"Synergy" - Multiple Cross-LAN Use of a Single Input Device and Keyboard
I don't remember how or when I came across this tiny open source program, but it turned out to be the solution to all my mouse and keyboard worries!
Synergy allows the use of one keyboard and one mouse on an infinite number of computers. It is installed as a server on the computer where mouse and keyboard are physicaly connected, and as a client on all others. On the server a definition of the physical position of each monitor - in relation to its neighbors - is stored.
Example: Let's asume you use 4 PCs with 4 monitors, three in a row (let's call them LEFT, CENTER and RIGHT) and one beneath the center monitor (LOW). Keyboard and mouse are connected to CENTER. Synergy needs to know this setup, so you tell it that the LEFT monitor is located left of CENTER and CENTERis right of LEFT, that LOW is located below CENTER and that CENTER os above LOW, etc. This setup needs to be done only once and is stored in a config file. Now, when you move your cursor to the left boarder of the CENTER monitor, it will disappear from that screen and reappear on the LEFT screen, as though this screen was part of an an extended desktop (which it is not). The moment the curser appears on a new screen, keyboard input will be directed to the same PC that screen is connected to.
Synergy runs perfectly stable. Once it is installed on all PCs, keyboards and mice can safely be removed from all clients - there will be no need for them anymore, since they will now be controled via keyboard and mouse of the server. It is really that simple! I consider Synergy an absolutely indispensable tool for any cockpit that is driven by more than one PCs (and monitor). And it is freeware - no strings attached!
