How do I connect 2 computers to one monitor?

Question

I want to connect 2 computers, a Dell E521 XP and a Compac Presario ME to the same monitor without having to connect and disconnect them every time I need to switch from one to the other. I've been told I can get a KMV Switch. Does Dell carry something like that? Does Dell have a different name for this item? How much does it cost and will it work? If you know the item number, even better (so I can order it)

Answer 1

It's KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch.

Basically it's used in a server room setting where there's bazillion computers, but most of them don't need to be viewed, so there's one monitor, and a large-capacity KVM switch that will either rotate through, or jump to activity, or static.

In your case, you need a 2-PC KVM switch. Even CompUSA would have those nowadays, not to mention BestBuy. I doubt Circuit City would have those, but it wouldn't hurt to ask.

Answer 2

You need what's called a KVM switch.
2 PCs will share 1 monitor, 1 keyboard & 1 mouse.

Example:
http://www.nextag.com/Belkin-Flip-Plus-Audio-504191465/prices-html

regards,
Philip

Answer 3

so which you prefer to hook up 2 seperate computers to the only show? cant you in basic terms swap the plug out and in while necessary?in case you have like a clean computer screen that has a hdmi / optical fiber then you definately can plug one in to vga and the different via hdmi purely might desire to alter the channel to apply the different computing device

Answer 4

I am assuming you are in the States. You can pick one up at Walmart for about $20+ tax.

Answer 5

dell most likely would not have a kmv switch. Go search amazon or bestbuy.com or better yet. newegg.com or tigerdirect.com (better prices... smaller companies)

Answer 6

You have to go buy a splitter cable and hook it up like a regular monitor. But you cant run both at the same time.

Answer 7

Use KVM switch, any IT store should have it