2 computers sharing 1 monitor?

[Deleted User]

This is going to sound weird, but I'm hoping it'll make sense, once I explain.

I want to connect 2 computers to one monitor.

Now for the explanation.

I have a tower system connected, via a VGA socket, to a monitor.

I also connect my 10.1" laptop to the same monitor, when I'm updating it, or want to do something in MS Office, as my tower doesn't have the full version of MS Office.

So, what I'm hoping to do is, fit an adapter to the monitor socket, which would allow me to attach 2 VGA cables, one of which would stay permanently connected to the tower, with the other being connected to the laptop, as and when needed.

Is there such an adapter available, and (if so) would what I have in mind be possible?

GunJack

google kva switch

Nick_C

You need a switch box. http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/vga-2-way-monitor-switch-box-vc46a for example

[Deleted User]

Thanks for that. :T

ETA: I've ordered one from Amazon.

InsideInsurance

As above, you need a switch. Be careful not to buy a splitter which may look almost identical but does the reverse job of connecting 1 computer selectively to two monitors

StuC75

Or if they are both connected to the same network, use Remote Desktop to just open a session on the other computer (from desktop to laptop im guessing)...

that way can just alt tab from remote desktop back to the main screen... can still then use the desktop mouse & keyboard without needing loads of cables \ changing whats on the desk in front of you...

torbrex

I have a switch box, not used it for years, it can take 6 connections.

jbainbridge

StuC75 wrote: »

Or if they are both connected to the same network, use Remote Desktop to just open a session on the other computer (from desktop to laptop im guessing)...

that way can just alt tab from remote desktop back to the main screen... can still then use the desktop mouse & keyboard without needing loads of cables \ changing whats on the desk in front of you...

A good suggestion - and free to try!

esuhl

If Windows Remote Desktop doesn't work (some Windows OSes only allow inbound/outbound connections), you could try TeamViewer.

http://www.teamviewer.com

Cycrow

Many monitors have multiple connections, so its worth checking that first.

then you can just connect both to a different port in the monitor and switch between them from the monitor.

This will only work if you dont need to share keyboard/mouse, otherwise some kind of KVM switch or VNC would work

bsms1147

Cycrow wrote: »

Many monitors have multiple connections, so its worth checking that first.

then you can just connect both to a different port in the monitor and switch between them from the monitor.

This is simplest. Very occasionally does a monitor only have one input.