Potential solution for sharing 3monitors and peripherals across desktop amd laptop

Streamlining Multi-Device Workstations: A Practical Solution for Sharing Monitors and Peripherals Between Desktop and Laptop

As professionals, many of us juggle multiple devices and workspaces, often leading to cluttered desks and complex setups. Recently, I faced a similar challenge: consolidating my dual work and personal stations into a single, efficient workspace without sacrificing functionality. This article explores a viable approach for seamlessly sharing three monitors and peripherals across a desktop PC and a laptop—aimed at professionals seeking a cleaner, more integrated setup.

The Challenge

My current configuration involves two dedicated desks—one for work and one for personal use. Due to workspace downsizing, I needed to merge these into a single setup. The primary goal was to share three monitors and associated peripherals (keyboard, mouse, external drives) between my desktop and my laptop without constantly switching cables or equipment.

The specific hurdles included:
– Limited physical space.
– Compatibility with multiple monitors and peripherals.
– Ensuring smooth transition between devices.
– Optimizing connectivity options to prevent clutter.

Existing Equipment Overview

• Laptop Setup: Utilizes a USB-C docking station, providing single-cable connectivity for power, video, and peripherals.
• Monitor: Dell P2219H, notable for its downstream USB ports, allowing peripherals to be connected directly to the monitor, reducing desk clutter.
• Peripherals: A shared set of keyboard, mouse, and external devices.

Limitations of Existing Solutions

While USB-C docks simplify connection, managing multiple monitors across two devices—especially with three monitors—can be complex. Standard KVM (Keyboard-Video-Mouse) switches typically support only 2 monitors, and high-quality models supporting 3+ HDMI outputs are scarce and often expensive.

Proposed Solution: Combining Existing Hardware with a USB Switch

Given these constraints, a hybrid approach can effectively streamline your workspace:

1. Dual Connection for Monitors
2. Keep the monitors connected to the desktop through separate HDMI or DisplayPort cables.

3. On the laptop side, retain the connection through the USB-C dock, which supplies video to at least two monitors.

4. Peripheral Sharing Using a USB Switch

5. Connect all peripherals (keyboard, mouse, external drives) to a high-quality USB switch.

6. Connect the USB switch to both the desktop and the laptop, enabling quick toggling of control.

7. Switching Input Between Devices
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