On 21 Feb 99, at 8:21, Mary Elise Zimlich wrote:

> Can someone please expand on connecting two computers to one
> monitor? I read some details about this on the list lately, but not
> enough info for me to try it. I am planning to build my next computer
> (thanks to the help and encouragement of  list members!) and hooking
> the new computer to my existing monitor and sharing with my Dell
> would speed the process and it would help finances. I need fairly
> specific directions as I am new to putting computers together.

  Okay:  you have a keyboard, a mouse, and a monitor, and each has a
cable that goes to your PC.  [The monitor also has a power cable, which
*might* go to your PC -- if it does, you might want to change that so
it goes to a surge-protector, power strip, UPS, or wall outlet.]

  The product you are asking about is a "switch box".  Your keyboard,
mouse and monitor all connect to it, and two groups of extension cables
connect it to your two PCs' ports.  A switch on the box lets you
control which PC is connected to the real devices, and which sees
simulated signals provided by the box.  [Some brandso of box use
standard "extender" cables -- male at one end and female at the other --
to connect to the PCs, others use male-to-male or custome cables.]

  The unit I use is made by LinkSys; Belkin also makes good ones.

  Such a unit is *often* referred to as a KVM (Keyboard/Video/Mouse)
switch, and shouldn't be confused with a single-port A/B switch.  A 2-
way KVM probably starts at about $120 -- still cheaper than a second
monitor, and takes up a lot less space.


David G

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