2 computers 1 monitor question

[greenhorn1]

What is the easiest/cheapest way to connect 2 computers to a single monitor so that I can switch back and forth between them easily? I'm not sure what I need to be able to do this but I assume they must make something that allows this.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[earnstaf]

You need a KVM switch (stands for Keyboard, Video, Mouse)... so you could share the same keyboard and mouse as well. On most KVM, you just hit some key combo (ie push insert twice) and it switches to the other system.

They can be relatively cheap...

This one would do -- 30 bucks...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817403063

 

[schnibly]

You need a KVM as earnstaf mentioned but be aware that your monitor likely only has one DVI port so you'd need a KVM with DVI switching if you wanted an all-in one unit. Or you could buy a separate DVI switch. Or connect one computer via VGA and the other via DVI/HDMI if you don't mind analog performance.

This assumes of course that you want to connect via DVI. If your connecting via VGA then ignore everything I've said.

I have and highly recommend the Avocent Switchview DVI switch---its spendy but does the job.

 

[ganesh21]

Why not just use remote desktop. I use it alot for multiply computer unless you are watching a movie/gaming.

 

[AthlonXP]

If you have seperate mouse/keyboard for the setups then a LCD monitor with a DVI and vga connections.

 

[S3th13]

I'm guessing it would also be possible to use the KVM switch with 2 monitors? Like docking my laptop to a monitor next to my main desktop monitor?

 

[Krispy Kritter]

All of the ones that I've used only have a single monitor output.