Would like to know if anyone has used a switch box for hookiing up to computers to one monitor.

[Easylearner]

switchbox here I am trying to find out  about  a swithbox to control my monitor while using 2 computers. I am trying to transfer my old files to my new computer using the easy transfer cable and they keep telling me I have to have both computers up and running. Old computer has Windows XP, new computer a HP P6 2100 has windows 7 installed. Will the switch box do the trick.

thanks in advance

[erico · Accepted solution]

I don't quite understand what you personally are defining as a switchbox.

Perhaps you mean a KVM switch. That is a device that allows you to use the same keyboard, video (monitor/display) and mouse for multiple computers.  It does not allow you to transfer data between the PCs.

If you want to use an EasyTransfer cable you will have to follow the instructions carefully and to the letter. One of the key points in the instructions is the requirement for both PCs to be running at the same time.

[Easylearner]

yes I was referring to the KVM switch, yes I know I have to have both computers running and when you say running i have to assume you mean in the windows mode or the desktop operating so I can follow the given instructions.

[erico]

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Easylearner wrote:

yes I was referring to the KVM switch, yes I know I have to have both computers running and when you say running i have to assume you mean in the windows mode or the desktop operating so I can follow the given instructions.

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I always try not to assume.

You are correct. Both PCs up and booted into Windows. I have an EasyTransfer cable and have had varying measures of success using it. That is to say I am not very pleased with the cable and software.  I prefer to copy files directly from a hard disk to an external storage device ( I use either an external USB driver or thumbdrive) for higher reliability.