two computers, two monitors

meebers · 09 Mar 2013

Without trying this and damaging something, is it possible to use both computers with dual monitors. I don't mean at the same time of course, but lets say computer A, DVI connections to Monitor A (DVI) and the VGA of Computer A to Monitor B (VGA). Computer B is completely off. Then being able to turn Computer A off, Computer B now on and have Computer B DVI connection to Monitor B (DVI) and Computer B (VGA) to monitor A (VGA). Having to use VGA is a limitation of the monitors, not the graphics card. Adapters to convert are < $5.

DocBrown · 09 Mar 2013

You might look into some different types of A/B switch boxes for video inputs

2 Port StarView DVI/VGA USB KVM Switch

Mark Phelps · 10 Mar 2013

That will probably work -- but it would work best if the monitors are able to auto-switch to whichever cable is carrying a signal. If you have to switch each monitor manually between the input jacks every time you switch PCs, that will work but it will be a pain to do.

meebers · 10 Mar 2013

Mark Phelps said:

That will probably work -- but it would work best if the monitors are able to auto-switch to whichever cable is carrying a signal. If you have to switch each monitor manually between the input jacks every time you switch PCs, that will work but it will be a pain to do.

Maybe a little more explanation, the cables will always remain connected from both computers to both monitors. My thought would be the monitors will respond to the computer that is on. Remember only one computer on at a time. As far as a KV switch etc, they are $200-300. hard to justify that expense.

AddRAM · 11 Mar 2013

It will work fine.

Mark Phelps · 12 Mar 2013

meebers said:

Maybe a little more explanation, the cables will always remain connected from both computers to both monitors. My thought would be the monitors will respond to the computer that is on.

Only way to find out is to try it.

linnemeyerhere · 12 Mar 2013

Worst case like my set up is I have to change the input manually on each monitor ...takes like 2 seconds !