree) for more consistent "full service" (like LogMeInPro), but costs about $ 20 per computer per month. LogMeIn's service in general works very well, but like any basic networking solution, it is best with a high-speed LAN or broadband internet between computers. Select the level of service that best suits your needs, create an account and download / install the software.

Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 4
Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 4

Step 4. A second software-based option is the open source solution called "Synergy":

it works between operating systems, when you simply try to control several computers locally with a keyboard and mouse, which is a kind of “software” type KVM switch.

Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 5
Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 5

Step 5. A hardware-based solution can be implemented with a "KVM Switch", which stands for "Keyboard, Video, Mouse"

These devices typically have connections for multiple computer video inputs and a single output for connecting to a monitor. There are also multiple PS / 2 mouse and keyboard outputs for connecting to computers and two inputs for connecting a keyboard and mouse. The newer KVM switches have moved from the round PS / 2 connectors for keyboard and mouse to the popular USB ports. Make sure you get a KVM that supports the style of keyboard and mouse connectors your computer uses or get some adapters. Due to limitations in the length of the cable over which KVM (and even USB) signals can travel, all computers will likely need to be located close enough, within approximately 10 meters of the KVM hardware, unless some other repeater device or device is used. an extension.

Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 6
Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 6

Step 6. Purchase the additional cables needed to complete the connections between the KVM and the computers and I / O devices

Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 7
Operate Multiple Computers With One Keyboard and Monitor Step 7

Step 7. Select the product that has support for configuring computers and operating systems

Many KVMs install device drivers and use a small program to switch between computers. This means that if multiple operating systems are involved, specific drivers will be required for each to function properly.

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