Toggling Wireless Keyboard Between Laptops

Can this be done?

[stuntdubl]

I just got a wireless keyboard and mouse that I really like for my laptop.

Got two laptops sittin' here at work that I actively use.

Anyone know if there's some way I can toggle between the two machines with the wireless point?

It works via usb.

Any insights?

[mcavic]

There are KVM switches that will let you share keyboard, video, and mouse between multiple computers. I've got a Belkin USB switch here. It takes 5 or 10 seconds each time you switch for the machine to re-recognize the devices, but it works fine. PS/2 versions exist, too, and shouldn't have that delay.

The PS/2 versions also will usually let you switch machines via a keystroke. I think mine has the ability to switch by clicking a desktop icon, if both machines are Windows.

[stuntdubl]

Thanks mcavic. Any idea if there are any with very little delay? I think it would be real nice to be able to toggle here real quickly and multitask even better. If anyone has a usb kvm that they REALLY like, please chime in and save me from a bit of shopping research.

[SEOMike]

It depends on what your application is. Do you use DVI or VGA. KVMs that support both DVI and USB can run around $150-$400 depending on how many computers you want to switch through. I had a user that needed to connect BOTH a VGA and a DVI (using a mac and PC w/ one keyboard and mouse) and it took a while to find one capable of that and it was pretty expensive. In any case there probably will be a delay in switching because you are using USB. IOGear recently released a KVM with USB "sniffing" capability which is supposed to reduce the delay of switching. I've never used it myself but that would be a good place to start.

Good luck.

[werty]

Stunty, at home I have 2 laptops, one usb keyboard, one usb mouse, a 17" lcd monitor (standard plug), and I believe a Belkin KVM. It works flawlessly switching between computers, other then the 3-4 second lagtime I get to detect the usb keyboard and mouse...it speeds up after the first switch too.

Here is the setup:
[personal laptop]----[LCD]----[Work Laptop]

The LCD monitor functions as an extended desktop to both machines...but I can only view one at a time. I love this setup.

If you want I can check and see exactly what brand/model number it is. I bought it for like $50 online.

[werty]

It is a belkin that I have.