F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop Tips for exchanging peripherals between a PC and a laptop?

Tips for exchanging peripherals between a PC and a laptop?

Tips for exchanging peripherals between a PC and a laptop?

P
PirateCakes
Junior Member
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11
06-30-2024, 08:23 PM
#1
Hello. Please note that I might not be in the right place or asking this on the appropriate forum. If you feel comfortable, you can delete or relocate it. I’ve been struggling to figure out an efficient arrangement for my desktop and laptops, as well as sharing peripherals, and I’m looking for advice on a suitable setup.

I currently have one desktop and two laptops (one is too restricted for software installation). I also have three monitors and wish to configure everything so all three devices can utilize the monitors together, share a keyboard and mouse, and minimize cabling. Since I often remove the laptops for transport, I’d like to keep the number of cables as low as possible.

For example:
- Monitor 1 – Samsung SyncMaster T22B300 (HDMI x1, VGA x1)
- Monitor 2 – Samsung SyncMaster T22B300 (HDMI x1, VGA x1)
- Monitor 3 – LG24MT49DF (HDMI x1)

PC1 – Desktop (custom build, no USB-C port)
- No USB-C port: HDMI, DVI, VGA outputs; no Bluetooth.

I need to link to:
- Two external hard drives (only connected to PC1)
- One external DVD re-writer (optional for PC2)

PC2 – Laptop – Dell G15 5511
- Has a USB-C port, currently used to connect/disconnect from the docking station.

PC3 – Laptop – HP ProBook
- Work-managed machine; no software installation allowed. Also has a USB-C port.

I aim to share:
- Three monitors
- 1 keyboard and mouse (flexible setup)
- 1 USB card reader
- Ethernet connection
- Webcam
- External microphone (if webcam and mic only work on PCs 2 and 3)

I’m aware I may need additional connectors, switches, or adapters.
- 2 Lenovo docking stations (one unused)
- 3 HDMI switches
- Various KVMs, USB-C sharing solutions, etc.

I’ve tried many options—KVM units, USB-C adapters, docking stations—and still can’t seem to get it working smoothly. I’m hoping someone can suggest a better solution or recommend necessary accessories.

Thank you.
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P
PirateCakes
06-30-2024, 08:23 PM #1

Hello. Please note that I might not be in the right place or asking this on the appropriate forum. If you feel comfortable, you can delete or relocate it. I’ve been struggling to figure out an efficient arrangement for my desktop and laptops, as well as sharing peripherals, and I’m looking for advice on a suitable setup.

I currently have one desktop and two laptops (one is too restricted for software installation). I also have three monitors and wish to configure everything so all three devices can utilize the monitors together, share a keyboard and mouse, and minimize cabling. Since I often remove the laptops for transport, I’d like to keep the number of cables as low as possible.

For example:
- Monitor 1 – Samsung SyncMaster T22B300 (HDMI x1, VGA x1)
- Monitor 2 – Samsung SyncMaster T22B300 (HDMI x1, VGA x1)
- Monitor 3 – LG24MT49DF (HDMI x1)

PC1 – Desktop (custom build, no USB-C port)
- No USB-C port: HDMI, DVI, VGA outputs; no Bluetooth.

I need to link to:
- Two external hard drives (only connected to PC1)
- One external DVD re-writer (optional for PC2)

PC2 – Laptop – Dell G15 5511
- Has a USB-C port, currently used to connect/disconnect from the docking station.

PC3 – Laptop – HP ProBook
- Work-managed machine; no software installation allowed. Also has a USB-C port.

I aim to share:
- Three monitors
- 1 keyboard and mouse (flexible setup)
- 1 USB card reader
- Ethernet connection
- Webcam
- External microphone (if webcam and mic only work on PCs 2 and 3)

I’m aware I may need additional connectors, switches, or adapters.
- 2 Lenovo docking stations (one unused)
- 3 HDMI switches
- Various KVMs, USB-C sharing solutions, etc.

I’ve tried many options—KVM units, USB-C adapters, docking stations—and still can’t seem to get it working smoothly. I’m hoping someone can suggest a better solution or recommend necessary accessories.

Thank you.

Reply
Reply
D
dehunter456
Member
Find
237
06-30-2024, 08:23 PM
#2
You have very precise and intricate needs.
It’s normal and there’s nothing to criticize.
I recommend you create a layout that outlines all the devices, their ports, cables, connectors, etc., including the gender of each component.
In the middle, a KVM switch with enough matching ports and options for A, B, C, D should be included.
Search online for "KVM switch diagrams images" to see many examples.
For instance:
https://www.amazon.com/Computers-Keyboar...B07SX1BZGT
https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/hkm-pros.html
You’ll likely need a KVM switch with extra ports beyond the basic setup for three computers and three monitors.
The main goal is to thoroughly examine the current physical connections, then plan any further additions needed.
Think of the diagram as a checklist—spend time reviewing details carefully.
This kind of project really requires putting in the effort to finish it properly.
Reply
Reply
D
dehunter456
06-30-2024, 08:23 PM #2

You have very precise and intricate needs.
It’s normal and there’s nothing to criticize.
I recommend you create a layout that outlines all the devices, their ports, cables, connectors, etc., including the gender of each component.
In the middle, a KVM switch with enough matching ports and options for A, B, C, D should be included.
Search online for "KVM switch diagrams images" to see many examples.
For instance:
https://www.amazon.com/Computers-Keyboar...B07SX1BZGT
https://www.kvm-switches-online.com/hkm-pros.html
You’ll likely need a KVM switch with extra ports beyond the basic setup for three computers and three monitors.
The main goal is to thoroughly examine the current physical connections, then plan any further additions needed.
Think of the diagram as a checklist—spend time reviewing details carefully.
This kind of project really requires putting in the effort to finish it properly.

Reply
Reply