Multiple CPUS/one keyboard one mouse

[birdman67]

I'm looking for the best way to work with three separate workstations (networked) with one mouse and one keyboard, with the ability to switch back and forth between the three. Suggestions? I've seen different types of switches out there, but any positive testimonials would help. Thanks in advance!

[amer abidi]

if you're looking for a reliable software/network based solution:

 

http://www.tightvnc.com/

 

Otherwise, like you said, a KVM switch should be fine if the machines are close to one another... but you'de only be able to access only one machine at any given time.

[lambros]

I use the vista remote desktop feature and it works fine

[Andrew Schroeder]

http://synergy2.sourceforge.net/

[birdman67]

Thanks for the links...now I'm torn between hardware and software. I found some basic KVM switches out there for around $70.00, but that Synergy software looks interesting, if not the easiest to use...guess I need to do a bit more research. I run Max and Vray, and I wonder if when rendering on one machine, Vray may crash or conflict with something like Synergy...may be best to use the hardware switch...

[SandmanNinja]

I'd keep it simple and just flip a switch

[birdman67]

Yep, I believe I'll be looking into manual hardware switches. I used to work with someone who had a footswitch to alternate between machines...anyone ever heard of anything like that? That would be nice...

[SandmanNinja]

I think my grandmother had a Singer sewing machine...

 

I'm looking for something that can handle the frequency from the 8800 GT to both screens with minimum interference. No point in having a nice card and monitors if static is introduced.

 

I am having a hard time finding a duel screen KVM box. It's a shame we gotta pay close to $100 for one. I remember one for $20 (but that was 1982 I think)

[BrianKitts]

If you are running max and vray, I would just setup the extra machines using remote desktop as mentioned. Then leave both backburner and the vrlserver turned on, and then you only need to visit the extra machines through the remote desktop if something goes wrong. In which case a KVM switch is a waste of money cause you really won't be switching that often. And it won't cost you a thing.

 

Now if it's a situation where you use one machine for all your photoshop work, and another for all your rendering etc... then a KVM is the right option.

[birdman67]

Yeah, my main machine is the Super Duper Computer...the other two are basically just used for rendering allowing me to work on other things. Plus, I run WinXP 32bit anyway...KVM is sounding better all the time

[BrianKitts]

Plus, I run WinXP 32bit anyway...KVM is sounding better all the time

 

thats' cool....but just so you know...remote desktop works well in winxp 32 bit as well.....

[thinice]

I use a KVM switch for my 4 render machines. It works perfectly. Of course, when I am using networked rendering, I don't use it that often but you still need to boot up or reconfigure setting from time to time.

 

Save me the eyesore of having 4 monitors/keyboard/mouse next to my workstation. The switch is pretty cheap anyway.

[AlekseyR]

stardock multiplicity peoples. It lets you use 3 pcs like one. Absolutely awesome stuff. and cheap too.

 

http://www.stardock.com/products/multiplicity/

 

edit: ok seems like synergy does something simple, but i multiplicity sets itself up with no problems. Just install it everywhere, selecting if it's a host or a slave, and then just re-arrange the monitors in display set up on the primary computer. Easy.

[birdman67]

stardock multiplicity peoples. It lets you use 3 pcs like one. Absolutely awesome stuff. and cheap too.

 

http://www.stardock.com/products/multiplicity/

 

edit: ok seems like synergy does something simple, but i multiplicity sets itself up with no problems. Just install it everywhere, selecting if it's a host or a slave, and then just re-arrange the monitors in display set up on the primary computer. Easy.

 

Aleksey, I went with your suggestion. You're right, this works flawlessly. You know, I didn't mention that I wanted to control THREE monitors serving THREE cpus with one keyboard and mouse. This simple little program was $50.00 for the Pro version, and it is absolutely perfect. Thanks for all your help and suggestions!

[dbibb]

Synergy is one of my favorite pieces of free software. You need a monitor for each computer, but it works great for having a laptop next to your workstation.

[AlekseyR]

Aleksey, I went with your suggestion. You're right, this works flawlessly. You know, I didn't mention that I wanted to control THREE monitors serving THREE cpus with one keyboard and mouse. This simple little program was $50.00 for the Pro version, and it is absolutely perfect. Thanks for all your help and suggestions!

 

you welcome. Although i feel it's clipboard feature might be lagging the computer. But then again all stardock products are resource hogs.

 

But otherwise yes, it is perfect: