2 Towers, 1 Keyboard/Monitor/Mouse - Possible?

[SteveIgnorant]

It's about time to upgrade computers again, but I would like to still use my old tower as a Linux box. Is there a way to use the same Mouse/Monitor/Keyboard without having to plug and unpug the hardware the towers every time I wish to switch?

 

[kmote]

You need a KVM switch.

 

[SteveIgnorant]

Will a see a video performance decrease?

Thanks

 

[carnageX]

You shouldn't see much if any.

 

[patonb]

Just to add, a KVM basically is a box that you plug your towers into, 2 sets of inputs, and you plug your keyboard mouse and monitor into the other side. You flick a switch, on box or press a key combo, and it switches which tower is show/controlled.

Heres a four port as a example. Newegg.com - IOGEAR GCS614A 4-Port PS/2 KVM switch with build-in cables and audio support

 

[MindoverMaster]

You could also do Remote Desktop, but use a KVM to save a few headaches.

 

[SteveIgnorant]

It lists a resolution, for example, the one that patonb used said its resolution was 2048 x 1536, would it be functional with lower resolutions like 1920x1080?

 

[carnageX]

Remote Desktop is where you'd get a performance decrease, depending on the network usage.

 

[MindoverMaster]

Well, yes, CarnageX, I never had a problem with it. We only have at max 4 computers connected to the router at one time.

 

[kmote]

Remote desktop seems pretty light on the network; it's fine even over the internet so I doubt it would be a big issue on a private network. However, I would still recommend a KVM.