Using Two Computers with One Monitor, Mouse, and Keyboard

If you have more than one computer but don't want to clutter your desk or home with multiple monitors, keyboards, or mice then there is a very easy and affordable solution. A device called a KVM Switch will allow you to connect multiple computers to one device. The KVM Switch does come in different forms and different prices, so there is light at the end of the technology tunnel for basic home users.

KVM is short for Keyboard, Video, Mouse. The regular KVM Switch is about the size of a home router and very easy to understand. This version does tend to cost more, so it depends on how much money you are willing to shell out for the product. Many companies make these products, but the leading manufacturer seems to be a company named IOGEAR. The typical router-sized KVM Switch that IOGEAR manufactures can cost anywhere from $60 up to several hundreds.

There is another option though, for those that want a more "compact" approach to the KVM Switch. These devices are normally referred to as "minis" or "micros" because they consist of a small device with the cables attached. The micro KVM Switch resembles the Squid extension cords you can find at any department store. Most of the micro switches are preferred because they come with the cables already attached, so all the user has to do is connect everything. A majority of these devices are priced starting around $35 and go up in price depending on how many connections you need. They are all rather self explanatory, but for those that are not as technologically savvy, here is a brief rundown of how to connect the micro KVM switches.

-First, go to any retailer, even Walmart, and purchase which micro KVM Switch will suit your needs. The package will tell you if it is 2-port, 4-port, etc.

-Take the device home and set your computers in close proximity to each other as well as close to the monitor, mouse, and keyboard you are thinking of using.

-Make sure all equipment is turned off before connecting anything.

-Connect the monitor, keyboard, and/or mouse to the appropriate side of the switch. This is obvious since it will only connect to one side.

-Take each separate set of cables and connect them to the proper areas on your computers for your keyboard, monitor, and/or mouse.

-Boot all computers when done. If you are using Windows or Linux then everything is pretty much done. If you are using Mac, Sun Solaris, or DOS then you will need to follow specific directions that come with the device.

That is basically all there is to it. When you are finished you have full access to the keyboard, mouse, and/or monitor for each computer. Most of these devices also have an "Auto Scan" mode to detect your settings for each computer. Most of them also offer the convenience of using hotkey functions to switch between computers. Basically there is no software required and all the user has to do is connect the devices correctly and turn on the computers; everything else will mostly be done for you.

Another good point is that the devices will work with most average keyboards, mice, or monitors. However, if you happen to use any wireless devices, please consult the package when buying the micro switch, to ensure your device will function properly. However, overall, these devices are brilliant inventions that the average home computer user can set up and use with ease. Plus, they are so small they can be bundled with the rest of your computer's wiring. Since the average price of a 2-port micro KVM Switch will be around $35, any multi-computer owner can have the ease of using their systems without the clutter of multiple devices.