One computer, 2 rooms?

[jimbofoxman]

Using a KVM switch (or equiv) can I use the same computer in two different rooms rather than purchase another computer? Without being there, I am thinking the footage of cable needed between the 2 locations would probably be 30'-35'. All I would need is a monitor, keyboard and mouse.

Biggest question would be will the KVM style switches work.

 

[Markbnj]

A KVM switches multiple boxes to a single keyboard/mouse/monitor, normally. I haven't heard of any that work the other way around. Do you want multiple people to be able to use the same box simultaneously? That would require terminal server or something like it, and a thin-client in the remote rooms. If you just want to access the same system from different rooms, using a single account, that might be easier, but I'm afraid I can't help much with the hardware setup.

 

[jimbofoxman]

Yeah, it would just be one user from 2 different rooms....

EDIT:

Just found this......rather expensive, then would need another monitor, keyboard and mouse. Guess I'll just bag the idea all together. Probably need something to extend the range too.

http://www.kvm-switches-online.com/vopex-2kvaim-a.html

 

[SoundTheSurrender]

You can do that, the only problem is cable length.. especially for the monitor. I know Linux has the power to do this but I'm not sure about windows.

 

[MichaelD]

Originally posted by: djmihow
You can do that, the only problem is cable length.. especially for the monitor. I know Linux has the power to do this but I'm not sure about windows.

Explain that to me, please. Usable cable length is a function of hardware (voltage and signal loss from/to the motherboard/monitor/kb/mouse) and not a function of the operating system.

I'm curious how Linux can work with 30-foot cables, but not Windows.

 

[foges]

Yeah, id say the main problem is the cable length. for USB i dont think its more than like 5 meters (i could be wrong though).

If you have a video card with two outputs then you could use that for two monitors. as for the keyboard and mouse you could just use one ps/2 set and one USB set. Shouldnt be too hard.

EDIT: Im also curious as to how linux or windows would have any effect what so ever on signal strength. You might be able too fool around with it in the bios.

 

[networkman]

THIS may be of interest to the op.

Edit: HERE is another possibility.