How to connect two system units to one monitor

Many specialists in the process of using several computers at the same time. In order to save money, you can not purchase a completely additional PC, but connect two system units to one monitor.

Why do I need to connect two system units to one monitor

A similar problem can arise when one system unit is necessary for work, and the second is used for storing information and daily web surfing. Since the second monitor is not an expensive thing, and it takes up decent space, you can do without buying it. From a technical point of view, to connect two computers to a single display, you can go in several ways - to connect directly or through a splitter. How to do this will be described in the article.

If the monitor has two connectors, you can not resort to adapters and switches, and connect it to system units directly. You can switch them using the built-in menu. The connection process is described in more detail below.

If the monitor does not provide for the connection of two system units, you will have to additionally purchase a KVM switch - a device that allows you to branch out signals from a monitor, keyboard, mouse, sound device, and so on through several channels. What is noteworthy, control can be carried out using one mouse and one keyboard.

Using the KVM switch

The abbreviation KVM stands for keyboard-video-mouse, which characterizes the purpose of the switch. On its body are made connectors for the keyboard, mouse and monitor cable, usually a DVI standard. There are also microphone jacks and headphones. On one side of the switch is marked with the inscription "OUT". These jacks are for connecting a mouse, keyboard and monitor connector.

The cords from the first and second system units are connected to the remaining connectors, respectively. Confusing something is difficult, but possible. Therefore, before you turn on the system, you should again make sure that the connection is correct.

ATTENTION! If connected incorrectly, equipment failure may occur. If you are unsure of the correct connection - invite a specialist.

To switch between system units, proceed in the following sequence:

  • turn on both computers;
  • waiting for the operating system to load on both machines;
  • by double-clicking NumLock and the keys 1 or 2 switch between system units.

REFERENCE! KVM switch manufacturers provide additional software for easy two-block operation.

Using a VGA cable

The sequence of actions in this case is as follows:

  1. Initially, you need to make sure that the monitor can connect to two devices. As a rule, manufacturers provide for simultaneous connection to video cards of two or more standards: VGA, DVI, HDMI, and so on. Accordingly, to connect to the system, their video cards must have corresponding inputs.
  2. If there are no corresponding connectors on the video cards of the system cards, you should purchase the appropriate adapter, for example, VGA-DVi.
  3. Next, connect both system units to the monitor.
  4. Turn on both computers and wait for the operating systems to load on them.
  5. Switch between blocks using the display menu or a special button on its case (if available).

If the connection was made correctly, no problems should arise.

Watch the video: How To Use Multiple Computers on 1 Monitor (April 2024).

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