How do you conect two PCs to one monitor, without having to plug/unplug it like a switch box or something?

Question

I want to be able to use my monitor with both PCs without having to plu/unplug just turn on/off either PC and have the monitor plugged and ready. Is there a switch box for that? I used to do that with my printers I used to have two printers on one computer with a switch box is there something like that for a monitor with twoo PCs?

Answer 1

You need something called a KVM switch. It lets you use a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse with multiple PC. I am using one right now that has 4 ports (I only have 3 hooked up though.) You can just press a button on the switch and it will change the signal to that PC, or you can do a keystroke and switch (mine is scroll lock twice then you push the number).

Answer 2

A KVM switch allows you to plug in multiple computers and just use one set of a keyboard, mouse, and monitor. The simplest and cheapest KVM will work as the more expensive KVM's allow for 2+ PC's to be connected. Very simple to use and works very well.

Answer 3

They are called KVM switches & come in models for use with up to 16 or more PCs.

You need a 2 port KVM switch.
Here are some options & prices :

http://www.nextag.com/2-port-kvm/search-html

regards,
Philip T

Answer 4

I believe you have to purchase a switch, and install the program. Then one of the F buttons will switch between them

Answer 5

it's called a KVM. you can find one to handle two computers, it will do the keyboard, monitor, and mouse. although instead of buying this, why not just make one the primary computer and use remote desktop to connect to the other one when you need it?

Answer 6

a KMM or "Keyboard Mouse Monitor" switch would do the trick.