Running two PC's w/ one monitor, mouse & keyboard?

[Hyp81]

I have two desktop "tower" style PC's. One is modern HP, running Windows 8. The other is older Dell, and will be running Windows XP and DOSBox so I can run my older games successfully. Modern LCD/LED monitor.

I would like to use a single monitor if possible, and preferably a single keyboard and mouse.

I purchased this product:
http://www.trendnet.com/products/prodde ... 15_TK-207K

I tried to set it up today and the modern PC didn't show anything on the monitor, and the XP Dell showed no response to the mouse/keyboard. Went and read some of the reviews and that particular product seems hit or miss. I think I am going to return it.

Does anyone have another suggestion for a product that will allow me to successfully run two tower PC's with the single monitor and mouse/keyboard?

[Cronozilla]

You just need to research some KVM switches. I haven't used any for years ... and I can't even use them anymore since I'm running DVI. It used to be pretty rare to find one supporting the latest connections.

Currently, I just swap USB connections and hit a switch button on my monitor, which supports multiple inputs.

[Hyp81]

You just need to research some KVM switches.

Yup, I know. Would like to know if anyone around here has a specific type or brand that works well for them, before I put out $$ for another.

With regards to the monitor, what do I look for on mine to know if the monitor alone can support two PC's?

[MrPopo]

I wonder if you could get away with just running Synergy.

[Hyp81]

I wonder if you could get away with just running Synergy.

Not quite sure I understand how that works. It looks like multiple monitors on the info...?

[MrPopo]

I wonder if you could get away with just running Synergy.

Not quite sure I understand how that works. It looks like multiple monitors on the info...?

You run the Synergy server on one machine and the client on all the others, and it turns the two computers into a single desktop.

[Cronozilla]

If the monitor has multiple connectors for display ports on the back, it can likely use all of them with a switch button, which will either be on the monitor or in its menu.

Virtualizing the desktops might work too.

[Valkyrie-Favor]

Get a monitor with two inputs, get a splitter cable for your speakers, then connect your keyboard and mouse to a USB hub. You'll be able to switch between PCs in a second.

[Niode]

Jesus, they still sell KVMs? Virtual KVM software has been around for donkeys.

[MrPopo]

Jesus, they still sell KVMs? Virtual KVM software has been around for donkeys.

Yes, but the donkeys have been keeping it to themselves.