I use two computers frequently. I tried switching to using one and an external monitor with the extended desktop solution of Windows XP but I felt myself working much slower. The two computers are my Dell Inspiron 700m (Princess) and my custom built machine (Beast).
Well, I much rather use a full sized keyboard and mouse rather then the ones built into my notebook. Additionally, I wanted the freedom of having the extended desktop solution built into Windows XP but with two computers instead of two displays. One option would have been using to use two keyboards/mice however not only does that take up a lot of desk space but it’s a hassle.
There had to be a better solution, and luckily with the help of a few web searches I found a nearly perfect solution. Synergy. Basically it allows a user to share the keyboard/mouse of the “server” computer (my desktop) with up to 8 other computers networked together. (top left, top center, top right, middle left, main computer, middle right, bottom left, bottom center, bottom right). Well luckily for me, I have two network ports in my dorm room, so it was no problem. Run two wires and use IU’s open router to link them together.
The only thing I wish Synergy incorporated would be an easy way to transfer files between the two computers. Right now only the clipboard is shared and that also only for small amounts of text. I hope a future version of Synergy will incorporate some sort of file transfer capability, but even without it this is great piece of software. I highly recommend it if you use two computers in the same location frequently. I even got my dad setup using it over spring break.
Now if I were a hardcore geek, I could setup 8 separate/computers, around my primary and use one common mouse/keyboard. Let’s keep it on the “downlow” that I actually wouldn’t mind having 8 computers.. that way at least I have a chance with the women.