Any danger hooking up two computers to a Dell 1905FP?

[mshan]

My dad currently has a Dell Dimension 8200 computer and Dell 1905FP connected via VGA.

If I wanted to share the same screen with another computer (hopefully the new Mac Mini when it is released), is there any potential for actually damaging the screen if he powered up the second computer and forgot to turn off the first one?

 

[stevty2889]

You can do that just fine, no danger to the screen. I have had 2 computers hooked up to my LCD, one using VGA and one using DVI. Just have to use the menu on the monitor to swtich between inputs.

 

[LouPoir]

No problem - I have that working all the time.

 

[mshan]

What happens when he accidently fires up the second computer, while the first one is on?

Just the menu option above?

Or will that show up every time just because both inputs have something connected to them?

Also, if only one computer is powered up, will the monitor always auto select the correct video input?

 

[stevty2889]

If the second computer gets turned on while the first is still on, it will continue to display the first until you go in the menu and change it.

If only one computer is on, it will automaticly display that one.

 

[pkme2]

Got 2 Linux rigs running on my Sony LCD connected to analog ports. I just hit a button to switch between computers. I can switch between FC4 and Ubuntu while both are running.

 

[mshan]

So, all I really need is either:
- 2 separate mice and keyboards, or
- a KVM just for a single mouse and usb keyboard?

 

[CpuDesigner]

I think you will find the KVM/single kbd/mouse setup to be much easier to use than two sets of keyboards/mice. I use this setup between a desktop and laptop.

 

[BOLt]

Originally posted by: stevty2889
You can do that just fine, no danger to the screen. I have had 2 computers hooked up to my LCD, one using VGA and one using DVI. Just have to use the menu on the monitor to swtich between inputs.

yup.

 

[mshan]

Is there any cheap, but trouble-free KVM that will work with an Apple (Mac Mini to be released with Intel cpu) and a Windows machine (Dell Dimenison 8200), where only the keyboard and mouse would be shared through the KVM?

(auto switching would be great, but I'm guessing that it would be expensive)

 

[pkme2]

Checkout this link: KVM

The hookup is purely elemental, so its could handle or not, your hookup without any hassle.
Maybe you should check with seller. Good hunting.

 

[OzzieGT]

I thought macs were USB only? In that case you will need a USB kvm. Those can get a little more pricey and the quality also is more important.

 

[pkme2]

USB to dual KVM KVM Hookup
Maybe this works?