PC and laptop KVM setup


  1. Posts : 4
    Windows 10
       #1

    PC and laptop KVM setup


    I have a PC which I use two DVI-D monitors connected to the GPU. I also have a mouse, keyboard, and 3DConnexion space navigator connected to the PC. I currently run WIndows 10 and use it for Mechanical drafting in AutoCAD, and Inventor.
    I have a customer who wants to give me a laptop which will be used to VPN into their network and I will be running Solidworks from it to do drafting/design work.

    I need some assistance with the hardware and setup. I was thinking of using a docking station or KVM to connect my monitors, mouse, keyboard, and USB 3D space navigator to both the PC and the Laptop, so I can control either from the same dual monitor setup.

    My problem is I have not found a KVM that is really DVI-D dual monitor capable and has the extra USB ports for my space mouse.

    I thought of maybe using a docking station to connect the laptop to and then run to a KVM from there.

    Any thoughts on how to set this up? what hardware and/or connections should I use?
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 14,019
    Win10 Pro and Home, Win11 Pro and Home, Win7, Linux Mint
       #2

    I also have not found a suitable DVI KVM switch so am staying with VGA for my 4 Desktops [one needs a DVI to VGA adapter]. An issue with Notebooks is not many, if any, have DVI ports, newer ones don't even have VGA, have gone with HDMI or DisplayPort, apparently all in the name of thinner and lighter.
      My Computers


  3. Posts : 4
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #3

    So what setup do you suggest?

    Berton said:
    I also have not found a suitable DVI KVM switch so am staying with VGA for my 4 Desktops [one needs a DVI to VGA adapter]. An issue with Notebooks is not many, if any, have DVI ports, newer ones don't even have VGA, have gone with HDMI or DisplayPort, apparently all in the name of thinner and lighter.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 14,019
    Win10 Pro and Home, Win11 Pro and Home, Win7, Linux Mint
       #4

    The only way I see it usable for me is just to use the Notebook/Laptop as is or if room permits attach its own large monitor. Not only is the DVI part of the issue but so is the dual-monitor setup. I might peruse some of the high-power gamers sites for suggestions, they drive a lot of the technology needs of the last several years [bigger/better/faster, etc.].
      My Computers


  5. Posts : 4
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #5

    I think I am going to attempt to find a KVM that supports one DVI-D connected monitor and set it up this way...

    Main PC monitor 1 connection to KVM
    Laptop monitor connection to KVM

    When I switch to the Main PC I should have dual screen,
    When I switch to the Laptop I will have one screen usable and the other will be showing whatever the Main PC has on Monitor 2.

    That should at least give me a way to utilize my current setup and add the Laptop when needed.
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 4
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #6

    Found one. I'm going to try it out.

    https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B001GQ9D..._HHApzb4BM1RBG
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 438
    Win 10 pro 1803
       #7

    Berton said:
    I also have not found a suitable DVI KVM switch so am staying with VGA for my 4 Desktops [one needs a DVI to VGA adapter]. An issue with Notebooks is not many, if any, have DVI ports, newer ones don't even have VGA, have gone with HDMI or DisplayPort, apparently all in the name of thinner and lighter.
    2-Port USB DVI Dual Link Dual Display/Audio KVMPâ„¢ Switch - CS1642A, ATEN Desktop KVM Switches

    ?
      My Computer


 

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