Looking for a way to connect up a dual monitor/keyboard/mouse setup on my desk, to 3 different computers (1 lenovo laptop, 1 dell laptop, and 1 desktop PC).. Are there any suitable docking stations which have KVM functionality, or would I need to use a 2 laptop docks (one for the dell, one for the lenovo) and a separate KVM
Seeking KVM & Laptop Dock Recommendation
zaqwsx3 on 22/09/2022 - 22:10
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The only solution I have found is to use one built into the monitor. These can usually switch usb sources based on the video input source. For instance my Dell U2722DE has kvm (handling only 2 sources though), 90w PD, and display port out for daisy chaining a second display (uses DP MST). So I can connect one laptop via usbc and have all my Ian devices connected to the monitor. When I switch to my desktop, the usb devices automatically connect to the desktop.
does the dell auto detect between sources?
Eg if my pc is off, and i hook up my laptop would it auto detect when i turned the screen on or would i have to manually switch to input 2 or whatever it is, similar to a TV?
It autodetects the source by default (but you can disable that feature). If one source is already on and you turn on the other, a pop up on the screen will ask you if you want to change sources. In that case you can either ignore it, or toggle the source using the joystick on the back of the monitor.
I second this solution, I have 2 monitors too (only 1 of them has the KVM), it takes 3 button presses for each monitor to change inputs, and the USB changes automatically. These are Dell monitors where I created shortcuts on the monitor menu to switch inputs. So around 5 seconds to switch from my laptop to my desktop.
However this again only takes care of 2 PCs, the KVM in the monitor can do 2 sources, not 3 as you need.
Can the ethernet be directed to one source permanently? Or connect 2 sources permanently?
I haven’t used the Ethernet (where it says lan, it should say usb - that was a typo). But i am fairly certain the Ethernet will only connect to whichever device is active on the monitor at the time. Just like the usb ports.
Just set up one dock with all KVM and then have a USB cable from each device that you can plug in/out as required. Careful with the dock you choose though as they have limitations on the video they can deliver to dual monitor set ups, eg. 1080 only, 4k @ 30hz, etc.
I've currently got 3 monitors on my desk, with my desktop and work laptop (with its own laptop dock). One of the monitors is connected direct to the desktop, another is connected direct to the laptop dock, and the third is connected to an old ATEN KVM. My keyboard and mouse are also hooked up to the KVM. So I use the KVM to switch where the one monitor, keyboard & mouse activate to, noting I only use 2 monitors on a device at a time, but the devices will always be on.
Now I'm introducing another laptop in to the mix, and just thinking through the best approach. I'm thinking getting a laptop dock maybe this one? for the new Lenovo laptop might work, and hook that up to the KVM.
Watching thread with interest. I'm currently using a HP USB-C G5 dock and having to disconnect it as I switch between the two laptops (work/personal) and the desktop. Looking for an almost identical KVM based solution.